We were lucky to catch up with Markanthony Ball recently and have shared our conversation below.
MarkAnthony, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I’ve come to see being the only person who looks like me in the room as a position of strength. To me, it means I’ve walked through a door that might not have always been open, and with that, I have the opportunity to hold it open for others. It’s about more than just representation—it’s about expanding the conversation and pushing boundaries. I embrace it as a learning experience, a chance to showcase who I am and what I bring to the table, both as a person of color and as someone who refuses to conform to traditional business norms.
Being the ‘only one’ also means that I stand out, and in a world where connections and networking are key, that’s an asset. I genuinely believe in the idea that ‘your network is your net worth,’ and being in rooms where I’m the unique voice gives me a chance to forge meaningful relationships and learn from diverse perspectives, even if they’re different from my own. I approach those moments with curiosity and confidence because growth often happens when you’re a little uncomfortable.
It goes beyond just being a person of color—it’s about self-expression too. I’ve never been one to follow the ‘traditional’ rules of business attire. I wear what feels authentic to me, whether it’s bold colors or unconventional styles, because that’s how I express my individuality. My style sparks conversation, which is exactly what you want in rooms where you’re one of one. It’s not about blending in; it’s about showing up fully as yourself and making an impact that’s memorable, authentic, and lasting.
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?
What I do is more than just real estate—it’s about creating experiences that are vibrant, engaging, and uniquely personal. As the host of American Dream TV on HGTV and a dedicated real estate agent, I use high-quality media, photos, videos, and storytelling to bring each property to life in a way that resonates with buyers and sellers alike. I believe in showcasing homes in a way that highlights their unique story, making them feel accessible and memorable. But my work goes beyond the camera lens—it’s about helping people feel at home, whether they’re buying, selling, or just curious about the market.
What really sets my brand apart is my focus on authenticity and vibrancy. On and off camera, I’m committed to being unapologetically myself, embracing bold fashion choices and vibrant energy to inspire others to do the same. I’m not here to blend in—I’m here to stand out and make real connections with the people I work with. From luxury real estate tours to community events, I make sure that everything I do reflects my genuine passion for creating memorable experiences.
I’m also deeply involved in community engagement and charitable initiatives. Giving back is a cornerstone of who I am. I’m proud to support local organizations that champion diversity, inclusion, and social impact. Whether it’s my work with Equality Texas, the Texas Fashion Industry Initiative, VettedVA, or being an advocate for Operation Brave (an HIV/AIDS awareness initiative), I believe in using my platform to make a difference beyond real estate. For me, success isn’t just about the accolades or sales—it’s about leaving a positive mark on the community I care so deeply about.
Looking ahead, I’m excited about upcoming collaborations, continuing to expand my brand through TV, networking, and experiences. All while staying true to what makes my approach special—creating an extraordinary experience for each client while giving back to the community that has given me so much. Whether you’re looking for your next home or just interested in following along, my goal is to make sure every step of the journey is memorable and impactful.
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, there are three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey: patience, willingness to learn, and listening. These have not only shaped how I approach my work but also how I build relationships and grow in the industry.
Patience
A lot of people enter this industry wanting instant results and recognition. But the truth is, success in real estate is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s easy to look around and compare yourself to others who have been in the business for years, but that can lead to frustration. Instead, focus on your own path, put in the work, and let the results follow. Patience allows you to stay grounded, build your skills, and avoid burnout. My advice? Trust the process. The glory comes after the hard work, not before it.
Willingness to Learn
Real estate is ever-evolving. No two transactions are the same, and every client has unique needs. That’s why having a genuine willingness to learn is key. From new market trends to changes in contracts or understanding clients on a deeper level, staying adaptable and open to new knowledge will help you stay ahead. Don’t get stuck in “how it’s always been done.” Be willing to shift with the market and learn from each experience.
Listening
In an industry full of big personalities, there’s a lot of talking—and not enough listening. Yes, educating clients is important, but the real magic happens when you truly listen. Too often, we “listen” only to respond, and that’s not genuine. I believe the most important conversations happen when you let clients share their fears, goals, and expectations without interrupting or jumping to solutions too soon. This is especially critical since buying or selling a home is often the biggest financial decision in someone’s life. Active listening allows you to serve your clients better and build trust.
My advice for anyone starting out: be patient, stay curious, and listen with intention. These qualities will not only help you grow in your career but will also lead to stronger, more meaningful connections with your clients.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I feel overwhelmed, I’ve learned two key strategies: delegating and knowing when to shut down. One of the biggest lessons I’ve embraced is that I can’t do everything for everyone, nor should I try. Delegating tasks—whether to team members, business partners, or even using tools for automation—helps me lighten the load and stay focused on what truly matters.
Another crucial strategy is giving myself permission to unplug. I used to respond to texts and requests at all hours, but now, having dedicated business hours allows me to create boundaries and turn off when needed. This has been a game-changer for my mental health and productivity.
When it’s time to fully decompress, I turn to video games. It might sound unconventional, but gaming allows me to step into another world, be someone else, and just let go of the pressures of the day. It’s a fun way to mentally reset.
My biggest advice? Give yourself some grace. We all have off days, and it’s okay to not be “on” all the time. Recognizing that you’re human and allowing yourself space to recharge will help you come back stronger.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bigretx.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markanthonyball/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarkAnthonyy.B
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markanthonywball/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markanthonyball
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