Stephany DeBerry
"Stephany Sells the DMV"
By Rodney Wayne Branche
Copa: Where are you from?
Stephany: Rochester, New York.
Stephany: Rochester, New York.
Copa: What schools have you attended?
Stephany: I initially started as a Chemistry major at Howard University, I always knew that I would become an Entrepreneur when I was a teenager, one of the things I was passionate about was doing my hair (typical teenage girl). I thought that I could go to Howard University to develop my own line of hair products. I wanted to create a special line of products that would work well for my hair that was naturally curly and wavy but I wanted to wear it straight. That's why I attended Howard and I did receive money to study there as a Chemistry major. I later switched over when I realized that Chemistry just was not for me.
Copa: What sparked your desire to become an Entrepreneur?
Stephany: I was about 12 or 13 years of age (about Middle School age) I remember reading an article, I think it was a newspaper article about entrepreneurs. At that time I didn't understand what they meant. When I looked the word up and found out what was...someone who had the desire to own their own business. Immediately I knew that's what I wanted to be.
My Dad was a Baker, my Mom who raised me worked in the automotive industry so I came from a working class family, no one had their own business. I seriously wanted to own my own business so I prepared myself. I actually prepared my college essay to Spelman on owning my own business. It was sort of a 'day in the life' essay.
Stephany: I was about 12 or 13 years of age (about Middle School age) I remember reading an article, I think it was a newspaper article about entrepreneurs. At that time I didn't understand what they meant. When I looked the word up and found out what was...someone who had the desire to own their own business. Immediately I knew that's what I wanted to be.
My Dad was a Baker, my Mom who raised me worked in the automotive industry so I came from a working class family, no one had their own business. I seriously wanted to own my own business so I prepared myself. I actually prepared my college essay to Spelman on owning my own business. It was sort of a 'day in the life' essay.
Copa: What is you personal philosophy on business and ethics of business?
Stephany: I use my faith to guide me in business, believe in the golden rule to every area of my life. I treat people the way that I would like to be treated. I think that we all have been blessed with gifts, talents and purpose. It's up to us to find these things. Life is a journey and we all must get to our destination. At an early age I knew I wanted to do something but I didn't really have a mentor and proper support. Now I feel obligated to give to proper support to up and coming Entrepreneurs.
Stephany: I use my faith to guide me in business, believe in the golden rule to every area of my life. I treat people the way that I would like to be treated. I think that we all have been blessed with gifts, talents and purpose. It's up to us to find these things. Life is a journey and we all must get to our destination. At an early age I knew I wanted to do something but I didn't really have a mentor and proper support. Now I feel obligated to give to proper support to up and coming Entrepreneurs.
Copa: Tell us about some other businesses the you have been involved in?
Stephany: My first business was Student Services LLC, at the time I was attending Howard University. I had worked several years with High School students in non-profit community services. Later I started giving tours to the students and I loved it. The next business where I received more recognition and grew a little more was "Simply Salads." We were located in DC first, then I opened a location out in Leesburg Virginia, then I found an investor that helped me open a store in Miami. I must say, having a dream and running with it is very exciting. I would suggest that you learn as much as you can and surround yourself with like minded individuals because it's very difficult to get support, especially if you are around people who have no interest in owning their own business. Most people were taught to go to school, get a good job and get a good education. This way no one can take that away from you. I wanted my family to be proud of my work, I did all of the necessary paperwork and learned all I could to be successful. It was good for me to be directly involved with the process. Entrepreneurship is about constantly learning and evolving.
Stephany: My first business was Student Services LLC, at the time I was attending Howard University. I had worked several years with High School students in non-profit community services. Later I started giving tours to the students and I loved it. The next business where I received more recognition and grew a little more was "Simply Salads." We were located in DC first, then I opened a location out in Leesburg Virginia, then I found an investor that helped me open a store in Miami. I must say, having a dream and running with it is very exciting. I would suggest that you learn as much as you can and surround yourself with like minded individuals because it's very difficult to get support, especially if you are around people who have no interest in owning their own business. Most people were taught to go to school, get a good job and get a good education. This way no one can take that away from you. I wanted my family to be proud of my work, I did all of the necessary paperwork and learned all I could to be successful. It was good for me to be directly involved with the process. Entrepreneurship is about constantly learning and evolving.
