Linda Whitehead

Whitehead Realty blossoms while economy slumps

By Megan R. Harrell
Star Staff
mharrell@starhq.com

   In the past year Century 21 Whitehead Realty, 411 Bemberg Road, has experienced a modest amount of growth. The 2000-2001 year shows a sales increase of 17.6 percent from the previous year.
   "Most of our real estate sales were in single family and commercial properties," said Office Manager Myra Hutchinson. She stated that the company has noticed a great deal of action in the buying and construction of apartment complexes in the region.
   More and more people are looking for acres of land where they can invest their savings in real estate. "Real estate has always been a safe investment," Hutchinson said.
   Whitehead Realty saw most of its business completed prior to the economic slump that resulted from the Sept. 11 attacks. Low interest rates have sustained the company throughout the lean economic year and so far in 2002 sales are up eight percent from last year. "We took a dip after Sept. 11 but have streamlined our management process so we are able to better service people in a more effective way," Hutchinson said.
   With sales up, the company looks to expand its market shares and to increase its number of agents. In 2002 Whitehead hopes to add an additional 10 agents to its staff that includes two auctioneer agents. The increase would double the number of agents that currently work for the company. "We have recently gone through a lot of change and we are always striving to be better," said Linda Whitehead, owner. "We have the best agent training and management."
   Hutchinson noted that many of the area subdivisions are filling up which leaves room for more development in the future. The main subdivisions that Whitehead Realty is currently working with is Stonebrook off Gap Creek Road and Rivers Edge, which fronts the Watauga River.
   "We now have the best management and agent training available. We are constantly improving the quality of the company. We have the number one franchise and the world backing us up. With Century 21 online and the Century 21 referral network we are working with buyers from all over the world," Whitehead said. "I am excited about the people who are working with me to make this company the best in the business, and most of all I am appreciative of the customers and friends that have supported us."