Building Success in Real Estate: Mentorship, Market Insights, and Adapting to Change with Ryan Keeton

The road to real estate success is not always smooth. It can be filled with hurdles, setbacks, and tough moments that may make you question whether it's worth the effort.

But what many don’t realize is that success in real estate is more than just a destination—it’s about how you approach the journey. With the right mindset, skills, and strategies, you can turn those challenges into opportunities.

Recently, I had the pleasure of hosting Ryan Keeton, head of The Keeton Group, on my podcast. A seasoned realtor based in Ashland, Kentucky, Ryan has a wealth of knowledge to share. He opened up about his journey into real estate, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and the strategies that have led him to success.

Here, I’ll take you through the main insights Ryan shared during our conversation. His wisdom is not just useful for seasoned agents but also for those just starting out in the industry.

Ryan’s Key Insights on Achieving Real Estate Success

Ryan's story isn’t one of smooth transitions, but rather a tale of persistence, learning, and ultimately finding his place in the industry.

Ryan’s Journey into Real Estate

Before Ryan became the head of the Keeton Group, he had multiple careers. He initially earned a degree in finance and real estate, worked in appraisals for a while, and then transitioned to the pharmaceutical field, where he even became the number one salesperson in the country.

But despite his success in the medical sales field, he found himself at a crossroads when the company decided to downsize. Instead of staying in the corporate world, Ryan decided to pursue his passion for real estate in 2017.

Ryan’s story shows that success doesn’t have a single path. No matter your background—finance, healthcare, or something entirely different—there’s always room to succeed if you’re willing to put in the work.

Mentorship and Team Building

As the leader of the Keeton Group, Ryan focuses on mentorship. But not in the typical "handing out leads" kind of way. Ryan believes that real success comes from helping agents build their businesses. He focuses on training his team to set goals, create systems, and work toward independence.

Ryan’s goal isn’t to just give agents leads; it’s about teaching them how to generate their own business. He stresses the importance of goal setting and being able to create a clear roadmap for growth.

This approach has helped him build a team that’s focused not only on closing deals but on creating long-term success for everyone involved.

Adapting to Market Shifts and Overcoming Economic Challenges

No one in real estate can escape market changes. However, Ryan’s ability to adapt has been one of the key reasons for his continued success. Whether it was the subprime mortgage crisis or the economic shifts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, he learned to stay nimble and adjust his strategies.

Ryan emphasizes that staying ahead in real estate requires constant learning and flexibility. The market is always changing, and those who succeed are the ones who can pivot when necessary. In times of uncertainty, the most important thing is to invest in our education, stay informed, and be willing to change course when needed.

Understanding Local Markets and Building Strong Relationships

As a realtor in Ashland, Ryan’s business is deeply rooted in understanding the local dynamics, which is something that often gets lost in larger markets where national trends dominate the conversation.

He explained how the market in Ashland doesn’t always follow national trends, and knowing the specific ins and outs of his local area has allowed him to provide better guidance to his clients.

Ryan’s focus on building genuine, personal relationships with clients is another key to his success. Whether it’s connecting with local clients or those moving into his area, he takes the time to understand their needs and provide a customized experience.

He reminds us that real estate isn’t just about transactions—it’s about building trust, creating connections, and being the expert in your local market.

Real Estate Podcast: "Two Guys, Two Questions"

In addition to running a real estate team, Ryan also co-hosts a podcast with his long-time friend, Jarrod Greer, a Comicon and retro toy store owner.

Two Guys, Two Questions is a light-hearted show where they dive into random topics, including real estate, while keeping things fun and engaging. It’s not a traditional real estate podcast, but the conversations often touch on real estate and how to approach various aspects of the business.

Podcasts are a great way for realtors to learn from each other and stay updated on the latest trends. Sharing insights, challenges, and success stories creates a community where professionals can grow together.

Giving Back to the Community

Through what they call “eXp Gives Back,” Ryan is involved in a variety of charitable efforts, particularly around local schools. He shared how he’s sponsored sports programs, helped teachers with funds, and supported local causes in meaningful ways. For him, success in real estate goes beyond business. It’s about using his success to make a positive impact.

Ryan’s dedication to community service is a great reminder that business success is about making a difference in the lives of those around you.

Want to learn more about achieving real estate success from Ryan? Listen to the full podcast episode!

Find More Real Estate Insights from the Experts on REalizations Podcast!

Ryan’s insights on real estate are valuable for anyone in the industry. If you’re looking for inspiration, guidance, or just a fresh perspective on how to grow in real estate, Ryan’s story is one you don’t want to miss.

For more expert advice and inspiring stories from top real estate professionals, like Ryan, tune in to REalizations Podcast.

And, if you’re buying or selling a home in the Bay Area, I’m here to guide you through the process. Get in touch with me for personalized real estate services, expert insights, and a commitment to helping you achieve your goals!