Real Estate News and Market Moves Week 59

For this week’s blog post, we have an interview with the Auben Market Director over our Chattanooga office, Jason Weathers.

Who was your first business mentor? 

A business owner in Chattanooga named Steve Campbell. He worked in his family-owned business and eventually became the owner operator of that business.  His knowledge and experience helped me grow professionally and personally.  His leadership provided advice on how to grow relationships built on trust and mutual respect.

How did you get into the real estate profession? 

My real estate profession started in Charlotte, NC when I became licensed in 2013. That led me to working in real estate full time eventually getting my licenses in South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia.

Who was your first mentor in real estate?  

My first team at RE/MAX Executive in Charlotte, NC. I was looking for a brokerage that aligned with my values, goals, and preferred working style. I was able to learn from their years of experience and develop skills early on to set up success.

How is it working with investors in real estate? 

Investors have specific financial objectives when it comes to real estate. Take the time to understand what they are looking to achieve, whether it is long-term wealth accumulation, passive income, or short-term gains. Focus on understanding investors’ needs, providing valuable market insights, and offering support. That can build long-lasting relationships with investors and help them achieve their investment goals in real estate.

What is the biggest challenge you see for most investors? 

Market fluctuations which can impact property values, rental rates, and investment returns. Investors need to stay informed about market trends and be prepared to adapt to changing conditions. Unexpected costs that can come with unforeseen expenses, such as repairs, renovations, or property maintenance.  

What trait do you see most successful investors have? 

Not being overly emotional. Real estate investing can be profitable and fulfilling with proper planning, research, and risk management. Address the challenges proactively and seek professional advice when needed to avoid going into crisis mode.  

What is the best lesson you have learned in real estate? 

Continuous learning, adapting, and planning are particularly important in the real estate industry to achieve your goals and assist others in achieving their objectives.  

What led you to your market director role at Auben? 

I joined Auben Realty in 2019 as an Investor Account Manager and have been able to grow with the company into my role as Market Director. Having the right team in place has been key to growing the assets under management along with being leaders in their roles. Those individuals have kept me on track to grow into my current role as Market Director.  

Describe a day in the life of a Market Leader at Auben Chattanooga? 

As a Market Director, my day is diverse and filled with responsibilities that include overseeing the operations and growth of the real estate market. Throughout the day team collaboration takes place to solve issues at hand, building partnerships, and ensuring the success of the company’s real estate partnerships. Evaluating ways to increase the profitability of current projects and identifying areas for improvement for the company along with our investors.  

What makes a good leader? 

A good leader takes ownership of their decisions, actions, and outcomes, and holds themselves and others accountable.  A good leader leads by example and earns the trust and respect of their team through actions and decision-making. 

How do you embody that as a leader yourself? 

I embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and keep focused on the task at hand. As a team in our Chattanooga office, we are all involved with resolving issues and we seek out the right answers to the questions.  

What is your favorite book? 

Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek

What is the best advice you have received? 

If you are willing to take the blame when deserved, people will give you the responsibility.

What is the best advice you could give someone else? 

The comeback is stronger than the setback.

 If I were to start over? 

I would have looked for investment opportunities earlier in my real estate career. It was not a focus for me personally, until I joined Auben Realty, to truly grasp the concept of real estate investing.

Any Hobbies? 

Concerts, running, sporting events

Where is a place where time slows down? 

Being out in nature