I'll never forget the tears that fell from my face after passing my Real Estate Exam. So hungry. So desperate. So determined. My back was against the wall, and retreating was not an option. Without having anyone in my family reach success in real estate, I didn't have much advice besides hearing, "There are a lot of realtors out there."
All I wanted was to break free from living paycheck to paycheck and make money while helping people find their dream homes. As a brand new father, I was determined to succeed for my daughter. I didn't want her to grow up thinking I was a loser; I wanted her to admire her father with respect. The mere thought of falling short in her eyes terrified me.
When I first became licensed, I quickly realized that finding business in the real estate world is HARD. I spent hours cold-calling people with multiple properties to find potential leads I could work with. It felt like I was getting punched through the phone every day. There were moments when I questioned my decision to enter this challenging industry. I vividly remember taking a 10-minute cold call break when my first lead called me, asking for help. It was a referral from an agent within the brokerage who had a friend looking to move from Alabama to Ohio.
From not knowing how to book a showing to writing my first contract, I owe them a lot of thanks for giving me a chance. That first opportunity was the spark that ignited my career. Everything seemed to fall into place for me. Opportunities continued presenting themselves, and I decided to take a chance on every single one of them. My initial goal was simple: WRITE 100 offers in my first year, knowing I would become someone I wasn't before I embarked on this journey. And now, after 606 days, I can proudly say I've closed my 100th transaction. Looking back, I realize I am entirely different from the person I was over a year and a half ago.
Real Estate changed the direction of my life and my family's future.
What surprises me the most is how much the market has grown since my first day unlocking doors leading to clients' new homes. The real estate landscape is constantly evolving, and adapting and growing with it is crucial. The lessons I've learned, the connections I've made, and the sheer amount of knowledge I've gained along this journey are invaluable.
Key takeaways from my experience:
Persistence Pays Off: Cold-calling and rejection were constant companions in my early days. But by persistently pursuing opportunities and learning from every setback, I was able to carve a path to success.
Networking is Key: That first lead came from a referral within my brokerage. Building a strong network of fellow agents, clients, and industry professionals can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Set and Review Goals: My initial goal was to write 100 offers in my first year. Setting specific goals and reviewing my progress helped me stay focused and motivated.
Adaptability is Essential: The real estate market is ever-changing. Being open to new strategies and willing to adapt to market shifts is crucial for long-term success.
Family is a Powerful Motivator: The desire to provide for my daughter and set a positive example for her was a driving force behind my determination to succeed.
Reflecting on my journey from that tearful moment after passing my Real Estate Exam to my 100th closing, I'm grateful for the opportunities and growth I've experienced. Real estate has not only changed my life but has also given me the chance to help others find their own paths to happiness in their dream homes.
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