The Hatteras Realty Team

My family moved to Avon in 2007, enrolling me in Cape Hatteras Secondary School as a Freshman. I started in property management as a Maintenance Coordinator in the Outer Beaches Waves office, in charge of maintaining about 200 homes. Four years later, I moved into the Property Manager role where I have been since.

Before working in property management, I worked at the local Ace Hardware store for about 7 years where I met just about every contractor on the island and forged great relationships. Growing up, my mother was also a class A contractor in VA and I spent many days after school on the jobsite helping and learning from the crews. I like to bring some of this expertise and contacts to the table when assisting my homeowners. My favorite part of the job is solving owners problems!

In my downtime I enjoy cooking for my wife, friends and family, spending time on the water, and firefighting with the Avon Volunteer Fire Department. 

Property Manager / Business Development Associate

Phone: 252-256-3955 | Email

Leigh is excited to be diving headfirst into her seventh season in Property Management, bringing a whirlwind of energy and expertise to everything she touches! Her journey began with Outer Beaches Realty in 2020. The same year she traded the fast-paced life of New Jersey for the breathtaking shores of Hatteras Island. She joined her Parents here and the rest is history. This was her family vacation destination since she was 8 years old. Since making the move, she has fully embraced the coastal lifestyle, turning her transition into a thriving career where she helps homeowners and guests alike experience the magic of Hatteras Island.

She is a seasoned professional who knows that no two days in property management are ever the same - and that is exactly why she loves it! Whether she is solving a logistics puzzle or welcoming a new homeowner into the fold, she thrives on the dynamic, unpredictable nature of the industry. Before transitioning to property management, she spent over 15 years serving others in the Senior Living industry. This extensive experience instilled in her a deep sense of empathy, unparalleled patience, and a "people-first" philosophy that makes her a standout advocate for every homeowner she represents.

She is a true creative at heart, having earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Illustration and Design from Moore College of Art & Design in Philadelphia, PA. Her artistic eye brings a unique perspective to her professional life, allowing her to see the beauty and potential in every property. When she isn't busy managing vacation homes, she is a fixture in the local arts community. As a talented artist, she shares her passion by teaching classes locally and showcasing her work in various shops throughout Hatteras Island.

Dana Wells moved to Hatteras Island in 1998, finding herself working in property management which quickly became her new passion. After receiving her NC real estate license, she continued working to earn her Broker In Charge Status.

Dana is known for her strong work ethic, problem solving, and hands-on approach while managing rental properties for over 27 seasons. She takes pride in making guests and owners have a great experience on Hatteras Island.

Outside of work, Dana enjoys fishing, shelling, sitting on the beach reading, and spending time with her family and friends. If you need a recommendation for any owner or guest need, do not hesitate to call Dana. She has a lot of local knowledge.

Heading into my fifth season as a Property Manager, I started as a Property Caretaker working for Dustin James. This is my second career. I was encouraged to pursue my license, obtained in 2023, and am now the Broker In Charge of the Hatteras Office. I manage properties in Hatteras Village and Frisco.

I grew up in Northeastern PA, earned degrees at UNH, and VCU. I fell in love with Hatteras Island while residing near Richmond, VA, visiting the island at every opportunity. I permanently moved to the island shortly after the conclusion of my business career.

My prior work experience is 35 years in Business and Information Technology, starting my career in New York City, then relocating with a Company to Richmond, VA. My work experience by far has prepared me well for this industry as I get to apply all the skills I developed over the years: attention to detail, communication, technology, creativity, influencing, and customer service.

I am proud to work for Hatteras Realty and I love the team I work with and being in an environment where we support one another and truly want to do the very best for our owners and guests.