“Real estate doesn’t feel like work to me,” says REALTOR® Bradford Queen at Bluegrass Sotheby’s International Realty. “I really enjoy it.” His only regret is not starting in the business sooner. Interestingly, real estate is his second career. 

Mt. Sterling Roots

Born and raised in the picturesque town of Mt. Sterling in Montgomery County, just 30 minutes east of Lexington, Bradford reminisces about his ideal childhood. As the first of three children, he cherishes the close-knit bonds with his two younger sisters and friends. The small town holds a special place in his heart, and his family's proximity, with grandparents just a street away, added warmth to his upbringing.

“My Mom was a teacher,” he recalls. “My Dad was the third generation of Queens who sold Chevrolets.” He realizes that his upbringing made him the man that he is today. 

As a child, Bradford wanted to be an architect. “I still love architecture,” he says. “I still have amateur blueprints that I drew when I was growing up.” When he was little, he would pick up the house plan books on the magazine racks at the store. “I was always drawn to them,” he says. Little did he know that he would pursue a real estate career decades later that would blend his passion for architecture and helping others.

Finding His Path

After moving to Lexington for college at the University of Kentucky, Bradford felt the pull of the city and decided to make it his home. He pursued a journalism degree with a focus on broadcasting and enjoyed a successful career in various communication roles, including producing guest segments for WKYT-TV, the local CBS affiliate, and working as a producer for one of Kentucky's longest-running news shows, Kentucky Newsmakers. A twist of fate led him to the Secretary of State's office, where he spent five years, rising to become director of communications. Bradford sees these experiences as invaluable, preparing him for his future career in real estate. 

Fascinating, real estate was always at the background of Bradford’s mind. The urge to pursue it intensified, leading him to acquire his license a year before turning 30.

“I thought if I didn’t do real estate now, I would never do it,” he says. His dream became reality in January 2019 on his 30th birthday when he officially stepped into the real estate industry. 

Challenges and Triumphs

Jumping headfirst into real estate meant leaving behind a secure salary and benefits. Despite the financial uncertainty, Bradford sees this leap as “one of the best decisions” he ever made. 

“I had saved a few months’ worth of living expenses,” he says. “It was a big motivator for me,” he reflects. “I had to work really hard. The best decision I ever made was jumping into real estate cold, but I’m glad I did it that way.” 

 

His prior career had prepared him for what he does today. “I look at real estate – in the way that we practice it – as problem solving,” he comments. In his previous professions in news and in government, Bradford became highly adept at solving problems. He also learned how to deal with complex issues in these roles. “Every day was different in news and government communications,” he explains. “You never knew what issues you were going to be solving from day to day. That led into real estate easily.” 

Defining Success

Bradford echoes Dale Carnegie’s perspective on success, emphasizing that true success lies in finding joy in what you do. As Dale said, “Success is getting what you want and happiness is wanting what you get.” 

Grateful for a fulfilling career that allows him to provide for his family, he defines success by his enjoyment of the work. Bradford's approach aligns with the notion that happiness stems from wanting what you have.

As Bradford celebrates five years in real estate, he envisions a long and enjoyable career. “I’ve enjoyed every year from the very first one,” he smiles.

“I look back at the first year and the lessons that I’ve learned and every year since,” he says. “It continues to be a fun, rewarding career.” A goal-oriented individual, Bradford has monthly and yearly goals that he meets.

Beyond professional milestones, becoming a father this past June has reshaped his priorities. Raising his son, Wells, stands out as what will be his ultimate legacy. “He’s changed our lives in the best way and we’re blessed to have him. I could sell all the real estate in the world but raising our son will be the most important thing I ever do.”

Fortunate for Family 

Rooted in a strong work ethic instilled by his family, Bradford acknowledges the influence of his parents and grandparents. His wife, Megan, has been a steadfast supporter, standing by him as he ventured into real estate. The values of hard work and passion for one's craft, passed down through generations, shape Bradford's commitment to his clients and his profession.

Bradford aims to continue contributing to the local community through his involvement on the boards of the Kentucky Theater and the Living Arts and Science Center.

More Than A REALTOR®

In every transaction, Bradford aims to be more than a REALTOR®. Describing his role as an advisor, connector, and concierge, he aspires to guide clients through their real estate journeys. Bradford's focus on building relationships rather than executing transactions is evident in his business built heavily on referrals and recommendations. For him, success lies not just in closing deals but in being a personal resource for each client, a guiding presence as they navigate the next chapter in their lives.

Bradford Queen's story is one of passion, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those he serves, both in the world of real estate and beyond. Bradford concludes, “I really couldn’t be more grateful for the rewarding career that I have.”