About Tonya

My journey to real estate has been a beautiful mix of passion, adventure, and connection. I was raised in Sanford, North Carolina, and later graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Before real estate, I spent ten years as an international flight attendant for American Airlines, which was an amazing experience. Traveling the world, meeting people from all walks of life, and embracing the excitement of the job was something I’ll never forget. “I loved every moment of being an international flight attendant,” I often say. “The people I met, the places I visited, and the experiences I had were unlike anything else.” But after my middle child was born, I decided it was time to make a change. After living in New York City, Plantation, Florida, and San Clemente, California, I made my way back to North Carolina in 2009 and knew real estate was the perfect next step for me. Having lived in so many different places, I’ve always had a unique perspective on what it’s like to move and start fresh. It helps me connect with people, especially those who are relocating to the Triangle area. “I’ve always been able to connect with people, no matter where they’re coming from,” I share with my clients. Whether they’re buying their first home, relocating, or downsizing, it’s such a joy to be part of their journey. I joined Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston in 2010, where I immersed myself in general brokerage and had the privilege of partnering with custom builders to learn every phase of the home-building process. From presales to move-in ready homes, I’ve been able to guide clients through every step of creating and finding their dream homes. There’s truly no greater feeling than seeing someone find their perfect home and helping them through the entire process. Over the years, I’ve built lasting relationships with clients who trust me with their most important decisions. Some of my most cherished moments include staying connected with clients long after they’ve purchased a home. One of my favorite memories was traveling to Puerto Rico for a client’s wedding. I had helped him buy his first home as a single man, and years later, I was there with him and his wife as they sold that home and found a new one together. “It’s so special to stay connected and see their lives evolve,” I say when I reflect on moments like that. Outside of work, I’m a proud mom to three amazing children—Scarlett, 26, who lives in Flagstaff, Arizona; Savannah, 24, who is thriving in New York City; and Sonny, 23, a senior at UNC Wilmington. “My kids are my world,” I share with anyone who asks. When I’m not busy with real estate or my family, I love staying active. I enjoy working out, yoga, hiking, cooking, and exploring new restaurants and rooftop bars in the Triangle. Travel is still a huge part of my life, and I’m always planning my next adventure. Real estate, for me, is more than just a career—it’s a way to help people take the next step in their lives and find happiness in their new homes. “I get to work hard and play hard,” I often say. There’s nothing more rewarding than helping someone achieve their dream of owning a home and seeing the joy that comes with it. As I continue on this journey, I’m grateful for every moment and every person I’ve had the privilege of working with. My dedication to real estate, my clients, and my family continues to drive me forward!