Finding Purpose Beyond the 9-to-5
For years, I worked in car wheel manufacturing—a solid, blue-collar management job that paid the bills but left me feeling stuck. Every day was the same: same complaints, same routine, no real progress. I was 40 years old and realizing that while I had stability, I didn’t have fulfillment. That’s when my neighbor, Carlos, changed everything.
Carlos worked in real estate. I’d see him every morning, smiling, well-dressed, and genuinely happy. Meanwhile, I was heading to the plant in my safety boots and polo shirt. It didn’t take long to realize—he was living a life I wanted.
The Spark That Started It All
At the time, I had a photography hobby. One day, Carlos asked if I’d take listing photos for one of his properties. That small gig changed my direction completely. After seeing the commission check from that deal, I realized he made in one sale what I made in several months.
That was my wake-up call. I got my real estate license and decided to jump in headfirst—no backup plan, no safety net. My company was going through restructuring, and instead of signing on with the new management, I took it as a sign to bet on myself.
Learning the Hard Way
I didn’t know real estate was 100% commission. That first month hit hard. Bills kept coming, but the paychecks didn’t. My severance went fast, and I realized this business was all about self-motivation.
At Keller Williams, I took the Ignite training and learned the importance of calling everyone I knew. I reached out to old contacts, practiced scripts, and studied top producers in my office. Eventually, I joined Carlos’s team to learn from him firsthand.
He pushed me to be independent—to figure things out and not rely on anyone else for success. At the time, it was tough love. Looking back, it was exactly what I needed.
Going Independent
After learning the ropes, I realized the team split model wasn’t for me. Once I understood how commissions worked, I decided to go solo. It was time to build my own business.
I started buying Zillow leads, even when people said it wasn’t the “right” way to do real estate. I didn’t care about what was trendy—I cared about what worked. I answered every phone call, day or night, because every missed call was a missed opportunity. Some months, I spent $5,000 or more on leads, but those calls built my career.
The Power of Consistency
Over time, I learned that real estate isn’t about luck—it’s about showing up every single day. Whether it’s answering your phone, showing up to the office, or just getting out of the house, consistency wins.
You can’t build relationships from your couch. Go to Starbucks, Panera, or local open houses. Talk to people. One of my biggest deals—a $500,000 listing—started from a simple conversation at a gas station. My Marine Corps license plate caught someone’s eye, and that sparked a deal.
It’s not about being the best talker; it’s about being present, genuine, and ready to connect.
Lessons for New Agents
If you’re new to real estate or stuck where you are, here’s what I learned:
- Find a mentor or coach. Pay for one if you have to—it’ll make you take it seriously.
- Answer every call. You’re paying for opportunities. Don’t waste them.
- Get out of the house. Business happens in person.
- Track your conversations. Set a goal for 10 solid new contacts each week.
- Invest in yourself. Whether it’s education, systems, or marketing—commit to your growth.
Closing Thoughts
When I left my 9-to-5, I didn’t have a plan B—just determination. I was an introvert who decided to go all-in on something new. That decision changed my life.
If you’re thinking about making a similar leap, don’t wait for the “perfect time.” There isn’t one. Bet on yourself, work harder than you ever have, and stay consistent. The results will come.
