Through losing everything, I learned an invaluable lesson. Learning to embrace change while refusing to give in, I rebuilt my life from the ground up.
As I opened the last box, unpacking like I had many times in the years before, I knew I was finally home. I had come a long way through loss and fear, but in that moment, I knew this was the best move I could have made.
After selling an electronics repair business I started with my brother, I became a licensed REALTOR® in 1995. I found my stride in real estate and had success early on. It was booming until 2006 when it all came crashing down. Phoenix was at the epicenter of the housing crash, and it me hit hard. At first, I thought I could wait it out and things would go back to the way they were before.
Months turned into years, and everything continued to change. Eventually, I grew to embrace the opportunities in front of me that looked so different from before. However, it took me a long time to get to that point.
Before that acceptance, I had to give back my big, beautiful home in a short sale. All the investment properties, the cars, everything I had accumulated over the years was leveled, and I was left wondering what to do next.
Real estate is a part of who I am. I have been doing this for decades and could not imagine doing anything else. So, even though it sometimes felt impossible, I kept going. In the beginning, I was afraid of all that uncertainty. For the first time in my life, I didn’t know the next right step. Then, I realized uncertainty is life’s one guarantee.
I began focusing on myself in 2013 through motivational reading and positive daily habits. After that, things around me began to change quickly. I always dreamt of owning my own brokerage, and in 2014, I became the Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Foothills. It felt like I had won the lottery! I continued working hard, and in 2020 we bought a brand-new home. I used to dream about the home we gave back years before, but I now think this one is even better. Though I was afraid at first of losing everything again, I began to live my dreams once more.
I know more now than ever, and as a Broker/Owner, I am the expert for all my in-office agents. I have completely recovered and recognize how far I’ve come. It was difficult to get here, but I never gave up. My wife, Jeanette, was supportive through it all, and I am grateful she never doubted I could do it.
I am the luckiest guy in the world because I get to see my grown children and grandchild nearly every day! Family is my number one priority. My oldest daughter is an agent at my brokerage, and my other two children work there as well in different capacities. My wife began in real estate before me and has had her own career in the industry for many years. We all play to our strengths, have our own clients and put in 1000% every day.
I realized through embracing change and refusing to give up, we can all become unstoppable. Whenever I’m not working, I enjoy hiking, golfing and playing racquetball. My favorite part of being a REALTOR® is helping my clients move on to the next chapter of their lives.
As a Broker/Owner, I genuinely look out for my clients’ best interests. I have been immersed in this industry as a REALTOR® and Broker for decades as it has undergone many changes. Regardless of market stats, I know how to help my clients navigate this process to get the best results possible. I have unparalleled knowledge and insight on the communities and neighborhoods, market trends, and the detailed nuances of a real estate transaction. I have deep-rooted relationships with vendors, REALTORS® and other professionals in the community that enable my clients to move past potential obstacles. No matter what comes up, we’ll find a way forward.
As the Broker/Owner leading over a dozen other agents, I review every contract, answer all the questions, and pride myself on being the go-to problem solver in my office. I provide my clients with consultative advice taking the long view of where you want to be. I have extensive experience in residential and investment real estate. Once the transaction is closed, I’ll continue serving your needs as your lifelong REALTOR®.
Sincerely,
Rod Hofeling
Broker-Owner