If you’re looking for someone who combines professional success, humility, and a genuine commitment to community service, you need look no further than Michael Orbino. A key player on Team Foster at Compass, Michael has not only earned widespread respect in the Seattle King County real estate market, but his path has been marked by dedication, learning, and a sense of responsibility that extends far beyond buying and selling homes.

 

Michael’s first foray into the world of finance came at an early age. By 16, he had already landed a position at Wells Fargo Bank, and by 20, he was the youngest premier banker in the state. “I thought I wanted to be a private banker, managing investments and wealth,” he says. But in his time working at Wells Fargo, he developed relationships with clients in real estate, construction, and development, and something about that world sparked his curiosity.

 

It wasn’t long before Michael recognized that his true calling lay in real estate. “Without family wealth or connections, I knew sales would be my way in,” Michael says. Wells Fargo supported his transition, offering tuition reimbursement for the real estate courses he took at Bellevue Community College, and shortly after, Michael earned his real estate license.

 

His career began in earnest, and as Michael quickly proved himself, he moved from general real estate into new construction—a field that would become a hallmark of his career. "One of my early mentors said, 'You’ve got to show commitment to your trade.' That’s what I did—grinded it out, brought buyer feedback to builders, and eventually, I got my shot,” he explains. This opportunity, according to Michael, was pivotal. It was during this time that he met Tere Foster, a legend in the industry and now a close friend he considers family who has been a mentor for nearly two decades.

 

Michael’s rise through the ranks of the real estate world didn’t come without challenges, but his approach to leadership has always been organic. When asked about his involvement in leadership roles, such as his work with the Seattle King County Realtors (SKCR), Michael was quick to point out that leadership wasn’t something he actively sought out. "I never sought leadership per se. I was just interested in volunteering and helping. Over time, it grew into what it is today,” he explains. His humility shines through when he discusses his leadership style—as he doesn’t chase titles or accolades. Instead, he steps up when needed, whether it’s mentoring younger agents or filling leadership gaps within the SKCR.

 

One key moment in Michael’s leadership journey came when he was asked to take over the role of president for SKCR. It wasn’t a position he had planned to pursue, but when the previous president passed away unexpectedly, the organization called on Michael. As he says, “At first, I was hesitant. I had a lot on my plate, but after talking to our team, they said, ‘Go do it, the association needs you.’” That sense of responsibility, along with the encouragement from his partners, convinced him to take on the role.

 

Although many see Michael as a mentor, he’s reluctant to label himself as such. “I’ve had people call me a mentor, which I take seriously, but I’ve never seen myself that way. I’m a teacher, a trainer. Mentorship to me is a higher level of wisdom,” he points out.

 

Interestingly, Michael’s own mentorship experiences came in a similarly organic way. He never formally sought a mentor, but through his relationship with Tere Foster, he found someone who, in hindsight, had guided him through much of his career. David Mills and Thuan Howard are new construction icons Michael was also able to work closely with for years who laid the foundation for him to be qualified to do what he still does today. As he says, “Tere never called herself my mentor, but looking back, she’s mentored me throughout my career.”

 

Michael’s advice to those seeking mentorship is rooted in authenticity and curiosity. Rather than looking for a formal mentor, he suggests seeking out people who can help solve problems and build relationships over time. This has clearly worked for Michael, who continues to impart wisdom to those around him, even if he doesn’t consider himself a “mentor” in the traditional sense.

 

For Michael, success isn’t just about professional achievements. His perspective on life, particularly as a father, reflects a more balanced approach. While he acknowledges that his drive and perfectionism have fueled his career, he also admits that he’s learned to ease up on himself.  “I used to be a perfectionist to the point of OCD, and it handicapped me,” he says. Now, he’s more focused on being present for his family, particularly his two young daughters, and embracing imperfection. “I want my daughters to learn to read this year, and I think I can do better. But you know what? I don’t have to be perfect to still be awesome,” he adds.

 

Michael’s commitment to both his family and his profession is evident in the way he structures his days. Despite the demands of his career, he ensures he spends quality time with his children. He’s lucky to have an amazing fiancé who’s aligned with him on simple things like having dinner together as a family nearly every night. He’s also learned that part of being successful means being adaptable and realistic about priorities.

 

When asked about the secret to his success, Michael’s answer is straightforward. “I’m in the office a minimum of four days a week, and for most of my career, it was seven,” he shares. For him, being physically present in the office helps create the mental space for productivity and focus. Dressing the part is another habit that has stayed with him since his early days in banking. “You’ll almost never see me without a collared shirt and jacket. It’s about showing up prepared, not just for others, but for myself,” he adds.

 

But above all, Michael attributes much of his success to the people around him. “Surround yourself with great people. That’s been key for me,” he says. He also emphasized the importance of community and collaboration in real estate. Networking at broker opens, learning from others, and simply showing up with an open mind have been crucial in his journey.

 

Michael Orbino’s journey from a young banker to a respected leader in real estate has been marked by curiosity, hard work, and a deep commitment to helping others. Whether it’s through his leadership roles in organizations like SKCR, his informal mentorship of colleagues, or his dedication to his family, Michael’s approach to life and work is grounded in service, humility, and continuous learning.