Meet the team

Steven Hensley - owner

Steven is no stranger to hard work, sacrifice, and teamwork—values he developed as a former University of Tennessee football player and now brings into every aspect of his real estate career. After eight years as a field marketing consultant working with some of the largest brands in the country, Steven’s path shifted in 2017 when he bought his first home. The process left him overwhelmed and under-informed, sparking a passion to ensure no one else—especially friends and family—felt that way during such an important life decision. In 2018, he became a licensed agent and began working part-time in real estate. Just two years later, he left his corporate career to go all-in on serving East Tennessee homebuyers and sellers.

What started as a one-man operation quickly grew into the top real estate team in East Tennessee within just a few years. The VFL Real Estate Team now includes 15 full-time agents and 4 dedicated operations staff, all working toward the shared goal of delivering expert guidance, top-tier service, and an experience clients genuinely enjoy. Known for treating every client like family and providing thoughtful, attentive care at every step, the team has helped over 900 families buy or sell real estate across 22 counties in Tennessee. In the past year alone, they ranked #1 in East Tennessee for contracts closed and #4 across the entire state of Tennessee.

In his free time, Steven enjoys playing in various sports leagues, including kickball, softball, basketball, and flag football. He and his wife enjoy traveling, relaxing on the lake, and—of course—cheering on the Tennessee Volunteers from the Vol Navy and inside Neyland Stadium. Whether on the football field or in the real estate market, Steven believes success comes down to speed, consistency, discipline, and surrounding yourself with the right team—and he’s proud to have built exactly that with the VFL Real Estate Team.

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Carrie hensley - business operations

Carrie was born and raised in western North Carolina. She moved to Knoxville in 2015 to work at the University of Tennessee. She worked for the University of Tennessee for almost eight years before transitioning into the real estate world in March of 2023. Her husband, Steven, who has been in real estate for six years, encouraged her to make the switch to help manage the business operations of their real estate team and oversee their rental properties. She specializes in developing processes and systems for the VFL Real Estate Team to ensure their clients experience a smooth transaction by creating easy to understand expectations from start to finish.

As a property manager of a diverse portfolio, Carrie’s abilities to assess property values and stay knowledgeable of local market trends sets her apart. While she initially started with short-term rentals, she has since transitioned their properties to long-term rentals. This role has allowed her to further enhance her skills of communication, problem solving, and providing excellent customer service which she brings into her every day real estate responsibilities.

Beyond her work, this mountain gal has a passion for the outdoors. Whether she’s hiking in the mountains, fishing on the lake, or hunting in the woods, her adventurous spirit knows no bounds. Beyond personal enjoyment, Carrie is a committed advocate for wildlife conservation and active in community service. She shares this adventurous life with her loving husband and fur babies. Together, they love to spend time on the lake and cheering on the Tennessee Volunteers.

Barbara Newton - Broker

With over a decade in the industry and more than 5,000 transactions completed, Barbara has built her career on a strong foundation of integrity, precision, and leadership. She’s had the privilege of mentoring and managing high-performing teams and thrives on transforming complex processes and documentation into smooth, client-centered solutions.  Her work is driven by a client-centered approach, where clear communication, accuracy, and peace of mind are top priorities. Whether helping a brand-new agent with their first transaction or assisting a seasoned professional with a complex deal, she’s committed to providing dependable, knowledgeable support every step of the way.

 Her peace and purpose are found outdoors and in service to my community. I am a wife and mom to 4 (3 adults and 1 in high school). As the spouse of a veteran and mother of two active-duty Airmen, I am passionately committed to supporting the military community and proudly serve on FIRE-TEAM TENNESSEE, an organization dedicated to the fight against veteran suicide.

Heather Allen - office manager

Heather has been a licensed agent for over 10 years.She values education, communication & fostering relationships. She has worked independently, as well as along side some of the best realtors & mentors. Heather is passionate about people and will be the first to be your cheerleader & your advocate to best support you & your business. She is a true Enneagram 4.

Outside of work, Heather enjoys supporting & promoting local businesses and loving on all the fur babies (including house/pet sitting for her close friends & family).

Annie thomas - marketing

Annie graduated with a degree in communications and has since been on a career path that’s been anything but ordinary. She started out working the front desk at a busy semi-truck dealership, where she quickly learned how to juggle multiple tasks and keep things running smoothly in a hectic environment. After that, she spent nearly 5 years as an insurance agent where she navigated underwriting requirements and quotes for multiple companies on a daily basis—a whole different kind of hectic!

It was ultimately in the world of real estate where she found a career home. For over three years, she kept processes organized and running like clockwork, making sure agents were genuinely happy anytime they needed to come by the office. During that time she soaked up any and all knowledge about real estate, just because it was fun!

With VFL, Annie had the opportunity to take a leap into social media and marketing. Turns out it's been her favorite role yet. It’s the perfect blend of strategy and creativity, and she’s loving every minute of it.

