In real estate, success rarely comes from working alone. Whether you are buying, selling, or managing multifamily properties, having a high-performing team behind you is essential. Over my years working in Southern California’s multifamily market, I have learned that the right team can be the difference between a good deal and a great one. The lessons I have learned on the front lines, both in real estate and earlier in my career as a professional athlete, have shaped the way I approach business, leadership, and client service.

The Importance of Teamwork

In my experience, teamwork is the foundation of success. No one person can manage every aspect of a complex real estate transaction. From identifying opportunities and analyzing markets to negotiating deals and managing properties, each component requires expertise. A high-performing team allows each member to focus on their strengths, while collectively achieving more than any individual could alone.

I often compare this to my time in professional football. On the field, every player had a specific role, and success depended on coordination, trust, and execution. The same principles apply in real estate. Every team member, whether they are a broker, analyst, property manager, or marketing specialist, plays a critical role in delivering results for clients.

Building the Right Team

Building a high-performing team starts with hiring the right people. Skills and experience matter, but so do attitude, work ethic, and cultural fit. I look for team members who are driven, adaptable, and committed to providing exceptional service. Real estate is fast-paced and unpredictable, so having people who can think on their feet and collaborate effectively is crucial.

Once the right team is in place, clear roles and responsibilities are essential. Everyone should know what is expected of them, and there should be systems in place for accountability and communication. When team members understand their roles and how they contribute to the overall goal, productivity and performance naturally improve.

Communication and Transparency

One of the most important aspects of a high-performing team is communication. Open and transparent communication ensures that everyone is on the same page and can address challenges before they become problems. I encourage regular check-ins, updates on transactions, and clear documentation of processes. This not only keeps the team aligned but also builds trust, both internally and with clients.

Transparency is also important with clients. When they understand how the team works together and how decisions are made, it builds confidence and strengthens relationships. A well-coordinated team can anticipate client needs, respond quickly, and deliver results consistently.

Collaboration and Problem-Solving

Real estate is full of challenges, from unexpected inspection issues to financing hurdles and market shifts. High-performing teams approach these challenges collaboratively. By leveraging the diverse skills and perspectives of team members, solutions can be found more quickly and effectively.

I have seen time and again that teams that work well together are better able to adapt to changes and seize opportunities. Collaboration fosters creativity, improves decision-making, and allows the team to operate at a higher level. It is not just about completing tasks but about finding the best path forward for clients and the business.

Leadership and Accountability

Strong leadership is another key element of a high-performing team. Leaders set the tone, define expectations, and create an environment where team members feel empowered to contribute. Leadership is also about accountability. Everyone on the team, including myself, must be willing to take responsibility for their work and support each other in achieving shared goals.

Leadership does not mean doing everything yourself. It means guiding, mentoring, and empowering your team so they can perform at their best. I have found that investing time and energy into developing team members pays dividends in the quality of work, client satisfaction, and overall success.

The Client Experience

Ultimately, a high-performing team drives real estate success by improving the client experience. Clients want confidence that their advisor is competent, responsive, and committed to achieving results. When a team operates efficiently, communicates clearly, and solves problems proactively, clients feel supported and trust grows.

For me, this is the most rewarding part of building a strong team. It is not just about closing deals; it is about creating a seamless, positive experience for clients. Their success is our success, and a high-performing team ensures that every transaction is handled with care, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Final Thoughts

The lessons I have learned from both professional sports and real estate are clear: teamwork matters, communication is critical, collaboration drives results, and strong leadership sets the standard. High-performing teams do more than complete tasks; they create value, solve problems, and elevate every aspect of the business.

Investing in a strong team is one of the smartest moves any real estate professional or investor can make. It allows you to leverage individual strengths, handle complex transactions, and consistently deliver results. For those looking to succeed in Southern California’s multifamily market, focusing on team performance is not optional, it is essential.

Real estate is challenging, fast-paced, and sometimes unpredictable. Having a high-performing team behind you ensures that you are prepared for anything, able to maximize opportunities, and capable of delivering exceptional outcomes for clients. From the front lines of deals to the long-term growth of portfolios, the power of a strong, cohesive team cannot be overstated.