Changing the Narrative

When Bonneau Ansley stepped into the real estate scene, he didn’t just follow the industry’s well-trodden path—he shattered it.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BONNEAU ANSLEY

Guided by his motto, “If it ain’t broke, break it,” Bonneau Ansley has built a career and a company that recreated the blueprint for success in a highly competitive market.

‘Disruption is about maintaining the curiosity and grit to challenge what everyone else accepts as the norm.”–BONNEAU ANSLEY

As Georgia’s youngest agent to hit $1 billion in sales, Ansley’s rise to the top was anything but conventional. While many of his peers focused on cold calls and industry-specific networking events to grow their book, he doubled down on fostering relationships with people often overlooked because they did not fit into real estate’s blueprint of success.

In 2025, Ansley Real Estate will celebrate 10 years since being founded by Bonneau. The brand has grown to over 400 agents, with Bonneau recognized as a top national agent with over $7 billion in sales. Notably, Bonneau’s team has remained largely unchanged since his career began, demonstrating strong retention and commitment.

Bonneau Ansley with his wife and two children PHOTO COURTESY OF BONNEAU ANSLEY

Bonneau shares that each person is exceptional at their role, which allows him to do what he does best: get in front of people and network to connect buyers and sellers. That’s the magic. As the company has substantial bench strength in leadership, Bonneau is able to serve and focus on his clients under his namesake brokerage.

“To win deals, expand your team beyond your office,” Ansley explains. “Include everyone from your barber to your bartender—they’re out there having conversations with potential clients you might miss the opportunity to meet otherwise. The key is to leverage these community connections.”

This community-driven approach allowed Ansley to build authentic relationships, identify opportunities others overlooked, and create a network that surpasses traditional real estate practices.

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is crucial to Ansley’s success. “Communication is the duct tape of leadership,” he says. “Effective communication solves problems and achieves goals.”

By prioritizing EQ, Ansley leads his team effectively and can foster strong client relationships. He underscores the crucial role of self-awareness, empathy, and motivation in achieving lasting success.

Known for shaking things up, Ansley firmly believes that disruption doesn’t have to be negative—in fact, it can be transformative.

“It’s not about being reckless; it’s about being fearless,” he says. “Disruption is about maintaining the curiosity and grit to challenge what everyone else accepts as the norm.”

In his bestselling book Brokering Billions, Ansley shares his philosophies on selling as a conversation and a service. He credits his Vice President, Hil Harper, and CMO, Julie Harris, for their contributions to his success.

“Bonneau is somebody you never want to underestimate. He has the innate ability to read the room, make quick decisions, and if something goes sideways—he finds a solution quickly. There is no silver bullet to how he got to where he is other than being the first to offer help. He’s a great risk taker on a never-ending quest for what’s next.” Harris shares.

In Bonneau Ansley’s world, the rulebook is optional, the status quo is a starting point, and if something isn’t broken? Well, it’s still worth breaking.

Founder of Ansley Real Estate Bonneau Ansley with his wife Jen PHOTO COURTESY OF ANSLEY REAL ESTATE CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL

December 2024 marked a significant milestone for Ansley Real Estate Christie’s International, as the company celebrated its 9th anniversary and reached $1 million in donations to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

From the outset, founder Bonneau Ansley envisioned a company that would succeed in business while making a positive impact. Together with his wife, Jennifer, he established a partnership with Children’s Healthcare, bringing community responsibility into the company’s culture.

Ansley Real Estate Christie’s International’s Susie Ulich and Kristin Sheehan by the $1M pillar at the new Arthur M. Blank Hospital PHOTO COURTESY OF ANSLEY REAL ESTATE CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL

Bonneau first connected with the Children’s Healthcare Foundation through his friend Shelton Stephen, who worked closely with the Foundation’s sports division. Shelton’s suggestion to create a sustainable program for Ansley Real Estate Christie’s International to make a lasting impact on children in need sparked a partnership that extended far beyond financial contributions.

From the beginning, Bonneau and Jennifer launched a program where a portion of each home sale is donated directly to Children’s Healthcare. However, they wanted to do more than just contribute financially—they aimed to make the initiative personal and meaningful for both clients and agents. Agents are encouraged to make donations in honor of their clients with every transaction. Each month, a dedicated team member ensures that every donor client receives a personalized letter from Children’s Healthcare, co-branded with Ansley Real Estate Christie’s International, and a heartfelt patient story.

the Ansley family presenting $20,000 check to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at a 2019 Braves game PHOTO COURTESY OF ANSLEY REAL ESTATE CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL

Ansley Real Estate’s contributions have touched countless lives, funding programs like the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, palliative care services, therapy dog initiatives, and food allergy research.

‘This partnership is more than just writing checks; it’s about showing our clients and community that we are here to make a difference.”–BONNEAU ANSLEY

Their support is honored within Children’s Healthcare’s new Arthur M. Blank Hospital, where Ansley Real Estate Christie’s International stands alongside other iconic community partners like Coca-Cola, Delta, Waffle House, and Georgia Power.

Beau Ansley, after successfully going through the food allergy program at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. PHOTO COURTESY OF ANSLEY REAL ESTATE CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL

Dr. Dan Wechsler, Section Chief of Oncology at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, shared his gratitude: “We sincerely thank Ansley Real Estate Christie’s International and their agents who generously contribute to the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. Their support has allowed us to advance solid tumor research for the nearly 900 patients we treat annually and provide vital family-centered care through our Family Support Team.”

Another story shared involves being able to provide an infusion pump for a cancer patient at the Marietta location, enabling them to “Ring the Bell” and celebrate a milestone in their recovery.

This partnership also holds personal significance for the firm. Agent Amy Malen experienced Children’s Healthcare’s compassionate care firsthand when her son, Atlas, was diagnosed with a rare genetic abnormality. The palliative care unit at Children’s Healthcare supported Amy’s family throughout, ensuring Atlas’ comfort during his time on earth. To honor his memory, Ansley Real Estate Christie’s International made a $30,000 donation to Children’s Healthcare’s palliative care services.

Bonneau shares, “This partnership is more than just writing checks; it’s about showing our clients and community that we are here to make a difference.”

The $1 million milestone is a reminder of what’s possible when business and philanthropy work hand in hand. Ansley Real Estate Christie’s International looks forward to continuing to serve its community for the years to come.