In a matter of months, the work I had spent years building disappeared. I had to decide whether I would let the recession define me or refine me.

 

Since I was in high school, I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur and own a business. I was already working in construction while earning my bachelor’s degree in Real Estate and Land Development. In my senior year, I started a residential and commercial painting and decorating company in Richmond.

 

For four years, I felt on top of the world––I was doing exactly what I believed I was meant to do––then the recession hit in 2009. Business came to a halt, which was incredibly stressful—I had a mortgage to pay, and within months my work had nearly disappeared.

 

I took on odd jobs, anything I could find, just to keep up with the bills. Even though I was discouraged by the impact of the recession, I never doubted that contracting was part of my path. I was a paint contractor and decorator, trained by my dad and uncle, who were master painters. They taught me the craft and the pride that comes with doing a job well. After finishing a house, I loved sitting back and looking at what I had accomplished. That was the reward. I wasn’t ready to let that feeling go.

 

By 2010, after navigating the challenges of the recession, I was back to fully focusing on my contracting business with an emphasis on the Lake Gaston market, where we had permanently relocated in 2005.My wife, Angel, was incredible during that time. I wouldn’t have been able to focus on my craft without her support. While I worked long hours, she was at home raising our three kids—Ian, Kate, and Mason. She deserves so much credit for the foundation she built for our family.

 

In 2016, to expand my opportunities, I got my real estate license and also worked as a flood adjuster. To be honest, it was too much. For three years, I was juggling three jobs! On top of that, after two years in real estate, I wasn’t seeing the results I had hoped for. I seriously considered quitting. But my mom and dad encouraged me not to give up. They reminded me that God doesn’t put you through more than you can handle. I’m grateful I listened, because 2019 became a turning point for my real estate business.

 

 Eventually, I realized that if I wanted balance in my life, I had to let one job go. My contracting business—the one I had built and nurtured for ten years—was the main candidate. Letting it go was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made—it was my baby—but it was also an opportunity to trust that my real estate career would provide.

 

Today, I’m grateful for the path that led me here. I have more time to spend with my kids, who are now teenagers and deeply involved in sports. I love watching their games and seeing them grow into who they’re becoming. I also love a good meal, so in my free time, you’ll usually find me cooking or enjoying great food with friends and family. 

 

When I look back on the highs and the setbacks, the long nights and the hard decisions, I see more than a career—I see growth, faith, and resilience. Every season stretched me, humbled me, and strengthened me. Real estate isn’t just what I do; it’s the result of perseverance, family support, and the willingness to trust the process.

 

With over nine years of experience, I approach my work with honesty, adaptability, and a deep sense of responsibility. I treat my clients like family and give them the same advice I would want if I were in their shoes—whether it’s what they hope to hear or not. My priority is always what truly serves them. I adapt easily to different personalities and situations, meeting people where they are and understanding that no two clients or transactions are ever the same.

 

I believe it’s essential to keep learning, thinking critically, and approaching each situation thoughtfully. Real estate can be complex, and it’s easy to get stuck in one perspective, but I make a conscious effort to see multiple angles and adjust to changing circumstances. I’m known as one of the hardest-working agents in the area because I give my time, attention, and energy generously. I’m not a salesperson—I’m a relationship builder and a trusted partner in one of the biggest decisions of my clients’ lives, and their happiness truly matters to me.

  

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Scott Watson