What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Eckerd Drugs. It was a fantastic experience where I met great people, developed my leadership skills and enjoyed a strong trajectory of growth and success. Many of the lessons I learned there continue to influence how I lead and serve clients today.
Where did you grow up?
Houston, close to the Champions area
Growing up, what did you want to be?
A dentist!
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
I love to bake as well as go for long walks and jogs.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Walt Disney. His vision, creativity and ability to turn big ideas into lasting experiences continue to inspire me. What fascinates me most is how he built something that has impacted generations of families while never losing sight of innovation, storytelling and the customer experience.
What is Houston’s best kept secret?
Houston’s food scene. People know we’re diverse, but many don’t realize you can experience some of the best cuisines in the world without ever leaving the city. Every neighborhood has a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
What do you love most about the industry?
The people. Real estate is about relationships, helping others achieve their goals and making a meaningful impact during some of the most important moments in their lives. I also enjoy mentoring leaders and agents and watching them succeed.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
The toughest part is knowing you can’t be everywhere at once. I genuinely enjoy helping people, so prioritizing where I can make the biggest impact while still being present and accessible is a constant challenge, but it’s also what keeps the job exciting.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Be consistent and stay in relationship mode. The best lead-generation strategy isn’t a secret script or the latest trend, it’s building genuine relationships and staying top of mind. Focus on adding value, following up and being present in your community. Most opportunities come from trust, and trust is built through consistent actions over time.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to?
My 10-year-old heavily influences the agenda! Between Disney, superheroes, family movie nights and leadership podcasts, my binge-watching and listening habits are a fun mix of business, adventure and whatever my son says I need to see next.
What’s your favorite meal in Houston?
Teotihuacan Mexican Cafe. It’s one of those places that never disappoints on great food and great atmosphere — a true Houston favorite, whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Houston?
The Gulf Building (now known as the JPMorgan Chase Tower). When my family moved to Houston, I was a kid and my dad worked there, so it holds a lot of personal memories for me. Beyond the nostalgia, I’ve always admired its presence on the Houston skyline.
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
A giant cat once bolted down a staircase and came straight at me during a showing. Real estate teaches you to expect the unexpected, but that one definitely caught me off guard!
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a huge Disney fan. I appreciate the vision, storytelling and attention to customer experience that Walt Disney built into the brand. There are actually a lot of leadership lessons hidden in the Magic Kingdom.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Walt Disney World Resort. I’ve been taking my son there since he was 18 months old, and one of my favorite things is seeing the wonder in his eyes. What’s amazing is that the experience changes every time we visit, and as he grows older each trip creates new memories and a different perspective.
That said, don’t get me wrong, the beaches of Hawaii are right up there as well. If I could combine Disney magic with a Hawaiian sunset, that would be pretty hard to beat.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Focus on people, not commissions. The rest follows.
What are your social media handles?
Instagram: @kzleadership
LinkedIn: Kenneth Zarella