A Life in Homes: From Georgia to New York Real Estate

Team Member Spotlight: Cole Burden

Home has always been more than just a place to live for me—it has been a reflection of my journey, experiences, and passions. I grew up near Atlanta, Georgia, where my grandparents owned a historic home on Wieuca Road in Buckhead. It once belonged to Margaret Mitchell’s aunt and uncle, and legend has it that Mitchell wrote much of Gone With the Wind in the attic. I was captivated by its history and heartbroken when my family had to sell it—a moment that first made me realize the deep emotional connection people have to their homes.

My journey took me to Cleveland, Ohio, where I attended a conservatory for acting and singing. My dorm, Kohler Hall, was famously haunted—it had been a hospital in the 1800s, adding an eerie character to my college years. Upon graduation, I moved to New York City and began a whirlwind tour of living spaces that mirrored the ever-changing nature of my life in the arts.

I first lived in a grand pre-war apartment in Washington Heights, with soaring ceilings, French doors, and oversized rooms. Then came a railroad-style apartment in Hell’s Kitchen, which I shared with two aspiring Broadway stars. Those years were filled with creativity, ambition, and the unique charm of old New York living. As my acting career took me on the road, I experienced a nomadic lifestyle, staying in everything from luxury hotels like the Four Seasons to humble roadside motels. Life on tour was unpredictable, but it cemented my appreciation for both the comforts of home and the excitement of travel.

When I returned to New York for auditions, I stayed with a friend on Pomander Walk, an enchanting private mews on the Upper West Side that had once been home to Humphrey Bogart. Eventually, I settled into a sleek new development with floor-to-ceiling windows and Hudson River views—a modern, full-amenity building that felt like something out of Will & Grace and was the perfect way to spend my thirties.

Because of my travels, I’ve built lifelong friendships across the country—in Los Angeles, Denver, Chicago, Dallas, Cleveland, Memphis, D.C., and, of course, Atlanta. These connections have reinforced my belief in the importance of home, no matter where life takes you.

Today, I live in Central Harlem with my husband, in a home that continues to reflect my love for light-filled spaces. Years of travel and transient living taught me the importance of simplicity, leading me to embrace a minimalist lifestyle. This mindset inspired me to create SIMPLIFYnyc, a decluttering and organization service that helps clients prepare homes for sale, optimize design offices, and live clutter-free. I firmly believe that an organized space leads to a clearer mind and a more peaceful life.

My passion for homes extended beyond organizing—I found myself drawn to real estate. I worked in sales offices for luxury developments like Superior Ink, The Brompton, and The Caledonia, which deepened my fascination with New York City’s high-end market. Now, as a real estate professional, I am devoted to helping my clients navigate the process of buying, selling, and creating homes that bring them comfort and joy.

New York real estate is an incredible investment, and I love helping my clients find not just a place to live, but a place to belong. Whether you’re searching for a new home, looking to simplify your space, or considering your next investment, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s find what moves you.