We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sean Konja a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Sean, thanks for joining us today. How do you think about vacations as a business owner? Do you take them and if so, how? If you don’t, why not?

Most people would think as a realtor who sold 105 units last year, I don’t take vacations at all. During 2021, I actually went on 3 vacations. It’s very important to be able to step away from the business for a short period of time -I can never stay away for too long- and I need to be able to recharge. Taking time for yourself gives you the opportunity to be the best agent possible for your clients.

Sean, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My family was submerged in the industry, starting with my grandfather being an agent, my father attaining his real estate license in the 2000s, and my aunt who is still a broker in Michigan with her own company— real estate was always around. I have been in sales since the age of eighteen, starting in electronics/cell phones. I was hooked instantly with my first sale. The thrill of educating the customer and helping them understand what would best fit their needs to create a solution to better their lives is incredible. Even after graduating from Oakland University and beginning to work as an intern for a physical therapist, the urge to sell would not go away. I would watch YouTube videos about real estate sales, investments, and flipping houses in my free time while in school. I did whatever I could to keep learning about the ever-changing market and industry. After explaining to my family that real estate was all I could think about, they finally began to accept the idea of me not continuing my schooling in Physical Therapy. My family was not too fond of the idea because I was making a drastic career change, but I had a passion for real estate and could not pass up the opportunity. The moment I gained their approval, I would spend my days interning for the physical therapist and evenings in real estate classes to earn my license. I was licensed immediately after completing the course in 2017. Fast forward to 2022 – I am now an Associate Broker, and I just closed 105 units in 2021 with 125 units projected for 2022. When I think back, it’s unreal to think I always imagined I’d be in the medical field and I’m so happy where I ended up.

The biggest challenge I faced was getting started. Getting started, getting a plan set and working on it- that’s what it’s all about. With a plan of action to succeed, nothing can stop you. I’ve had a successful career thus far, but I can think back to dozens of times where I could have worked smarter, and I’ve learned from every single experience. Another big challenge that I faced was time management, finding that balance between work and everything else. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in work and you forget other parts of your life. After achieving success, the key is to keep your head down and continue to work hard – ignore the useless noise. I’ve worked on it in the past four years, and I believe I’ve found a good balance.

My specialty is listings. Most of my business comes from sellers, many who unfortunately could not sell their home, who gave up hope when unsuccessful. The saddest part about this is hearing my clients talk about their dreams of moving and the sale of a home holding them back. This is where I come in, with my expertise and knowledge I am able to quickly show them how their dreams are indeed attainable. Thinking outside the box to get the job done is what I do best. I enjoy the challenge but mainly I want to help my clients get to the closing table after waiting so long. I am known to handle difficult situations very well and I’m proud to say I serve my clients at the highest level of client service and professionalism. People can feel the passion I have for real estate and that sets me apart from my competition.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

My clients are an essential part of my business and I love talking to them and seeing them. Besides giving them phone calls throughout the year, I also have several client events. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I am working on my annual Pie Day event. Not only is it promoted on my social media, but I also call all of my clients to touch base and coordinate getting them a free pie. With events like these, I am able to stay front of mind for my clients and show them that I am never too busy for them… or their referrals.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I like to think that genuine people can recognize genuine people. When I am on the phone or speaking in person with a client, agent, title, or lender – I shoot straight. I treat them with respect, and I get to the point. My passion for this business and my clients is just part of who I am. Continuing to do that with consistency for the past 4 years has helped me build an exceptional reputation across the board.

Contact Info:

• Website: seankonja.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sean_konja/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sean.andrew.24
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-konja-53a41a211
• Other: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Sean%20Konja