Years ago, you would have found Austin Lehman sitting quietly in a room on the CVN 72 Abraham Lincoln, reading books about investing. While deployed, he spent much of his free time thinking about what type of future he envisioned for his family. He believed that real estate was the key to ensuring a flourishing life for himself and his boys. 

After settling back in Newport News, he reached out to Team Titan | RE/MAX Peninsula (they had previously helped him buy and sell his first home) to learn what he'd need to do to be in real estate. He obtained his license in 2020, skyrocketing from selling three houses in his first six months to selling 28 homes only six months later. In 2022, he closed 41 transactions with $11.6 million in volume, continuing to excel in his goals every year.

The transition from having a set schedule in the Navy to managing his own real estate business was challenging. “It takes a lot of accountability because you have to make your schedule and hold yourself to it,” Austin shares. He believes his service background helped him form a structured work-life balance. Though his experience in the Navy played a considerable role in his success, he shared that his accomplishments would not have been possible without his team. 

Austin encourages new REALTORS® to join an experienced team for the support they need to focus on client care and utilize their time for activities that further their businesses. Austin has centered his business around his client's needs. With many of his clients waiting on orders to be stationed in the area, Austin goes above and beyond, ensuring his clients have a house they can call home when they arrive. Even after the papers are signed, he checks on his clients' homes before they can see them for themselves. A little more than a year ago, a client’s property faced a tropical storm that hit the area. While visiting the property, he noticed a small tree had fallen on his client’s shed. After speaking with the homeowner, Austin wasted no time using his chainsaw to cut up the tree, alleviating the labor for the homeowner who was arriving 30 days later.

By focusing on the needs of his clients, Austin has created lasting relationships that have branched out into hundreds of referrals. He draws from his personal experience and believes the connections he builds with his military clients set him apart. “I’m able to use their lingo and let them take control of the process while also guiding them to make informed decisions regarding their lifestyle needs,” he states.

As a REALTOR® on Team Titan, Austin enjoys joining his team as they give back to the community. Last year, he helped pack bags with laptops, games and clothing for families with children staying at CHKD. As a part of CHKD Miracle Home, Austin donates a portion of his transactions to CHKD.

While juggling a demanding career, Austin is dedicated to making time for his boys, Mason (7) and Colton (3). He explains, “It’s hard because you don’t know your schedule every week; things do just pop up. I’m lucky to have clients who understand that being available for my boys is important. It’s just a mixture of working through it.”

Mason, who is following his father’s childhood, plays a variety of sports. With a laugh, Austin describes Colton as a wild child who makes the world his own. The trio often enjoys going to the trampoline park and spending time outdoors.

As an avid outdoor lover, some of Austin's favorite hobbies are hunting and freshwater fishing. During deer season, he travels to Pennsylvania to hunt the land and spend time with his family who lives there. He likes to stay in shape by regularly going to the gym. 

Something you may not know about Austin is that he is fascinated with thrift shopping. “You never know what you’re going to find," he chuckles. "If I see a yard sale sign, I’m there. Like thrift shopping, Austin didn’t know what awaited him in real estate. As an introvert who grew into an outgoing individual, he has built relationships with his clients that will last a lifetime. The future looks bright as he continues to plan to invest in real estate to provide a prosperous life for his family.

"I’m so proud of the work Austin has done serving his clients, but I’m even more proud of the growth Austin has shown since getting into real estate. From day one, Austin put his head down and went to work, making himself better and, in turn, serving his clients better. Austin is a true family man who has a tremendous future in this business. We are proud to have him be a part of Team Titan.” —Rick Brandt, REALTOR®, Associate Broker, ABR, Team Titan Real Estate | RE/MAX Capital