Getting Real about Real Estate

Whether you’re a licensed agent looking to further your career or are new to real estate, Fred Keas can help guide you toward your goals.

Fred Keas has been a real estate broker for over 38 years – quite a feat for an industry often associated with a high agent turnover rate. According to Keas, many people do not stay in the field long-term simply because it is not a career for everyone. “Many people go into real estate thinking it is really easy and they’ll make a ton of money immediately. Agents certainly have potential for good income; however, an agent must be highly self-disciplined, with complete control over their time. They also need to have a reserve of finances, as all sales are straight commission.”

For those who have what it takes to be a real estate agent, the rewards can be great. “I’m a people person. I love meeting and getting to know all kinds of people,” says Keas. “I especially enjoy seeing first-time buyers – usually young couples – purchase a home. Many people think they can’t buy a house, and I like to show them that they can. It is very rewarding to me.”

One of the biggest perks of working in real estate is having freedom over your time; it’s not a Monday through Friday, 9 to 5 gig. “If you’re disciplined enough to have control over your business, you can work two days a week and spend the other five days out of town or spending time with your family.”

If you are a licensed real estate agent, or if you’re interested in starting a career in real estate, you will want to speak with Mr. Keas. He is currently looking to build his team of agents at Fred Keas Real Estate, located in Bixby. His company, established in 1981, serves clients in the Greater Tulsa area, including residential, commercial and land properties. “This is ‘a company of integrity.’ We believe in quality over quantity. Our reputation means more to us than any commission will; we are willing to walk away from a deal if it means tarnishing our outstanding reputation in the community.”

For licensed agents who have not gotten off the ground with their career, working with Keas would be an excellent opportunity to receive personal training from a seasoned real estate professional. Keas was last year’s president of the Greater Tulsa Association of Realtors, the largest association of realtors in Oklahoma with more than 3,600 members. “As a broker with 38 years of experience, I can help coach agents to success and serve as mentor, educator, adviser and motivator. I will personally assist agents until they feel confident to work independently and successfully.” He will train agents in all aspects of real estate, including residential and commercial, land and lots, and property management.

Those who are new to the real estate field should also contact Mr. Keas. He is a certified real estate instructor for licensing, and his first class of graduates completed certification a few months ago. One of his students even passed the real estate licensure exam on the first try (students typically take the test about three times). “If you’re committed to becoming a successful real estate agent, I can guide you through counseling and education.”

Prior to entering real estate, Keas was a teacher and coach for seven years. He then worked in insurance for seven years. One evening at a dinner party, a friend told him, “Fred, you would be great in real estate.” The following day he was enrolled in classes, and a year later he was a broker. The rest, as they say, is history. Fred genuinely enjoys meeting people and would love to talk to you about your future in real estate. (He’s also a huge sports fan and will discuss baseball with you any day.)