Title: 
Branch Manager / Broker Associate
Company: 
Engel & Voelkers
Location: 
1401 4th Street
Santa Rosa, CA 95409
United States
California US

“Be honest.”

Styles joined his father, John, in the business but didn't want others to think success was being handed to him. To prove he had "the right stuff," he set a goal to be a top producer within two years. He put in the 10-hour days for 11 months, closing 29 transactions worth $9.6 million last year and winning the company's award for rookie of the year.

What he learned from dad: Patience. “I’m patient in dealing with everyone, from stressed first-time buyers to egotistical salespeople who sometimes belittle me because of my age.” Another lesson: Be friendly. “My dad taught me to smile and say hello to everyone you meet. You never know where your next business will come from. I’ve also learned that if things don’t go well, don’t get emotionally involved,” he says.

Real-life start: Styles didn't go into real estate directly from college but worked as an actor in independent films. He's still active in local theater productions, though the pay is a modest $100 stipend. He also stars in a real-life role: 2004 president of the North Bay Association of REALTORS®' Santa Rosa chapter. Styles hopes to relocate to Los Angeles within the next 12 months to pursue his two passions: opening his own real estate company and revving up his professional acting career on the side. "The contacts I make in acting can help in real estate," he says.