Today we’d like to introduce you to Zachary Rogers
Hi Zachary, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m a proud graduate of the College of Charleston, (Class of 2014!), where I earned a degree in Hospitality. I’d say my passion for working with people and my love for our city all started there.
Before entering the real estate realm, I spent over a decade in the hospitality industry, gaining valuable insight through various roles in hotels and short-term rentals. With much of that time dedicated to short-term vacation rental management, I developed a keen understanding of the intricacies of the real estate landscape. So my journey into real estate was a natural progression, fueled by a genuine curiosity about the industry, my enthusiasm for assisting others in finding their dream home, and a desire for the independent, self-starter lifestyle the real estate industry offers. Oh, and a slight addiction to watching House Hunters and Million Dollar Listing may have also had an influence!
I obtained my real estate license from the Real Estate School of Charleston in November 2023, and began working as an agent at Matt O’Neill Real Estate in December 2023, solidifying my commitment to the field.
I’ve now called Charleston home for 14 years, and currently reside on James Island. When I’m not scouting out dream homes you’ll probably find me out on Folly surfing, or kayaking, biking, hiking… really any outdoor activity! I also love to immerse myself in the vibrant local community. Socializing with a good happy hour along with my wife is one of my favorite afternoon pastimes, we also recently developed a new obsession for pickleball (yes we jumped on the bandwagon 🙂
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a fun and an eye opening experience becoming a real estate agent and learning the tricks of the trade! One of the hardest things about real estate though is earning the trust and commitment of new clients without being the stereotypical salesperson (no one likes pushy salespeople!)
The real estate industry is all about being likeable and trustworthy. Who you know and how you portray yourself in this business is important. All of that can be difficult to navigate at times when you technically have an agenda, but we real estate agents are extroverts, born with the ability to adapt and win the hearts of the people around us!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I started out in the hospitality world and eventually got into managing short term rentals (vacation homes, Airbnb’s, etc.) After gaining experience at a large short term rental management company, I opened two of my own vacation rentals. They were so successful that I started managing homes for clients as well shortly after.
Through these ventures I have a good deal of valuable knowledge on the world of short term rentals that I can share with my clients looking for investment properties. Because Charleston is such a popular destination, so many buyers are looking for these types of properties, so it’s a great value add for me and my business.
I’d say I’m most proud of the fact that when I say I’m going to do something, I do it. I set my mind on something and in the blink of an eye I’m reaching my goals. I decided to get my real estate license in October of 2023, by November I finished classes and passed the tests, by December I had a job at a brokerage, and by June 2024 I closed two properties! I try to always remember, “you are the key to your own destiny!” (I’m sure that’s a quote from someone smart and important :p )
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Put yourself out there. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with strangers. Everything can be a “networking event” as long as you’re making genuine connections, showing your value, and having fun while doing it! You never know, the friendly neighbor walking their dog, or the new friend you made at the bar could become a business client too more easily than you’d think. As long as you present yourself as a friend first and sales person second, you’ll have the trust and friendship of others.
Finding another agent within your brokerage or elsewhere that has good experience with gaining clients, networking, and closing deals is also a must! Knowledge is power, and you should always seek the knowledge and expertise of the smartest people “in the room,” whatever/wherever that may be. Having a mentor to get me up to snuff and help me along as I started out in real estate was a godsend. I couldn’t have gotten where I am without them showing me the ropes. You know what they say, teamwork makes the dream work!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/zrogers
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zacharoni_and_cheez/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zach.rogers.357?mibextid=ZbWKwL
- Other: https://www.mattoneillrealestate.com/agents/zachary-rogers/
