Exploring Life & Business with Erica Lockhart of Ahead of the Curve Homes

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Lockhart

Erica, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey into real estate began with a desire for something more—a career that not only allowed me to succeed professionally but also gave me the freedom to live life on my own terms. I started in corporate America, where I worked hard and climbed the ladder, but I quickly realized that the rigid structure of the corporate world didn’t align with the life I wanted to create for myself and my family.

When I became a mother, everything shifted. I didn’t want to feel guilty for taking my infant to the pediatrician or for simply being present during those precious early moments. I realized I needed a career that would empower me to carve my own path, where success wasn’t measured by hours at a desk but by the impact I could make and the goals I could achieve. Real estate offered me the perfect balance of independence and opportunity. It wasn’t just about selling homes—it was about building relationships, helping people achieve their dreams, and creating a life where I could prioritize what mattered most.

The journey hasn’t always been easy, but stepping out of my comfort zone taught me resilience, creativity, and the value of betting on myself. Today, I’m proud to say I’ve built a thriving, successful business with my incredible business partner, Lorin Ruttenberg. Together, we’ve become the #1 team in the View Park and Baldwin Hills areas and are ranked in the top 1.5% of Realtors in the country. Achieving these milestones has been an honor, and it’s a testament to the power of hard work, vision, and staying connected to your “why.”

Leaving corporate America was one of the scariest yet most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. It’s a reminder that when you trust yourself, take bold steps, and stay focused on your “why,” you can create a life that’s truly fulfilling.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve been incredibly blessed, and for the most part, it has been a smooth road. I attribute much of that to my work ethic and the foundation I built during my 8.5 years in corporate America. Those years were invaluable in teaching me the importance of structure, organization, and professionalism—skills that have been instrumental in building and sustaining a successful real estate career.

Corporate life gave me a deep understanding of how to manage my time effectively, prioritize tasks, and maintain a high level of accountability. When I transitioned into real estate, I carried those lessons with me, which helped me navigate the challenges of being my own boss and running a business.

Of course, there have been moments of uncertainty, especially in the beginning when I was stepping into a completely new industry. Building a client base, learning the intricacies of the market, and managing the highs and lows of the real estate market and transactions required me to adapt quickly and stay focused. But my strong foundation and determination kept me on track, and I’ve been able to create a career I’m truly proud of.

I firmly believe that preparation and mindset play a huge role in how smooth or difficult the journey feels. By staying organized, staying disciplined, and always striving to provide value, I’ve been able to overcome obstacles and keep moving forward. The road hasn’t been without effort, but I’m grateful for every step of the journey

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My business focuses on providing exceptional real estate services to buyers and sellers in Los Angeles, especially in the View Park and Baldwin Hills communities. As one of the top-selling Realtors in the area, I take pride in delivering results that exceed expectations—whether it’s helping sellers achieve top dollar or guiding buyers to their dream homes.

What truly sets me apart are the relationships I build along the way. Many of my clients become lifelong friends, and I often feel like an extended family member. I’m known for being personable, charismatic, and someone people genuinely enjoy working with.

I’ve also embraced the title of “The Stylish Realtor,” which reflects my love for fashion and my ability to bring creativity and flair to everything I do. My passion for style not only inspires my marketing strategies—featuring high-quality photography, videos, and targeted campaigns—but also enhances the way I present homes to stand out in the competitive Los Angeles market.

For me, real estate isn’t just about buying or selling homes—it’s about helping people move into the next chapter of their lives with confidence, excitement, and a partner they can trust.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Luck hasn’t played a role in my life or business—I’ve worked hard for everything I’ve achieved. Every milestone, every success, and every relationship I’ve built has been the result of dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence.

In real estate, there’s no substitute for hard work. It’s about showing up every day, putting in the effort, and staying focused on your goals, even when things get tough. My journey hasn’t been about waiting for opportunities to fall into my lap—it’s been about creating them through preparation, strategic thinking, and consistent action.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.aheadofthecurvehomes.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericalockhart_la/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericalockhart

Image Credits
Jerry Kelly (main photo), Kaye McCoy (photo 2) and Pierre Galant (property photos)