Hitting a Home Run in Real Estate, One House at a Time!

Zach Johnson The Brokerage

“I have played baseball since I was 5,” recalls Zach Johnson, Real Estate Advisor at The Brokerage. “That’s the only sport I played growing up.” As a catcher, he kept his eye on the ball, could throw with precision, and was a valued member of the team.
 
His baseball days taught him how to work well with others, be a part of a team, and succeed under pressure. “I’m very competitive innately,” admits Zach. “I think a lot of real estate agents are. I try to set new goals for myself and get coaching on my weaknesses to improve them and help the people I’m serving.”
 
Early Beginnings
 
Zach vividly recalls his days playing T-ball in Oldham County, where he grew up. “I grew up in a middle-class family and attended Oldham County High School,” he comments. That’s where he played baseball all four years and Zach learned the value of coaching.
 
“Coaching can influence you in personal life, business, and your career in many ways.” Now Zach had a coach in many different areas of his life. “It all goes back to baseball growing up,” he candidly comments.
 
Zach learned life lessons in his youth that he carries with him today. “My parents raised me to be a hard worker and to be willing to help others.” Zach wasn’t a fan of academics, commenting, “I wasn’t a straight-A student who loved textbooks.” Instead, he loved America’s favorite pastime, baseball.
 
His most memorable moment was his senior year of high school. “I got to play with 11 seniors, and it was very memorable for me,” he recalls. “We played together from 5 years old all the way through high school.” Hanging out together with the same 11 individuals on his baseball team left an impression on him, forging relationships that continue to this day.
 
A Change of Dreams
 
When Zach was younger, he had the dream of becoming a physical therapist and helping others. His major in kinesiology and his time as a technician in a physical therapy setting were steps on that path. His motivation was clear: he wanted to help people regain their normal lifestyle. This dedication to improving the lives of others has been a driving force behind his career choices.
 
However, life often takes unexpected turns. Zach's transition to a career in real estate in 2019 was a pivotal moment. His wife's encouragement and an invitation from Ryan Hilliard, the owner of the company he works for at The Brokerage, opened the door to a new chapter. Zach's journey into real estate wasn't just about sales; it was about building relationships and serving others, qualities that have defined his career.
 
Overcoming Challenges
 
Transitioning from a traditional W2 job to self-employment was a significant challenge for Zach. The uncertainty of providing for his family while building a real estate career required courage and resilience. Separating work from family life in a profession that often demands 24/7 dedication has been an ongoing challenge. However, Zach's dedication to both his family and career keeps him focused and driven.
 
He and his wife are proud parents to two children. “My wife is my biggest supporter,” he raves. “She is really my best friend and I bounce my ideas off her. She’s been with me through the tough few years of real estate.”
 
Together, they have two boys, ages 2 and 2 months old. “I want to teach my boys a great work ethic, make great decisions, and set them up for a great future,” says Zach.
 
The Value of Relationships
 
For Zach, success is defined by two main factors: relationships and freedom. Building and nurturing long-term connections with clients is at the heart of his professional philosophy. He believes in the power of the long game, and the satisfaction of helping the next generation of real estate professionals mirrors the mentorship he received from others like Ryan Hilliard and Chris Schuetz.
 
Networking and personal growth have been instrumental in his success, and his involvement in groups like BNI, where he served as a president and mentor coordinator, speaks to his commitment to building meaningful connections.
 
Life Beyond Real Estate
 
Outside of his real estate career, Zach enjoys spending quality time with his family, traveling, working out, golfing, and cherishing precious date nights with his wife.
 
“We like taking two trips a year,” says Zach. Making memories is what it’s all about to this dedicated dad and husband.
 
A Man of Character and Transparency
 
When it comes to business, Zach values character and transparency above all else. He is straightforward and genuine in his dealings, leaving no room for ambiguity. Zach's unwavering commitment to ethical excellence is admirable and what defines him as a real estate professional.
 
In real estate, where character meets competency, Zach Johnson is a shining example of how integrity and relationships can take a professional to great heights. He learned the ropes of real estate investing through the guidance of mentors, emphasizing that success is not rocket science; it's about being in the right company and being open to learning and taking chances.
 
Zach's story serves as a reminder that true success isn't just about numbers and transactions; it's about the lives you touch, the relationships you build, and the ethical excellence you bring to the table.