Title: Realtor
Company: Keller Williams Homewood
Location: Homewood, Alabama, United States
Ashley DeForest, Realtor at Keller Williams Homewood, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements and leadership in Real Estate.
Ms. DeForest is recognized for her dedication and expertise as a well-known local realtor at Keller Williams Homewood since 2021, specializing in residential real estate. Since joining the brokerage, she has built a reputation for fostering strong relationships within her community and guiding clients through the purchase of their primary residences.
As she continues to focus on her budding career in real estate, Ms. DeForest’s commitment to client education has become evident in her regular public speaking engagements, particularly on first-time homebuyer education, which is a subject she is deeply passionate about. She frequently presents at her office on practical topics, such as net sheets, and addresses her business professionals’ group twice annually, sharing insights on the power of consistent daily habits for personal and professional growth.
Before transitioning into the residential real estate sector, Ms. DeForest served as the director of operations at a sports training facility for five years. In this capacity, she oversaw daily operations, developed athletic programs, and supported both staff and clients in achieving their fitness goals. Ms. DeForest’s leadership in this position laid a strong foundation for her subsequent success in real estate, honing her organizational skills and deepening her commitment to helping others realize their potential.
Ms. DeForest earned a Bachelor of Science in industrial organizational psychology from the University of North Georgia in 2012, following completion of her high school diploma in Georgia. The analytical skills and understanding of human behavior gained through her studies have been instrumental in her ability to connect with clients and colleagues. Additionally, Ms. DeForest holds certifications as a DONA International birth doula and a CrossFit-certified instructor, further demonstrating her commitment to personal growth and service.
Reflecting her active engagement with the broader business community, Ms. DeForest is a professional member of Business Networking International and the Birmingham Association of Realtors. She is also an ambassador and member of the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, which has provided valuable opportunities for networking, professional development and community involvement.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Ms. DeForest has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to civic engagement. She has served as a staff member at a day shelter in Birmingham, Alabama, volunteered with BirthWell Partners and Urban Purpose, directed athletic development programs for youth, and instructed functional fitness classes for adults.
In 2025, Ms. DeForest achieved a significant milestone by closing eight transactions in a single month, surpassing her previous record set just two months earlier. This accomplishment marked the strongest year of her career to date and stands as a testament to her relentless effort, self-motivation and effective use of the tools and systems provided by her brokerage. Ms. Deforest’s dedication to excellence has also been recognized through industry accolades, including being named Rookie of the Year by the Birmingham Association of Realtors in 2023 and ranking among the top 10% at Keller Williams Homewood from 2022 to 2024.
Ms. DeForest attributes her achievements to a strong personal drive, high ethical standards and an enduring desire to help others. She credits key mentors who recognized her potential early on for investing in her growth and shaping her career trajectory. Inspired by this support, Ms. DeForest now mentors newer agents herself, passing on the guidance that proved so pivotal in her own journey.
Eager for future opportunities, Ms. DeForest aspires to build a legacy by establishing her own real estate business where she can own and manage properties independently. She envisions partnering with someone equally ambitious to grow a successful venture. She is also preparing to become a licensed broker as she pursues greater autonomy and entrepreneurial achievement within the industry.
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