1987 – 1992

1987 – 1992 Stepping out in Faith

Christan Brothers RealtyLet me tell you a little about my real estate brokerage “Christian Brothers Realty”.  First, the name…  My partner, Al Cole, was black (Al has since gone on to be with the Lord). I am white.  We were “brothers in the Lord” aka Christian brothers. We were both outgoing and hardworking.  We worked hard to build the company.  We prospected FSBO (for sale by owner) properties and expired listings.  We were aggressive in getting business.  Our office was located in Ferguson, MO which is a suburb of north St. Louis county.  Our market area was the entire St. Louis metro area.

My life as an entrepreneur small business person had begun. I soon discovered how much I loved working for myself. Sure, I had to work hard to make things happened, but at least I felt I was getting rewarded for my efforts.  It was scary and exciting everyday.  Amazingly enough, I found my programming experience came in very handy, as I was able to quickly understand how to use databases for contact management and prospecting.  We took chances.  We made mistakes.  We learned through it all.  I made it through the first year of “being on my own”.  Then I made it through the second year.  Things were going well, but they would change.

Certified Residential SpecialistIn 1990, Al and his wife decided to open their own real estate and mortgage company and I bought their ownership. I decided to move my business location to Bridgeton, Missouri.  This was closer to the geographic area I was focusing on.   It was during this time that I realized I needed to get “real good” at my profession.   I pursued professional designations that would enhance my professional image.  I obtained my GRI, CRS, CRB, and CRP designations. I started to apply my technology skills to my business.  I think that it was during this time that i began to see real estate as a lifelong career.   Up to that point, I had viewed real estate as a way to be an entrepreneur.

What I learned during this time:

  • Become good at time management.
  • Go for your dreams.
  • Fear of failure is a trap.
  • Don’t live a life of regrets wishing you had done something.
  • Take a chance when opportunity arises.
  • Strive to be the very best at what you do.

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