Check Out Mod O’Connell’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mod O’Connell.

Hi Mod, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I began anew in California after relocating from Thailand at 36, having left behind a successful career as Sr Sales Manager at The Westin Hotel in Bangkok. I initially took on waitress roles in Thai and Sushi restaurants, utilizing my sales expertise and delivering exceptional customer service, which garnered significant tips. However, the physical toll prompted me to seek alternative opportunities. I then secured a receptionist position at a nearby dental clinic. And later a chance meeting with my realtor friend, who assisted with our home purchase, led to her encouraging me to pursue a real estate career, leveraging my English and Thai bilingualism. Recognizing my innate ability, evident during our home search, I embarked on a real estate career, achieving notable success and earning seven years awards for high achievement from Century 21 corporation.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My first year in this career has been a transformative journey. I gave myself a two-year timeline to succeed, knowing I had a solid foundation in hotel business and interior design from my education. Although the initial eight months were intense, requiring a seven-day workweek and a wide range of responsibilities, I was fortunate to have my husband’s support, which allowed me to focus on building my skills without financial stress. As an immigrant with English as my second language, I faced unique challenges, but I was determined to push through. Despite initial struggles to connect with clients due to cultural differences, I persevered, and my hard work paid off when I secured my first clients and closed my first deal at month eight. Since then, I’ve continued to grow, and I now enjoy more regular downtime. Looking back, I realize that my resilience and determination have been key to my success.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a dedicated professional, I assisted clients in achieving their objectives. I’m a results-driven individual who prioritizes listening to clients’ needs. Someone once inquired, “Why do salespeople like you rarely speak and yet excel in sales?” I consider myself a problem-solver, dedicated to resolving clients’ challenges. Whether it was helping individuals facing eviction, navigating unexpected divorce proceedings, or guiding a 60-year-old client through the community college enrollment process, every moment spent with clients was invaluable. I take immense pride in having helped clients overcome debt and secure mortgage payments, simply by listening to their needs and providing tailored solutions. My approach isn’t about selling houses; it’s about lending a supportive ear and guiding clients toward their goals.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
I have interacted with numerous individuals who aspire to become realtors, with the mistaken assumption that the profession is effortless and lucrative. They believe the role involves merely presenting beautiful homes to clients, followed by the receipt of a substantial commission check within a month. Unfortunately, reality contradicts this notion. It is essential to be prepared to learn from colleagues’ experiences and adapt their advice to suit your individual needs. The profession is not without its challenges. In retrospect, I wish I had known that it was unnecessary to adopt every technique taught by the trainer. Instead, focusing on tasks that bring personal comfort and enjoyment is vital. For instance, I disliked door-to-door canvassing, as I similarly dislike receiving uninvited visits. By rigidly adhering to the trainer’s methods, I experienced significant discomfort and dissatisfaction, leading to frequent absences. In contrast, upon focusing exclusively on hosting open houses, I found happiness and promptly secured my first client.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.modsellshomes.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modsellshomes?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mod.oconnell?mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr