In this episode of The Most Wonderful Real Estate Podcast Ever, Dwan Bent-Twyford, America’s most sought-after real estate investor, interviews an extraordinary guest—Jacki Semerau-Tait. This inspiring conversation delves into Jacki’s journey, experiences in real estate, and her insights into juggling the many challenges life throws her way, particularly as a strong single mom and real estate champion.
Meet Jacki Semerau-Tait: A Real Estate Powerhouse
Jacki Semerau-Tait, a successful real estate agent based in Arizona, has been in the industry since 2002. With a team of six agents, she handles the real estate market across Flagstaff, Sedona, and the Verde Valley. Beyond being an agent, Jacki also serves as a coach for new agents at Realty One Group, mentoring them nationwide on how to establish a steady income in the industry.
A Unique Path to Real Estate
Jacki’s entry into real estate is unique. Initially, she wanted to get into real estate investing with her ex-husband. However, after working with an agent who didn’t understand their goals, Jacki decided to get her own license to represent their business. During this process, she unexpectedly fell in love with the profession and decided to make real estate her career.
With a background in marketing and advertising—and even a college major in dance—Jacki found real estate to be the perfect blend of creativity and business. She discovered a passion for piecing together deals, understanding the legalities, and navigating the intricacies of real estate transactions.
Balancing Real Estate with Single Motherhood
As a former single mom for eight years, Jacki understands the challenges of raising children while building a career. She founded the “Strong Single Mom Network” to help other single mothers avoid repeating past mistakes and empower themselves to create better futures. Her keynote, “Steps to Strength,” embodies the lessons she learned as a single mom—emphasizing resilience, growth, and empowerment.
Steps to Strength: A Philosophy of Resilience
Jacki’s philosophy, “Steps to Strength,” is rooted in the belief that life is full of challenges, but it’s how you rise after being knocked down that truly matters. She emphasizes that success isn’t just about bouncing back but learning valuable lessons along the way. This mindset has not only fueled her personal and professional growth but also helped her coach others to navigate their own real estate careers with confidence.
Real Estate as a Vehicle for Change
For Jacki, real estate has been more than just a career—it’s been a vehicle for change. She describes how real estate allows her to experience something new every day, making it both exciting and fulfilling. Jacki’s enthusiasm for helping others in the field, whether through coaching new agents or guiding clients, keeps her energized and engaged.
Embracing the Challenge of Change
Jacki knows firsthand that any significant change in life can be daunting, whether it’s entering the real estate industry, starting a new career, or making personal life transitions. She reminds us that while change itself may be easy, it’s the transition that is difficult. Her advice is to push through the discomfort and embrace the unknown, as it leads to growth and new opportunities.
Overcoming Adversity and Thriving in Real Estate
Like many in the real estate world, Jacki faced adversity and tough moments. From her divorce to stepping into a male-dominated industry, she continued to persevere. Today, she has built a thriving real estate business and coaches others to do the same, inspiring them to take control of their lives and careers. Jacki’s journey is a testament to the fact that success in real estate—and in life—requires both grit and grace.
The Illusion of Easy Success
Jacki’s journey in real estate began with a recognition of a common misconception: the portrayal of real estate on HGTV. “You just can’t do it the way it looks on TV,” she says. “I love watching those shows, but they often give a misleading impression that real estate is a quick and easy path to success.” According to Jacki, the reality is far more complex. The glamorous transformations and swift turnarounds featured on TV often overlook the hard work and significant costs involved.
A Reality Check for Aspiring Agents
For those considering a career in real estate, Jacki offers a crucial piece of advice: “Reach out to a successful realtor you know, like, and trust. Ask them about the realities of becoming an agent.” She emphasizes that the costs and challenges extend beyond the initial investment in real estate school and licensing. There are additional expenses such as association fees, MLS memberships, business cards, and marketing materials that prospective agents need to be prepared for.
The Importance of Coaching and Mentorship
Jacki stresses the importance of mentorship in both the early stages of a real estate career and during times of struggle. “If you’re new to real estate or facing difficulties, find a coach or mentor who can guide you,” she advises. Successful real estate professionals understand the value of consistent daily habits and accountability. “True success comes from the small, daily habits,” Jacki explains. “A mentor can help you develop and maintain these habits.”
