When you’re shopping for a home, the real estate experts involved in the process can make or break the experience. While it certainly isn’t a requirement, working with a real estate sales manager you connect to easily and come to appreciate can turn a sometimes stressful journey into a delightful one. That is why we here at Upper East River are so excited whenever we have the chance to introduce interested buyers to Denise “Dee” Stamps-Auston, our Sales Manager! Anyone who knows Dee is familiar with her bright light, positive attitude, servant’s heart, and unparalleled real estate expertise. She will walk you through Upper East River’s best features in one beat and bring joy to your day the next. Of course, if you are interested in one of our homes and haven’t met her yet, you might be wanting to know more about the person who will guide you through it all. If so, you’ve come to the right place—keep reading for an exclusive with Dee!
Tell us about your background and how you got started in real estate.
I got started as a military wife who was always having to find a new home when we relocated. I discovered that I really did enjoy touring different communities … I guess you could say that I was that “Lookie Lou” on-site agents can see coming a mile away (lol)! I suddenly became the go-to wife for other military families relocating and seeking housing. One day, after working many years in corporate America, I decided I wanted to make a change. I wanted to explore my passion for real estate. While still working my full-time job, I went to night school and got my license. Shortly thereafter, I stepped out on faith, left corporate America, and started working for a developer—the rest is history!
What does a typical day in the life as a real estate sales manager look like for you?
Busy! Working on-site with a builder requires a lot of dedication and a true commitment to the project. Sometimes there are long hours when you specialize in this niche, and you must be willing to work weekends. The community you sell should be viewed as your store. If you don’t keep it well-supplied with what’s in demand, neat, and presentable, eventually no one will want to come in and shop!
What types of properties do you specialize in? How does Upper East River fit into this?
I specialize in new construction and working directly with luxury home builders. Upper East River is exactly that—new construction offering unprecedented luxury living with riverfront views, by one of the top leading builders in Georgia, Mr. Patrick Malloy.
How would you describe the current real estate market in Savannah?
Savannah ranks as the top metropolis in the United States with the fastest-growing sale price. That could be advantageous for building long-term equity!
What trends are you seeing in the market right now?
Providing a lifestyle for the empty nester who is active and on the go! A community that enables them to lock it and leave it—a.k.a. the lock-and-leave lifestyle—is a key solution. The idea is that the homeowner can turn the lock and head out on their travels without the worry of daily home maintenance or intense security needs while they are away. In neighborhoods like this, dues paid to the HOA typically cover things like exterior home maintenance, landscaping, and irrigation. This gives residents the peace of mind that everything will be taken care of while they’re away.
Upper East River offers this and more! Here, we also have an added benefit for those who seek that lock-and-leave life: renting potential. Our homeowners can take advantage of Short-Term Vacation Rental licenses (UER homes are preapproved) to rent out their residences while they aren’t there … hello, passive income! This license allows for the rental of a home for a minimum of six days or more. For those who plan to be in Savannah for half of the year, this is an especially smart move.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Having to communicate unforeseen obstacles that cause delays to the customer. It can be disappointing for them, but I always strive to provide the most accurate, updated information and support them in any way I can.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
When a customer closes and says thank you with a big hug! There is nothing better.
How do you build and maintain relationships with your customers?
By being honest and setting the right expectations up front. This is critical for a great real estate sales manager, I feel. My customers know that I am reliable and attentive. Communication is key, and listening is required for effective communication. I listen, and I value every customer. I am here to serve them, and I do so with humility and gratitude.
Share a memorable experience you’ve had with a customer.
In all honesty, I can’t say that there is one, because each customer is special and every interaction is unique to the relationship I form with them. I can say that my favorite time is when a customer closes on their dream home, and I hand over the keys. That is the beginning of a new journey for them. I see the fact that I helped to make that happen as a blessing. I’m grateful to be part of that moment in their lives.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Is this where I’m supposed to say, “spending time with family”? LOL! On a serious note, I enjoy spending time with my husband, two adult children, and grandchildren. I like to practice yoga. I also love horseback riding and discovering new restaurants and cuisines. I live to travel! As a former military dependent both as a child and wife, traveling is in my blood. I get antsy when I am still for too long. If there is a trip that involves an airplane, train, or boat—count me in!
Are there any local organizations or causes you are particularly passionate about?
I am extremely passionate about the health of children. I give to Sunshine Kids Foundation. It was founded in 1982 by a Ms. Rhoda Tomasco. The organization provides wonderful activities and emotional support for children with cancer. I also give to St. Jude, where children are treated for childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
What is your favorite thing about Upper East River?
Of course, I love the homes that I get to sell, but oh my, I just absolutely love the location! No matter how tough my day might get, being able to look out and take in the views of the river and feel the breeze coming off of it … it certainly puts things in the right perspective.
If you weren’t in real estate, what other career could you see yourself in?
Back when I was considering careers, this one wasn’t even around, but nowadays if I ever had to make a shift, I think I would want to become a travel blogger/influencer!
Thank you to Dee for making some time to sit down with us and answer these questions! We hope you enjoyed getting to know our talented real estate sales manager, who is a true expert on all things Savannah and Upper East River.
If you’d like to continue acquainting yourself with Dee and her work, be sure to follow her on Instagram at @fancy_me33.
You can also get in touch with Dee at 404-388-9580.
