You’re So Fly: Maggie Buchanan
When Maggie Buchanan of Neighborhood Loans moved to Greenville in 2022, she saw it as a fresh start—both personally and professionally. After visiting during the holidays, Maggie and her family fell in love with the city’s sense of community and knew it was where they wanted to be.
Since relocating, Maggie has quickly made her mark in the Greenville business community. Here, she shares her journey, the lessons she’s learned, and advice for anyone thinking about starting over.
What inspired you to start over in your business in Greenville, and what was the biggest challenge you faced?
We moved here from Las Vegas in April 2022 after my kid’s dad passed away unexpectedly. We have family here and came for the support. After we visited during the holidays, we decided this was where we wanted to be. The biggest challenge was the turn the real estate and mortgage industry took at the exact same time—a rate hike and a subsequent halt to the business volume we were accustomed to.
What’s one networking strategy that has had the biggest impact on growing your business?
Given the position I was in, I had to start networking, and fast. I teamed up with a referral partner who had the same goals, and we started hosting events—Bingo, luncheons, educational, holiday parties, etc. Getting people together and being the host gives you a platform to showcase yourself however you choose.
Looking back, what’s a lesson you wish you had known when you first started over?
One thing I would have done differently is not cast my net so wide. I spent more time than I needed on things that were not income-producing activities. I would have been more picky about what event I planned or was a part of from the beginning.
How has being part of a community like Flywheel helped you grow professionally?
Being a part of a community is always beneficial if you utilize it to get to know your peers. We have more in common than we think, and you never know how an acquaintance may show up later in your life. I have had many serendipitous things happen that all came full-circle, looking back. Look at everyone as a human with a goal, just like you, and chances are, one of you can help the other, or mutually. Help first, and abundance will follow. You can’t receive with a closed hand.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting over or pivoting in their career?
Have at least six months reserves in the bank, depending on the industry you’re pivoting to. Know your ‘what’ backwards and forwards and know your ‘WHY’ even better. Trust that the ‘how’ can be ever-changing and pivoting doesn’t equal quitting.
We’re proud to have Maggie Buchanan as part of the Flywheel Greenville community—her story is a great reminder that connection, focus, and purpose can help you build something even stronger the second time around.
