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5 mins read

DMV Realtor, Eze Okwodu Wants You To Buy and Sell #TheEzeWay

As important as it is to recognize business owners and entrepreneurs, it is just as important to recognize the professionals and service providers who are excelling in their different fields of practice. Eze Okwodu is one such professional.
Eze is a Realtor at Exit Flagship, serving the Washington D.C. Metro Area. With over fifteen years of experience as a real estate investor, Eze is committed to helping his clients find their dream properties that not only meet their needs but are sound financial investments.

Eze Okwodu (Realtor) Washington D.C.)

Why did you decide to become a realtor?

I decided to become a Realtor because I felt it would give me the opportunity to buy larger buildings at a more affordable rate.

In addition to being a realtor, you are also a real estate investor. How has that helped your career so far?

It has helped in several ways, for one I am already very familiar with the inner workings of the real estate industry. Since I am a landlord I can see things from the perspective of a client who wants to purchase an investment property. I can also understand the struggle that tenants go through trying to save money to make a purchase.

What do you do in your spare time?

In my Spare time, I enjoy reading fiction, hiking, long distance runs. I love trying out different vegan restaurants in the city.

You serve the DMV area. What changes are you noticing that market?

The prices of homes in DC are growing very very fast. My advice is to do everything you can to buy property in DC. Even if it’s a one bedroom shack, it would be wise to buy something based on where the predicted future appreciation of property in the city.

How has the pandemic affected your business?

With the majority of people now confined to their current living spaces and now also having more time to think about their comfort and future, coronavirus has actually increased business for me. I get a lot more inquiries about refinancing and wanting to buy larger homes.

In a way, it makes sense because social distancing has forced people to be more reflective about their home environment and how important it is to live in the best place possible, especially if you have to stay there nonstop for long periods of time, as is the case right now.

What marketing strategies have you implemented recently?

I’ve increased my marketing by 50% and also started working closely with loan officers. I’ve also started using Zoom and other web-conferencing platforms to host financial literacy workshops that have been a real hit in the community.

These workshops give people an opportunity to continue to improve their potential to become new homeowners.

In addition to that, I share images and videos of some of my current property listings on social media platforms and set up one-one-one follow ups for those ready to buy.

You’d be surprised how many people are willing to buy new homes in this environment.

What advice do you have for those interested in becoming a real estate agent?

It’s not as simple as people make it sound. The best advice I can give is to come in ready to work harder than any job you’ve ever had.

Where do you see your practice in the next 5 years?

In 5 years I will own my own real estate brokerage.

Contact info:
EXIT Flagship Realty
1221 Caraway Court, Suite #1040
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Cell:  (301) 559 2872

Tony O. Lawson


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3 mins read

Featured Professional: Attorney, Marirose Roach

As important as it is to recognize business owners and entrepreneurs, it is just as important to recognize the professionals and service providers who are excelling in their different fields of practice. Marirose Roach is one such professional.
Marirose is a partner with Philadelphia based, Roach-Leite. She is passionate about fighting for the rights of spouses and children, providing legal representation in divorce, custody and support cases.

Marirose Roach – Attorney (Philadelphia)

Marirose Roach
Attorney Marirose Roach

Why did you decide to practice law?

My mom wanted me to become a doctor or a lawyer.  I can’t stomach the sight of blood, so becoming an attorney was the default.  I was intrigued by the law from a young age.  I always wanted to help people and I felt that law would be an effective vehicle to do so.

What do you wish you had known about the legal profession before becoming an attorney?

They do not teach you how to become an attorney in law school.  Well, at least they didn’t when I was there.  There is a great deal of practical education that you do on the job.  Once out of law school, it is crucial to surround yourself with people that will make you great.
 

Your firm specializes in different types of law. Which do you enjoy the most and why?

It varies, each area has it’s pros and cons.  ​Each case is a window into a stranger’s life.  When you learn about their household, family, friends and struggles and can help them come out with a positive result, it feels absolutely amazing.  It’s a constant reminder of why I decided to practice law.

What do you do in your off time when you aren’t “lawyering”?

I’m a kid and an athlete at heart.  I still play in several recreational adult sport leagues.  It’s a great way to network and relieve stress.  When I’m not playing or working, I spend time with family and cook.

Where do you see your firm in the next 5 years?

We are currently going through a growth spurt at the firm.  ​In five years, if we continue this growth, I’d like to increase our support staff and strategize  marketing to refine the practice and be more efficient in how we target clients.

What advice do you have for students contemplating the legal profession?​

Get to know yourself and hone in on what you are truly passionate about.  Having a legal degree can create opportunities for change, but it’s a grind.  Be ready for a challenge.

Contact info:
Roach Leite LLC
6950 Castor Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19149
Telephone: (267) 343-5818

-Tony Oluwatoyin Lawson (@thebusyafrican)