November 22, 2023 • Interview with Jason Hartman of Authority Magazine
Antonio Castelan’s Real Estate Insights: Succeeding with Innovation
Article Summary
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Can you tell us the “backstory” about what brought you to the Real Estate industry?
Can you share with our readers the most interesting or amusing story that occurred to you in your career so far? Can you share the lesson or takeaway you took out of that story?
Do you have a favorite “life lesson quote”? Can you share a story or example of how that was relevant to you in your life?
Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that will help people?
What do you think makes your company stand out?
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are?
Ok. Thank you for all that. Let’s now jump to the main core of our interview. Can you share 3 things that most excite you about the Real Estate industry?
Secondly, the industry’s resilience, particularly in the face of economic fluctuations, is noteworthy. During the economic downturns, while many sectors struggled, we witnessed a surge in certain real estate markets. This resilience not only highlights the sector’s strength but also its potential as a stable investment avenue.
Lastly, the growing focus on sustainable and eco-friendly developments is a positive trend. Recently, we collaborated on a project to develop a green residential complex, which not only promised a reduced carbon footprint but also attracted a new demographic of environmentally conscious clients. This shift towards sustainability is not just a passing trend but a significant step towards a better future.
Can you share 3 things that most concern you about the industry? If you had the ability to implement 3 ways to reform or improve the industry, what would you suggest?
Secondly, market accessibility remains a challenge. The skyrocketing property prices in urban areas are making home ownership increasingly difficult. We need innovative financing solutions to make real estate more accessible. For example, partnering with financial institutions to offer more flexible mortgage options could be a step in the right direction.
Lastly, ethical practices in real estate transactions need more focus. Transparency and honesty should be the industry’s cornerstone. I recall a situation where a client was nearly misled into a bad deal. It was our ethical responsibility to intervene and provide honest advice, which not only saved the client from a potential loss but also strengthened our reputation for integrity.
What advice would you give to other real estate leaders to help their teams to thrive and to create a really fantastic work culture?
Additionally, inclusivity and diversity in the workplace are crucial. A diverse team brings varied perspectives, enriching the decision-making process. Companies should make a conscious effort to embrace diversity in all its forms, which could significantly enhance our creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Lastly, recognizing and rewarding hard work is key to a positive work culture. Celebrating successes, big or small, boosts morale and motivates the team. Regularly acknowledging individual and team achievements, ensuring that everyone feels valued and a crucial part of the company’s success.
Ok, here is the main question of our interview. You are a “Real Estate Insider”. If you had to advise someone about 5 non-intuitive things one should know to succeed in the Real Estate industry, what would you say? Can you please give a story or an example for each?
I. Embrace the Slow Season: In real estate, the market’s ebb and flow can be drastic. Newcomers often panic during slow periods, but these times are golden opportunities for planning and strategizing. Once, during a particularly slow winter, instead of despairing, we used the time to analyze our portfolio and refine our marketing strategies. When the market picked up, we were miles ahead of competitors who had remained passive during the lull.
II. Invest in Relationships, Not Just Properties: Real estate is as much about people as it is about properties. Building strong, genuine relationships with clients, contractors, and other realtors can lead to opportunities that no amount of advertising can buy. A memorable example was a partnership with a local contractor that began informally over coffee. This relationship later opened doors to exclusive deals and collaborations, proving that sometimes, a casual conversation can be a significant investment.
III. Stay Informed Beyond Your Niche: While specializing is important, being knowledgeable about the broader market trends, economic indicators, and even international real estate news can give you an edge. I once closed a lucrative deal by discussing global real estate trends with an overseas investor, which wouldn’t have been possible if I had limited my knowledge to my immediate market.
IV. Develop a Niche but Stay Versatile: Specializing in a particular type of real estate can set you apart, but versatility ensures longevity. Early in my career, I focused on residential properties but gradually expanded into commercial real estate. This diversification was pivotal during market fluctuations when one sector would outperform the other.
V. Prioritize Your Well-being: Real estate can be all-consuming. It’s crucial to maintain a work-life balance. A burnout episode early in my career taught me this the hard way. I now ensure regular breaks and hobbies outside work, which ironically, has improved my productivity and decision-making in business.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be?
Final Thoughts
Antonio Castelan’s insights provide a roadmap for success in the dynamic world of real estate. His journey from a curious observer in a modest Houston neighborhood to a leader in real estate digital marketing with Fortum Digital Services highlights the importance of innovative thinking, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the industry. His stories and experiences shed light on the nuances of succeeding in real estate, emphasizing the need for continuous learning, embracing technology, and maintaining a client-focused approach. For an in-depth look at Antonio’s unique perspective and strategies for thriving in the real estate industry, read the full article here – https://medium.com/authority-magazine/antonio-castelan-of-fortum-digital-services-on-five-things-you-need-to-know-to-succeed-in-the-real-cfadb39d362c.