Corporate America wasn’t the future I had imagined for myself. Feeling uninspired, I managed to reconnect with the ambitious kid in me who dreamed of investing and becoming an entrepreneur.

 

The entrepreneurial spirit hit me at a young age. I remember selling lemonade in elementary school and calculating my profit. In middle school, I’d buy a 12-pack of soda and sell it at school before the bell rang, while on weekends, I ran a snow cone business.

 

Part of my motivation came from my family dynamic. Growing up, my dad didn’t provide financially, nor was he present. My mom was practically a single mother, caring for all of us. I knew early on that I wanted to be different—I wanted to be independent and financially stable.

 

  At 16, I earned my General Education Development (GED) certificate and finished high school early since I knew the traditional route wasn’t for me. Along with working 2 to 3 different jobs, I started a Christian clothing line, selling it at cafes and churches. It was my first experience investing in my business and watching to see if it would bring a return; an exciting and eye-opening process.

 

However, I lost sight of my entrepreneurial spirit and ended up working for a cellphone company, first as a sales rep and later as a manager. I realized I hated working for a large corporation—it didn’t align with my values. I was expected to lie to make sales, which was completely out of integrity with who I was. I felt trapped, with little room to grow or improve.

 

That’s when my curiosity about real estate kicked in again. I had always enjoyed numbers and finances, and I’d been interested in investing in real estate. I decided this was the time to go all in. I called my parents and asked if I could move back in with them while I got my license and figured things out.

 

Moving back home was a humbling experience. My goal was to be independent, and I felt as if I was going in the opposite direction. Yet, that season gave me time to reflect on my life while also accepting help. I realized I had grown harsh, with high expectations for others because I had high expectations for myself. I had developed an arrogance that was just masking insecurity. That year at home gave me the chance to soften, reflect on the kind of person I wanted to be toward others, and give myself permission to receive help if I needed it.

 

 

 

 That time also prepared me for marriage. I met Hannah after moving back and began dating her. Because of my time at my parents’ house, I believe I’m more gentle now, especially with her. My pride lessened and I became more interdependent.

 

In 2023, I got my real estate license, fully aware that 80% of REALTORS® fail since working in this industry takes relentless effort. I started door-knocking, cold-calling, and doing whatever it took to learn. I worked with a couple of brokerages before finally finding a team that aligned with my values—where relationships mattered more than transactions and where self-management was valued over micromanagement. I’m grateful to have an excellent mentor who has taught me how to be diligent and grow my business by being truly trustworthy.

 

Now, Hannah and I are married and love spending time doing anything outdoors or golfing. I also volunteer weekly as a youth leader at church, working with kids. 

 

From my early business ventures to learning the value of relationships, I’m grateful for the lessons along the way. Being a REALTOR® allows me to do what I love—work with numbers, help people achieve their goals, and manage a business that aligns with my values.

 

I thrive on numbers and problem-solving, analyzing complex information and finding the best solutions. My clients’ best interests are my priority. Hence, I believe in having honest conversations with them, always offering transparent advice, and steering them away from a bad deal.

 

Our initial consultation is key. I take the time to understand my clients’ motivations and goals—not just in the short term but in the long term—so I can provide tailored guidance. I enjoy working with both investors and buyers, including those who don’t fit the traditional mold. I excel at finding creative financing options that other agents might overlook—for example, assumable mortgages—to help clients get where they want to go.

 

At the core of my business are care and integrity. I genuinely care about my clients and work tirelessly to help them achieve their goals. My dedication and work ethic set me apart, ensuring they get the home they want as quickly and favorably as possible.

 

Sincerely,

  

 

Kaleb Ahonen