Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Michelle Reife. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Michelle, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

Success is about showing up consistently, even when the results aren’t immediate, and building something meaningful along the way. I believe it requires three things: resilience, intention, and connection.

Resilience means understanding that setbacks aren’t failure, they’re part of the journey. In my early days of real estate, there were moments when I questioned everything and wondered if I made a mistake leaving corporate life behind. I thought success would feel linear, but it’s not. I had to embrace the uncomfortable moments and realize that success looks more like waves. Some days feel like you’re riding high, and others feel like paddling against the current. The key is to keep going, knowing the effort will pay off even if you can’t see the results right away.

Intention is equally important. Success doesn’t happen by chance—it’s a series of small, intentional steps. One thing I’ve learned is that planning your day, week, and long-term goals makes all the difference. My husband, Dan, and I started having morning meetings to set goals and prioritize my tasks. This structure kept me grounded during uncertain times and ensured that I made progress, even on the days when I didn’t feel like I was getting anywhere.

Finally, connection is at the heart of success. No one achieves success alone. I’ve discovered that real estate isn’t just about transactions, it’s about relationships. I strive to show up authentically and build trust with everyone I meet, whether it’s through open houses, community events, or small gestures like giving out handmade seed paper that people can plant to grow flowers. These moments of connection are powerful—they create a ripple effect. Success is knowing I’ve made a positive impact, even if it’s in small ways.

For me, success is about staying resilient when things get tough, being intentional with every step, and genuinely connecting with the people around me. That’s what makes the journey worthwhile, and that’s what keeps me going every day.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hi there! I’m Michelle, and I’m a real estate agent based in San Diego. My journey into real estate started long before I even knew I wanted to work in this industry. I grew up on the Central Coast of California, immersed in my family’s real estate business. From an early age, I learned what it meant to serve a community and help people find a place to call home. I went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, which solidified my love for nature and the outdoors. This love for nature inspires much of my work today.

Before I officially entered real estate, I spent years working in corporate consulting in Seattle, focusing on business operations. During this time, I managed various aspects of the business, including data management and reporting, recruiting, and improving operational efficiency. These experiences taught me valuable skills in communication, negotiation, and organization. I realized I wanted to use these skills to help people during major life transitions, like buying or selling a home.

Today, I specialize in residential real estate in the coastal cities of San Diego. I help buyers, sellers, and investors make informed decisions and guide them through every step of the process—whether they’re purchasing their first home, relocating, or looking to invest. My approach is all about personalization. I know that every client’s situation is unique, so I tailor my services to fit their needs—whether that means diving into market data, providing local insights, or simply being there to listen.

What sets me apart is my commitment to authenticity and community. Real estate is often seen as a transactional business, but for me, it’s about building genuine relationships. I often end up as someone’s first friend when they move to San Diego, helping them get connected and feel at home in their new community. I love getting to know the neighborhoods I serve, meeting local business owners, and connecting with people on a personal level. That’s why I’m out there meeting people at open houses, collaborating with local shops, and giving away handmade seed paper houses—a small gesture that symbolizes new beginnings and growth.

I’m proud of how I’ve brought my passions into my business. I love gardening and crafting, and I use these interests to add a personal touch to everything I do. Whether it’s organizing community events, giving clients creative gifts, or making handmade blankets as closing gifts, my goal is to spread joy and warmth. For me, real estate is about more than buying or selling houses—it’s about creating a sense of belonging and making every interaction meaningful.

To anyone getting to know me for the first time, I’d want them to know that my work goes beyond just finding homes. I’m here to be a guide, a resource, and an advocate for my clients. I believe in being fearless and creative in my approach, always finding joy in the process, and making sure that every client feels truly supported and understood throughout their journey.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

One of the biggest pivots in my life was choosing to leave my corporate career to start my own real estate business. I had spent years in corporate consulting, working in business operations and recruiting. While I valued the stability and the clear career path, I realized I wanted something more—something that allowed me to genuinely connect with people, express my creativity, and have the freedom to do things my way.

Making the transition into real estate was not an easy decision. It meant stepping away from the comfort of a steady paycheck and embracing the unknown. There were moments of doubt and fear, but I knew deep down that I had to follow my instincts. I wanted to create a life that felt true to who I was, even if it meant taking risks and stepping into uncertainty.

Instead of focusing on immediate success or big milestones, I learned to trust the process and celebrate the small steps forward. Every decision I made was about aligning my work with my long-term vision and what brought me the most joy. There were challenging days, but each time I chose to keep going, I felt a deeper sense of fulfillment. I wasn’t just building a business—I was building a life that reflected my values and my passion for connecting with others.

Looking back, pivoting away from my corporate career was one of the most rewarding choices I’ve made. It taught me resilience, pushed me beyond my comfort zone, and gave me the opportunity to create something meaningful. The journey has had its ups and downs, but it has also been full of purpose, growth, and the freedom to be true to myself.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been simply being myself. I pour my heart into my business, and I think that energy naturally draws the right people in. By being authentic, I’m attracting clients who truly resonate with who I am—people who value genuine connection, honesty, and a personal touch. It’s not just about providing a service; it’s about creating an experience that feels warm, thoughtful, and deeply personal. I love knowing that the people I work with choose me not just for my expertise but because they feel a genuine connection.

Another key strategy has been joining and creating communities where I can connect with others beyond just real estate. Whether it’s tending plants with the La Jolla Garden Club, diving into a great story with my book club, enjoying a round of golf, gathering friends for mixers, or being involved in my synagogue, these activities aren’t just work—they’re fun! They’re opportunities to laugh, share, and make memories, all while building real relationships. These connections often lead to new clients, not because I’m focused on pitching my services but because we genuinely get to know each other. The relationships come first, and real estate naturally follows.

People often comment on the care and creativity I bring into every interaction. I think it’s the little things that leave the biggest impressions, like giving handmade seed paper houses that symbolize new beginnings or hand-crocheted blankets as closing gifts. I want my clients to feel special and appreciated, not just as part of a transaction, but as people I genuinely care about. Plus, who doesn’t love a little handmade surprise? My goal is to make every moment with them feel thoughtful, memorable, and, yes, a bit fun too. I think that’s what truly helps grow my clientele—being real, showing that I care, and making every step of the journey enjoyable.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellereife_realtor/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558433236000
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellereife/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleReifeKnowsSDRealEstate
• Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6DnFzJy6ukbwM1677

Image Credits

Laura Costa Photography, Katya Shyshlenko Photography