Sep Niakan is the Owner/Broker of HB Roswell Realty.
What was your first job in the realty industry? Managing Director of the Miami office for a small national real estate brokerage
Where did you grow up? Frederick, Maryland
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I take a nap or watch one of my favorite TV shows.
Growing up, what did you want to be? I always told my parents I wanted to be a “businessman,” so it seems my dream has come true! I also had a repeat dream of driving in a limousine (I guess that was the symbol for wealth in my child’s mind), pulling up to someone who needed aid like a homeless person or someone in distress and helping them change the direction in their life. I think I am satisfying that dream of mine in different, less dramatic ways now, but I do still have a desire to give back more than I already am.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Abraham Lincoln, because he was consistent, hard-working and well-known for his composure. If not him, than Benjamin Franklin, because he had endless energy and had an incredibly strong belief that anything was possible.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? Club 220, which is what I call my house. There is nothing better than being at home, especially with my wife and son. I also love spending time at my parents place.
What do you love most about the industry? I love the energy that comes from agents who really feel and believe that anything is possible. I also love that this business gives me the chance to meet a lot of amazing people from all over the world, which sounds trite, but Miami attracts some really jaw-droppingly impressive people.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I know I still have lots of room for improvement, but I believe I distinguish myself from others with my strong understanding of how to make technology and marketing work in my clients’ favor. I also believe there is plenty of business out there for everyone, so I come from a mindset of contribution, not only to my clients but also to the agents and industry. I hope that as time goes on that mentality becomes stronger and more apparent.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Watching an agent that I know has all the skills and talents for success just dying a slow financial death by not taking the right steps needed for success.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I make it a point to maintain strong relationships with clients, so I receive many referrals from them. I am also lucky to have a strong network of friends and agents nationally that refer me business. I am also very heavy in online marketing where I start a lot of new relationships.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? The bond I have built with my wife, son and the rest of my family; and the culture we have built at HB Roswell Realty.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? “The Demographic Cliff,” by Harry Dent. And the greatest movie of all time is “Anchorman” by a long shot.
What is your favorite restaurant? Choices Café.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Miami? I know that there is a large hanful of really impressive buildings recently built that are architecturally incredible, but Santa Maria is simply a classic.
What kind of car do you drive? Mercedes-Benz
Smartphone or paper? Smartphone and paper. My task list stays on paper so that I don’t get distracted.
What is your favorite city after Miami? Tough call between New York City, San Francisco and Washington DC.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Build relationships incessantly, and know your numbers.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? Wunderlist.
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? I am not very twitter focused, but I would say Gary Vaynerchuk if I did.