What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Buying and remodeling distressed properties as an investor.
Where did you grow up?
Istanbul, Turkey.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
I always wanted to be a landlord, even when I was a child.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Take a two-hour walk, ride my bike or eat fruits, dark chocolate and nuts.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Warren Buffet. He is so funny, witty and smart, and I think he would be the best mentor for business.
Where is South Florida’s best-kept secret?
I think South Florida has so many little corners full of different flavors, such as Little Haiti, Little Havana, Redland Farms, Key Biscayne, etc. My favorite spot to have a wonderful Turkish meal is Doya in Wynwood.
What do you love most about the industry?
I love the fact that growth is limitless in this industry. My grateful clients are the most valuable reward for me.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Time is limited and sometimes I need to clone myself in order to be in many places at the same time.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Have strong bonds with your existing clients and be purposeful in your social engagements. Never forget that there is so much business out there!
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
I keep watching YouTube videos about the power of the mind, thoughts and awareness.
What’s your favorite meal in South Florida?
I can never say no to stone crabs!
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in South Florida?
Waldorf Astoria will probably be my favorite building when it is built.
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
I bumped into my high school crush from Istanbul, who happened to be a Realtor in South Florida as well.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
I ran away from home three times when I was a teenager. I could not wait to grow up and start working and be independent!
What’s your favorite vacation spot and why?
I love Tulum. Due to my workload, I cannot go too far from South Florida, and I do not have time to go to the beach. I love that Tulum is so close; I can have some yummy food and be on the beach all day long there.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Be sincere, resourceful, learn, help, love and enjoy (in this order).
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
My company, Broker’s LLC; my broker, Claudia Serna; the right hand in our company, Andreina Monserratte; Warren Buffet; Jeff Bezos; Gary Keller; Maluma; and Jennifer Lopez.