10/05/2007
Company: Gwen Fulcher Young & Associates
Gwen Fulcher Young
Business owner since 1996, NFIB member since 1998
Four employees
Describe your business.
Gwen Fulcher Young & Associates is a seasoned real estate company specializing in the buying and selling of homes and commercial property. We take our responsibility to get the best possible results for our clients very seriously. Our focus is service to our customer. … [We don't brag] about how big our numbers are or how much we have sold! We believe the money we are paid is a by-product of the service we give.
How did you get into this business?
Thirty years ago, I was doing television commercials for a real estate company when the owner said I should be in the business, not just talking about it. I got my salesman's license in April of 1977. In 1980, I became a licensed broker.
Essential business philosophy
My business philosophy is "My priorities are simple … They're yours." I believe and practice this so strongly I actually have trademarked it for my exclusive use nationwide.
What business opportunities did you see at the start of your business, and what opportunities exist today?
Initially, I was focused on helping people buy and sell houses. I also trained in property management. As my experience grew over my 30-year career, I expanded to selling land, farms, churches and commercial properties, in addition to homes in every price range. I founded The Real Estate Review Ltd., which is a training school for realtors.
What are your company's strengths, and how do you capitalize on them?
We have a loyal client base who continues to refer to us because of the way we have served their real estate needs through our professional customer service and the results we get for them.
What trends are shaping your industry?
Access to the Internet produces more information for buyers and sellers, and helps familiarize them with the market so we have a more knowledgeable client to work with.
Why do you like being a small-business owner?
I can offer the highest level of customer service and representation because it is my responsibility and decisions are made based on each individuals needs and not some broad "company policy."
What would people be surprised to learn about your industry?
The time and ongoing financial investment required to be successful is amazing. People would be shocked to learn how many hours a successful agent works and how expensive it is to cover the costs of being in the real estate business.
Definition of success
Success is having well-served and grateful clients and staff and seeing the company value grow every year.
What is your No. 1 legislative concern at both the state and federal levels?
National security and controlling spending at all levels of government.
How do you stay involved and active in the public-policy process?
I chair The Georgia Real Estate Commission, which is the state regulatory body for the real estate industry and recommends legislation to the governor and the General Assembly.
How did you first learn about NFIB?
I remember hearing about NFIB in a news story giving the NFIB position on an issue; I asked around to find out what NFIB was.
Why did you join NFIB, and what are your expectations of NFIB?
I joined to be more involved in public policies impacting independent business. I appreciate this important venue for interacting with other business owners.
Quick Facts
Important business lesson learned
Hire carefully, reward liberally, praise often, don’t overreact and always expect the unexpected.
Education
Graduate Academy of Richmond County; attended Augusta College; Graduate Realtors Institute; course of studies for Certified Residential Broker; Certified Residential Specialist; graduate Mini Medical School Medical College of Georgia; International Speakers Training Institute
Family
Married to Bob Young, former news anchor and mayor of Augusta and currently regional director for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Mother of two married daughters and six grandchildren.
Most recent book read
Business: The Art of Innovation by Tom Kelley with Jon Littman
Favorite vacation spot
Our beach villa on Harbor Island off the South Carolina coast
