Hidden Gems: Meet Carol Lee of Golden Key Realty

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carol Lee.

Hi Carol, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am the Broker/Owner of Golden Key Realty in Northville. I am a lifelong resident of the area (Livonia, Northville and back to Livonia), I began my thriving real estate career at the young age of 21. I have consistently been recognized as a REAL ESTATE ALL-STAR by MICHIGAN REAL PRODUCERS and HOUR MAGAZINE ranking in the top 5% of all metro Detroit real estate agents since 2015.
I have built a reputation for exceeding the needs of my clients and always making their goals the priority of every transaction. By their side every step of the way, I want my clients to know they can completely trust me throughout the entire real estate process. I will meticulously oversee every aspect of our transaction and alert clients to any possible issues. Over the years of my career, every successful deal and happy customer has led to another. I pride myself in always doing the right thing. I believe ethics is paramount.
I am well versed in every facet of residential and commercial real estate, always using the latest industry technologies and continually furthering my knowledge. I have been a licensed builder since 1990, creating numerous custom and spec homes. Additionally, I have operated as a landlord since 1989, so I am distinctly able to provide my clients with keen insight into today’s expanding rental market.
I’m passionate about sharing the knowledge and insight I’ve gained over the past 36 years to train and build a strong, collaborative team. I believe in leading by example, fostering a supportive environment where each team member can grow, thrive, and provide exceptional service to our clients. By combining proven strategies with a people-first approach, I’m proud to help shape a team that’s not only skilled and professional, but also genuinely dedicated to making a difference in the lives of the clients we are fortunate to work with.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Over the past 38 years, I’ve had the privilege of building a career in real estate—an industry that can be as rewarding as it is unpredictable. From housing booms to market crashes, from shifting interest rates to evolving technology, the landscape has constantly changed. And yet, through all the highs and lows, I’ve not only remained in the business—I’ve grown stronger, wiser, and more passionate about what I do. When I started this career, success meant putting in the time, pounding the pavement, and building relationships one handshake at a time. Those early years taught me the value of trust, consistency, and showing up for people in meaningful ways. Real estate is, at its core, a people business. That foundational belief has guided me through every market cycle. Through downturns, like the 2008 housing crisis, I learned how to pivot, how to stay calm under pressure, and most importantly, how to be a source of strength for my clients and team. I focused on education, sharpened my skills, and leaned into my network. Rather than being paralyzed by fear, I chose to be proactive—and that made all the difference. On the flip side, during times of growth and hot markets, I embraced innovation and technology to stay ahead. I learned to adapt to new tools and platforms, but never lost sight of the personal connections that truly drive success in this industry. I took pride in mentoring others, knowing that sharing my experience could help them navigate their own paths with confidence. Today, I lead with both heart and strategy. I’ve built a team that feels like family—rooted in mutual respect, shared goals, and a commitment to excellence. I’m proud of the reputation we’ve built, the relationships we’ve cultivated, and the lives we’ve helped change through the power of homeownership. The road hasn’t always been smooth, but it’s been incredibly fulfilling. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that longevity in this business comes down to resilience, integrity, and a willingness to grow.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Golden Key Realty?
2025 marks my 30th year in business as Golden Key Realty in Downtown Northville!
I’ve built my real estate career on a foundation of integrity, honesty, and a strong ethical compass—principles that have guided every transaction and relationship over the years. I approach each client with genuine care, always putting their best interests first, even when it means having tough conversations or walking away from a deal that isn’t right for them. I believe that doing the right thing isn’t just good practice—it’s the only way to do business. As a result, nearly all of my new clients come from referrals or past clients who return because they know they can trust me. That trust is something I never take for granted, and it’s the heart of what has made my career so fulfilling and successful. With this as my foundation, I have built a wonderful all-women team of professionals within my brokerage. Together, we are very proud of who we are and what we do.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I see the future of real estate as incredibly promising—full of opportunity, growth, and continued success, just as the past 38 years have been. While the market will always have its unpredictable moments, with all the glorious ups and downs that come with it, I’ve learned that lasting success isn’t about just riding the wave—it’s about being prepared. By putting strong systems and good practices in place today, I’m setting the foundation for the future. Staying informed, adaptable, and client-focused allows me and my team to navigate whatever comes next with confidence. The road ahead is bright, and I’m excited to continue growing with the industry I love.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.goldenkeyteam.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gktnorthville/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goldenkeynorthville
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brokerforthebuyer/