Tamara Heyward

About Us:

While growing up in a constantly traveling military family, Tamara Heyward gained a wonderful knowledge of many places, lifestyles, and cultures. But the uncertainties of living in an ever-changing environment taught her the importance of having a place to call home. "I think about my experiences each day as I work to become a better and more responsive broker. I truly believe in the importance of home, as a place for family, and I believe in real estate as a solid investment."

After graduating from Duke Universitywith a degree in Public Policy Studies and a concentration in Markets and Management Studies, Ms. Heyward built her professional skill set with companies like Polygram Distribution Group, Texaco Oil Company, Battleground Restaurant Group, and Belk, Inc. She also put her entrepreneurial skills to the test as the owner of a clothing boutique. Her wide range of experience in business serves her well in real estate, where she relies on her skills in management, research and analysis, and marketing to negotiate the best outcomes for her clients. She says, "the key to success is getting people to communicate, and never giving up. If you can provide people with good information and get them to talk to each other, you can find a solution to almost any problem."

Ms. Heyward also holds two prestigious designations offered by the National Association of Realtors. As an ePro, she understands how technology can be used to assist her clients in buying or selling a home, while protecting their privacy. She also holds the Graduate of Realtor Institute, or GRI, designation. The GRI is awarded to Realtors who have made the commitment to provide a high level of professional services by securing a strong educational foundation.

Ms. Heyward is involved in her local community, and serves as a member of the Durham Brand Advisory Committee. She upholds the professional standards of the real estate profession by serving on the Grievance Committee of the Durham Regional Association of Realtors. She also works with local non-profit organizations to create and market affordable housing in Durham.

Areas of Expertise

My current area of expertise is in affordable housing development, sales, and marketing. I work for a company called Self-Help, and our goal is to provide opportunity and ownership to people that are not served by traditional lending and development markets. We lend money to businesses and individuals, build and manage residential and commercial construction, and advocate for responsible lending practices. Our home base is North Carolina, although we have recently started operations in Washington, DC and California.

Previous to my work with Self-Help, I worked for five years in general brokerage. I worked frequently with relocating buyers, especially in the Duke University and Medical Center community. I also worked with community and non-profit builders.