Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Shanta McClurkin Joyner.
Hi Dr. Shanta, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve always worn many hats, but the two that define me most are educator and real estate agent. Education was my first calling—I started in the classroom, later became an academic coach, and now also serve as a department lead for the college of education. For me, it’s never just been about teaching lessons; it’s about building confidence, helping students discover their voice, and creating spaces where they can truly thrive.
Real estate came into my life as another way to serve. Families trust me to guide them through one of the biggest decisions they’ll ever make, and I don’t take that lightly. Whether I’m walking someone through a home for the first time or celebrating with them at closing, I see it as an extension of what I already do in education: helping people build a future and find stability.
Balancing both worlds hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been so rewarding. In the mornings, I may be leading a school assembly or coaching a teacher, and in the evenings, I might be showing a home or negotiating an offer. Both careers fuel me in different ways, but they share the same heart—service, guidance, and helping others reach their goals.
At the end of the day, whether it’s a student discovering their strengths or a family opening the door to their new home, those are the moments that remind me why I do what I do.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. When I was working on my Doctorate of Education, I was balancing the demands of a full-time career in education, community commitments, and raising two teenagers with very busy schedules—my son in football and track, and my daughter in the color guard. My days were long, and the work was intense, but earning that degree was one of the most rewarding accomplishments of my life.
Shortly after finishing my doctorate, I became a single mom. That’s when the reality of added financial responsibilities hit me—I knew I was going to have to buy two cars for my son and daughter, keep up with insurance on those vehicles, and still provide the life my children deserved. An extra stream of income looked pretty awesome at that point, so I put in the work to study for my real estate license.
What started as a way to support my family grew into something much bigger. I discovered that real estate, like education, is truly a career of service. Helping families find their homes is deeply fulfilling, and I absolutely love the work.
Balancing both careers hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve learned that every challenge is an opportunity to grow. If I could push through long nights of doctoral studies, parenting two active teenagers, and starting over as a single mom, then I know others can persevere too. The road hasn’t been smooth, but it’s led me exactly where I was meant to be—serving others, both in the classroom and in the community.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
As Shanta Joyner, REALTOR® with Prestige Property Brokers, my business is deeply personal. When I got remarried, I proudly took on my new last name, Joyner—and with it, I’ve made it my mission to bring the JOY back into real estate. Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones, and I want my clients to feel supported, celebrated, and cared for every step of the way.
I specialize in working with first-time homebuyers, military purchasers using VA loans, and families interested in new construction. These are often big transitions that come with lots of questions and emotions, so I approach each client like a teacher and a partner—guiding them, educating them, and making sure they feel confident in their decisions.
Education is at the heart of what I do. I make sure my clients understand each step of the process: answering questions, explaining documents, reviewing paperwork, and providing clarity where things can feel overwhelming. My goal is to remove stress by giving them knowledge and confidence. And my relationships don’t end at the closing table—I stay connected with my clients long after the deal is done, supporting them as homeowners and celebrating their milestones.
I am proud to say that this dedication has also been recognized within my brokerage. I’ve been honored as an award-winning agent and a top-selling agent for multiple months. These achievements reflect not only my hard work, but also the trust that my clients place in me to guide them through such an important season in their lives.
What sets me apart is the way I celebrate my clients. On closing day, I roll out my signature hot pink carpet for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. It’s my color, my tradition, and my way of making the moment unforgettable. There are usually happy tears, lots of hugs, and pure excitement—it’s not just about handing over keys, it’s about honoring the journey.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud that my work is known for being joyful, personal, and heartfelt. I want readers to know that when they work with me, they’re getting more than a REALTOR®—they’re getting someone who sees their dream, celebrates their story, and makes sure their new house truly feels like home.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Over the next 5–10 years, I see real estate becoming even more client-driven, with a strong focus on education, personalization, and technology. Buyers—especially first-time and military families—want to feel informed and empowered at every step, not just rushed to the closing table. That’s where agents like me come in: to guide, explain, and build trust in a process that can sometimes feel overwhelming.
I also see technology continuing to change the way we do business—virtual tours, digital closings, and AI-driven tools are making the process faster and more convenient. But while technology is important, I believe the human connection will remain the most valuable part of this industry. At the end of the day, people want someone they can trust with one of the biggest decisions of their lives, and no app or website can replace the care, advocacy, and personal service of a REALTOR®.
Another trend I expect to see is a continued demand for new construction and affordable housing options, especially as younger buyers enter the market and military families relocate. Agents who understand these unique needs and can educate clients through the process will stand out.
For me, real estate in the future will be about combining innovation with heart—leveraging new tools to make the process smoother, while keeping relationships, education, and celebration at the center of the experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shantajoyner.com/
- Other: https://drshantamcclurkinjoyner.com/
Image Credits
Chris Kimble
