Sunshine Wilhite

Keller Williams Home

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Age:

33

Number of Years in Real Estate:

9

Why did you decide to get into real estate?

I was recruited to work for a builder when I was working in furniture sales. I hit the ground running in 2012 and never looked back. To this day, I still can’t imagine doing anything else.

What does success mean to you?

Success is the byproduct of hard work — in some aspects, it is financial and the ability to take care of my son on my own. Mattox is my greatest life achievement. It is also the ability to be able to give generously to organizations that mean a lot to me. My biggest success comes from the impact that I am able to make on my clients’ lives and on the individuals that I am privileged to lead in my professional roles.

What are you most excited about in your life right now?

Another year of growth! 2020 was the year of the pivot and setting up a business — built and ran on my terms. 2021 is the year of explosive growth, and we are already projecting to smash the initial goal set.

What do you do to stay grounded/centered/sane?

I have many hobbies and interests outside of work. When I need to focus on work, knowing that I will have the ability to “turn it off” soon is my biggest way of staying centered. Golfing, boating, pool days with Mattox, wine nights with my girlfriends and travel are how I reward myself for working hard during my “on” hours.

How did your challenges shape who you are today?

Growing up very poor in a rural Alabama town, I knew I would have to move away to have vast opportunities to better myself. While relocating to Michigan wasn’t ever my plan, it ended up being the best part of my plan because of Mattox. While being a working mom is hard — especially without immediate family nearby to assist when needed — it forces me to be all in when I’m at work so I can take the time that I need outside of work for him.

Who has helped you get where you are today?

So many people! My grandmother, Matt Riley, Mike Lyon, Jim Hoekenschnieder, Dan Hunt, Kate Simon, Christina Griffin and Jeff Glover. I am so fortunate to have so many incredible people to look to for advice, guidance and support in any and every aspect of my life.

As a 2021 Best-in-Class honoree, what are your words of wisdom for the next generation of real estate agents?

Listen to those who have gone before you. They are where they are because they failed forward, and their lessons and wisdom will smooth your path.

FAST FACTS & FAVORITES

Bucket list item?

Jumping out of a perfectly functional airplane

Guilty pleasure?

Elaborate charcuterie boards

Most influential “teacher” or mentor in real estate?

Jim Hoekenschnieder

If you wrote a book about yourself, what would you call it?

“Sunshine: Yes, That’s My Real Name”

What is your theme song for life?

“I Hope You Dance” — it has been my and Mattox’s song since he was born.

Habit you want to shake?

Washing the same laundry three times because I forgot to move it to the dryer

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Veterinarian

Saying or expression that you probably say too often?

“Literally”

Favorite book?

“Becoming” by Michelle Obama

Favorite TV show?

“House of Cards”

Favorite school subject?

English

Sunshine Wilhite - Best-in-Class Honoree