For Winnie Paris, service has never been limited to one role or one season of life. From serving in the U.S. Navy to raising her family, staying active in the community and building a career in real estate, her path has always centered on helping others.
In this Director Spotlight, Winnie shares her perspective on leadership, client care, community impact and the value of staying involved with Greater Chattanooga Realtors.
What did you do before transitioning into real estate?
“Before real estate, I proudly served in the United States Navy, and that experience shaped much of who I am today. It taught me discipline, resilience and a great deal about myself.
“After my military service, I pursued several careers focused on serving others. I also stepped away from a traditional 9 to 5 for a time to raise my family and stay deeply involved in my community.
“Because service has always been at the heart of what I do, transitioning into real estate felt like a natural next step. I enjoy helping people navigate some of life’s biggest moments with confidence and care.”
What is your favorite part of being a Realtor?
“Walking alongside people during one of the biggest decisions of their lives. Real estate is about much more than contracts, keys and photos – it’s about new beginnings, fresh starts and sometimes even healing.
“I love building relationships that extend well beyond the closing table. I want my clients to feel seen, protected, informed and celebrated throughout the process. My goal is to be more than their Realtor – I want to be someone they can continue to count on.”
Why did you choose to serve the Association in a leadership role?
“Initially, it was my broker and friend, Steven Sharpe, who encouraged me. Leadership wasn’t on my bingo card, but he saw something in me early on. I accepted because I believe leadership is about impact and representation. I wanted to help strengthen our industry while encouraging collaboration, relationships and community among Realtors.
“Greater Chattanooga Realtors has poured so much into me, and serving in leadership is one way I can give back while helping create opportunities for those coming behind me.”
What would you like fellow Realtors to know about the benefits of Association membership?
“I think many people only see the surface of what the Association offers, but the value goes much deeper. From education and advocacy to networking, leadership development and industry updates, the Association equips us to better serve our clients, strengthen our businesses and stay connected.”
“The key is getting involved. The more you plug in, the more you’ll benefit.”
What is something the Association does in the community that more people should know about?
“I wish more people knew about our Placemaking Committee and the incredible work it does. Many communities could benefit from these grants, but not everyone realizes the program exists.
“In 2026, we partnered with Walker County to provide fencing and water stations for the Walker Rocks Park playground. It’s the first playground of its kind in Walker County, designed to support the physical, social-emotional, sensory, cognitive and communication needs of all children, including those with disabilities. The impact of that project will be felt for years to come.”
Have you read any books or listened to any podcasts you’d recommend?
“Growing up, I loved Dr. Seuss’ quote: ‘The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.’ I’ve never forgotten it.
“Today, that often means podcasts instead of books. I enjoy content focused on leadership, personal growth, mindset and faith because I’ve learned that personal growth and business growth go hand in hand.
“I’m always looking for ways to become a better leader, communicator and person. Right now, my go-to resources are the Bible, Gary Vaynerchuk (Gary Vee), Jay Shetty and Jackie Hill Perry.”
Winnie’s story is a reminder that leadership begins with a willingness to serve. Whether she’s guiding clients through major life decisions, mentoring fellow Realtors or championing community initiatives like Placemaking, her commitment reflects the heart of the Realtor profession.
We are grateful for her leadership, perspective and dedication to Greater Chattanooga Realtors.
Greater Chattanooga Realtors is the voice of real estate in Greater Chattanooga. With nearly 3,000 members, the organization is one of approximately 1,200 local boards and associations that make up the National Association of Realtors. Greater Chattanooga Realtors serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade and Walker counties in Georgia. For more information, visit gcar.net or call 423 698-8001.