About Thornton Academy
Empowering Georgia's next generation of real estate professionals through excellence in education and industry connections
Our Mission
At Thornton Academy of Real Estate, we are dedicated to providing high-quality instruction that prepares aspiring professionals for successful careers in Georgia's dynamic real estate market.
We believe in creating a supportive learning environment where students can build the knowledge, skills, and industry connections they need to thrive. Our comprehensive programs are designed to guide you from pre-license education through post-license training and beyond.
Through our connection to the Thornton Network, we offer more than just education—we provide a pathway to a vibrant professional community and lasting career success.
Our Mission
At Thornton Academy of Real Estate, we are dedicated to providing high-quality instruction that prepares aspiring professionals for successful careers in Georgia's dynamic real estate market.
We believe in creating a supportive learning environment where students can build the knowledge, skills, and industry connections they need to thrive. Our comprehensive programs are designed to guide you from pre-license education through post-license training and beyond.
Through our connection to the Thornton Network, we offer more than just education—we provide a pathway to a vibrant professional community and lasting career success.
What Sets Us Apart
Our commitment to excellence goes beyond the classroom
Knowledgeable Instructors
Learn from experienced professionals who bring real-world expertise and practical insights to every lesson. Our instructors are active in the Georgia real estate market and understand the challenges and opportunities you'll face.
Industry Connections
Gain access to the Thornton Network, a powerful community of real estate professionals. Build relationships that will support your career growth and open doors to new opportunities throughout Georgia.
Smooth Transition
We guide you through every step of your real estate journey, from initial licensing to career advancement. Our comprehensive support ensures you're prepared for success from day one.
Comprehensive Programs
From our 75-hour pre-license course to continuing education and exam preparation, we offer everything you need to launch and sustain a successful real estate career in Georgia.
Meet Our Instructors
Learn from experienced professionals who are passionate about your success
Horace Ridley - Lead Instructor
Real Estate Education & Instruction, Agent Coaching & Development, Training & Market Center Leadership, Business Development
Horace Ridley is a respected Georgia real estate professional, educator, and business developer with a passion for helping aspiring agents launch strong, ethical, and confident real estate careers. As the lead instructor for Thornton Academy of Real Estate, Horace brings a powerful combination of practical experience, market insight, and genuine mentorship to every course he teaches.
Qualifications
Pre-License Instructor • Certified Market Center Trainer • Business Launch Coach • Productivity Coach • Market Center Tech Trainer • Former ALC Member • Former Director of New Agent Development for a local brokerage • B.S. in Business Administration, The Ohio State University
Experience
Horace is an 11-year licensed real estate professional in the state of Georgia. For more than 7 years, he has trained hundreds of agents, created two GREC-approved continuing education courses, and developed numerous non-CE programs focused on practical skills, personal development, and business growth.
Natalie Grant - Senior Instructor
Real Estate Law, Agency Relationships, Fair Housing, Contractual Agreements, Risk Management, Post-License Requirements
Natalie Grant is a seasoned real estate broker with over 17+ years of experience in residential, land, and investment sales across Georgia and Alabama. Known for her results-driven service, market expertise, and relationship-focused approach, she is passionate about mentoring new and emerging agents, particularly those starting real estate as a dual career, by providing proven systems, mindset coaching, and practical guidance to help them thrive.
Qualifications
Georgia & Alabama Real Estate Broker Licenses, B.S. in Finance (Georgia State University), B.S. in Real Estate (Georgia State University),Certified Luxury Agent, Office Meeting Lead
Experience
With over 17+ years of professional real estate experience across Georgia and Alabama, Natalie has closed hundreds of transactions ranging from residential homes and new construction to land, luxury estates, and investment properties. Her hands-on knowledge of contracts, negotiations, prospecting, marketing, and client relations allows her to teach & mentor agents exactly what it takes to succeed in today’s market.