Stephen Williams is the broker/owner of Century 21 Olympian in Houston

What was your first job in the realty industry?
I was originally an investor in the industry and got frustrated with real estate agents not fully understanding the true needs of my investment strategy. I then decided to get my real estate license to see if I could do it better or if their reasons for not performing were true. I obtained my license in 2003 and have not looked back; this industry is a lot of fun and the income potential unlimited. It is much better than working for corporate America.

Where did you grow up?
I grew up in England, and competed in the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo, Yugoslavia. I traveled most of the world on the professional ice skating circuit between 1980 and 2003. I came to the U.S. in 1995 to live the American Dream.

What is your favorite free-time activity?
I enjoy working with my new agents and growing my business. There is nothing more gratifying than seeing a new agent come into this industry and grow intellectually and financially. It benefits them and their families. I enjoy the coaching part of this industry.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
I have an Old English Sheepdog, “Cookie,” that ensures I have my down time with long walks and play time everyday.

Growing up, what did you want to be?
I wanted to live in the U.S. and have my own business. My father was a self-employed business owner and I knew it may be hard to follow his success. So, I wanted to be in the best place possible to maximize any successes.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure(living or not), who would it be and why?
I was fascinated with Winston Churchill, as he was a great leader with incredible integrity. He persevered when it was difficult, but kept on going with faith to succeed.

Where is your favorite place to hang out?
I enjoy spending time with my wife Carolyn, son Jack and daughter Jill. Spending time with them is always rewarding, and seeing both of my children grow up is never dull.

What do you love most about the industry?
The opportunity to see clients experience their first home and seeing new agents make their first sale. As a Realtor, we have the opportunity to make a lasting impression of every person that we come into contact with. It is important in life to have a purpose, and if you enjoy and feel good about what you are doing, then all the financial rewards will follow. Every day that I work in this industry, I feel very lucky and blessed that I have the opportunity to do what I enjoy.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I like to have an influence on every buyer and agent that is introduced to my office. I very much feel that the office culture is the most important factor for the Century 21 Olympian experience. My agents are encouraged to share knowledge, information, and experiences to one another. This way everyone grows.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Finding out that some buyers cannot qualify for a home and seeing some agents struggle with the demands and challenges of our industry. Any agent that does not reach their goals needs support and further encouragement.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients?
The Century 21 lead generation systems have worked well for my office. We also have an office search engine, www.searchhoustonhomesnow.com, which has been a great success. We also offer the free use of our office moving truck for all of the companies Buyers and Sellers.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
The greatest accomplishment that I have is seeing our yearly sales increase by all of our agents. It is the best result a company can have, to see the agents grow, and the Century 21 system is one that works.

What is your favorite restaurant?
I enjoy the Richmond Arms in Houston, it is an English Style pub. Has some good English brews and food. Give it a try!

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Houston?
Our office is near Reliant Stadium, and being involved in sports, it is great to feel that Houston has a great sporting facility. Lets get another Super Bowl in our great city.

What kind of car do you drive?
I drive a Chevy Volt. I try to be as green as possible in the number one Oil City in the U.S.

Smartphone or paper?
I like to use paper if at all possible.

What is your favorite city after Houston?
I enjoy Edinburgh, in Scotland. But anywhere in Scotland is good for me.

What is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Integrity, honesty, knowledge, hard work, and a good broker, equals results.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
Century 21.

Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter?
Mike Ferry, David Knox, and Brian Buffini; all real estate mentors.

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