Alani Miller, the college-bound agent that is making her mark in the real estate world
Written by Zackary Roth
“Be Simple. Be Kind.” This is the motto of NOLA Home Realty Group’s youngest agent, Alani Miller. Gaining her agent’s license right out of high school, Alani joined her mother, Melissa McClendon, and our other agents as part of the NHRG family. Being a young agent may seem intimidating to some, but to Alani, it is her biggest strength. Even though she is currently a college student, working towards becoming a doctor, she is also very active as an agent. She can be seen helping with open houses, showing clients properties, or helping her mom out. For this interview, we find out her perspective on being a young agent, her advice for other young professionals who would are interested in taking the real estate exam, and much more.
Alani's Beginnings
When did you start your career as a realtor, and what made you decide to become one?
I began my career as a realtor straight out of high school. As many people know, Melissa McClendon, my mom was beginning her career as a REALTOR. She thought it would be useful to get my license as well, so I just went for it.
What do you like most about NOLA Home Realty Group?
I am surrounded by top producing agents. It is truly a blessing to be able to represent such a notable company.
Alani's Foundation
What is something that makes you unique as an agent?
Being young in other professions isn’t always an advantage, but with real estate it is. People like to deal with agents who are willing to run all over the city and won’t get tired, haha! So my age is an advantage all around because not only do I have the energy and motivation, but I have lots of time left in the field as well. My career is just getting started and I’m excited!
What is your most memorable experience with a client?
Honestly, my interactions with random people have been more memorable. Just recently a guy saw me putting up a for sale sign in the years and complimented me. Little things like that remind me why I’m working so hard and decided to do this.
Alani's Advice and Tips
What is the most important thing you have learned as a realtor?
It takes work! Right out of high school, I wasn’t taking the opportunity seriously, but now I am starting to see how rewarding this can be for myself and my clients.
How was your experience obtaining your real estate license? Would you compare the course and exam to a college course? What sort of advice would you give to other young professionals who are interested in pursuing real estate and want to take the course?
This question is super important! I get direct messages quite often from my peers, asking how I did it. I am currently in college and have my license, so it is possible to achieve it. I would say think of it as another college course. The best advice I can give is to have confidence in yourself.
Do you have any tips for people looking to list properties?
We just had this conversation in our last meeting. List it now!! Don’t be afraid because of the pandemic. The market is on fire right now!