About Shayla

Shayla Riley, a dynamic and masterful real estate agent, is making major strides in the industry with her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to her community. As the President of New Construction Sales and Development at Raising Columbia SC in Columbia SC, the New Construction and Development division is powered by United Real Estate, Shayla has become a driving force in urban residential development and affordable housing initiatives. In this article, we delve into Shayla's remarkable journey and expand upon how she has become an invaluable force in new construction residential development, urban residential development, and sustainable/affordable housing initiatives to build an intentional and all-inclusive future for residential development in Columbia. Shayla's career in real estate was an unexpected twist of destiny. A blind interview at a Custom Home Builder during her college years became the turning point in her career. Starting as a receptionist, she quickly rose through the ranks and was praised by coworkers and clients alike for her innate talent for connecting with people and selling new construction homes based on their needs. Encouraged by her supportive President of Sales in 2003, she obtained her real estate license and embarked on a journey that would shape her fate. Throughout her career, Shayla has worked with esteemed builders and developers such as The St. Joe Company, Beazer Homes, David Weekly Homes, Essex Homes, Ryan Homes, Eastwood Homes, Hurricane Builders, and more. Shayla's experience in new construction and property management allowed her to hone her expertise in various facets of the industry. Today, as the President of New Construction Sales and Development at United Real Estate, Shayla finds inspiration and growth in an environment that fosters collaboration among industry champions. Her innovative new construction sales strategies, out of the box marketing ideas, and her general contracting knowledge separates her from her peers. Being in the industry for 20 years, Shayla refuses to fail at anything she sets her mind to and is resilient through all cyclical market challenges. She attributes her success to her faith in God, fortitude, and unwavering loyalty to the construction industry and the pursuit of endless education on current new construction trends. And with the utmost respect are her developer/builder partnerships, referral base, and respect amongst her peers, Shayla's mother, Juanita H. Wilson, a dedicated educator for almost 50 years, instilled the values of compassion and philanthropy, which continue to guide her path. These mentors believed in her potential, invested in her development, and encouraged her to aim high. Shayla always states she did not achieve success alone, but it was a series of people investing in her career, so she is dedicated to paying it forward! Shayla's impressive career speaks volumes about her commitment and expertise. Since April 2018, she has sold over $40 million in volume and facilitated 153 home transactions. Her remarkable achievements have positioned her as a top producer in the real estate industry. Shayla's steadfast in her commitment to urban residential development and the creation of affordable housing options in Columbia's city center. Recognizing the need for permanent market-rate housing and the importance of economic opportunity zones, she aims to change the narrative surrounding women in construction. Raising Columbia SC connects her deep-rooted connection to her hometown driving her obligation to leave an invaluable legacy of sustainable, affordable housing.