In 2024, the most challenging year of Gary Ismail’s more-than-two-decades-long career, his production increased 30%, a testament to his unwavering dedication. Ismail, broker-owner of Gary Ismail Fine Properties, has built solid relationships with clients that lead to repeat and referral business and has mastered the art of winning difficult negotiations. Fact-finding and logical and tactical thinking skills are his secret for helping luxury buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals.

“While a career in real estate can be lucrative, the true satisfaction is knowing that you have helped your clients realize their dream of homeownership and security,” says Ismail, who has held Top Luxury Real Estate Professionals status since 2015. He’s also a Certified Negotiation Expert, Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist and Global Luxury Home Advisor and Specialist.

Real estate combines his passion for helping others with his interest in architecture and design. It also has allowed him a flexible schedule and the chance to be part of a field that’s ever-changing and exciting.

A proud Houstonian, Ismail knows everything there is to know about the city, from neighborhoods to cultural aspects, and everything in between. This knowledge enables him to help clients hone in on the communities that best fit their wants, needs and desires.

“Even with my rich knowledge and understanding of the Houston area markets, I realize change is inevitable,” he says. “So, that’s where market research, constant field visits and networking come into play and help me stay on top of trends.” He uses digital platforms to promote his listings and the latest software to streamline the transaction process, but he leads with the human touch, treating real estate as a career, not a job, and finding joy in mentoring aspiring agents to do the same.