We were lucky to catch up with Nuttamon Ponkaew recently and have shared our conversation below.
Nuttamon, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
My resilience is deeply rooted in my family history and personal experiences. My grandfather was an immigrant from China who arrived with nothing to his name, yet he built an empire through sheer determination and adaptability. He faced countless challenges and had to adjust to a new culture and environment, but he made it work. I like to think that I carry a part of him within me.
My journey to the United States was a challenging one. I arrived without my parents and had to start from scratch. In real estate, success often begins with working within your sphere—friends and family—but I had none in the US, to begin with. Despite this, I channeled my grandfather’s spirit and determination, reminding myself that I am a fighter just like he was. I firmly believe that there is nothing I can’t achieve if I set my mind to it.
It hasn’t been easy, but I embrace the philosophy expressed in Charles Darwin’s quote: “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most adaptable to change.” This idea of adaptability and resilience has guided me through many obstacles, enabling me to grow both personally and professionally.
In essence, my resilience stems from my grandfather’s legacy, my own experiences of starting anew, and the unwavering belief that with determination and adaptability, I can overcome any challenge. This mindset has been crucial in my journey, helping me thrive in the ever-changing landscape of real estate.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am very fortunate to have found work that I truly love, embodying the saying, “If you love what you do, it feels like you never work a day in your life.” This couldn’t be truer for me. While I do work tirelessly, sometimes feeling like I’m putting in 8 days a week and 25 hours a day, it never feels like work. Instead, it feels like I’m doing something incredibly worthwhile, and the rewards and success naturally follow.
The most exciting and special aspect of my job is helping clients achieve their goals, whether it’s selling their property or buying their first home, or even their tenth. The joy of seeing my clients succeed and knowing I played a part in making significant changes that affect their lives and legacies is immensely fulfilling. It’s especially gratifying when clients refer others to me, reaffirming that I’ve done a great job and made a positive impact.
What sets my approach apart is my commitment to my clients that extends far beyond the closing of escrow. I always tell my clients that my work doesn’t end at closing; it ends “when death do us part.” I aim to be more than just a realtor; I strive to be a part of their lives, their family, and their friend. This commitment means standing behind my work with transparency and integrity. It’s the only way I believe in doing business.
As for what’s new, I am excited to share that I’m expanding my services to include more comprehensive support. Not only for first-time homebuyers but also investors looking to build rental portfolios. This includes personalized consultations, market analysis, and ongoing support to ensure their investments thrive. I am thrilled about these new offerings and look forward to helping even more clients achieve their real estate dreams.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I can identify three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey: honesty, great communication, and persistence.
Firstly, honesty is the foundation of trust. In real estate, building and maintaining trust with clients is paramount. Being transparent, providing accurate information, and setting realistic expectations are critical. Honesty not only builds credibility but also fosters long-term relationships that can lead to repeat business and referrals.
Secondly, great communication is essential. Real estate transactions can be complex and stressful for clients. Being able to clearly convey information, listen actively, and address concerns promptly can make a significant difference. Effective communication helps in understanding clients’ needs and ensuring they feel supported throughout the process.
Lastly, persistence is crucial in this industry. Real estate is not an easy job; it requires dedication and resilience. There will be challenges and setbacks, but staying persistent and continually pushing forward is key. The fruits of your labor don’t appear immediately; it’s a long-term progress. Just like planting a seed, it takes time for your efforts to bear fruit. But when spring comes, the hard work you put in will pay off.
For those who are early in their journey, my advice is to embrace these qualities. Stay honest in all your dealings, hone your communication skills, and remain persistent despite the challenges. Real estate is a field where passion and dedication can lead to great success. Stick with it, keep learning, and remember that the rewards come with time and effort. If you truly love what you do, the journey itself will be as rewarding as the destination.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
The most helpful individuals in my journey have undoubtedly been my husband and my family. They have been my unwavering support system, always believing in me even during times when I doubted myself. Their faith in my abilities and their constant encouragement have been the wind beneath my wings, propelling me forward and helping me overcome countless challenges.
My husband has been a steadfast partner, offering practical advice and emotional support whenever I needed it. His belief in my potential has been a constant source of motivation, and his insights have often guided me through complex situations. Similarly, my family’s encouragement and understanding have provided a strong foundation that has allowed me to take risks and grow both personally and professionally.
I am certain that I could not have reached the heights I have without their support. They have been instrumental in helping me build and develop the essential skills, qualities, and knowledge needed to be successful. Their belief in me has fueled my determination and resilience, and I am deeply grateful for their presence in my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://servingsandiegocounty.com/our-agents/nuttamon-ponkaew-realtor/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nuttamon.realtor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MeowRealty/
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