I recently celebrated a birthday. Because it was a BIG birthday, my friends stretched it out for an entire week! While it was dubbed my “birthday week,” the culmination for me was not all about me. On Friday, sitting in a room in Winston Salem, surrounded by friends, it was to recognize and celebrate the Tate Leadership Team for the great work they do day-in and day-out in these extraordinary times.

I have seen many changes occur during my 38-year career in real estate. More than in the past, now is the time when it is imperative to have a strong team to lead the way. The homeownership dream is still alive and well. It is the road to get there that has changed. Today, we have many more turns, curves and detours to navigate. Having a solid team to help with that navigation is what makes it successful. I think the answer to “Why work in real estate?” should be obvious. You work in real estate because you want to help people. Help them become homeowners.

What is the old saying that I grew up with now ringing in my ears? Ah yes. “Son, you are judged by the company you keep.”

Well, I am here to tell you I feel honored to be judged by the company I currently keep. I am so very proud of the leadership team that holds this family of companies together. We not only took time to recognize stellar customer experiences, we also celebrated what we do to give back to the community and our ability to teach, motivate and mentor. Sixty-five talented individuals, all dedicated to making the job of our Realtors more professional and easier, came together last Friday. It was a great day.

When Allen Tate founded the company, he said, “The journey will never end!” I have spent my whole life building a team and helping each member of that team be all that they can be. That’s what I get up to do every day and I relish that.

Last Friday we shined the spotlight on our team for their dedication and my favorite word:  PASSION. Without those two things, goals in life are not met and the fun of the journey is not realized.  The journey is where all the fun can be found. If we look at the destination and not the ride, life is passing us by. Thanks, team, for making this birthday the best ever!

By Pat Riley