Experience Meets Coaching
Jacki’s role goes beyond coaching; she is actively involved in real estate transactions. “I’m out there producing deals,” she confirms. Her approach to coaching is rooted in practical experience. “I coach from a place of experience and relevance,” she says. “I’ve learned through trial and error what works and what doesn’t, and I’m here to guide others through that process.”
The Reality of Being a New Agent
One of the key lessons Jacki imparts to new agents is the importance of acknowledging what they don’t know. “The difference between a new agent and an experienced one is that the latter is comfortable saying, ‘I don’t know the answer, but I’ll find out,’” she notes. Many new agents mistakenly believe that obtaining a license equates to knowing everything they need to succeed. However, true expertise comes from experience and ongoing learning.
Choosing the Right Brokerage
When discussing brokerage options, Jacki highlights the benefits of Realty One Group. “Despite being 100% commission-based, Realty One Group offers extensive training and support,” she explains. This support helps agents avoid the pitfalls of inadequate mentoring and ensures they have the resources needed to thrive.
A Love for the Industry
Jacki’s passion for real estate is matched by her enthusiasm for music. When asked about her favorite band, she mentions Bon Jovi and Cyndi Lauper, reflecting her 80s roots. “I love Cyndi Lauper’s ability to reinvent herself,” Jacki says. “She’s unique and has explored various genres, showing that adaptability is key.”
Finding Balance and Creativity
Jacki also values work-life balance and creative freedom. Her favorite time of day is from 2 to 5 PM, a period she uses for creative projects and personal enjoyment. “This is when I can work on things that bring me joy and reward myself for a productive day,” she explains.
The Power of Teamwork
Dwan Bent-Tywford emphasized the significance of teamwork in achieving success. Reflecting on her personal experiences, Dwan highlighted, “Nobody out here is their own island. We are all on a team.” She shared a heartwarming anecdote about her grandchildren’s favorite saying: “Teamwork makes the dream work,” underscoring the value of collective effort in reaching goals.
Dwan also touched on her own journey in real estate, explaining that while she has been deeply involved in investing for over 35 years, she never obtained a real estate license. Her focus has always been on rehabbing and investing rather than the intricacies of real estate licensing. Consequently, she directs agents to other experts, such as Jacki Semerau-Tait, for specialized advice.
The Importance of Real Estate Investment
Jacki Semerau-Tait echoed the importance of real estate as a wealth-building tool. She shared her own success story, having invested in numerous properties and advocating for real estate as a premier means to build wealth in the United States. As Jacki put it, “Real estate is still by far the number one way to build wealth here in the United States of America.”
Both Dwan and Jacki agreed that real estate remains a vital asset group for new millionaires, as consistently noted in Forbes lists. Dwan encouraged listeners to explore both sides of real estate—investment and agency—and find the right resources to support their journey.
The Role of Gratitude
The episode concluded with a powerful discussion on gratitude. When asked to provide a single word of wisdom, Jacki chose “Gratitude.” She elaborated on the transformative power of living with gratitude, stating, “When you live your life with gratitude, it truly is life-changing.”
Jacki explained that maintaining a gratitude attitude can elevate one’s life, contrasting it with a negative outlook that focuses on struggles and complaints. She highlighted how a gratitude mindset enhances overall enjoyment and satisfaction in life.
Dwan wholeheartedly agreed, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and encouraging listeners to incorporate it into their daily lives. She suggested placing a sticky note with the word “Gratitude” in visible areas to remind oneself to practice this valuable mindset regularly.
Conclusion
In wrapping up this insightful discussion with Dwan Bent-Tywford and Jacki Semerau-Tait, it’s clear that teamwork, real estate investment, and a grateful mindset are essential elements in achieving both personal and professional success. Their experiences and advice offer valuable guidance for anyone looking to make the most of their real estate journey.
If you’re inspired to explore real estate investment or seek further assistance, we invite you to visit our website at Dwanderful for a wealth of resources and information. Additionally, you can book a consultation call to receive personalized advice tailored to your real estate goals.
Thank you for joining us today, and we look forward to helping you take your real estate ventures to new heights. Stay tuned for more enlightening episodes and resources to support your journey in the world of real estate.
