Shannon Shown’s career path has been anything but conventional. After two decades as a certified Hair Specialist in the salon industry, the Covid-19 pandemic presented her with an unexpected opportunity for reinvention. The downtime during lockdowns prompted Shannon to reflect on her passions and future aspirations. She found herself drawn to real estate, a profession where she could combine her love for helping people with her knack for building genuine connections.

“I’ve always been inspired by opportunities to connect with others, understand their needs, and guide them toward achieving their goals,” Shannon shares. For her, real estate was more than a career change—it was a calling.

Shannon’s background as a hair stylist uniquely prepared her for the challenges of real estate. Years of listening to clients, building trust, and honing her communication skills have proven invaluable in her new profession. “I learned the importance of personalization, attention to detail, and hard work,” she explains. “But most importantly, I mastered the art of customer service.”

These skills have translated seamlessly into her role as a realtor, where understanding clients’ needs and maintaining a high level of professionalism are paramount.

Starting a new career in real estate at 41, while balancing the responsibilities of being a wife and mother, was no small feat. Shannon acknowledges the steep learning curve, admitting, “I had to come to terms with the fact that I didn’t know it all.” Patience, late nights, and early mornings became her routine as she juggled family life and the demands of her growing career.

Despite the challenges, Shannon found joy in the constant growth the industry offers. “As Realtors, we constantly get to grow and learn,” she says. This relentless pursuit of improvement has been key to her success.

When asked what qualities set her apart in the competitive world of real estate, Shannon highlights her authenticity and approachability. Her relentless work ethic, deep local expertise, and ability to empathize and connect with others have been the cornerstones of her thriving career.

“I believe in being genuine and approachable,” she states. “Clients can sense when you truly care, and that makes all the difference.”

One of Shannon’s most memorable experiences in real estate involved helping a family relocate to North Carolina. Despite numerous setbacks, including lost offers and challenges with a rental company, Shannon remained dedicated to finding them their dream home. When they finally succeeded, it was a moment of triumph. “We had found their unicorn,” she recalls. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see them still happy in their home and to visit them often.”

Shannon’s aspirations for the future are rooted in growth and service. Professionally, she aims to expand her reach within the community, help more families achieve their real estate dreams, and continue her education to stay ahead of industry trends. Personally, she strives to maintain a balance between her growing business and her family life, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community.

“Ultimately, my goal is to make a lasting impact—not just in the transactions I help complete, but in the relationships I build along the way,” she says.

Outside of work, Shannon is an adventurer and a creative spirit. She enjoys spending time outdoors, whether hiking in the mountains, swimming in the ocean, or collecting seashells. She also has a passion for entertaining, creating memories with friends and family over good food and wine.

Her winters are dedicated to learning new hobbies, a tradition she’s maintained for years. From beekeeping and crocheting to aromatherapy and gardening, Shannon’s curiosity knows no bounds. “I love keeping busy and challenging myself to learn something new each year,” she shares.

Shannon Shown’s journey into real estate is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and genuine care for others. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring realtors and anyone considering a career change later in life. As she continues to grow her business and nurture her relationships, Shannon’s impact on her community and clients is sure to endure.