Brian Bainbridge loves working in the up-and-coming neighborhoods of Columbus. As a real estate agent with CRT, Realtors - Entrust Group, he discovered a passion for communities in the inner suburbs.

"I got my start in Westgate," Brian says. "I love older homes. It excites me to go into areas like Franklinton, Hilltop and Southern Orchards that are getting more attention. Those neighborhoods have a chance to thrive bringing the right people in."

Brian grew up in Worthington, graduated from Worthington Christian and attended college at Huntington University in Indiana. He came back to Columbus right after graduation, though, and began selling cell phones with his now-broker, Jeremy Pape. After Jeremy got his real estate license, Brian followed suit in 2007. He wanted a job where he could find his passion, so he left his IT sales job and became a full-time REALTOR® in 2012. Since then, he has focused on residential real estate and has recently dipped a toe into commercial sales. He also works with his wife and business partner, Nikki, to invest in rental properties so they can provide quality rental opportunities.

"Interestingly, my early sales experience helped my real estate career," Brian says. "I learned how to cold call. Out of college, when I sold cell phones, I opened the yellow pages and made calls. There are a lot of people in real estate who haven't had that experience. It's all about the hustle and getting out there to find the business."

Brian draws inspiration from his Christian faith and his family, with his father as a big influence.

"My dad grew up in Steubenville and didn't grow up with much," he says. "But he went to college and law school and became one of the most successful attorneys in Columbus. I saw that and it helped with my success."

One of Brian's recipes for success is paying close attention to client needs.

"Buying a home is an emotional thing for people," he says. "I'm a pretty fast-paced guy, so slowing down and hearing what the client says and what they need is something I've matured into. It's not always about just selling a home at a high price."

Brian enjoys giving back to the neighborhoods where he both lives and works. He's currently a trustee for the Franklinton Board of Trade and is on the Affordable Housing Committee. Brian and Nikki live in Upper Arlington with children Bryson, 7, and Quin, 6. He's involved with the Upper Arlington Rotary and is the Vice President of the Upper Arlington Education Coalition. Brian and his kids also recently joined the UA Adventure Guides.

"Now that I have kids in school, I am very involved in educational endeavors," Brian says. "My mom was really involved and I got that from her."

Additionally, the Bainbridges are members of Rock City Church and Brian partakes in a Wednesday morning men's bible study. He also enjoys singing and playing the guitar.

"My Christian faith is my foundation for everything," Brian says. "And I'm motivated by my kids and my family. They are the heart and soul of everything I do. I love being a dad and I love giving back."