We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mykah Richards. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mykah below.
Mykah, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Navigating a field like development and custom new construction has been both challenging and rewarding.
1. Expertise and Skill Development: Ive invested time and effort in developing skills and expertise in development and construction. My knowledge and competence speak volumes and earns respect.
2. Networking: Building a strong professional network is crucial in any industry. By networking with industry professionals, attending conferences, and joining associations, I establish connections that helped me navigate the industry more effectively.
3. Mentorship: Finding mentors who have experience in development and construction provides invaluable guidance and support. Theyve offered insights into the industry, helped me navigate challenges, and provided career advice.
4. Building Trust and Relationships: Trust is essential in the construction industry. By consistently delivering quality work, being reliable, and building strong relationships with clients, contractors, and colleagues, I establish trust and credibility.
5. Adaptability: The construction industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, methods, and regulations emerging. Being adaptable and willing to learn helped me stay ahead of the curve and remain relevant in the industry.
6. Communication Skills: Effective communication is key in development and construction projects. Being able to clearly convey your ideas, listen to others, and resolve conflicts can help ensure that projects run smoothly and stakeholders are satisfied.
7. Problem-Solving Abilities: In the construction industry, unexpected challenges are bound to arise. My ability to quickly and effectively solve problems set me apart and contributed to my success.
8. Embracing Diversity: Diversity in thought, background, and experience can lead to more innovative solutions and better outcomes in development and construction projects. Embracing diversity and encouraging diverse perspectives helped me stand out and bring unique value to projects.
9. Continuous Learning: Staying updated with industry trends, best practices, and regulations through continuous learning and professional development helped me stay competitive and excel in my field.
10. Confidence and Resilience: Confidence in your abilities and resilience in the face of challenges helped me overcome obstacles and achieve success in development and custom new construction.
It’s evident that being effective and successful in development and custom new construction, even when you’re the only one who looks like you, requires a combination of expertise, networking, adaptability, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and embracing diversity. a unique perspective and experiences can also be strengths that set you apart and contribute to your success in the industry.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m passionate about real estate and development, and as a real estate broker and developer, I have the unique opportunity to help clients find their dream homes and bring new projects to life.
What I Do:
As a real estate broker, I assist clients in buying, selling, or renting properties, guiding them through every step of the process to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. On the development side, I work on creating and managing new custom construction projects, from initial planning and design to construction and completion. This involves collaborating with architects, contractors, and other professionals to bring innovative and sustainable projects to fruition.
*What’s Exciting and Special:
What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether it’s helping a family find their perfect home or developing a project that revitalizes a neighborhood, I love knowing that my work has a lasting impact. The creative aspect of development, where I can envision and bring to life a new building or community, is incredibly rewarding.
About My Brand:
My brand M. Lux Realty is built on trust, integrity, and personalized service. I believe in taking the time to understand each client’s unique needs and goals, and I’m committed to delivering exceptional results. My focus is not just on transactions but on building long-term relationships with my clients, guiding them through every stage of their real estate journey.
What’s New:
I’m excited to announce that we’re launching two new development projects in the vibrant South Fulton neighborhood, featuring sustainable design and modern amenities. We’re also hosting a series of virtual seminars and workshops for first-time homebuyers, providing valuable insights and tips on the homebuying process. Additionally, we’re expanding our team to better serve our growing client base and exploring new opportunities to innovate in the real estate market.
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?
Reflecting on my real estate career journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that have been most impactful are:
Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential in real estate. Whether it’s explaining complex terms to clients, negotiating deals with other parties, or keeping everyone informed throughout the process, clear and concise communication is key.
Negotiation Skills: Negotiation is a critical aspect of real estate, whether you’re negotiating the price of a property, terms of a contract, or resolving issues that arise during a transaction. Being able to negotiate effectively can make a significant difference in the outcome for your clients and your success in the industry.
Market Knowledge and Adaptability: Staying updated with the latest market trends, property values, and industry regulations is crucial in real estate. Being knowledgeable about the market allows you to provide valuable insights to your clients and adapt to changing market conditions.
Advice for Those Early in Their Journey:
Invest in Communication Skills: Take courses or workshops to improve your communication skills. Practice active listening, learn how to convey information clearly and effectively, and always strive to understand your clients’ needs and concerns.
Develop Negotiation Skills: Look for opportunities to practice negotiation skills, whether it’s through role-playing exercises, working with mentors, or negotiating smaller deals. Learn from experienced negotiators and study different negotiation techniques to find what works best for you.
Stay Curious and Continuously Learn: Real estate is a dynamic industry, and there’s always something new to learn. Stay curious, read industry publications, attend seminars and workshops, and network with other professionals to stay updated with the latest trends and best practices.
Build Relationships: Real estate is a relationship-driven business. Focus on building strong relationships with clients, colleagues, and industry professionals. Networking events, social media, and community involvement can be great ways to connect with others in the industry.
Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor who has experience and success in real estate. A mentor can offer guidance, share valuable insights, and help you navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with a career in real estate.
Be Adaptable and Resilient: The real estate market can be unpredictable, and you’ll likely face challenges along the way. Be adaptable, willing to learn from your experiences, and resilient in the face of setbacks. Learn from your mistakes, celebrate your successes, and keep moving forward with determination and optimism.
By focusing on these qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge, and following this advice, those early in their real estate journey can build a strong foundation for a successful and rewarding career in the industry.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was instilling a strong sense of values and work ethic from a young age. They taught me the importance of honesty, integrity, and hard work, values that have guided me throughout my life and career.
My parents always encouraged me to pursue my passions and dreams, while also emphasizing the importance of responsibility and perseverance. They supported me through both the successes and challenges, teaching me to learn from my mistakes and never give up.
Additionally, my parents emphasized the value of education and lifelong learning. They encouraged me to explore new interests, read widely, and continue to educate myself, which has been invaluable in my personal and professional growth.
Overall, the love, support, and guidance my parents provided have been the foundation of who I am today. Their belief in me, along with the values and lessons they instilled, have shaped my character, influenced my decisions, and helped me navigate life’s journey with confidence and resilience.
My two sons Michael and Mason have played a pivotal role in my success. They have been my driving force and I’m so thankful for them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mluxrealty.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luxuryhomesbymykah/
- Facebook: Mykah Richards