Copa: When did you start your Networking Group?
Stephany: After procrastinating for several years, realizing that hadn't made necessary connections I wanted to make. After speaking to many other entrepreneurs I discovered that they felt the same way. Many times people go to events to find out who's who in the area to connect, it's always the 'what's in this for me sort of attitude. I wanted to establish a group where we could be very serious about supporting our colleagues and supporting each other's businesses. The name of the group was called "Founders" because we all were the CEO's or Directors of our own organizations. We assembled mostly over dinner, most of the business owners were mostly from the Northern Virginia area where I'm currently living. We're already expanding from Loudoun County to Prince William County. Our entire premise is to work together in building and help support each other's businesses. November will be our 12 year anniversary. It's all about establishing a firm relationship with each other. We've been taught just to exchange cards with people you meet at different events. It's really important to get to know individuals outside of business by developing a true business relationship by understanding each other.
Stephany: After procrastinating for several years, realizing that hadn't made necessary connections I wanted to make. After speaking to many other entrepreneurs I discovered that they felt the same way. Many times people go to events to find out who's who in the area to connect, it's always the 'what's in this for me sort of attitude. I wanted to establish a group where we could be very serious about supporting our colleagues and supporting each other's businesses. The name of the group was called "Founders" because we all were the CEO's or Directors of our own organizations. We assembled mostly over dinner, most of the business owners were mostly from the Northern Virginia area where I'm currently living. We're already expanding from Loudoun County to Prince William County. Our entire premise is to work together in building and help support each other's businesses. November will be our 12 year anniversary. It's all about establishing a firm relationship with each other. We've been taught just to exchange cards with people you meet at different events. It's really important to get to know individuals outside of business by developing a true business relationship by understanding each other.
Copa: What do you think about all of this 'texting' when working with a potential client?
Stephany: I am all for calling! I'm 'Old School,' texting is so informal. There is a time and place for texting after a relationship has been established after necessary conversation has taken place. When starting there should be phone conversation as much as possible so there be nothing to interpret. When you are speaking to person you can hear inflections in the tone of their voice. Some people would say that you could figure if a person is deceitful or honest depending on what you hear...if one is actively listening. The more we understand each other better. Once things are established down the road texting would be efficient.
Stephany: I am all for calling! I'm 'Old School,' texting is so informal. There is a time and place for texting after a relationship has been established after necessary conversation has taken place. When starting there should be phone conversation as much as possible so there be nothing to interpret. When you are speaking to person you can hear inflections in the tone of their voice. Some people would say that you could figure if a person is deceitful or honest depending on what you hear...if one is actively listening. The more we understand each other better. Once things are established down the road texting would be efficient.
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Copa: Tell us all about your radio show.
Stephany: Now you are putting a smile on my face. My radio show was titled "Take Off With Stephany" was about my experiences in the Airline industry, I started with Delta as a Customer Service Agent at DCA and I loved it! I was planning to be a Flight Attendant but September 11th happened. I left the industry like so many people at the time. Some people left and some were forced out but I continued to return over the years. Most later I became a Flight Attendant and somehow I wished to get information out the public, not just about my experience but how important it is for people to get out and enjoy themselves. Get up, get out and do something, not just sit around but find something to do. The family car trip or maybe getting on an Amtrak. So every week I had guests from the travel industry appear on my show. I was on WOLB out of Baltimore, Radio One and I loved it. I still think about it all of the time because I like to share information and have fun. We had a Beauty Correspondent as well who shared great information beauty tips. I still have all the recordings from the show. Copa: What is your opinion on style as it pertains to New York and Washington, DC?
