Best in the Biz: Saluting the Stoneleigh’s Donna Smith

After only one phone conversation, I wanted to be Donna Smith’s best friend. And I understood immediately why publisher Candy Evans wanted to add her name to our growing list of Dallas real estate professionals who are the “Best in the Biz.”  

The charismatic sales manager of the Residences at the Stoneleigh obviously knows how to get things done. Only four out of 75 of the luxury units remain on the market.

“Getting to the finish line is my expertise,” Smith says.

Owners who see her in the lobby with a potential buyer offer up their own advice: “Be careful. She’ll sell you two, three, or four units.” Which, in fact, proved prophetic. Eleven of Smith’s clients purchased multiple residences.

“Selling isn’t just my job. It’s my passion.”

“I love people and the entire experience of finding them a home,” she says. “From the lobby to the open space to the 5-star amenities, buyers don’t quite know what to expect. It’s a journey to purchase a shell and turn it into a custom masterpiece in the sky.”

Smith’s tenure with the Stoneleigh dates back to June, 2012, when owner Mehrdad Moayedi hired her on.

“Over time I gained his respect and confidence,” Smith said. “I owe Mehrdad a great deal of gratitude.”   

Smith also gives a shout-out to Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate pro Sharon Quist.

“Being a high-rise expert, Sharon took me under her wing and shared some great pointers,” she says. “My success was not my own doing. It was with the help of so many people.”

What’s next on the horizon our most recent “Best in the Biz” recipient? Smith is still hands-on to sell the last few homes at the Residences at the Stoneleigh. After that, she’ll continue working with Moayedi to sell mid-rise condominiums and townhomes in the Oak Lawn/Turtle Creek area. (You can also find her assisting with sales at Skyline Terrace Villas in the Maple District.)

“I’m always excited to help new and returning buyers find their next home or investment.”

Fun Facts About Donna

Describe yourself in three words: Honest. Optimistic. Encouraging.

Something people don’t know about you: I’ve been married for 17 years to Whit Smith who rode a white horse in a suit of armor through Highland Park when he asked me to marry him at Echo Park. 

(Writer’s note: Actually people might have known. The proposal aired on Channel 8 news and during segments of season three’s Bachelor finale.)

How do you relax? I love boating by myself on my days off. I’ll pack a lunch, anchor, and read a book.

Best advice from Mom? Never put off until tomorrow what can be done today. And do your personal best — even on the bad days.

What’s on your bucket list? I want to buy an Airstream and travel place to place with my grill making pizza for anyone who wants it. I make great pizza!

What are you binge-watching while sheltering-in-place? Ozark on Netflix. I can’t believe people really do stuff like that in real life.

What are you most looking forward to post-pandemic? Getting back to being social.