Today we’d like to introduce you to Daria Stakely.
Daria, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up in Compton, CA. I am the eldest of three raised by a single mother. At the age of 17 I began working my summers as a receptionist at my godmother’s real estate management company. During my time there I tracked prospective tenants, answered phones and scheduled appointments. In 2006, my neighbor (a realtor), had an open house and I went over to check it out. He told me he was starting a real estate class and thought I’d be a perfect fit. At first I was hesitant, but due to my previous experience and passion for helping others I decided to enroll. My real estate business began in 2007 and 15 years later it has proven to be one of my best decisions.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Real estate is not for the faint of heart. It requires determination, resilience and the right attitude. Starting out in the business was tough. I was 22 when I got licensed which was right as the market was crashing. I watched many people leave the business in groves, but I decided to stay and sought out opportunities where I could gain experience and build my business. I have done it all! The market spoke and I listened. I became certified in Short Sales, REO’s, BPO’s, probate standard sales and relocation. This in turn allowed me to close deals, help others and make a living. Other than the classes I took, I had no real guidance. Other agents recommended that I use my sphere of influence for business. I laughed because my sphere was young, partied every night, and still lived and depended on their parents. Needless to say, real estate was far from their maturing minds. I created my own book of business by door knocking and cold calling. One of my colleagues came up with the idea of giving out foreclosure lists so I sat under a tent on the side of the road with a big sign that read “Free Foreclosure List.“ We gained so many leads. My determination to work hard and see my business through stemmed from having a son who was counting on me to make it happen. Failure was not an option. I committed to becoming financially stable to prioritize his well-being. In order to maintain that stability, I got a job working at a title company and sold real estate part-time. Fast forward, in 2011 I got married and had my youngest two girls with my husband. I decided to take a few years off to focus on my family. I started back as a full-time Realtor in 2015. The first year back was a bit rocky as I only closed six deals. However, every year since I’ve doubled and even tripled my numbers year after year.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I am passionate about helping people in my community achieve homeownership. As a child who grew up in the city of Compton with a single mom in low-income housing, I realize the need of not only education, but encouraging those in my community to seek homeownership. Most people living in underprivileged neighborhoods do not believe owning a home is within reach because they lack financial literacy. I consider economic proficiency to be one of the most important tools leading to success. I work with plenty of first-time home buyers and home sellers and I enjoy educating and helping them get on the path of creating generational wealth. I help my buyers and sellers alike get set up with trusts and teach them how to then leverage their first property equity to get a second and third property. My first-timers are near and dear to my heart. My clients are those who are willing to step out in faith and go after their dreams of investing in real estate. Together we work as a team. They want to accomplish owning property and I coach and strategize them into triumph. Additionally, I also work with exclusive clients in the entertainment industry as well as athletes. My clients tell me they love working with me as I am very down to earth and relatable. I receive a ton of repeat business from past clients which is a true blessing.
I am a big believer in God and I believe all things are working together for my good because I love Him and I do right by people. Over the years, I learned that it’s not about what people can do for me, but what I can do for people. I love pouring into people’s lives. I am a giver. In the past, I’ve enjoyed dropping off home renovation tips. I’ve sent over contractor referrals to homeowners in my farm area (which for the last four years has been Inglewood). Currently, I am working with the partners on my team to build our business in luxury sales. In a nutshell, I believe people work with me because I am passionate, I am experienced and I get the results they expect. I am currently serving on the board of directors for the Young Realtist Division/LA, which is an extension of NAREB, The National Association of Real Estate Brokers. I am a member of the Consolidated Board of Realtist. I am a realtor and a Realtist. I work full-time specializing in residential sales as a Listing Agent, Buyers Agent and commercial retail leasing and sales.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I am faith-driven. God is the head of my life. One of my favorite books is Open Your Mind to Prosperity by Catherine Ponder. I love listening to gospel music as well as meditation music. I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling and attending my children’s sports activities to cheer them on as their number one fan.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: dariastakely.com
- Instagram: d.stakely_realestate
- Facebook: Daria Stakely Realtor
