Raised in Spring, Texas, by loving parents who emigrated from Mexico, Jose Nieto was driven to real estate out of a desire to be his own boss and model the leadership he found lacking. After a nudge from a customer who worked as an agent, he attended an industry event and decided to take the leap. Though his transition into real estate wasn’t always easy, Nieto persevered due to his family-instilled work ethic, people skills and general savvy.

Developing his business organically by networking and exploring the Texas market, Nieto works primarily with first-time homebuyers and specializes in down-payment assistance. He credits being bilingual and willing to travel for much of his success, as he has sold homes all throughout Houston and in surrounding areas including Beaumont and Austin. His business is entirely referral-based. “The best testimonial is being told that I did something other real estate agents couldn’t do, and that I am very responsive,” he says. Known for being highly communicative, he creates a joyful experience for each client that is founded upon integrity and his process-driven posture.

Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia recently awarded Nieto with a certificate of special recognition for his hard work and dedication. He was also recognized among the top 40 under 40 by Houston’s Real Producers and earned top producer awards with his brokerage for the past three years in a row. With a focus on growth, Nieto now shares his vision by leading a team of three at his firm. “They help me in times when I am not available or we need to get things done … the team helps my business grow,” he says.

Nieto looks forward to exceeding his previous year’s sales and carving out time for more community involvement and fun activities such as bike riding, yoga and spending time in nature.