Some people come into real estate looking for a job. Garrett Cox came into it ready to build something. With early experience in finance, sales, and business management, he saw real estate as an opportunity to serve clients through major life decisions while creating a business rooted in relationships and trust. This week's Director Spotlight shares Garrett's thoughts on service, leadership, Association involvement, and the value behind the REALTOR® name.
What did you do before transitioning into this profession? Prior to getting into real estate, I was the F&I (Finance Manager) at Gentry Chevrolet in Kimball as it transitioned to Riverside Chevrolet. I started in that job when I was 20 years old, and it taught me so much about the world of business, sales, credit, finance, management, marketing, etc. The skills I learned in that job transitioned well to creating my own business in real estate. Prior to this, I worked as a college intern / Junior Financial Advisor for Northwestern Mutual, under Bryce Thomas in downtown Chattanooga. He is truly someone I look up to, professionally and personally, and he helped shape my future career path.
Why did you choose to become a REALTOR®? I became a REALTOR® because I enjoy helping people navigate one of the most significant financial decisions of their lives. I thrive on the challenge of managing complex transactions, solving problems, and negotiating successful outcomes. Just as importantly, I've always had an entrepreneurial spirit, and real estate has given me the opportunity to build a business from the ground up, create my own brand, and make a lasting impact on the clients and communities I serve.
What is your favorite part of being a REALTOR®? I've said it before, and I'll continue to say - the people have always been my favorite part: clients, colleagues, and all of those who support me and my business through friendship. I also love having the ability to create something that is totally mine and that no one can take from me. Sure, there are challenges to being a business owner, but it is so rewarding!
Why did you choose to serve at the Association in a leadership capacity? Serving others has always been at the forefront of whatever professional path I chose. In my 5 years of being a REALTOR®, I've learned that this business thrives when we all work together, so serving in a leadership capacity not only allows me to serve members in a decision-making role but also lets me further my own development alongside like-minded peers.
What would you like your fellow REALTOR® to know about the benefits our Association offers its members? What is something our Association does in the community that you want others to be aware of? The three key points are: first is the abundance of FREE continuing education from highly respected, national members of the real estate community, second is the camaraderie and networking offered through various committees at our Association, and lastly is the overwhelming openness among members to become active in Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® through community involvement, committee appointments, and leadership opportunities.
What do you wish more people knew about the Realtor brand and the standards Realtors are held to? I wish more people knew that not every real estate agent is a Realtor. Realtors voluntarily commit to a higher standard by following a strict Code of Ethics that emphasizes honesty, integrity, professionalism, and putting clients' interests first. That commitment extends beyond simply completing a transaction. It's about earning trust, providing knowledgeable guidance, and being accountable throughout the entire process.
Have you read any recent books or listened to a podcast you'd recommend? One book I often give as a gift to people is 'The Go-Giver'... One of my favorite takeaways from this book is that your influence and success grow in proportion to the value you bring to other people. As someone in a relationship-driven business, that resonated with me. It reminded me that serving people well, being authentic, and giving without constantly expecting something in return is a much more fulfilling—and ultimately more successful—way to build a career.
Garrett's perspective is a reminder that the Realtor brand carries meaning. It represents professionalism, ethical responsibility, client care, and a commitment to something larger than one transaction. Through his service on the Board, Garrett brings the same relationship-driven mindset that guides his business, and we are thankful for his leadership within Greater Chattanooga Realtors. #That'sWhoWeR
Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is The Voice of Real Estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with nearly 3,000 members, Greater Chattanooga Realtors is one of some 1,200 local boards and associations of Realtors nationwide that comprise the National Association of Realtors. Greater Chattanooga Realtors service Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee, and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. For more information, visit www.gcar.net or call 423.698.8001