MEET OUR TEAM

DARLENE BROWn

 

I’m a Chattanooga native and a longtime advocate and investor working particularly in the revitalization of downtown. Living & working downtown in the ‘90s before most would step foot in the city, I led the reinvention of Loveman’s as downtown’s first successful residential development. I saw a ghost town when I looked outside the window of my downtown residence in the evening, but I believed the city had potential. Instead of dark, empty streets, I saw a vibrant, energetic downtown where people lived, worked, and played. After 30 years in the real estate industry, I opened my own brokerage in the bottom level of Loveman’s and, with Ryan, have grown the brokerage to span 3 offices and over 140 agents. Over my 40+ year career, I have held virtually every office at Greater Chattanooga REALTORS including President and REALTOR of the year.

RYAN MAY

 

A love for my hometown and perhaps a genetic predisposition for the real estate industry compelled me to leave the corporate world and join Darlene to form the Darlene Brown Ryan May Team. After graduating McCallie School in Chattanooga and Samford University, I spent nearly 20 years in business, marketing and sales at Coca-Cola Bottling Company United. I returned home with a greater appreciation for our city, its unique beauty, opportunities and quality of life. I am invested in Greater Chattanooga Realtors serving on MLS Committee and the Board of Directors. Building relationships across the industry and city, and having a reputation for both ethical and profitable business growth has been a priority for me.

ALLISON HILLIS

As a proud Chattanooga native, my journey into Chattanooga real estate was more than just a career path; it was a continuation of a legacy deeply ingrained in my roots. From an early age, I was surrounded by family members involved in various facets, such as real estate brokerage, mortgage, and title services.

After graduating from Chattanooga Christian School, I attended the University of Tennessee Chattanooga, where I learned the power of collaboration and teamwork through leadership roles in campus organizations and earning a B.S. in Psychology. 

I began my work experience assisting to bring a Massage Heights franchise to the Chattanooga market. Managing the franchise facility requirements, hiring, training, and merchandising for five years was a rewarding, but challenging, endeavor that expanded my skill sets in many areas, including processes, communication, and management. 

In 2015, I felt the call to join the family legacy in the real estate industry and began to work alongside my aunt, Darlene, Brown, at Real Estate Partners Chattanooga. From the ground up, I delved into the business, cultivating a deep appreciation for both small business and real estate. Over time, it became clear that my innate attention to detail was a perfect match for ensuring our client's best interests were protected in their transactions. 

Now, as the longest team member on the Darlene Brown Ryan May Team, I enjoy a multifaceted career, managing contracts, transactions, and administration, as well as many special projects. Known to prioritize organization and efficiency, I enjoy building systems that help our team manage both single-family transactions and developments. Simultaneously, I enjoy the privilege of assisting my own clients with their real estate. 

Outside of work, I love building community with friends and family and spending time with my husband, Jonathan, and two dogs.