When Maia Samb arrived in Atlanta and launched her real estate firm, she quickly became a trusted name among international newcomers relocating to the city. But today, as founder of Puttogo Global Group and co-founder of Expat Ease, Ms. Samb is emphasizing a broader message: her work is rooted not just in serving expats, but in deep community connection.
“Some clients think I only work with expats,” Ms. Samb says. “But my strength lies in truly understanding both global transitions and Atlanta’s local communities. That dual insight is what makes our services unique.”
Ms. Samb invites both locals and new members of Atlanta’s international community to participate in her companies’ upcoming events, including an October 18 local business fall festival.
Real Estate and Beyond
Under the banner of Puttogo Global Group, Ms. Samb leads a team focused on concierge-style real estate services for both local residents and international professionals relocating to metro Atlanta. The firm operates under Keller Williams Atlanta Perimeter and is known for helping clients build wealth through strategic real estate moves.
But for Ms. Samb, real estate was only the beginning.
“While helping clients relocate to Atlanta, I noticed commonalities with my own experience moving and relocating in multiple countries,” she says. “It wasn’t just about finding a home, it was about feeling at home too.”
That realization sparked the creation of ExpatEase, an independent platform Ms. Samb co-founded with Sophie Desert. The service provides support that goes far beyond home searches, offering assistance with everything from obtaining Social Security numbers to enrolling children in school and helping newcomers find cultural communities in Atlanta.
“We were already doing these things organically at Puttogo, but it was pulling focus away from selling homes,” Ms. Samb explained. “Now with Sophie onboard, Expat Ease can stand alone as a full destination service that truly integrates expats into life here.”
Data-Driven Integration
The mission of Expat Ease is rooted in both compassion and research. Ms. Samb points to a study by Pivt – a company that tracks global mobility trends for multinational employers – showing that expat retention often hinges on successful integration within the first three to six months.
“It’s not just about where someone lives,” Ms. Samb says. “Did they find their people? Are they connected socially and administratively? Helping them navigate those layers is crucial to keeping international talent here.”
Building Community Through Fall Festivities
Ms. Samb’s passion for community-building isn’t limited to expats. Her signature fall festival, now renamed the Perimeter Pumpkin Patch, has become a beloved annual tradition. What began as a small gathering in her Dunwoody neighborhood has grown into a full-scale event in partnership with the Dunwoody Nature Center, taking place this year on Saturday, Oct. 18.
“It started as a thank-you to the community that welcomed me and my business,” Ms. Samb says. “Over the years, it’s become a celebration of diversity, nature, and the values that make Dunwoody such a special place.”
The Perimeter Pumpkin Patch will feature live music, food vendors, bounce houses, face painting and, of course, a pumpkin patch. Entry is free with RSVP, and vendor and sponsorship opportunities are now open.
“This year is extra special,” says Nancy Longacre, executive director of Dunwoody Nature Center. “Maia and I met through the Leadership Perimeter program and immediately connected over shared values. This partnership reflects our joint vision for community, conservation and joy.”
Ms. Samb sees the festival as more than just seasonal fun. It’s a platform for local companies – including those in the often-overlooked Perimeter market – to engage directly with a diverse and family-friendly audience.
“If your business wants visibility among local and expat families, this is your opportunity,” Ms. Samb suggests. “Dunwoody isn’t talked about enough, but it’s full of international residents and Fortune 500 companies. It deserves to be highlighted.”
A Global and Local Perspective
Whether it’s a first-time buyer from East Cobb or a tech executive relocating from Paris, the Puttogo Global Group team brings both expertise and empathy.
“Yes, expats are a big part of our story,” Ms. Samb says. “But we help all clients – from newcomers to longtime Atlantans – navigate real estate and community.”
To learn more about Puttogo Global Group, visit puttogo.com.
For vendor or sponsorship information for the Perimeter Pumpkin Patch, email Anastasiya Rublyova at operations@puttogo.com.
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