Let’s open the door for another addition to our popular mini-series, let’s dive in. PaSH is centered around sharing inspiring stories, breaking down stereotypes, and sharing the authentic, behind-the-scenes moments that make entrepreneurs so amazing. Let’s get started with, “The Heart of Kingfish Bay: April Barbee on Building Homes, Relationships, and Dreams”.
Meet April Barbee
With over 20 years of experience in real estate and a professional background in interior design, April Barbee brings a unique blend of vision, creativity, and market knowledge to every client experience. Originally from Albemarle, NC, April has spent nearly three decades calling the North Myrtle Beach area home.
Whether helping buyers find the perfect home or sellers make a seamless transition, April is known for her thoughtful guidance and attention to detail. She is also the founder of Adorn by Barbee LLC, her interior decorating business, where she transforms houses into homes with style and heart.
What’s the craziest idea you’ve ever had for your business that worked?
Leaning into my love for interior decorating and staging—not just selling homes but helping clients see the potential of a space. What started as a creative side passion has turned into a huge part of how I connect with buyers and sellers.
If you could have dinner with any entrepreneur (alive or dead), who would it be, and what would be the first question you’d ask them?
I’d love to sit down with Joanna Gaines. My first question would be: How did you balance staying authentic to yourself while building such a recognizable and successful brand?
What’s one stereotype about entrepreneurs that you’d love to break?
That entrepreneurs are always “all business.” The truth is, the most successful entrepreneurs lead with heart. For me, this career is as much about relationships and people as it is about transactions.
What’s your go-to mantra or quote when the going gets tough?
“Trust the process.” Real estate can be a rollercoaster, but I remind myself and my clients that patience and persistence always pay off.
What’s one piece of advice you wish you could give your younger self before starting this journey?
Don’t be afraid to blend your passions into your business. My love for design, decorating, and helping people feel “at home” has been just as valuable as my real estate knowledge.
How do you keep your creativity flowing when motivation is low?
I look for inspiration outside of real estate—through design, nature, and even everyday life. Shifting my perspective helps spark new ideas and allows me to come back to my work refreshed and ready to create.
What’s the funniest or weirdest customer request you’ve ever received?
A client once asked if their dog could test the backyard before making an offer. Honestly, it wasn’t that weird to me—I know how much our furry family members mean, and it actually helped them feel confident in the home!
What’s one misconception people have about your industry that drives you crazy?
That all Realtors do is “unlock doors.” There’s so much strategy, negotiation, problem-solving, and heart behind every transaction. It’s not just about selling houses—it’s about guiding people through a major life transition.
In a world full of trends, how do you keep your business authentic and true to your vision?
I focus on people over popularity. Trends come and go, but creating a genuine connection and making sure my clients feel cared for will always be at the core of my business.
How do you handle competition, and what sets your business apart from others in your field?
I’ve learned that you have to remain true to who you are and what you bring to the table. People will either feel a connection with you, or they won’t—and that’s okay. You can’t win them all, but when you do, it’s because the relationship is genuine. That authenticity, combined with my real estate expertise and design insight, is what truly sets me apart.
In addition, Kingfish Bay is a truly unique community. It has so much to offer in Calabash, so it stands out as the ideal place to live for both retirees and families looking for a more relaxed lifestyle along the water.
Can you discuss any partnerships or collaborations that have particularly impacted your business?
Partnering with other professionals who share my standards—photographers and stagers—has been a game-changer. These collaborations allow me to highlight each property’s unique character and ensure my clients’ homes stand out in the market. It’s not just about selling a house; it’s about presenting a lifestyle, and having the right team around me makes that possible.
Thank you for reading, “The Heart of Kingfish Bay: April Barbee on Building Homes, Relationships, and Dreams”, part of our mini-series. To read more amazing Q & A’s click here or check back next month.
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