Name: Yvette Johnson

Job Title: Realtor Associate

Company: Ancona Real Estate

What was your first job in the realty industry? Refurbishing rental units. I was mentored by my mother and my uncle in California. Everything concerning the real estate industry just interested me — from the financing aspect, to the investment, flipping, sales, construction, etc. One of my fondest memories as a young child would be when my mother would take me to tour the local model homes.

Where did you grow up? I grew up in a military family near George Air Force Base in southern California

Growing up, what did you want to be? I always wanted to be a property owner with an extensive portfolio of residential and commercial rental properties. I was taught from a young age that one of the keys to the wealth of franchises such as McDonalds and Burger King were not really just their burgers but that they owned real estate in the most prime locations around the globe. Since then, I always make it a priority to help my clients look past the obvious when looking to buy homes and investment properties.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I deal with people and personalities from all walks of life. Some of my favorite clients are demanding type A clients, with high net worths. The stress can be high sometimes but the rewards even higher. I am always available 24/7 so to keep my stress level low, I like combining quiet moments of reflection through long walks, shooting hoops, throwing a football, running, swimming or laughing and enjoying a time with family and friends.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? I would like to have lunch with Hank Haney. He coached Tiger Woods and Mark O’Meara and more recently Charles Barkley. I had a couple of brief one-on-one conversations with him and in that brief conversation he taught me a few things that changed my perspective on my chosen career path of real estate and what it takes to succeed in anything I do — whether it’s negotiating a sweet deal at a restaurant or a multi-million dollar deal in real estate.

Where is your favorite place to hang out? Las Olas beach in Fort Lauderdale. I love watching the endless ocean waves, the tourists blending in with the locals, and the cruise ships sailing off in the sunset filled with people beginning their dream vacations. It makes you feel good to live in a state that people view as the most beautiful place on earth and choose to spend their free time.

What do you love most about the industry? I love the challenge, the thrill, and the ultimate delivery of it. The challenge of meeting my clients needs and wants, the thrill and excitement of meeting new people being a part of their lives in the long term and the ultimate delivery of great news to my clients that meets or beats their expectations in most cases.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? No one is like me. I have passion, drive, knowledge, experience and I am an absolute “beast” in the industry, as fellow agent kindly put it. I strive to be the agent I never had when I was looking to buy and sell my properties, but always wanted. Plus I have great connections. After all, it’s not always what you know but who you know. Lookout South Florida. I have arrived!

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Having to assist agents from other firms in some of my deals, due to their lack of training or experience. However, I will be happy to do anything and everything I can to get the deal done for my clients.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? Everywhere. I love to meet people, hand out cards and make an instant connection. It’s a rush like none other. Everyday my best asset is my warm and welcoming smile.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? Due to my talents and database of high profile clientele, I was sought out with the exclusive invitation to be one of the official real estate agents for the local NFL team for both the players and faculty.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? “Who moved my cheese.” I reread this book often to help me not only to be accepting of change and the constant need for adjustments and flexibility, but to also anticipate change so that I am better prepared when that change does happen. It’s a short book but very relatable.

What is your favorite restaurant? I don’t have one yet feel free to comment below and share yours. I am willing to try anything.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Miami? There’s just so many that I feel like that is an interview all its own.

What kind of car do you drive? I am testing out a silver Ford Flex. Its roomy for all of my listing signs, great on gas, looks like an SUV but is considered a truck, has Microsoft technology and great for showings.

Smartphone or paper? Both. I love technology but pen to paper will always have a place in my heart.

What is your favorite city after Miami? Los Angeles, California there is nothing like it.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Don’t go cheap on your headshots. 

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? Flashlight.

Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? Other top agents in the industry.

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