Insights from Kiser Group’s Summer Cohort 2023: Navigating Challenges, Proudest Moments, and Valuable Lessons in Real Estate

In this interview, delve into the experiences and insights shared by Kiser Group’s 2023 summer cohort, offering a unique perspective on navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the real estate industry

What are some challenges or struggles you’ve had since joining Kiser Group?  

Eric Keta: One of the significant challenges I’ve faced since joining Kiser Group has been learning how to manage buyers’ and sellers’ expectations in a shifting market. In an industry so dependent on interest rates, sudden hikes like we’re currently experiencing inevitably result in gaps in where clients believe pricing is at. It is the difficult job of a broker in learning how to maneuver within these psychological barriers to bridge this gap while keeping each client’s best interests in mind. With so many factors like this out of your control, it’s essential to maintain a short memory, keep moving forward, and push through inevitable setbacks.

Proudest moment?  

John Couri: One of my proudest moments was when I conducted a sale analysis for a 6-flat in Chatham. Despite several unsuccessful attempts of just emailing the numbers to the potential client, I decided to take a different approach. Recognizing the need for a personal touch, I arranged a meeting with the client to walk them through the numbers and my presentation in person. Originally scheduled with a coworker, due to timing issues, I ended up going alone. Despite the initial uncertainty, I embraced the opportunity as a chance to learn. It was my first solo in-person presentation, and to my satisfaction, it went quite well. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and the value of face-to-face interaction in making a significant impact. 

What have you learned since joining KG?  

Jackson Medina: One of the most crucial lessons I’ve learned is about effective time management. It’s not just about scheduling time but recognizing when certain endeavors might not yield productive results. Understanding which interactions might lead to dead ends, like dealing with potential buyers or quotes that seem like tire kickers and don’t offer essential information, has been key. Rather than spending excessive time, sometimes hours, on such leads, I’ve learned to prioritize. Redirecting my efforts toward engaging with individuals who hold potential for creating opportunities for Kiser Group is more fruitful. This shift allows for the cultivation of relationships that not only benefit them but also contribute to the company’s growth and financial success. 

What’s a piece of advice you’d give to someone who wants to go into real estate?  

Hunter Wern: Stay resilient. If a deal falls through, don’t linger on it. Keep your momentum going and swiftly move on to the next opportunity. 

What brought you to Kiser Group and why did you join? 

Evan Destefano: I initially entered Kiser Group with the expectation of primarily functioning as an analyst – focusing on underwriting deals, constructing OMs, and crafting sale proposals behind a computer screen. However, during the interview process, the interviewers emphasized that while I would indeed handle analytical tasks, my role would predominantly involve brokerage. They highlighted the need for active engagement – making calls, meeting people in the field, and cultivating deals. 

This approach excited me because, in conversations with individuals from various firms, including big names like Colliers and Marcus & Millichap, I learned that the first year as a broker is incredibly challenging. What stood out about Kiser Group was the opportunity to essentially begin as a broker while still being involved in analytical work. The prospect of a salary providing a safety net during the initial year was immensely appealing. It offered room for learning and making mistakes without the immediate pressure of solely relying on commissions. This way, the transition to a full-fledged broker in the subsequent year feels more like a second-year launch rather than a daunting first-year venture. 

What’s the most important skill as a broker? 

Noah Shutan: The most crucial skill I’ve learned as a broker during my time here is honesty and straightforwardness with clients. It’s easy to inflate numbers or present an overly optimistic picture, but what truly matters is being candid. When you can justify a realistic value to a client, even if it’s not the highest number they want to hear, it builds trust. Admittedly, not everyone appreciates it; some might even get upset. However, clients value this honesty in the long run. They might choose another agent offering a higher listing price, but eventually realize that Kiser Group had given them the accurate valuation. It’s essential to prioritize honesty over the temptation to secure listings, focusing instead on providing clients with genuine, realistic insights rather than simply aiming to accumulate as many listings as possible. 

If someone were considering a career in real estate, how helpful would you say the cohort-approach has been to your launch? 

Will Mast: The cohort-based approach in our entry-level roles has been incredibly beneficial. Unlike entering into a position where you’re isolated, here, we have a group of younger, ambitious brokers all at a similar stage in their careers. Having this cohort means we can relate to each other’s challenges, frustrations, and successes. It’s reassuring to have peers who understand the unique hurdles of this career path. Real estate can be quite frustrating at times, and being able to discuss those frustrations with individuals who share the same drive and ambition is invaluable. Having this group creates a supportive environment in the office, providing a sense of camaraderie and understanding that significantly eases the challenges of navigating this career. There’s a certain comfort in having such a supportive and friendly group around, which has made work feel more like a shared journey rather than an individual pursuit