Marlene started selling real estate in Cleveland County in 1977. A 1979 graduate of the Realtors Institute at the University of North Carolina, she followed up that education by achieving the Certified Residential Specialist designation.

In 1980, she formed the company that in 1995 became Prudential Carolinas Realty of Shelby, NC. Realizing that there was a real need for someone in the area who understood the significant differences between residential and commercial real estate, Marlene sought more education in the commercial/investment arena and was awarded with the prestigious CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) designation. She has also been designated a Certified Exchange Advisor, and has helped many clients with tax deferred exchanges.

Marlene has served on several committees and the Board of Directors of the North Carolina Association of Realtors, has been a Director for the Charlotte Region Commercial Board of Realtors, and as President of the Cleveland County Association of Realtors. She currently serves the City of Shelby as chairman of its Planning and Zoning Board. Marlene enjoys all facets of the real estate business, including development, leasing, site acquisition, and sales.