Carrying The Torch
Anthony Sheffield plays a crucial role in his family’s business yet has crafted his own unique niche within the industry. As a descendant of the owner who purchased Ashman-Mollere Realty, Incorporated and built it back up and son to the current Broker, Susanne Ashman, he grew up well acquainted with the world of real estate. However, this is not the initial career path that he took. With sales undeniably being in Anthony’s blood, he pursued a successful career as a direct and retail sales manager. He rose through the ranks and became Vice President of the supplier, and managed over 200 sales representatives and 50 different branches. In addition to that, he served as a motivational speaker to the employees of his company. Although he enjoyed working in this field for 3 decades, Anthony eventually experienced burnout. He then joined his family in real estate 3 years ago and hasn’t looked back. His sales expertise seamlessly transferred to this new venture, selling over $15 million in volume last year. With the brokerage consisting of 15 agents, all having their own niche in the market, Anthony specializes in selling land, particularly waterfront properties. A lover of the outdoors, he learned directly from his grandfather about land development while growing up on the Gulf Coast. Though he still sells residential and commercial properties, nothing compares to being outdoors and discussing the possibilities with a client. “When you’re buying land, you’re buying a vision,” he adds about the kind of visionary that is required to pursue buying a piece of property like this. From creating a landing strip for a plane to starting a farm, the purposes for a client purchasing land widely vary, keeping the day-to-day interesting and diverse for Anthony. It isn’t uncommon for him to mix a bit of fun with business and take his clients to showings on his boat. “If you don’t like the trees or dirt, you don’t like the land,” he laughs, noting how straightforward the process typically is. Anthony pours his heart and soul into his business, even working 7 days a week. As a Mississippi native, he considers this place his home and is devoted to helping his clients find the “right piece of real estate that fits them”. Another fulfilling aspect of being a REALTOR® is that he gains new friends, and develops relationships throughout the buying and selling process. With the goal of being a part of continuing Ashman-Mollere to its 100th-year anniversary, Anthony is currently working on getting his broker’s license; eventually taking Susanne’s place when she retires. Anthony and his wife have been married for 20 years, having 4 grown children. The couple shares a home with 9 dogs that Anthony’s wife has rescued. They live happily in Hancock County, where they spend their free time going out on the water, particularly boating. Growing up on the beach instilled a deep love for the water, which plays an active role in his work today. Despite his busy schedule, Anthony manages to vacation a few times throughout the year for much-needed relaxation. In his previous profession, he was able to travel to different countries and that desire for travel still ensues today. Some of the places the couple has traveled to are Florida and several islands in the Caribbean. Throughout the years, Anthony’s view on success has altered, which is now “being happy and enjoying family”. Although he wishes he had switched to real estate sooner in life, he doesn’t regret the path he took, saying, “You learn as you go.” He is grateful for the life that he has and a healthy family. Because Anthony understands that buying a home–or land–is a huge investment, he works with the utmost integrity. He refuses to sugarcoat the facts and is straightforward with his clients, ensuring that they make well-informed decisions that will best benefit them. Anthony believes in delivering top-notch customer service and leading with honesty. This level of transparency serves him well in business and life, which he will also use one day as the next broker of Ashman-Mollere Realty. With a strong work ethic, outgoing personality and the groundwork laid by his family, Anthony has scaled his business and embraced his specialty. He intends to continue developing the land on the Gulf Coast and carrying on the torch of his family’s legacy.
For questions or comments about this article, contact Anthony at (228) 493-9695 or sheffieldanthony@aol.com