The Dream Is Real: David Harrison's Journey into Real Estate with Dream Select Realty

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to succeed in the fast-paced world of real estate, then this episode of The Dream Is Real Podcast featuring David Harrison, one of the newest agents at Dream Select Realty, is for you. David’s inspiring journey from retail management to becoming a real estate agent is filled with lessons about career transitions, mentorship, and personal growth.

Whether you're considering a career in real estate or are just passionate about Long Island real estate, David’s story offers insights into the path of a new agent, the ups and downs of real estate, and the dream of homeownership that so many clients seek.

From Retail to Real Estate: The Transition That Changed Everything

Before David joined Dream Select Realty, his career was rooted in the retail world. He spent years working in security and managing a PC Richard & Son store, overseeing everything from sales to customer service. While he excelled in retail, something was missing. David wanted more flexibility and control over his time—traits that real estate offers in abundance.

“I was working two jobs and didn’t have the free time I wanted. Real estate seemed like the perfect way to get my time back while still having the opportunity to increase my income,” said David during the podcast.

This desire for financial freedom and personal control drove David to pursue a career in real estate. His decision wasn’t an impulsive one. Instead, it was shaped by his conversations with colleagues and, notably, his meeting with Lavar, a mentor and fellow agent at Dream Select Realty. Lavar helped David see how real estate could be a smooth transition—one that would offer both professional and personal fulfillment.

The Real Estate Course: A Step Toward the Future

Like many real estate agents, David's journey started with the required real estate courses. These courses prepare new agents with foundational knowledge about the industry, including laws, ethics, and property transactions. David took the plunge with a 9-day course that covered 77 hours of material through Zoom, a format that allowed him to complete the training quickly and effectively while still juggling his two jobs.

The speed of the training was essential, as it gave him the chance to make the transition from retail to real estate as seamless as possible. David’s enthusiasm and commitment to the course helped him pass the school exam and prepared him for the state certification test. The day he passed the exam, David was both relieved and proud, and immediately shared the news with his family. “I called my mom first,” he laughed. “She’s always been my biggest supporter.”

The Challenges of Real Estate: What They Don’t Tell You

Although real estate might seem glamorous to some, it comes with its own unique set of challenges—especially when you’re just starting out. David admits that the journey was not without its struggles. Patience, in particular, has been one of the hardest lessons.

“In retail, things happen quickly. A customer wants a product, and you provide it instantly. But with real estate, things don’t happen overnight. It takes time for clients to make decisions, and that’s something I’m learning to embrace,” David shared.

Real estate agents often deal with the highs of closing deals and the lows of waiting for deals to finalize. But for David, patience is a skill that’s crucial for success in the industry. Whether working with buyers or sellers, agents must be prepared for a sometimes lengthy process of negotiations, home inspections, and paperwork.

The Importance of Mentorship and Support

One of the key elements that has helped David adjust to his new role as a real estate agent is the support from Dream Select Realty. David highlighted how the mentorship and collaborative culture within the agency have been crucial to his success. He particularly appreciates how agents like Kim and his broker have been available to offer advice and share their expertise.

“Dream Select Realty has created a family-like atmosphere where you can ask questions and learn from more experienced agents without feeling like you’re bothering anyone. It’s all about helping each other grow,” David noted.

This level of support makes a real difference in a real estate agent’s career, especially when they are just starting out. David’s own growth is a testament to the power of teamwork and mentorship in helping new agents navigate the complexities of the real estate industry.

Building a Real Estate Network: Open Houses and Technology

David’s approach to real estate is rooted in his belief in building a strong network of clients and colleagues. He mentioned that open houses have been a valuable tool in growing his business, as they provide an opportunity to meet potential clients face-to-face and get a feel for what buyers are looking for.

“Open houses give me a chance to introduce myself to clients and build relationships,” David said. “You don’t always close a deal on the spot, but you create a rapport, and that’s important.”

In addition to traditional networking, David is also making use of technology to promote his business. Social media, websites, and online listings are all crucial tools for getting the word out and staying relevant in a competitive market. David shared that the learning curve with technology has been steep but manageable, thanks to the resources and support available at Dream Select Realty.

Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook allow real estate agents to market homes and share insights with potential buyers. For David, these tools are essential for getting noticed and connecting with clients who may not have otherwise found him.

The Future: Real Estate Success and Beyond

Looking ahead, David is optimistic about his future in real estate. His immediate goal is to sell his first home, and he’s determined to make it happen soon. In the next few years, he also plans to become an associate broker, which requires two years of experience and additional education.

By the three-year mark, David hopes to have built a strong client base and developed a reputation as a reliable agent. Five years from now, David envisions achieving financial stability and more personal freedom, allowing him to travel and spend time with his family.

In the long term, David sees real estate as a vehicle for not just financial success, but also personal fulfillment. The ability to help others achieve the dream of homeownership is something he values deeply.

Advice for Aspiring Real Estate Agents

For those who are considering a career in real estate, David offers some simple yet powerful advice:

• Take it one step at a time. The process of becoming an agent can be overwhelming, but with patience and persistence, anyone can succeed.
• Find a good mentor or team. Working with an experienced team, like Dream Select Realty, makes all the difference in learning the ropes and staying motivated.
• Be patient with clients. Unlike retail sales, real estate requires a long-term approach and a willingness to wait for the right moment to close a deal.
• Embrace technology. With the rise of social media, websites, and digital tools, staying tech-savvy is a must for real estate agents in today’s market.

Get in Touch with David Harrison

If you're interested in working with a knowledgeable and dedicated real estate agent in Long Island, NY, David Harrison is available to help you with all of your buying, selling, and investing needs. With his approachable personality and commitment to his clients, David is ready to help make your real estate dreams a reality.

📞 Contact David Harrison:
📧 Email: dharrison@dreamselectrealty.com
📱 Call/Text: 631-307-8411
🌐 Visit: www.dreamselectrealty.com

David’s journey is a reminder that no matter where you start, the dream of a successful career in real estate is within reach. With hard work, mentorship, and a strong passion for helping others, anyone can make their real estate dreams come true.

The Dream Is Real: Your Path to Real Estate Success

The Dream Is Real Podcast continues to bring you the latest insights, tips, and success stories in real estate. Whether you’re looking to buy your dream home or start a career in real estate, we’re here to help make those dreams a reality. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from industry professionals and experts who are making a difference in the world of real estate.