Maria Elena Arias is the CEO and team leader of Keller Williams Realty Coral Gables-Coconut Grove working in Miami.
What was your first job in the realty industry? A real estate legal assistant.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? Walk the beach.
Where did you grow up? Miami.
Growing up, what did you want to be? I always knew I wanted to lead a BIG company.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Donald Trump, the king of real estate. Would ask him 100 questions on real estate investing.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? HOME! I live on the beach and home is really relaxing.
What do you love most about the industry? The ever changing landscape and trends.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? My passion for the industry has blessed me with success in the real estate business.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? The most challenging aspect of my job is knowing that an agent is capable of greatness and empowering him or her to remove their limiting beliefs and climb to the top in performance.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? Everywhere!!
What has been your greatest accomplishment? Besides my amazing children, grandchild and my family, my greatest accomplishment has been becoming one of the top team leaders in the nation for Keller Williams Realty in recruiting. We have grown an office from 79 associates to 225 associates in less than 18 months and production has increased 40 percent.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? “Great Leaders Ask Great Questions” by John Maxwell.
What is your favorite restaurant? I’m really simple.i.I love Rosinella’s on Lincoln Road. Great homemade italian dinners and the owners are my neighbors. Great sauce 🙂
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Miami? Portofino on South Beach. Love the design.
What kind of car do you drive? Lexus GS350…love how it rides and pick up is awesome when you need it most.
Smartphone or paper? Both. I use my smartphone for everything including my calendar, and I still use a paper calendar to visually plan my day, weeks, months and year.
What is your favorite city after Miami? New York City, of course!
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Lead generate 3 hours a day. Discpline with your calendar.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? Keller Williams mobile app. It’s awesome for clients and agents.
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? I don’t twitter. Enough is enough. I’m very big on personal relationships.
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