A single defining moment in my life tested my determination in a way nothing had before. I didn’t know it then, but it would shape how I faced challenges for years to come. 

 

It was my last chance, and everything was on the line. I was about to lose my academic scholarship because I was failing American History, and if I didn’t turn it around, that scholarship—the only reason I could afford to go to college—would be gone. High school had come easily to me, so I assumed I could take the same relaxed approach to college. I quickly learned otherwise. I tried to withdraw from the class, but the professor told me a withdrawal would still count as a fail. Then he said, “If you make the highest grade on the final exam, I’ll pass you.”

 

The final was a written essay in a class of nearly 250 students. I knew the odds were against me. I studied with everything I had, even while thinking it still might not be enough. There was no guarantee, no fallback. But I couldn’t afford to give up. I poured everything into preparing for that test, and when the results came in, I had the highest score—I couldn’t believe it! I was able to keep my scholarship and get my degree in dental hygiene. 

 

 When the odds were against me, I rose to the challenge. I had faith that I would be guided exactly where I was meant to be, as long as I put in the work. In that moment, I learned what it means to persevere and to do hard things even when success isn’t guaranteed. That mindset has shaped how I approach challenges ever since.

 

All the hard work I put in during college was aimed at becoming a dental hygienist, and I did just that in Colorado for several years. When I was diagnosed with a compressed spinal cord, the pain made it impossible to continue. Walking away from the career I had worked so hard for was devastating. Returning to Georgia, I stepped into managing a pediatric dental practice, and from there, consulting. I traveled nationally and internationally, trained dental teams, and helped practices grow all while gaining skills I never would have developed without that unexpected pivot.

 

 When my husband and I decided to start a family, I needed a job that kept me closer to home. Around that time, we began growing our real estate portfolio. We each owned properties and turned them into rentals when we bought our home together. I got my real estate license while pregnant so we could handle our own transactions, but friends started asking for help. One deal led to another, and before I knew it, I had a business. Real estate allowed me to step into something that made sense for both our investments and the season of life we were entering.

 

I love helping clients move to this area because it offers a different pace of life. Brookstone is relaxed, family-oriented, and welcoming. Neighbors become friends, and  weekends are often spent outside enjoying the community. Some of my favorite ways to spend time here include playing tennis, golfing—where I also serve on the women’s golf board at our country club—and hosting get-togethers. I also value having the freedom to be present for our daughter, whether I’m volunteering at school, watching her sports, or simply being available. My husband and I are close with our friends and family, and this neighborhood has made that part of our lives even stronger.

 

When I reflect on that pivotal moment in college, it was a huge challenge, but it set the tone for the rest of my life. I don’t shy away from hard things. I face them head-on, adapt when needed, and keep moving forward. That mindset has helped me grow through change, keep improving, and become someone who is always learning, always evolving.

 

 Every client I work with gets my full attention and hands-on support from start to finish. I handle everything from scheduling and negotiating to problem-solving behind the scenes so nothing falls through the cracks.

Whether you’re local or moving from out of state, I guide the process by coordinating showings, managing timelines, and keeping you informed at every step. If you're not here in person, I’ll preview homes, send videos, or walk you through live on FaceTime so you don’t miss opportunities.

 

Many of the clients I work with are buying and selling at the same time, which takes careful planning to keep both sides aligned. When timelines, logistics, and emotions overlap, having one person manage the full picture helps reduce stress and avoid costly missteps. As someone who lives in this area, I know how special it is, and helping others find a home here is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. I take that responsibility seriously and create the best experience possible by listening closely, staying proactive, and making sure every decision reflects what matters most to you.

 

Sincerely,

  

 

 Rachel Paul

REALTOR® 

Mobile (770) 317-1851

rachelpaulestate@gmail.com

rachelpaulrealty.com