I obtained my real estate license in 1989 and the builder I was supposed to work for went out of business shortly after. Most people would have seen that as a sign to quit. I saw it as a reason to figure it out on my own.

 

I realized I wanted to become a REALTOR® at a crossroads in my life. I was working as an administrative assistant for a custom home builder in Sussex County who was planning to develop a new community. The idea of helping people find homes, of being part of something that shaped lives and neighborhoods, sparked something in me. I decided to get my real estate license, thinking I’d be part of this new venture. But life, as it often does, had other plans—the builder went out of business just as I got my license. Suddenly, I was standing at the edge of a new path, unsure but determined.

 

My journey to that moment was, in and of itself, full of plot twists. I was born and raised in Baltimore, and after high school, I thought I’d become a teacher. Life moved quickly—I married young and had my son at 22. When my marriage ended, I needed a fresh start and a better place to raise my child. My grandparents and mother lived in Sussex County, so I packed up and moved to Delaware, a single mom with a young son and a lot of hope.

 

 Starting over wasn’t easy. I worked for my mother’s cleaning business at first, then landed a job with the home builder. Although that job ended unexpectedly, it was exactly what inspired me to get my real estate license. Funny how life works sometimes, huh?

 

Once I got my license, I found a position as a rental agent at a real estate firm in Bethany Beach. It was a whirlwind—learning the ropes, meeting new people, and trying to build a life for my son and me. My goal was simple: stability and a future for us both.

 

After five years, I joined Jack Lingo Realtor, a family-run business that would become my professional home for decades. I spent about fifteen years in the rental department, then moved into sales and eventually earned my broker’s license.

 

Right now, I’m settled in Sussex County, Delaware, where I’ve lived for over forty years. I am currently the Broker of Record for the Millsboro branch of Jack Lingo Realtor. My days are a mix of managing agents, handling year-round rental properties, and listing and selling homes. I also spend time teaching continuing education classes in real estate, which lets me fulfill my early dream of being a teacher in a different way.

 

 Personally, I constantly strive for balance by making time for my hobbies: quilting and reading. I love losing myself in a good book. I also enjoy the companionship of my dog, Kingston, a Chihuahua who came into my life after my black Lab passed away. I found him in a field 13 years ago, and now he goes to work with me every day. I sometimes wonder if I rescued him or if he rescued me.

 

My story is one of perseverance, adaptation, and quiet strength. I’ve faced heartbreak and uncertainty, but I’ve also found purpose and connection in unexpected places. Life hasn’t always gone according to plan, but I’ve learned to embrace the journey and find meaning in the simple things.

 

With 36 years of experience, I pride myself on my strong work ethic and genuine care for my clients. I always strive to do the very best job I can, protecting my clients’ interests because I know buying or selling a home is often the biggest transaction in their lives. Honesty is at the core of my business—I’m known for being brutally honest, even when it’s uncomfortable news. I value long-term relationships and loyalty, and many of my first clients are still friends today. I believe in building trust and being there for my clients over the years, not just for a single transaction. 

 

My experience—over 36 years in the industry—means I’ve seen almost everything and can handle a wide range of situations, from residential and commercial sales to property management. I also have a strong network of local contractors (painters, carpet cleaners, you name it). I’m highly organized and with 42 years of living in Delaware, I’m an expert on the area. When you work with me, you work with someone committed to her craft who offers the highest possible level of knowledge. 

 

Sincerely,

  

Susan A. Mills