With over 40 transactions and $22 million in gross sales in his first two years as an agent at The DeLong Group with HomeSmart Elite, Ryan Jones (or “The Valley Realtor,” as he’s known around town) has quickly built a name for himself with his big personality and consistent willingness to go above and beyond for his clients. We get to know this rising young real estate star, diehard Arizona sports fan, and father of two.
Follow at: @the.valley.realtor
Hometown: Omaha, Nebraska
First job: Fifteen-year executive career in food processing for retail grocery (Papa John’s Salads & Produce/Taylor Farms). I was responsible for sales, R&D, logistics, customer relations and food safety.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in AZ: When I’m not helping clients reach their real estate dreams, I enjoy activities with my kids, golf, live music/concerts, frequenting local hot spots, racing my NKA-sanctioned kart at PKRA (Phoenix Kart Racing Association in Glendale) and all things sports and racing.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: Building my real estate business from scratch to profit in such a short period of time. Going from a comfortable executive salary position to commission in my mid-30s was more than scary, but I’m willing to bet on myself every single day and in turn, manifest the attitude and work ethic needed to not only succeed but be at the top with other long-tenured high-producing agents in the state.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: The fear of “what if?” What if I can’t do this? What if I’m not good at this? What if I can’t put food on my kids’ plates? What if I fail? What if I don’t like this? Overcoming those “what if” objections with “I will” really made all the difference… “I will succeed,” “I will like this,” “I will be great,” “I will provide.” It’s all about mindset and attitude. Just be the best you can be every single day.
Someone who inspires you and why: My father. He’s been my mentor since I was 15 years old. I wouldn’t be where I am in life today without his love, guidance and support. He’s always believed in me and been in my corner when needed. I watched him sacrifice his entire life to provide the most amazing life for my siblings and me and I’m forever grateful. He taught me everything I know about how to be a successful man, father and positive influence on society.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Real estate is not a hobby. This is a business and a tough one at that. This isn’t HGTV. You have to be willing to sacrifice. Be willing to spend and invest more than you’re going to make until you see the shift. Get up early, prospect, don’t be afraid, exude confidence and be willing to work harder and longer than anyone else. This is a relationship business. If you can genuinely sell yourself, the rest takes care of itself.
Favorite quote: “If you ain’t first…you’re last.” I like this quote, albeit stemming from a comedy, because if you’re not wanting or trying to be the best in your field, you’re just another statistic.
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I love reggae-influenced music! So much so, that I am the title sponsor for the only reggae-specific radio show in Phoenix called The Vibes Alive Radio Show which airs every Saturday Morning at 10 a.m. PST on KWSS 93.9 FM. I also go to almost every live and local reggae show to help promote local bands and talent. We use a hashtag for our reggae community in Arizona: #iriezona.
What makes someone fabulous: Positive outlook, energy and good vibes all around. We only get one shot at this beautiful thing called life…why waste it caught up in negativity, stress and hate? Wake up and embrace the beauty of the day and those around you. Share a smile. Give advice. Hug someone. Tell as many people as you can that you love them. Show your value. Step up. Just overall being an honest, caring, and influential person.