Stephany: Ohh my goodness, I remember when I first moved to DC in 1990, the local natives had a complete style of their own. That's not a bad thing...it's just different. As for me, I consider myself to be classic, I'm jeans and t-shirts, beautiful dresses in the Summer with heels, very feminine and timeless. 
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Copa: How long have you been working in the Real Estate industry and what future do you see in it here in the Washington, DC area?
Stephany: I received my license in 2006 in Maryland, DC and Virginia collectively over the years. I love this area, it's so diverse as far as Real Estate is concerned, it's a market all it's own. I live in Loudoun County, several years before the bubble people were moving out here in droves, and they are still coming in. However the market has not caught up yet...at least not for sellers. I read something the other day that stated the seller's market has only grown only about 5%. The DC market has taken off to 25%. I work with sellers and buyers on both sides of the transaction. Right now is an awesome time throughout the metro area. The city of Baltimore is a great place for investors to find great properties, one should always keep that in mind. |
Copa: What does the future hold for Stephany DeBerry?
Stephany: The latter should be greater than the former according to the bible, I'm sticking to that. I believe that I haven't even scratched the surface yet. There really is so much I wish to do and there's so many people I want to help. I would like to get back into radio, one of my lending partners have a TV Pilot that we have been working on, a home buyer type of show, my non-profit "Wings of Charity." There are so many things that I would like to do to impact the community.
Stephany: The latter should be greater than the former according to the bible, I'm sticking to that. I believe that I haven't even scratched the surface yet. There really is so much I wish to do and there's so many people I want to help. I would like to get back into radio, one of my lending partners have a TV Pilot that we have been working on, a home buyer type of show, my non-profit "Wings of Charity." There are so many things that I would like to do to impact the community.
~Stephany's Featured Listing~
2472 Belmont Rd NW Washington DC 20008
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The Obama family is moving to Kalorama’s Belmont Road, N.W., and a section of the street is being gated, with access controlled by the U.S. Secret Service. Only 11 elite residences will be included in this exclusive guarded zone - among them, this luxury home at 2472 Belmont Road, N.W., available now to an astute buyer. Asking price is $3.8 million.
Kalorama has long been Washington, D.C.’s most sought-after district. Here you’ll find the stately mansions, exquisite residences, and diplomatic quarters that the capital’s most discerning elite call home.
The masters of international commerce and geopolitics who influence the nation enjoy über-chic Kalorama’s quiet tree-lined streets, upscale shopping, and access to professional services. For many, Kalorama is a retreat from Washington’s frenetic pace and its crowds.
Yet as good as the neighborhood is, a tiny portion of Belmont Road, N.W. is being gated. In January 2017, when President Barack Obama and family make their post-White House home there, the Secret Service will begin controlling access to the street.
With the former President’s arrival, the U.S. Secret Service is closing that portion of Belmont Road N.W between Tracy Place and Kalorama Circle. In all, 11 homes will be part of America’s newest and most secure gated community. Residents will be issued gate passes.
The home at 2472 Belmont Road, N.W. is located within the new micro-community shared with the Obamas and residences of the ambassadors of the European Union, Oman, the Russian Federation’s military attaché and others.
But there’s more to this wonderful home than interesting neighbors and complimentary government
THE HOME
Built in 1953, this 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath contemporary eclectic home demonstrates exquisite attention to detail inside and out, from the mature landscaping and spacious back yard to the basement garage and apartment suitable for security, household staff, in-laws, or even tenants. With 2,654 square feet of gracious living space, there’s plenty of room for entertaining or spending quality time with family and good friends.
The home is situated on a 5,000-square foot lot, and zoning will permit the addition of up to an additional 744 square feet of living space, if desired.
Your neighbors are distinguished: The EU ambassador’s residence is next door, the Sultan of Oman’s diplomatic mission and residence is across the street, and the Syrian ambassador’s home (now vacant) is over the backyard fence. And, of course, two doors down, the Obama family will be in residence. There’s even a small park across from the Obama home for residents’ exclusive use.
