The future was uncertain, but I kept trying, leaning into my strengths to forge an entrepreneurial path. Now, I understand all of those ventures were necessary to teach me invaluable lessons, preparing me for my true calling. 

 

My plan was always to go to college and, upon graduating, join the family business. My parents and grandparents owned several businesses, the largest being in commercial rental properties. It was a successful and lucrative business, and I couldn’t wait to be a part of it. 

 

However, life took a turn around my high school graduation. The economic downturn in the eighties hit Texas hard. The fallout led to the liquidation of everything, leaving me stranded without a plan. I felt completely lost; the promising future in the family business had been pulled out from under me.

 

That's when I ventured into starting my first business, a marketing service for car dealers. I managed to grow it as much as possible, given the limited resources I had. Around 1991, I stumbled upon an opportunity related to the very first cell phone service provider in our area. Buying one out of sheer fascination led me into brokering these providers, eventually owning three retail stores.

 

But as it goes with many of my early endeavors, they had their life cycles. The introduction of the cell phone service provider fizzled out, forcing me to find a new direction. Each venture had its peak until it reached its end. I wanted to find a path where I could thrive and apply all I had learned as an entrepreneur to be successful long-term.  

 

In 1998, I delved into real estate when I was hired by a developer to sell lots. This opened doors to various facets of the industry, leading me to work in the mortgage industry. However, the market crash forced the company to close, steering me in a new direction.

 

In 2009, I officially became a licensed REALTOR®, wanting to work directly with clients to help them through the buying and selling process. It was a great feeling to have found my way back to my family roots in real estate. 

 

What initially drew me into real estate as an agent was its unparalleled fusion of entrepreneurship, salesmanship and the human element. It's a realm where strategic business acumen intertwines with personal connections, where success is not just about closing deals but also about understanding people's dreams and aspirations. Real estate, for me, isn't merely a career choice; it's a calling—a perfect amalgamation of my skills, experiences and aspirations.

 

In the early years of my career, I faced my fair share of challenges, but through starting my own businesses in the past, I knew I could handle it. At the time, my three daughters, Abby, Reagen, and Bayleigh, were still in school, so I always prioritized their needs first. I made it a point to be on the bleachers at their volleyball games, even if that meant taking a call from a client every now and then. Whatever it took, I was determined to be a great father and a great REALTOR®, striking a balance between the two.

 

In discovering my true passion for real estate, I've come to perceive my past endeavors as invaluable stepping stones. My businesses were never failures but valuable lessons, helping me navigate challenges in real estate with more skill and intuition. If I hadn’t pursued those avenues, I may never have found my true passion where all my strengths align. I’m grateful I can continue our family legacy in real estate, helping people make significant investment decisions! 

 

When not working, my wife, Tricia, and I enjoy wine tasting, trying new restaurants (I'm a bit of a foodie), reading, hiking, and being with our three dogs, Willa, Sadie and Sherman! 

 

The constant evolution of the real estate market requires an adaptative approach, always learning and staying on the cusp of industry trends. Having cultivated a robust network of investors, I can pinpoint great investment opportunities and, for sellers, have access to instant cash offers. Having built strong relationships with my clients, I’m proud of the strong network I have created.

 

With a land development and mortgage industry background, I offer my clients a unique blend of innovation and practical experience. Serving families and investors alike, I enjoy learning about the individual needs of my clients and finding the best solutions. My passion for real estate has always been about the gratification of knowing I am helping people through one of the greatest investment decisions in their lives. This journey has affirmed that real estate isn't just a profession; it's an intrinsic part of who I am, driving me to carve my unique mark in an industry I'm passionate about.

 


Sincerely,


 



Jeff Kelly

REALTOR®

Cell 817-781-0546

Office 817-720-6300                                              

jeff@jeffkellyrealty.com

www.sellingthe817.com