Today we’d like to introduce you to Clarke Ball
Hi Clarke, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Real estate has always been more than a career for me—it’s part of who I am. My great-grandparents moved to Los Angeles from Birmingham, Alabama, in the 1930s, searching for better opportunities. With almost nothing to start with, my great-grandmother—who had only a third-grade education—somehow negotiated the development of her first multi-unit complex. She went on to become one of the first Black self-made female millionaires in Los Angeles at the time, all through real estate. Knowing that her mother was born into slavery makes her story even more incredible. Her determination and ability to create generational wealth against all odds have always been a huge inspiration for me.
Growing up, I was fascinated by real estate. I spent hours online looking at homes—not just in LA, but all over the world. I loved imagining the possibilities each home held, and I understood from a young age that real estate wasn’t just about property; it was about opportunity, security, and building a legacy. I always knew I wanted to get my real estate license, but I also valued education, so I pursued my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Africana Studies at Cal State Northridge. That background gave me a deeper understanding of people and their needs, which has been invaluable in my career.
After college, I started working in marketing and administration for a seasoned real estate professional. That experience gave me an inside look at the business—the transactions, the negotiations, and most importantly, how to truly serve clients. Once I got licensed, I transitioned into working as part of a team, gaining hands-on experience with buyers, sellers, and investors.
Now, I’ve stepped into an exciting new chapter—working independently at a new brokerage, fully embracing my own path in the industry. I’m more motivated than ever to build my brand, expand my reach, and continue helping my clients navigate one of the biggest investments of their lives.
For me, real estate isn’t just about buying and selling homes—it’s about creating opportunities, just like my great-grandmother did. It’s about helping people find security, build wealth, and create something that lasts for generations. I feel honored to be part of that journey for my clients, and I wouldn’t want to be doing anything else.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has definitely not been what I would call a smooth road—more like a hike with peaks and valleys, but always with a beautiful view awaiting you. Real estate is a dynamic industry, and no two transactions are ever the same because every home and every client is unique, with their own set of needs. Each transaction brings new challenges, but also opportunities to grow, sharpen my skills, and deepen my knowledge of the business.
One of the biggest challenges is that the real estate market is cyclical—constantly shifting and changing. You have to learn how to be adaptable and strategic to navigate different market conditions successfully. Whether it’s a buyer’s market, a seller’s market, or an unpredictable economy, knowing how to pivot and position my clients for success is key.
Another challenge is staying on top of the ever-evolving laws, contracts, and regulations. Real estate is not a static business—the rules change, and it’s crucial to stay informed so I can best guide and protect my clients. I take this responsibility seriously because my clients are making one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.
While the road hasn’t always been easy, I truly love what I do. The challenges make me better, and the reward of helping people achieve their real estate goals makes every obstacle worth it. At the end of the day, real estate isn’t just about transactions—it’s about trust, problem-solving, and creating opportunities that last a lifetime.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
What sets me apart is my commitment to being a true resource for my clients, no matter what stage they’re at. Whether they’re just starting to explore how to buy a home, selling their current property, or making a move, I love helping people understand the process. The most common question I hear is, “How do I even get started?” and when people ask, it fuels me—there’s nothing I enjoy more than educating and empowering my clients to achieve their real estate goals.
What I’m most proud of is the warm, supportive environment I create, where my clients feel comfortable trusting me not just with their investments but with the personal aspects of their lives. Real estate is deeply personal, and I take the time to understand how my clients live, their goals, and what’s most important to them. This helps me guide them with care, confidence, and kindness—whether they’re buying or selling.
I know real estate can feel like a big step, whether you’re purchasing your first home or selling one to transition to something new, so I make it a priority to ensure my clients always feel supported. My brand is built on creating trusted, compassionate partnerships, where my clients feel informed and cared for throughout the entire process. Helping people confidently build a legacy through real estate is the greatest joy I can have in my career.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory would definitely be growing up in a duplex—but what made it even more special was that the other side of the duplex was turned into a daycare business by my parents. This meant there was always a bunch of kids around, and I had playmates 24/7. There was never a dull moment, and some of those childhood friendships have lasted a lifetime. Having friends around all the time really helped me understand the importance of community from a young age.
It wasn’t just the daycare that made those years unforgettable—it was also my birthday parties! Since I always had my friends right next door, my mom would throw these elaborate themed parties for me, and they were nothing short of magical. We had princess parties, petting zoo parties, and even horse parties—yes, I’m talking about actually riding a pony down the streets of LA ! (I’m sure the neighbors got a kick out of that one.) My mom’s creativity turned every birthday into an adventure, and I absolutely loved it.
Looking back, I realize that growing up surrounded by friends and community, with these unforgettable celebrations, gave me a deep sense of connection and belonging. It was truly the dream setup for a kid, and I wouldn’t trade those days for anything.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarkerealestate/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarke-ball-881a841b5/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@clarkeyyb
