Staying Agile in the Real Estate Business: Q&A With Deven Chase of Elite Homes US

First of all, how is business these days?

As we begin Q2 2016, we’ve seen our business continue to thrive. We met our Q1 goals and are on a trajectory of seeing another record year. We attribute this to planning, executing an effective strategy, and benefitting from a healthy real estate market.

What led you to start your own business?

Becoming an individual business professional has been somewhat of a natural progression. Besides growing up in an entrepreneurial household, my desire to fill a social void in business enabled me to become a free thinker. The final deciding factor was the state of the economy—the lack of job opportunities in the employment sector led me to follow my instincts and pursue my own creative ventures.

What sources did you use for startup capital?

We used the bootstrapping approach with regard to capital. We really built the business one brick at a time.

What do you think is your biggest business strength?

It is imperative to be adaptable in business. You must have a good grasp of the current pulse in your particular industry and then be resourceful. I believe we have become increasingly better at that.

What do you enjoy most about owning your own business?

Results are seen in many different forms and they are what motivate me. The ability to see the impact your business has had on your clientele is the biggest driver. It steers the ship. Testimonials, referrals, and bottom-line results are proof that your work is effective, and are a great way to track success.

What’s your least favorite part of running a business?

I’m one of those guys who sees every challenge as an area of opportunity. That said, there isn’t anything that I dislike about the concept of being your own boss!

What do you think are important entrepreneurial skills to have?

I feel that it is important to be sure in your decisions. Decisiveness and the ability to make a good, calculated choice is key. On the flip side, you must be willing to stick by that very same decision if it doesn’t reach the optimal outcome.

What are some challenges you’ve faced in business and how did you overcome them?

There is a learning curve with all things, especially in business. How you react to them is paramount. We overcame our biggest hurdles by zooming out a bit and attacking a particular issue from a different angle.

What do you wish you’d known before you started out?

I never knew how important getting the right amount of sleep (or lack thereof) was until I became a business owner! Also, keeping positive energy around you at all times is a key factor in business.

What is the smartest move you have made with your business so far?

Simply deciding to start—and not look back—has singlehandedly been the best choice I’ve made.

How do you find new customers? What do you do to make sure they become return customers?

In the beginning, our business was very organic, almost grassroots. It was and continues to be the driving force as we receive a good amount of referrals to procure new business. We also use marketing to reach our target demographics and psychographics.

What are some other companies or entrepreneurs you admire, and why?

I gravitate toward innovation as seen in companies like TESLA, Apple, and Dyson.

Do you have a favorite inspirational quote?

The proverb “Necessity is the mother of invention.”

What new initiatives are you working on?

We are always looking for ways to better service our existing clientele. That is our core focus.

What advice would you give to someone hoping to start a business similar to yours?

It is important to pace the market and have your mission statement fall in line with aspects of your own individual ideologies. This way, the business is essentially an extension of yourself.

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