What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Global director of athlete development for IRONMAN. I got to travel all over the world attending endurance sports events and connecting with athletes from a variety of backgrounds.
Where did you grow up?
In the Garlic Capitol of the World, a small town just south of the Silicon Valley called Gilroy, California.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
I wanted to do it all! Be an artist, architect, business owner, teacher, event planner … In my adult life I’ve been fortunate to do quite a few different things.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Go for a walk and listen to audio books or podcasts.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
I would choose to meet Eleanor Roosevelt. She had an incredible ability to lead with empathy and conviction, even when it meant going against the grain. I’d love to ask her how she found courage to champion change in times of resistance.
What is Seattle’s best-kept secret?
Seattle’s best kept secret is its pocket neighborhoods — places like Madison Park, Mount Baker or Laurelhurst — where you can be minutes from downtown yet feel like you’re in a lakeside retreat. They’re hidden gems that most visitors (and even some locals) overlook. Add to that the city’s incredible parks, like Discovery Park, Magnusson Park and the Washington Park Arboretum, and you have peaceful escapes woven right into the urban fabric.
What do you love most about the industry?
Helping people discover a new place to call home.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I set myself apart by blending my business background with my passion for real estate. With an MBA and years of experience in marketing and development, I help clients understand their home as both a place to live and a strategic investment. I specialize in new construction and love guiding buyers through the process, helping sellers showcase the full value of their home and working with builders to position their projects for success. Additionally, with a history as an educator, my goal is always to make the experience clear, supportive and rewarding for everyone involved.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
When things don’t go as planned and I have to deliver bad news to a client.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Be authentic and have lots of conversations.
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Starting a business from scratch, by myself, and creating something successful that affected thousands of people.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
I’ve been listening to the ‘How I Built This’ podcast. Hearing entrepreneurs share their challenges and successes is both motivating and full of practical lessons I can apply in real estate and beyond.
What’s your favorite meal in Seattle?
So many to choose from, but this city has really great Thai food.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Seattle?
The Seattle Central Library. I love how its bold, modern design stands out in the heart of downtown while still serving such a practical purpose. It’s a perfect example of how architecture can be both inspiring and functional.
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
I represented a buyer buying a triplex and in the middle of the night, after midnight on the day of closing, there was a literal dumpster fire at the property. I got a call from the listing agent in the morning as a “courtesy” since it was now my client’s issue to deal with.
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
That I am an IRONMAN triathlete.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Hawaii. It’s such a calming and relaxing place.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Stay curious, keep learning and embrace every challenge as growth.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
Google Voice
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
I love following Brené Brown for her take on leadership, Dave Meyer for his insights on investments and market data, and some of the top Seattle real estate influencers who share local trends and tips.
What are your social media handles?
LinkedIn: Marnie Oshan
Instagram: @moshanseattlere
Facebook: Marnie Oshan Seattle Real Estate