When she’s not crafting the next viral post or diving deep into marketing strategies, Annie is out exploring the world. She met her husband on a road trip through Knoxville, and eventually made the move from Texas to be with him. They share their life with three wonderful dogs and two porch cats.

Teresa Gillard - agent

Teresa comes to the business from tenure as the Director of Career Services at a private college, so SHE KNOWS ALL ABOUT STRESS! Her priority is to lessen the stress of buying and selling a home by making sure you have everything you need BEFORE decision time comes. Her edge is finding calm in all the busyness of today’s real estate market. AND it doesn’t hurt that she knows all the best coffee places around town!

With Realty Executives widely recognized brand, latest tools and technology, Teresa has the access to make your transaction clear and simple. She believes in a philosophy of transparency, “I feel creating something of value has to lead with integrity, which creates a solid foundation to do great business together. I’m a life-long Tennessee girl, not to mention a military brat…. and that’s just how we do things around here.”

During her spare time, Teresa and her husband love doting on their adorably cute grandkids, riding motorcycles (yes, she has her own bike), and collecting floor plans of houses of their favorite TV shows!

Paige Pendleton - agent

Paige Pendleton is a Knoxville native and a real estate agent for the greater Knoxville area. She strives to demonstrate the highest level of communication, transparency and commitment to each one of her clients. Paige carrries values of hard work, outstanding client service and a fun experience into everything she does.

Paige was previously providing Litigation Support Services across Tennessee. Being the 4th generation in the legal field, knowledge of contract and the legal system make her a perfect candidate to help clients and walk them through the home buying process. Now owning the business along with her Vetern husband, Paige has given her all to real estate, looking to help individuals and families reach their goals. She says, "real estate shouldn't be about sales, it should be about service to our clients."

Paige enjoys being with friends, family and her 3 dogs. Contact Paige Pendleton with any of your real estate needs and to learn more about Knoxville, Norris Lake and the greater Knoxville area.

Britt Green - agent

Britt is a native of Crossville, TN and an avid sports lover! Britt has played sports her whole life and has continued to enjoy them in adulthood. In her spare time, you can find her spending time with her family. She has a degree in Psychology from Tennessee Tech University and Technology from Roane State Community College. After graduating college, Britt dove into a multi-billion dollar rental car company and quickly rose into management due to her commitment to customer service and sales excellence. 

Britt shifted into Real Estate and has loved every second of it. Britt is committed and hard working individual who looks forward to making every clients dream of home ownership come true. Britt always strives to ensure she is serving her clients to the best of her ability and being their voice and advocate through the home buying or selling process. 

Contact Britt Green today with any of your Real Estate needs. She is the expert you need! 

Krista Fisher - agent

Krista is a native of TN and a huge VOLS fan! She grew up right outside of Knoxville and enjoys spending time with her family and fur babies. She has a degree in Applied Science and is a Registered Dental Hygienist. Though she loves her career in dental, she wanted to reach for another goal.
Krista made a career shift into Real Estate and never looked back. She is dedicated, works hard for her clients, is driven to succeed and makes sure all clients needs are met with high satisfaction. Krista knows and works many areas of East TN. Because of this, she brings an insight and understanding to every clients Real Estate experience.

In her down time, she loves being outside and you will most likely find her on Norris Lake. 🧡

matt baldo - agent

Matt was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. In his early 20s, Matt moved to California where he and his wife, Brittney, would meet and start their family. Matt had a successful career in California as an HR and Compliance Director for a multi-million-dollar health care company. From there, he began his construction and real estate career. While in California, Matt not only practiced real estate but also helped supervise custom home building for his clients. Matt finds great joy in the building process. Helping people find the perfect piece of land and build their dream home is one of his favorite experiences. Matt’s knowledge of construction is key to his success in real estate. Matt is the Project Superintended for Pinehurst Homes, INC., a local General Contractor who specialize in custom high end home building.  

Matt and his wife, Brittney, moved to west Knoxville in 2022 as part of the great California Exodus. They looked at several places across the country but ultimately landed in Knoxville. Matt and his wife found that east Tennessee was the best place to raise their 3 young children. When Matt is not working, he loves spending time with his family, playing sports, hanging by the lake, and enjoying all the beauty of east Tennessee.  

taylor Lucas - agent

al brown - agent

Al brings a wealth of experience in sales, marketing, and education to the table as your trusted real estate professional. After graduating from Northwestern University, he spent time in business development for the hedge fund team at Gerson Lehrman Group (GLG) and marketing at the New York Philharmonic. He also taught for several years in Title I schools. As your realtor, he brings a positive attitude, attention to detail, expert negotiating skills, engaging marketing strategies, and a commitment to helping you achieve your goals. He has experience working with buyers, sellers, investors, you name it! Check out his Zillow reviews. For the Best in Town, call Al Brown!

megan wells - agent

Raised in the beautiful Great Smokey Mountains, Megan has a tremendous amount of knowledge about Blount County’s neighbourhoods, schools, and hidden gems. Megan began her professional journey as a compassionate and dedicated nurse assistant, providing essential care and support to patients in need. Her ability to connect with people, understand their needs, and build trust became defining traits in her career.

