How I got started in Real Estate

I never imagined my path would take me here, standing in front of this charming two-story colonial with my realtor’s clipboard in hand. If you had told me ten years ago that I’d trade my life as a social worker for a career in real estate, I would have laughed. But looking back, it all makes perfect sense now.

My journey began in the heart of a city, where I worked as a social worker. Each day was a whirlwind of emotions, filled with the struggles and triumphs of people from all walks of life. I helped families navigate the maze of social services, supported children through difficult transitions, and stood by individuals facing unimaginable hardships. The work was fulfilling but also deeply draining. I often found myself thinking about the root causes of their struggles, and one theme kept resurfacing: housing.

A stable home can transform a person’s life. It provides a foundation, a sense of security, and a place to build dreams. Yet, so many of the people I worked with were in unstable living situations. Evictions, unmanageable rent, and unsafe living conditions were common threads in their stories. I started to see housing not just as a backdrop to their struggles but as a pivotal factor in their wellbeing.

One day, after helping yet another family avoid homelessness by the skin of their teeth, I realized I wanted to do more than just put out fires. I wanted to help people secure safe, stable, and affordable homes before they reached a crisis point. That’s when the seed of a new idea took root: real estate.

Transitioning from social work to real estate wasn’t easy. I enrolled in night classes while still working full-time, burning the candle at both ends. My colleagues and friends were supportive but curious. “Why real estate?” they’d ask. My answer was simple: I wanted to make a tangible difference in people’s lives by helping them find a place they could truly call home.

After earning my real estate license, I faced a new challenge: establishing myself in a completely different field. My first few months were tough. The competitive nature of the business was a far cry from the collaborative spirit of social work. But I had an edge—my experience taught me empathy, patience, and an ability to truly listen to people’s needs.

I started small, working with first-time homebuyers who were nervous about taking such a big step. My background in social work proved invaluable. I could sense their anxieties and was skilled at guiding them through the process with compassion and clarity. I wasn’t just selling houses; I was helping people find homes where they could build better lives.

Word of mouth spread, and soon I was receiving referrals from former colleagues, friends, and even past clients. My unique approach resonated with people. I wasn’t just a real estate agent; I was a partner in their journey, someone who genuinely cared about their future.

Now, standing here, I’m about to show this beautiful colonial to a young couple who remind me of the families I once worked with as a social worker. They’ve been saving for years, dreaming of a place where they can grow roots and create lasting memories. As I turn the key and open the door, I feel a sense of fulfillment. This is more than a career change; it’s a continuation of my mission to help people build better lives.

Every house I sell, every family I help move into their dream home, is a step towards creating a community where everyone has a place to belong. And that, to me, is the most rewarding journey of all.