Sometimes, you have to let go of the past to make way for the future. As an entrepreneur for most of my life, I embraced a fresh start, ready to learn, grow, and serve others in new ways.
For 15 years, I ran a medical transport company, ensuring that non-emergency, non-ambulatory patients received safe and reliable transportation. It was a demanding but rewarding role, rooted in service and care—values that have guided me throughout my life. However, over time, the challenges of the industry grew. The government’s payment practices became unpredictable, the market was increasingly saturated, and the financial pressures mounted. Eventually, I knew it was time to close that chapter and move on to something new.
The decision wasn’t easy because entrepreneurship had always been in my blood, thanks to the influence of my father. He was an entrepreneur for most of his life and taught me that owning your own business is about more than just making a living—it’s about freedom. Freedom to operate under your own values, make your own decisions, and shape the life you want.
Before I started my entrepreneurial journey, I was in the Navy as an Aviation Ordnanceman on an aircraft carrier. It was during those four years of active duty that I developed my work ethic, discipline, and resilience, learning to work under pressure. The example my father set coupled with the values I learned in the military formed the foundation of my path and guided me as I considered the next steps in my life.
After closing my medical transport company, I made a bold jump to a completely new field—real estate. I was drawn to the idea of serving people in a new way while still having control of my business. In those early days, I had to fight feelings of self-doubt and fear of failure. I questioned whether I could succeed in such a different industry and whether I was making the right decision for myself and my family. However, I knew from my experiences that growth comes from taking risks and stepping outside of your comfort zone. So, despite my fears, I decided to dive in headfirst.
In 2019, I became a REALTOR® where the skills I had honed in my previous career—understanding client needs, delivering exceptional service, and handling complex, stressful situations—translated seamlessly into real estate. I realized that helping people buy and sell homes was another way I could make a meaningful impact in their lives, much like I had done before.
Despite my initial worries, I quickly connected with people and built a trusting client base. I took time to understand my clients' concerns and guide them through the often stressful process of buying or selling a home. My experiences as an EMT prepared me to calm my clients’ worries and truly help them, no matter how stressful or difficult the situation was. My commitment to service became the foundation of my success in real estate. When you treat people right and have the best intentions for them, the rest will always follow.
This career shift had a profound impact on my life and my family. My daughter Adison is now 16, and real estate has given me the flexibility and financial stability to be there for her in ways I couldn’t have been before. She is very creative with a passion for gaming and art. As a father, it is very important to me that I can be there for her, especially as she prepares for the next chapter after high school.
I’ve learned the importance of resilience, trust in oneself, the power of service, and that fear of failure is something you have to confront head-on. Faith has been a guiding light for me, keeping me grounded in my values and deeply committed to the people I serve. When not working, I enjoy being with my daughter and exploring the beaches and mountains North Carolina is known for.
When it comes to real estate, I have a deep passion for helping people, from veterans and first-time homebuyers to investors, upgraders, and downsizers. There’s something truly special about being a part of such a significant moment in someone’s life, and I’m honored to offer my expertise and support. By learning about you, your life, and your goals, I strive to connect and truly understand how I can best serve you. This empathetic, people-first approach has brought so many incredible people into my life, and I plan to continue growing, helping as many people as I can!
Clear and effective communication is one of the key pillars to ensuring a successful transaction. I make it a priority to be available for my clients whenever they need me, whether that’s answering the phone, responding to texts, or addressing concerns promptly. My philosophy is simple: if you’re going to be a real estate agent, you need to be there for your clients. I strive to reduce your stress by being a dependable and reassuring presence throughout the entire process and even after, as your REALTOR® for life, here for anything you may need!
Sincerely,
Gary Whitehurst
REALTOR® | LIC# 314976
(252) 341-1945
encbrokergary@gmail.com
www.garywhitehurst.realestate