Each day you dedicate your experience to guiding your clients closer to their real estate dreams. They look to you to see them through to the closing table. That’s a role Ivan Grishko embraces, too. Today, he is the President, CEO, and Owner of The Grishko Group with eXp Realty. In turn, he is a prime example of pursuing what’s possible for those around him.

Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, Ivan’s life took a dramatic turn when he and his family immigrated to the United States in 1992. Growing up in Spokane, Washington, Ivan was exposed to the harsh realities of hard work from a young age. “I dropped out of high school and started working when I was 13, helping to lay carpet for $4 an hour,” he recalls. His early jobs ranged from working on a farm, to retail, to construction, and by 18, he was working home renovations as a fire and water damage restoration technician doing sewer cleanouts. It was during one particularly grueling job in a crawl space filled with sewage that Ivan had a pivotal moment. “I realized I needed to change my path,” he says.

This led him back to college at Eastern Washington University, where he completed his Bachelor’s degree. Despite his academic success, corporate life did not appeal to him. Inspired by a friend’s lavish lifestyle resulting from his great success in business, as well as a book titled, The Millionaire Fast Lane, Ivan decided to explore starting a business and getting into real estate sales.

After saving money and obtaining his real estate license, Ivan made the move to the Seattle area. Initially couch surfing until he found a place to live, he joined Keller Williams (KW) where he began to build his network and skills. “I met so many amazing people at KW,” Ivan recalls. “It was a fantastic starting point for my career.”

It took several years of a long uphill battle to build momentum and his skillset. At many points, he thought about quitting. However, Ivan had no Plan B. He had a true passion to help people navigate one of the most significant financial and emotional experiences of their lives. “Being an advisor during such a pivotal life event is incredibly fulfilling,” he says. “I love being a beacon of guidance and helping clients from start to finish.”

The Grishko Group, founded by Ivan and his wife, Viktoria, has seen impressive growth, with a 2023 transaction volume just shy of $25 million and a projected $30 million for 2024. “Over 80% of our business comes from referrals,” Ivan explains. “Our job doesn’t end when the client closes. That’s actually when it begins. We strive to build lasting relationships and care for our clients even after our professional duties end. We become friends.” 

Ivan’s philosophy is that the true value of real estate is not just in the transactions but in the relationships formed. “People might not remember the details of the transaction, but they will remember how you made them feel,” he says.

Ivan’s wife Viktoria plays a crucial role in The Grishko Group as their Client Care Coordinator. “We work hard together on building lasting relationships, as transactions come and go but relationships last forever,” Ivan says. Their collaboration extends beyond work, reflecting their personal bond and shared commitment to their business. “We love to travel and explore new places,” Ivan shares. “Last year, we spent five weeks traveling across Europe.”

In addition to traveling, Ivan is an avid cyclist, loves to golf and wake surf, and works out regularly. The couple shares their home with two cats, Sofina and Monica. Sofina, rescued from Ukraine during the war, holds a special place in their hearts.

Ivan and Viktoria’s commitment to giving back is evident in their support for various nonprofits, particularly animal rescues. “We have a strong connection to our roots and are passionate about helping those back home,” Ivan says. Viktoria’s family remains in Ukraine, and their experiences have deepened their dedication to supporting causes close to their hearts.

Ivan’s advice for those entering the real estate field underscores the importance of relationships and perseverance. “Find a mentor and shadow someone with experience,” he suggests. “You can read as many books as you want, but real-world experience is crucial.”

His focus on building quality relationships rather than just making sales is a cornerstone of his business model. “People trust you when they see how much you care,” he notes. “Treat every client as if they are your only one, and work as if you’re in business for the long term, not just for today.”

Ivan’s vision for his career is grounded in authenticity and a commitment to excellence. “I want to be known as someone who is trustworthy and genuinely cares about clients,” he says. “It’s about doing things the right way and being a positive presence in people’s lives.” As a technician in building a business and a storyteller at heart, Ivan understands that providing a good experience is crucial. “This business can be consuming until you figure out the right levers to make things work,” he explains. “Having a clear vision and being adaptable is key.”

Congratulations to Ivan Grishko for making good things happen in the lives of those around him by pursuing what’s possible.