LIVING SPACE
The first floor features a wood-burning fireplace and a sumptuous living room that sets the mood for this elegant yet eminently comfortable home. There’s a cozy half-bath for guests off the entrance, a spacious kitchen, and a dining room overlooking the lush back patio and landscaped yard.
KITCHEN
The gourmet kitchen is perfect for creating anything from elegant dinner parties or a quick Sunday omelet. You’ll appreciate the six-burner stove, ice-maker, and other beautiful appliances, and the large island provides plenty of prep space. The woodwork, stone countertops and finishing are impeccable, providing utility and lasting beauty.
BEDROOMS
Upstairs, three bedrooms with en suite baths comprise the private quarters. One offers a lovely gas fireplace. All invite you to grab a book, a drink and escape from life’s tensions.
APARTMENT
The daylight basement level includes an apartment with full kitchen, bathroom, and one bedroom. There’s dining space and a room that can be used as an office or living room as well. The apartment is suitable as staff or security quarters or as a rental, and is finished with the same attention to detail and style as the rest of the home.
Kalorama has long been Washington, D.C.’s most sought-after district. Here you’ll find the stately mansions, exquisite residences, and diplomatic quarters that the capital’s most discerning elite call home.
The masters of international commerce and geopolitics who influence the nation enjoy über-chic Kalorama’s quiet tree-lined streets, upscale shopping, and access to professional services. For many, Kalorama is a retreat from Washington’s frenetic pace and its crowds.
Yet as good as the neighborhood is, a tiny portion of Belmont Road, N.W. is being gated. In January 2017, when President Barack Obama and family make their post-White House home there, the Secret Service will begin controlling access to the street.
With the former President’s arrival, the U.S. Secret Service is closing that portion of Belmont Road N.W between Tracy Place and Kalorama Circle. In all, 11 homes will be part of America’s newest and most secure gated community. Residents will be issued gate passes.
The home at 2472 Belmont Road, N.W. is located within the new micro-community shared with the Obamas and residences of the ambassadors of the European Union, Oman, the Russian Federation’s military attaché and others.
But there’s more to this wonderful home than interesting neighbors and complimentary government
THE HOME
Built in 1953, this 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath contemporary eclectic home demonstrates exquisite attention to detail inside and out, from the mature landscaping and spacious back yard to the basement garage and apartment suitable for security, household staff, in-laws, or even tenants. With 2,654 square feet of gracious living space, there’s plenty of room for entertaining or spending quality time with family and good friends.
The home is situated on a 5,000-square foot lot, and zoning will permit the addition of up to an additional 744 square feet of living space, if desired.
Your neighbors are distinguished: The EU ambassador’s residence is next door, the Sultan of Oman’s diplomatic mission and residence is across the street, and the Syrian ambassador’s home (now vacant) is over the backyard fence. And, of course, two doors down, the Obama family will be in residence. There’s even a small park across from the Obama home for residents’ exclusive use.
LIVING SPACE
The first floor features a wood-burning fireplace and a sumptuous living room that sets the mood for this elegant yet eminently comfortable home. There’s a cozy half-bath for guests off the entrance, a spacious kitchen, and a dining room overlooking the lush back patio and landscaped yard.
KITCHEN
The gourmet kitchen is perfect for creating anything from elegant dinner parties or a quick Sunday omelet. You’ll appreciate the six-burner stove, ice-maker, and other beautiful appliances, and the large island provides plenty of prep space. The woodwork, stone countertops and finishing are impeccable, providing utility and lasting beauty.
BEDROOMS
Upstairs, three bedrooms with en suite baths comprise the private quarters. One offers a lovely gas fireplace. All invite you to grab a book, a drink and escape from life’s tensions.
APARTMENT
The daylight basement level includes an apartment with full kitchen, bathroom, and one bedroom. There’s dining space and a room that can be used as an office or living room as well. The apartment is suitable as staff or security quarters or as a rental, and is finished with the same attention to detail and style as the rest of the home.
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https://www.facebook.com/StephSellsDMV/
~Copa