We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Axel Gonzalez a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Axel, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
In every business, I believe people should always come first. Sure, helping foreign nationals invest in Miami real estate can be approached with data, comparables, trends and numbers but at the heart of it all it’s still a people business.
In the world of Miami real estate, especially when working with foreign investors I know exactly what it feels like to be “the outsider” because I’ve lived that experience, but I came to realize that being the only one in the room isn’t a disadvantage, in fact it’s a superpower; it offers a fresh perspective and allowed me to solve problems differently. That’s how I connect with clients through insight and empathy. I often say I was once a client of the very same services I now offer.
To make it shorter than what you’ve read on LinkedIn I’ve spent over two decades as a business advisor, working with industrial clients, offering Design Thinking assessments, manufacturing and even serving as an Innovation Officer for U.S. tax firms. That Journey gives me a unique advantage when it comes to helping investors strategically plan their Miami real estate investment, for example:
How to avoid the FIRPTA withholding.
How to plan for U.S. estate taxation.
How to manage tax deferrals through mechanisms like 1031 exchanges.
My role is more than helping clients buy property; I guide International investors to avoid costly missteps by building thoughtful strategic plans for their Miami real estate investments.
And yes, being “the outsider” comes with its perks. One of mine? I speak Spanish. That’s not just a bonus, it’s a game changer. On the obvious side, I can speak directly with clients from Chile, Argentina, Mexico, Spain, etc. The less obvious benefits? Even English-speaking foreign investors from places like Canada and the UK quickly see the value in having a bilingual Realtor represent them in South Florida real estate. Why? Because many of the local service providers either contractors, inspectors, painters, plumbers primarily speak Spanish. Having someone who can bridge that language and cultural gap makes a huge difference in both service quality and turnaround time. That’s just one more way being an outsider is actually an asset.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a licensed Realtor in Florida specializing in helping international buyers, invest in Miami real estate with confidence. Whether it’s buying a vacation condo, relocating to a family-friendly neighborhood, or finding high return rental properties, I guide my clients through every step of the process. What sets me apart is my strategic, full-picture approach: I don’t just sell homes, I help people build smart real estate portfolios, secure residency goals, and create long-term value. Right now I’m focusing on uncovering hidden real estate investment opportunities in South Florida and offering personalized support for foreign nationals entering the US market.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Cultural Understanding: Which has been essential, especially when working with international buyers.
Strategic Thinking: Helps me go beyond simply showing properties. Instead I offer a long-term vision for each purchase.
Empathy: Is the “human factor”, includes understanding fears, hopes, dreams and values of each client, it allows me to create a genuine connection.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client is someone who is open-minded, someone who gets that real estate investing isn’t just about property, but about the strategy behind it. Many buyers get caught up in square footage, views, finishes, and overlook other drivers that turn a property into a true long-term business asset.
That’s where I step in. I make sure we have honest conversations early on about the kind of challenges they’ll face, not right away, but after the deal closes> Before it is too late to go back and fix foundational planning and missteps.
Some of the most critical aspects of a real estate investment aren’t visible during a showing. I’m talking about tax planning, asset protection, family Legacy planning, even a smart exit strategy for when it’s time to sell. I help clients plan ahead so their decisions today benefit them, and their families for years to come.
Whether someone is a first time International buyer or an experienced investor, I provide personalized strategies that align with their goals for the future they are building.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://axelgonzalez.com/about/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/investinmiamirealestate
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/axelgonzalez.realestate
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/axelgonzalezusa/
