What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
At 18 years old I was a game play counselor for Nintendo here in Redmond. This meant answering phones and helping anyone stuck in whatever game they were playing (mainly adults).
Where did you grow up?
Chicago til age 9, then Seattle since 1980.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
Astronaut, then marine biologist, then firefighter.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Go for a walk with my wife, meditate, play a game, or watch a fun show.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
J.R.R. Tolkien. I grew up reading his books and I am just blown away at the detailed creativity he had to create something that continues to be relevant today. Remarkable.
What is Seattle’s best-kept secret?
That our weather isn’t as bad as the rest of the country thinks it is (which is rain 365 days a year). I like seasons and our summers are unbeatable with all there is to do in the PNW.
What do you love most about the industry?
It’s different every day, and it’s all about people. The work I do makes a direct impact on my clients’ lives.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
To me its about people and relationships, not houses and transactions. I’ve applied that to everything in my life, not just real estate. If you truly are committed to helping someone it may mean they are not buying or selling a house and that’s ok. As long as I am genuine and moving them forward in whatever way I can then the business and referrals will come.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Staying on task, despite what the day throws at you. No agent’s calendar stays intact as things always come up. Finding ways to ensure you are getting the things done to move your business forward every day is a huge challenge but essential to succeed.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
CONSISTENCY. Lead generation is different for everyone as there is no “one size fits all.” Whatever you choose, you have to give it the time to work. We often see people throw in the towel and often it was right before their work would have started paying off. Choose several means of lead gen, track your activity and results and evaluate after several months. Then repeat.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
Watching Andor, Listening to The Tools by Phil Stutz
What’s your favorite meal in Seattle?
The Metropolitan Grill is my favorite place for a special meal. A true experience from start to finish.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Seattle?
I love the Smith Tower. It’s almost 110 years old and I just couldn’t imagine Seattle without it. Its architecture has an European feel.
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
I was showing my client a home (which I had scheduled) and the sellers were there and had prepared food for us. Generally a big no-no on the sellers’ part but they hit it off with my client and the food was great!
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
That I am shy. I’m a big guy. 6’4 and people see me and the last thing they think is “this guy is shy.” But its true, I am.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
I would have to say Italy. The history, the people and the FOOD! Just unbelievable. Tuscany was our favorite spot but we must go back and see more. Seeing these buildings and areas that are thousands of years old and the stories that go along with them is so foreign to us here in America since we are such a young country.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Grow your database. Talk to people everyday. Connect. Help. Master basics.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
My CRM, which is Command.
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Ricky Carruth, Zach Wendt, Keeping Current Matters, Simon Sinek, Matthew Gardner, Seattle Rugby Club, Tommy Rivs
What are your social media handles?
Facebook: DavePhometeam
Twitter: DavePiedrahita
Instagram: dave.piedrahita_dp.homes
Gmail: davepiedrahita@kw.com
Website: davephomes.kw.com