Daily Inspiration: Meet Martin Leikarts

Today we’d like to introduce you to Martin Leikarts

Hi Martin, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I grew up in Latvia under a communist regime, occupied by Russia and incorporated into the Soviet Union. When Latvia regained its independence, I started my career in real estate. I found immense fulfillment in helping people make significant decisions about their homes and investments.

Motivated by a desire for better education, I moved to the United States, where I successfully earned my MBA from Pepperdine University. After nearly a decade in asset management, I returned to my true passion—real estate.

Now, with over 20 years of experience and more than 200 transactions under my belt, I feel incredibly fortunate to have found my calling early on. Real estate and finance continue to ignite my passion, and I was honored to be inducted into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame this year.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Leaving everything behind—family, home, and familiar surroundings—to move across the globe requires courage and unwavering determination. It’s about staying focused on your goals and committing to the hard work needed for success. The journey can feel isolating without the support of family and friends, but new connections emerge with time.

The same can be said for a career in real estate. The early stages can be tough, often filled with self-doubt until you close your first few deals and start building a client base. This foundation is crucial for growing your business and achieving your long-term aspirations. The U.S. truly is the land of opportunity, where everyone—regardless of their background or accent—has the chance to succeed!

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have worked as a Realtor for over 20 years, and my journey in this field has been incredibly fulfilling. While I sometimes rehab properties myself, my primary focus is helping clients with their real estate needs. For me, a real estate transaction is not just about buying or selling a house; it’s about homes—places where families grow and where memories are created. Being part of that journey in so many people’s lives is immensely rewarding. On the commercial side, I often find myself solving significant needs for clients, which adds another layer of fulfillment to my work.

What Am I Known For?

I believe my clients see me as a true professional who can successfully guide them through every step of the process and transaction. My vast experience allows me to maximize my clients’ equity effectively. Over the years, I’ve honed a keen sense of what preparation and marketing each property needs to net the highest possible return for sellers. My clients often rave about my attention to detail and my vision for properties that others might overlook. When working with buyers or tenants, I prioritize listening and understanding their must-haves and needs, ensuring that I can match them with the perfect property.

What Am I Most Proud Of?

What I truly cherish are the relationships I’ve built over the years. Many of my clients return not just as repeat customers but become lifelong friends. I take immense pride in the heartfelt thank-you notes and referrals I receive, knowing that my impact extends beyond the closing table. For me, the greatest reward is seeing my clients thrive in their new homes or successful businesses, creating memories and building lives.

What Sets Me Apart?

What sets me apart is my combination of in-depth construction knowledge, financial background, and excellent client service skills. This expertise allows me to answer many questions that other realtors might not and provide clients with valuable insights about potential renovations or investments.

I also believe that treating every transaction as if I were selling my own home is key to client satisfaction. This personal approach ensures that I invest the same care and attention into each deal, making it nearly impossible for clients not to be satisfied with my service.

What’s next?
I hope to continue balancing work and family life as my kids grow older and become involved in more activities. My biggest hope—rather than a concrete plan—is simply to live long enough to see my three children grow up and start their own successful and happy lives. As an older parent, this is something I think about often. Children inspire us to become better people every day, and I can feel the changes within me, both big and small, happening inevitably.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.remax.com/real-estate-agents/martin-leikarts-manhattan-beach-ca/100112202
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martinleikarts/

Image Credits
Photos by Brian Holm