We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Meg Rowlett a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Meg, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start big picture – what are some of biggest trends you are seeing in your industry?

In the real estate world things are changing every month. There are so many variables that shift the market like interest rates, lumber costs, recessions, economic temperatures, lifestyle trends, family sizes, etc. We have seen the last two years throw us through an emotional roller coaster of housing needs. There was panic, sheltering, expansion, and now another shift is happening. With our nation in a recession people will make different decisions when it comes to their housing choices. One of the biggest questions I hear is, ‘If I sell my home, where will I go?’, because most people are being priced out of their favorite parts of town. I was one of these people until I came up with an all encompassing solution to build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). I have seen the trend of expanding your current housing within your current property lines. California has been leading the charge on this revolution because of the need for middle housing, multi-generational living, and cash flow opportunities. The South is a little bit slower to welcome this change, but slowly and surely it is happening. My goal is to bring more of these visions to light by helping people see the future with an ADU in your back yard instead of moving or building a regular addition.

Meg, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

After 18 years in the hair color education industry, I had a robust tool belt of people skills and creativity execution. I transitioned into real estate very rapidly and successfully, but only once I started building my ADU did I realize the potential to have a hands on portion of my job and a people part of my job. I enjoy listening intently to hear the why behind peoples needs and not the what. Everyone wants a 3 bedroom/ 2 bathroom house but why do you need that? Is it an office? A roomate? Or a hobby area? I like to imagine a lifestyle for people that will be fruitful for years to come, not just their current needs.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I am currently in a phase of pivot and it is in reaction to the economy that we are entering into. There may be a year or so where house prices drop a bit and nobody wants to sell at a loss. Therefore I am going to be here for those household that need more space but can’t sell their home. I am currently testing to get my General Contractor’s license to meet the need of my real estate clients that want more space but not a new home. It is important to generate multiple streams of income to have a healthy portfolio of investments for my family. In turn I will be providing my ADU clients with multiple streams of income through possible cash-flowing rentals from their ADUs as well.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

My community in SouthWest Atlanta has been my most fruitful net of love and support. My West End neighbors are like the family in Encanto. We build each other up and and make sure that our ‘home’ is healthy. Relationships are built in the small interactions at the park, at neighborhood meetings, on the sidewalks, and let’s not forget the porch steps.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.megbrowlett.com
• Instagram: @megrowlett1
• Facebook: @rowlettrealestates
• Linkedin: @megrowlett
• Twitter: @megbwhite

Image Credits
@southatlantaphotography