We had the good fortune of connecting with Johnny Aragon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Johnny, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I was in business school at USC, I knew I wanted to do more for myself. The only way was to challenge myself to be my own boss and to do more than I could ever imagine. Working in the ever-changing real estate industry during my MBA program was a great opportunity! Being a REALTOR® is like running your own business: You have to hold yourself accountable to prospect daily, market yourself, follow up with your clients, and educate yourself on the industry. I love to attend the Tuesday morning office meetings and Wednesday afternoon trainings because it helps me with gaining knowledge about what is going on with the real estate market and better equips me to help my clients out. Running your own business is not easy but who ever said the best things in life were easy?!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a REALTOR®, I understand the value of hard work. Clients who are either selling or purchasing need someone on their corner daily to help navigate one of the most expensive purchases they’ll ever make. I have the patience to answer any of their questions and I don’t stop until I get the job done! I previously mentioned my military career, which taught me the value of hard work, honor and commitment. Plus, my studies at CSULA and USC taught me the value of networking, continuing your education, and collaboration, which prepared me professionally. I use those values daily with anything I do!

One thing I’m most proud of are the transactions I’ve been able to close as a result of my military and education background. It’s allowed me to level up in ways that I never thought possible in my personal life. Any real estate transaction is far from easy, but I’ve overcome them through prayer, coaching with my manager, and asking questions to my peers.

Lessons learned are: never be afraid to ask questions, to reach out to your industry peers for advice and to never give up! Keep doing the hard work and you will be rewarded!

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that my unique experiences brought me here to this place. Had I not joined the service nor pursued higher education, I don’t know where I’d be. I always want to improve myself every day and I’m willing to give 100% to my work. At the same time, I make time for my family and friends who I love and cherish. No two days in real estate are the same, so it keeps me on my toes!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Los Angeles has so many spots, but here are some of the top places I would take my best friend:

1) Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes. It’s a hidden gem that not many people outside of LA are familiar with. It has great ocean views to enjoy a perfect meal at. Having a lunch and taking a walk outside to enjoy the view in this magnificent place is a must!

2) The Langham Hotel in Pasadena: If you’ve ever stepped foot in here, you will be blown away by how beautiful it is architecturally. They do plenty of events year-round, so not hard to go in and explore!

3) Sunset Strip: From the bars, shops, restaurants and views of the city, there’s not a dull moment here!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people I need to thank for where I’m at today but it’s hard to name them all in this interview, so I’ll list them here:

First and foremost, family and friends. my own mother, Jenny. She always believed in me and pushes me to do more than I could ever dream of. She’s always been a hard-working figure in the family. And to my friends, they know who the are!

My peers during my U.S Navy career. I learned the value of accountability and teamwork in the military, so I’m forever grateful for the experience and the men and women that I served alongside.

My classmates and friends at CSULA and USC. Their drive and determination were what inspired me to continue doing better for myself post-military career.

And last, but certainly not least, my colleagues at Coldwell Banker Realty. Senior management, my manager Lori Ramirez, our office staff and the agents who have been supportive since Day 1, I truly appreciate working with all of them!

Thank you everyone!

Website: www.JohnnyAragonHomes.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnnyaragonrealestate/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnny-aragon-mba-8b72359a/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/johnnyaragonre

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnnyaragonrealestate

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZPlLRuVxM5JnUfxrZh1T4A

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnnyaragonre Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/johnnyaragon23

Image Credits
Headshot courtesy of Francesca Perticarini Saluting photo courtesy of Diana Bernal

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