In every successful journey, there’s a passion for making a difference. This holds true for Denise Murphy, a dedicated member of the Greater Chattanooga Realtors community.
With a background rooted in education and mentorship, her commitment to helping others and her deep sense of purpose drove her transition into real estate. Denise’s story is one of growth, service, and steadfast dedication to building relationships and uplifting the community.
What did you do before transitioning into real estate?
“My first career was as a physical education teacher. I also taught French and health part-time. I taught all ages between 4 and 18, as well as some adjunct classes at the university level. In addition, I’ve coached soccer, track and cross-country in different capacities.”
You ran and prevailed for a second term on the Greater Chattanooga Realtors board of directors. Why did you choose to continue serving in a leadership capacity?
“When I first became a Realtor, I was fortunate to receive support and encouragement from some great mentors who encouraged me to become involved early in my career in the association, including Tom Cannon, Steve Champion and Pam Duffy.
“Becoming involved allowed me to build a rapport with many good people and surround myself with great role models. It’s also afforded me a great opportunity to gain more education about real estate, to give back to the community and the profession, to grow as a person and to learn leadership skills.
“I’ve been fortunate to serve several two-year terms on the board. Realtors work hard for change, advocate for property rights, and are good mentors and role models for others.”
What would you like your peers to know about what our association offers its members?
“We have many opportunities for self-development and gaining leadership skills. We also provide a lot of great education. The staff works tirelessly behind the scenes, with outstanding leadership from our CEO, Carol Seal, for the Realtors, board members, committee members and the public. Finally, the Forewarn app has been helpful as a safety tool for the members to use.”
What are your favorite things about being a Realtor?
“I love helping different people and being a part of changing their future and often their legacy. I also enjoy getting to know different individuals and working with them without pressuring them.
“Remembering my educational background, I want to continue sharpening my knowledge and keeping up with the changes to serve my clients better. I’ve enjoyed working with many good people over the years, including my former students and colleagues in teaching and coaching, and the parents of those students.
“Finally, I enjoy getting to know and build relationships with title companies, mortgage companies, home inspectors and other brokers.”
What do your fellow Realtors do in the community that you love and want others to know about?
“As a member of Greater Chattanooga Realtors, I’m surrounded by people who do great things for our community and beyond. And I’ve had the opportunity to participate in quite a few causes myself. My favorites include Snack Packs, Habitat for Humanity, 100+ Women Who Care and Chambliss Center for Children.
“We’ve been able to help people in both significant ways and lots of smaller ways. There are some wonderful Realtors out there who have huge hearts, and I’m proud and grateful to be in business with them.”
Have you read any recent books you want to share with others?
“’The 12 Week Year,’ ‘The Banker’s Code’ and ‘What Every Real Estate Investor Needs to Know About Cash Flow’ are informative and helpful.”
Denise’s journey is a testament to the impact of mentorship, dedication and community involvement on personal and professional growth. Her drive to serve and uplift others shines through in everything she does. In a profession that thrives on relationships and integrity, Denise’s story embodies Greater Chattanooga Realtors’ spirit. #ThatsWhoWeR
Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga Realtors is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga Realtors serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations and boards of Realtors nationwide that comprise the National Association of Realtors. Greater Chattanooga Realtors owns and operates a multiple listing service that is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and that services more than 3,000 users. Local association membership is comprised of Realtors who are servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines, including appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside Realtors are our affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the association. Our affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.