It was a difficult choice to leave behind my career in teaching. By taking a chance, I have created a wonderful life for our family that I never imagined was possible before.

I couldn’t believe I was actually doing it — I was officially leaving my career as a teacher to be a real estate agent. It felt surreal. I had taught for many years and had many rewarding moments working with the students. I worried I wouldn’t find the same fulfillment in real estate as I had in teaching. I had so many doubts and fears as I transitioned into this new chapter of my life.

It was never my plan to become a teacher. I wanted to have a greenhouse and own my own business. When my husband felt a calling to join the ministry, we moved to Kentucky for seminary. Through our church, I was fortunate to meet two superintendents who asked, “Would you want to teach?” I needed a job to provide for us, and the superintendents were confident I would make a great teacher.

From there, I was a special education teacher. It was a rewarding job where I made a tangible impact on the students’ lives. When I help others, I put my heart and soul into it. I gave my students all my care and attention, but when I came home, I was completely drained. Being away from our family and friends made it even harder. When we finally returned to Alabama, I felt I could fully enjoy the teaching experience because I had the support and comfort of a familiar place.

I continued teaching for eight more years. As much as I loved working with kids and positively impacting their lives, I felt like the energy required was not sustainable. I gave my all to the students but had little left over for my own family. I was driving 45 minutes to and from school every day. No matter how hard I worked, I was paid the same and felt underappreciated. It was time for a change.

We moved often because my husband rotated churches. I had a lot of experience working with different REALTORS®. The idea started to form that this was something I could do. At the closing table for one of our homes, I curiously asked, “Do you think I have what it takes to be a REALTOR®?” Our agent lit up with joy and was eager to help me.

In 2018, I officially left teaching. In the first months as a REALTOR®, it became clear to me real estate was going to be just as fulfilling as teaching. I was helping people through one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives, and they were very appreciative of that. My work was directly paying off in the form of happy clients and a growing business. I finally found a career I could thrive in that utilized my passion for helping others and gave me the flexibility to have quality time with my family. I also have more time to be involved in our community and support local organizations and charities.

My work as a REALTOR® has been life-changing for our family. In 2021, I was able to support my husband through a yearlong leave of absence for spiritual renewal. This would have been financially impossible on a teacher’s salary. He watched our kids as they navigated new COVID regulations, including online schooling. Our family has been able to travel more and enjoy things that were previously beyond our financial means. I am proud of how far I have come on this journey and am grateful every day for the support of my family and friends along the way.

Becoming a REALTOR® has been life-changing for me. Guiding my clients through one of the biggest financial decisions of their life is incredibly rewarding. I take pride in getting to help people achieve their unique goals on their real estate journey.

My background in teaching has been fundamental to my success as a REALTOR®. I have the skills and knowledge to explain complex real estate processes to my clients. I believe that the more you know, the more confident you can be throughout the buying or selling experience. I also have the care and attention to detail to ensure everything is taken care of on your behalf. I create a positive atmosphere in order to make your experience a great one. Once the transaction is over, I will continue supporting you as your lifelong REALTOR®, guiding you through any of your real estate needs.

Sincerely,

Leigh Ann Farrington

Associate Broker