Schell’s expansion into new markets has made the journey especially fulfilling for Division Sales Manager and 2022 Pro Builder 40 Under 40 honoree, Kaylie Austin, who joined the team in Richmond before taking her talent to Nashville. Now, Kaylie and her family are feeling right at home in Music City.
What’s your story? How did you first learn about Schell?
I was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, and never really left the area. In early 2016, a friend in the industry told me I should check out Schell Brothers because they were coming to Richmond. After doing some quick online research, I was impressed with the company’s technology, building techniques, and culture, especially after watching the “day in the life at the office” video. So, when it was time for Richmond to hire their first salesperson, I immediately jumped at the opportunity. In my interview, when asked if I was afraid to help start a brand-new division, my immediate response was that I was up for the challenge and excited to be part of something so great.
How did you end up in Nashville?
Having visited Nashville for my 30th birthday, I loved the city’s atmosphere, music, and people. When Schell started a new division here, I had the opportunity to spend time with the team and later learned about their need for a division sales manager. As torn as I was about leaving Richmond, the new start-up tugged at my heartstrings, and I knew I needed to take a leap of faith. So, I decided to move my family nine hours away to experience something new and outside my comfort zone.
“I have been very lucky to work with some of my best friends, and there hasn’t been a day when I did not look forward to coming into work.” – KAYLIE
What’s it like to be part of a new division start up?
It’s the best! Having the opportunity to be involved in the growth of a company that truly changes people’s lives is something I have never taken for granted. Each day comes with new challenges, and I love collaborating with our team to work through it like a puzzle. We put our heads together on everything, bringing different perspectives that enable us to tackle situations from every angle. Creating a brand in a new area is no simple feat, but loving where you work makes it easy to talk about the mission. It is incredibly rewarding and fulfilling to see something start from the ground up and become successful. A smaller team increases the camaraderie, creating more opportunities for coworkers to become like family. I have been very lucky to work with some of my best friends, and there hasn’t been a day when I did not look forward to coming into work.
What do you love most about your job?
As a sales manager, I always love seeing the growth of my team. Watching new hires in the industry become successful and accomplished salespeople is by far my favorite part of the job. I try to help make a difference in their lives while they are out making a difference for our customers. If I can play even a small role in someone learning and growing—both professionally and personally—then I know I’ve done my job.
You chose The Camellia, the first of its kind to be built in Nashville. Tell us what you love about this home and why you ended up selecting it.
We love The Camellia because the functionality and layout are perfect for our current season of life. The sunroom does double duty as a playroom for the kids, while the guest room with full bath is a retreat for our out-of-town family and friends, who thankfully visit quite often. I like that our primary suite and the kids’ bedrooms are located together on the second floor, and the closets are astronomical. Not only do I have plenty of space to organize my shoes, but the huge closets in the kids’ bedrooms make it easier for them to store toys and keep their rooms clean. Along with this, I especially love the covered porch off our bedroom, which has become my little sanctuary. And my husband, TJ, has a getaway of his own on the third floor, where he can write and play music without interruption. I’m so glad we chose this home; each floor’s layout functions so well for the way we live. On top of that, the exterior is super cute.
Favorite room in the house? Any features you highly recommend?
I’d have to say my favorite room is our kitchen, which has so much storage space! Also, I wanted a unique look, and Melinda and Kathryn provided the design guidance I needed to make it happen. For years, I had been eyeing white appliances with gold handles, so that was my inspiration. Then, I added olive cabinets and fluted glass and gold pendants to create a warm, inviting space with a look of its own. I’m so glad I ventured outside my comfort zone. It makes me happy every time I walk in the room.
Was it difficult changing gears from being an employee to a client?
I wouldn’t say it was difficult, but it was eye opening—in a good way—to really understand things from a customer’s perspective. Every step of the journey was a learning opportunity. Getting to see and use HeartBeat as a customer made me appreciate both our software and our team so much more than I already did. I stayed out of the way and trusted the process, knowing we were in good hands. It was during our frame stage tour that things really started to sink in and feel like this home was ours and not someone else’s that I was walking through. Writing quotes on the unfinished walls and floors was so much more than that; we were solidifying our lives here in Tennessee and anticipating all the new things ahead.
Give us a behind-the-scenes look at Durham Farms. What is your favorite aspect of living there?
Durham Farms is the epitome of a stunning master-planned community. It has something for everyone, from first-time buyers to retirees, which l love. The thoughtful layout includes an amenity center at the heart of the community. Since we’re within walking distance of the pool and the gym, we’re more active than we have ever been. Every day we see people out in the neighborhood, driving their golf carts or heading to the dog park.
Being somewhat new in town, have you found your favorite date night spots yet? If so, what are they?
We are still exploring. Here in Hendersonville, we love Edit, a neat spot in The Streets of Indian Lake with an atmosphere unlike anything else in the area. They have creative drinks and small plates, so it’s a good place for drinks or apps prior to dinner somewhere nearby. The Local is a go-to dinner choice where my husband plays music every now and then. Church and Union downtown is a favorite of mine. I originally visited the one in Charleston, so when I discovered it here in Nashville, I had to go. And don’t forget The Twelve Thirty Club; it’s classic Nashville.
What do you like to do as a family?
Our weekends are typically spent out on Old Hickory Lake. Our kids grew up on our boat, so their favorite place is on the water—mine is too! When we first debated moving to Nashville, one of my biggest concerns was leaving the Chesapeake Bay behind, but, after doing some research, we found great water options nearby. We have spent more time on our boat together over the last year and a half than we did before moving here. As the kids have grown, they’ve become more independent, spending plenty of time swimming and jumping off the rafts. Being out on the water makes me grateful—it’s always a good reset. We’re extremely lucky to live out the dream of raising our kids near the water.
What has surprised you most about living in Nashville?
There’s so much to do here. I feel like Nashville has a reputation for being one big party scene, when that’s mainly the case near Broadway. There are so many different and unique areas here, and the more you explore, the more you realize how big, diverse, and welcoming Nashville really is. We have so much still to discover.
If you could describe Schell Brothers in one word, what would it be?
Life-changing. During the eight years I’ve worked here, Schell Brothers has provided me with opportunities I never thought possible. I am grateful for every experience, big or small.
At Home with Schell Brothers magazine is published bi-annually to share inspiring stories, local flavors, innovative home designs, and more. From our family to yours, we hope you enjoy each page and look forward to upcoming issues.
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