Working hard and giving back
Longtime Alabaster resident Tracy Coyne is a busy person. Her professional job as a Realtor/Associate Broker with ARC Realty and a Military Relocation Professional keeps her plenty busy, however she is also the Director of the Alabaster Business Alliance which she took over from State Representative Leigh Hulsey in October 2022. Coyne has happily lived in South Wind for nearly 30 years.
Tell us about your family.
“I am the oldest of five siblings and a lifelong resident of the Birmingham area. My heart is with my amazing husband John who works with Signature Homes, and we are so proud of Zach, an electrical engineer with Southern Company. Together we have 10 siblings living all over, from Cleveland, Ohio, to Baltimore, Maryland, to Lexington, South Carolina, and back to Jackson, Mississippi. We don’t see them nearly as often as we would like.”
As a realtor are you happy with the community’s growth over the past few years?
“Yes, the growth of the area has definitely helped boost real estate growth and home values.”
Why do you think people move to Alabaster?
“The most common reasons are for the schools and affordability of housing in comparison to other Shelby County areas.”
Is Alabaster a friendly place for veterans?
“Yes. We care deeply about veterans in our community, and there are dedicated groups and resources here serving and helping them.”
What is a Military Relocation Professional? How do veterans find you?
“The MRP is earned through a National Association of Realtors course where a Realtor learns the details of moving service members both active and retired. It also involves a strong understanding of the Veterans Affairs loan process and requirements to help guide military clients while using their well-earned benefits. Most of my veteran clients find me through referrals from fellow veterans or events I’m holding to bring greater awareness of the benefits available and changes in the VA loans. I am also very blessed that ARC Realty participates in the Leading RE Military on the Move program that allows me to give back a portion of my commission as a reward for service to them.”
Do you have favorite neighborhoods?
“Well I love my own because of our neighbors in South Wind. We have such a variety of neighborhoods with home and lot sizes in all ranges that it is hard to choose just a few!”
Besides the Alabaster Business Alliance (ABA), what other non-profits have you been involved with in the past?
“SafeHouse, Military Veterans groups and Love Hands and Feet of Jesus homeless ministry.”
How did the ABA get started?
“A group of local business leaders started the Alliance in 2021.”
What are some of your goals with the ABA?
“I want the ABA to be a resource for our business community where leaders can meet with like-minded or complementary businesses to better their success. The ability to network with others and city leadership on a regular basis is proving very beneficial to our members. I also hold the scholarship fund very dear to my heart and want that to continue to grow through our Taste of Alabaster event in the fall.”
Where and how does the ABA meet?
“We meet the third Thursday of every month in various locations as we give our members an opportunity to host meetings and showcase their businesses.”
What goes on in a meeting?
“We have speakers related to the business community with networking, open discussion, and updates from our city administrator.”
Is there a cost for membership?
“Yes. It’s $100 per year with discounts for longer term memberships. But that money is returned several fold in networking opportunities and having a unified voice to represent our needs.”
How can someone join the ABA?
“Very easy, visit alabasterbusiness.org.”
Any advice for the next generation of business leaders?
“Faith, family then business—in that order. Always serve others above yourself, and remember to give thanks for each step along the way.”
How do you feel about the future of business in Alabaster?
“I am excited about the responsible growth being planned by our city leadership and support having the bulk of our retail outside of the neighborhood areas. Alabaster is a thriving community, a desirable place to live and play, and as our city grows, so will our businesses community.”
Are there leaders in Alabaster who have helped mentor you along your journey?
“My greatest mentor was Randall Williams, a Realtor I assisted early in my career. I not only learned the real estate business, but he and his wife modeled walking in faith, family values, and serving others.”
What are some of your hobbies?
“I love to cook, garden, travel, and contribute to summer beach traffic as often as I can!”
Where do you like to eat in Alabaster?
“My favorites are Chubbfathers, the café at CreActive, and Copper Train. At home, I use our local farms to feed our family and have brought them into the ABA as well.”
Do you attend CityFest?
“Absolutely. I love everything about CityFest and am proud to be a sponsor. It is my favorite festival to see friends, neighbors, and hear great music.”
Do you have a favorite band you’ve heard at Cityfest?
“Vertical Horizon was one, but I can’t wait to hear this year’s music.”