Celebrating 25 Years: Legacy Agent Spotlight with Teresa Byrd
As HomeTowne Realty celebrates 25 years of serving the Clayton community, we are proud to highlight the agents who were part of the company from the very beginning. Their dedication, relationships, and commitment helped shape the firm into what it is today.
Teresa Byrd is one of those agents.
Teresa began her real estate career in 1998, gaining experience with several franchised companies during her first few years in the industry. In 2001, she learned that Barry Woodard and James Lipscomb were opening an independent real estate firm in Clayton. She immediately reached out to them to ask about joining the new office.
At the time, the plan was simply for Barry, James, and Duke McNichol to operate as their own team. However, interest from Teresa and several other agents quickly led to the formation of the first HomeTowne Realty group.
There were only six agents in those early days.
Everyone worked together out of the first floor of the building in Clayton, sharing phone duty, hosting open houses in new subdivisions, and doing whatever it took to build the business and serve their clients.
Those early years required long hours and plenty of weekend work, but they were also built on something important.
Trust.
Teresa recalls that from the very beginning there was a shared commitment to make HomeTowne Realty successful. Barry and James worked hard to create opportunities and bring business into the office so the entire team could grow together.
Helping Build Communities
Throughout her career Teresa became involved in many of the communities that helped shape the local housing market.
One of the most memorable projects was Moss Creek Village in Clayton. As co listing agent, she helped introduce buyers to the new townhome community and spent many weekends meeting with potential homeowners and guiding them through the process.
Many of those buyers were downsizing and looking for the right next chapter in their lives. Teresa made it a priority to walk alongside them during the transition and help them feel confident about their decisions.
Moments like those are what she has always loved most about real estate.
Helping someone achieve the goal of homeownership.
She often says the most rewarding part of the job is seeing a client walk into a home they truly love and knowing she helped make that moment possible.
A Career Built on Relationships
Over time Teresa also developed strong relationships with respected local builders, including Cumberland Homes and Watermark Homes. Through those partnerships she helped list and sell new construction homes throughout the region for many years.
Those professional partnerships often grew into personal friendships.
That is a theme Teresa returns to frequently when reflecting on her time with HomeTowne Realty.
The relationships.
She has built lifelong friendships with fellow agents who supported one another through both professional milestones and personal life events. Over the years the team celebrated annual gatherings, continuing education trips to Myrtle Beach, and many shared moments as colleagues and friends.
The company has grown significantly since those early days, but Teresa believes the spirit of teamwork and support has remained the same.
Deep Roots in the Clayton Community
Serving the Clayton area has always been central to Teresa’s career.
She speaks proudly about the town and the people who live here. From local festivals to community events, HomeTowne Realty agents have long been involved in supporting the town and celebrating its growth.
That connection to the community is one of the reasons she believes HomeTowne Realty has continued to thrive for 25 years.
Reputation That Stands the Test of Time
When asked what makes her most proud to be part of HomeTowne Realty, Teresa answers quickly.
The reputation.
HomeTowne Realty has built its name on professionalism, honesty, and service. Being part of a company known for its integrity has always been important to her.
After more than two decades with the firm, Teresa reflects on her career with gratitude.
She joined the company in its earliest days and has watched it grow into one of the most respected real estate firms in the region.
And through it all, one thing has remained true.
She never looked back.
Advice for the Next Generation
With nearly three decades of real estate experience, Teresa offers thoughtful advice to new agents entering the profession.
Be available.
Stay positive.
Continue learning.
Real estate is about helping people through one of the most important decisions of their lives. Success comes from building trust, serving clients well, and approaching every opportunity with professionalism and care.
As HomeTowne Realty celebrates 25 years, Teresa Byrd’s story reflects the heart of the company.
Strong relationships.
Commitment to community.
And a team that continues to support one another as the company grows.