While Megan cherished her time in healthcare, she always had a passion for real estate and helping people achieve their dreams of finding the perfect home and decided to transition to the real estate field. As a realtor, Megan brings the same dedication and personal touch that defined her nursing career. Her attention to detail, strong work ethic, and ability to navigate complex situations make her a reliable advocate for buyers and sellers alike. 

Outside of work Megan spends time with her family camping, hiking, and enjoying the Little Tennessee River. She is dedicated to furthering her knowledge and skills in real estate and continues to help as needed at the hospital. With a background rooted in care and a future focused on opportunity, Megan is excited to help her clients make confident and informed decisions in real estate.

Brandon Lemaster - agent

Brandon LeMaster is a successful general contractor from California who has transitioned into real estate. He is passionate about helping others achieve their goals, whether it's finding the perfect investment property, developing land, or securing a dream home. With his industry experience and dedication, Brandon is committed to guiding clients through every step of their real estate journey.

Bre Putnam - agent

Breanna Putnam is a passionate and dedicated individual with deep roots in Morgantown, PA. After spending her early years there, she ventured to Central Florida for a year and a half before settling in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 2021. With a strong work ethic, Breanna has carved out a successful career as both a commercial and residential cleaner, always striving to create clean and inviting spaces for her clients.

In 2025, Breanna took a bold step into the world of real estate, pursuing her dreams with enthusiasm and a keen eye for opportunities, excited to help others find their dream home.

Outside of work, Breanna has a love for music, photography, and spending time in the great outdoors. Whether she’s capturing beautiful landscapes or enjoying a day in nature, she finds joy in life's simple pleasures. She shares her life with her supportive husband and their three dogs, who fill their home with love and joy.

With a strong work ethic, a passion for adventure, and a commitment to living life to the fullest, Breanna continues to pursue her goals and dreams every day.

rebecca strawn - agent

After living in California Rebecca and her family put down roots in Tennessee, rebuilding their lives and finding a place to truly call home. Having experienced the excitement and challenges of relocating, Rebecca is passionate about helping others navigate their own transitions with ease and confidence.

With 16 years of experience in the real estate industry—eight as an administrative professional and eight as a licensed agent—Rebecca brings a well-rounded understanding of the market from both sides. Whether assisting first-time buyers, families moving across the country, or individuals searching for the perfect home, she takes the time to truly listen and ensure every decision aligns with her clients' unique needs and goals.

Before real estate, Rebecca spent over 15 years in film, television, and event production, including organizing charity events for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Managing large-scale productions, coordinating complex logistics, and working with diverse teams helped refine her ability to handle every detail of a real estate transaction with precision, care, and a personal touch.

Buying or selling a home is one of life’s biggest decisions, and Rebecca is dedicated to making the process seamless, stress-free, and even enjoyable. More than just helping clients find a house, she is committed to helping them find a place where their story begins and memories are made for generations to come.

With expertise, collaborative approach, and a focus on no sales only customer service, Rebecca will guide you through the intricate process of the Home Buying Experience.

Jonette Russell - agent

Jonette Russell made East Tennessee home in 2013 and quickly fell in love with its beauty, charm, and community spirit. As a mother of five and with a background in ministry, Jonette brings compassion, dedication, and a strong service mindset to every client relationship. She understands that buying or selling a home is more than a transaction—it’s a personal journey.

Known for her attentive customer service and down-to-earth approach, Jonette is committed to helping families and individuals find their perfect place in the region she’s proud to call home.

Dayana Bazano - agent

Dayana came to the United States at 17 with big dreams, a lot of heart, and a deep desire to create a meaningful life. She earned a degree in Health Information Management with a minor in Health Informatics, but along the way, she discovered that her true passion lies in connecting with people—and that’s what led her to real estate.

After more than six years helping clients buy and sell homes in sunny Florida, Dayana brought her experience, energy, and love for real estate to beautiful East Tennessee. Now based in Knoxville, she specializes in residential real estate and truly enjoys guiding her clients through each step of the journey with clarity, care, and confidence.

She’s known for her strong negotiation skills, attention to detail, and a personalized approach that puts her client’s goals front and center. Whether they’re buying their first home, investing in their future, or making a fresh start in a new place—she’s here to make the process smooth, successful, and maybe even a little fun!

As a bilingual agent, she’s proud to serve both English and Spanish-speaking clients, making sure every conversation is clear and every need is met with respect and understanding.

On the personal side, she’s a proud mom to four incredible daughters and two sweet boy doggies. She’s happily married to the love of her life, and they love spending time outdoors, exploring the mountains, and making memories with friends and family. She also has a passion for sports, crafting, and baking (especially when it means sharing something sweet!).

Dayana truly loves what she does and absolutely loves calling East Tennessee home.