Building a Successful Real Estate Career with Purpose: Renee Ruth's Journey from Teaching to Top-Producing Agent

There’s no single path to real estate success. Your journey will be uniquely your own. But one thing holds true for all: the principles you follow will make or break your success in this competitive industry.

I had the pleasure of chatting with Renee Ruth, a top-producing realtor and real estate coach from Virginia, on the latest episode of my podcast. Renee’s journey from university professor to agent is inspiring, and she shared invaluable insights that I’m excited to pass along to you.

Turning a Bad Home Purchase into a New Career

Home-buying can be stressful, but Renee’s first experience was a disaster. She was juggling multiple university teaching jobs and didn’t have the time or knowledge to make an informed decision. Her agent failed her by not guiding her through the process and neglecting her needs after the deal closed.

That scenario left Renee frustrated but motivated. She decided that if she were going to buy or sell a home in the future, she needed to be equipped with the knowledge herself. That decision marked the beginning of her real estate career. She got licensed, determined not to let anyone else go through the same disappointing experience she had.

It was the catalyst for her real estate career and, more importantly, her drive to be a better agent for her clients!

The Power of Open Houses in Building a Client Base

When Renee started, she knew she needed a strategy to get in front of people. Unlike some agents who avoid open houses, Renee leaned into them. She committed herself to hosting as many of these events as she could, even when the process felt grueling.

Renee also applied her communication skills from teaching to engage with visitors and make meaningful connections. Her open houses weren’t just about showing homes—they were about building relationships!

That’s how she grew her client base. It was dedication, energy, and the willingness to show up, week after week, even when the results weren’t immediate.

Overcoming Challenges and Maintaining Focus in Real Estate

Hectic schedules and financial struggles made it challenging for Renee when she started. But one thing she had was a clear vision and strong boundaries. She didn’t let distractions derail her. She decided to stay focused, setting goals and sticking to them.

Here are a few key lessons she shared on overcoming obstacles and staying focused:

• Set clear, attainable goals: You need a roadmap, and it starts with understanding where you want to go and making sure your daily actions align with that vision.

• Discipline is non-negotiable: Consistency is key. This isn’t a business where you can wing it. Put in the work every day, even when it feels tough.

• Embrace setbacks as learning opportunities: You won’t always get everything right, but each mistake is a chance to grow and improve.

Renee didn’t let the challenges break her. Instead, she found ways to turn them into fuel for her success.

Coaching and Helping Others Build Sustainable Businesses

Renee is passionate about helping others build real estate careers with intention. She believes that a successful career is built on a foundation of focus, mindset, and goal-setting.

Focus

It’s essential to stay on track and not get distracted by the next shiny object. Knowing your business’s strengths and weaknesses is key to making progress.

Mindset

Positive thinking and resilience will carry you through tough times. Real estate isn’t for the faint of heart, and having the right mindset is crucial to thriving in this business.

Goal-Setting

Setting both short- and long-term goals will give you something to strive for and measure your progress along the way.

Renee developed a course called Open Houses 101, where she teaches agents how to turn open houses into a tool for generating leads and building lasting relationships.

The Role of Continuous Learning and Self-Improvement

For Renee, growth doesn’t stop after getting licensed. She firmly believes that continuous learning is the key to long-term success.

Renee is not just talking about staying up-to-date with real estate trends; she also works with coaches in multiple areas of her life to stay accountable and keep improving.

She encourages agents to seek out mentors and coaches of their own, as it is a game-changer that helps you scale your business!

Joining a Real Estate Podcast Network

Another way to keep learning and stay inspired is by listening to industry experts. That’s why Renee and I both joined a real estate podcast network. Podcasting allows us to share insights and learn from others in the industry.

Renee also hosts her own show, Platinum Agent Podcast, where she shares valuable advice with real estate professionals looking to grow their businesses.

Want to hear my entire conversation with Renee? Listen to our podcast episode! 

Subscribe to REalizations Podcast for Interesting and Insightful Conversations with Real Estate Experts!

Whether you’re just starting or looking to take your career to the next level, the wisdom Renee shared during our conversation can help you move forward with purpose. If you’re looking for more amazing stories and insider tips from real estate experts, like Renee, subscribe to REalizations Podcast.

And, if you're looking to buy or sell a home in the Bay Area, get in touch with me. I’m here to help guide you through every step of the process with personalized service!

Apply as a Guest on REalizations Podcast!

Are you an expert in real estate or have valuable insights to share? Apply to be a guest on the REalizations Podcast! It’s a fantastic opportunity to share your experience, connect with a community of like-minded professionals, and help educate others in the industry. 

Apply Now