Ever wondered how Macdonald Realty Managing Director Drew McLean got into real estate? In this 10 Questions interview, Drew answers that and shares his thoughts on his best advice for aspiring agents, his favourite thing about working in the industry, and at Macdonald Realty.
How did you get into the real estate industry?
After high school, I enrolled in college business courses with the plan of transferring to a university. While juggling two jobs and evening classes, I quickly realized I needed a clear career direction. I had always been drawn to real estate—especially commercial real estate—so I decided to enroll in BCIT’s Marketing Management – Real Estate program. After graduating in 1993, I started my career in real estate, spending two years in research at a national commercial brokerage before transitioning to sales in 1995.
What led you to become a Managing Broker?
Becoming a Managing Broker wasn’t something I initially planned. At the time, the Managing Broker in my office had been in the role for nearly 15 years, and it seemed like he’d be there for many more. But when he decided to move to Alberta to be closer to his family, an opportunity opened up.
I had loosely considered a career shift, especially after my wife and I had our first child, but I hadn’t thought about becoming a Managing Broker. Then, out of the blue, head office reached out to ask if I’d be interested—apparently, someone had put in a good word for me. To this day, I still don’t know who!
The process moved quickly, and before I knew it, I was stepping into the role. My predecessor gave me a crash course on a Friday night from 5 PM until midnight, and by the next morning, he was off to Alberta. That was my training. The rest, as they say, is history!
What is one thing you wish you knew when you first got into real estate?
I wish I had understood the importance of networking—both with fellow agents and in meeting new people. More importantly, I wish I had known how crucial it is to push yourself outside your comfort zone.
Real estate is as much about people as it is about properties. This is especially true in commercial real estate, but it applies to residential as well. When I started, I was young and struggled with confidence. If I had focused more on networking early on, I think I would have developed key skills and self-assurance much sooner in my career.
What is your advice to someone who wants to become an agent?
Don’t let the fear of not knowing all the answers hold you back. Many new agents spend too much time trying to prepare for every possible question a client might ask, instead of actively searching for business.
You won’t have all the answers in the beginning, and that’s okay. What matters is getting out there, learning as you go, and gaining experience. This career isn’t always easy—there will be ups and downs—but it’s incredibly rewarding. You’ll meet amazing people and experience some unforgettable moments along the way.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received (related to the real estate industry)?
Early in my career, my Managing Broker gave me a lesson I’ll never forget.
I had spent a lot of time preparing reports, evaluations, and analyses—going above and beyond—but I struggled with asking for business directly. I believed that my hard work alone would generate loyalty and secure deals.
One particular client asked me to handle tenant negotiations, with the understanding that once those were finalized, he would list the building with me. I did all the work upfront, unpaid, trusting that the listing would follow.
When I shared this with my Managing Broker, he asked if I had a written commitment. I confidently replied, “No, but he told me I could trust him.” He leaned back in his chair, laughed, and said, “He actually told you that you can trust him? You’re screwed.”
And he was right—I never got the listing.
That moment taught me an invaluable lesson: Trust is built through actions, not words, and a written agreement is the best proof of trust in business.
Why do you enjoy working in the real estate industry?
My reasons have evolved over time. Early in my career, I loved the excitement of learning something new every day and the thrill of putting deals together. Now, after 30+ years in the industry and having taken on different roles, my passion has shifted.
Today, I find the most fulfillment in using my experience to help shape the future—whether it’s mentoring agents, contributing to our company’s growth, or even influencing the industry in small but meaningful ways.
What is your favorite thing about working at Macdonald Realty?
In real estate, there’s a famous saying: “Location, location, location.”
At Macdonald Realty, it’s “People, people, people.” The people here are second to none.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
In my late teens, I learned how to do Michael Jackson’s signature move—the Moonwalk. Not just the standard version, but forward, sideways, and backward. Given my age, I’ve long since retired that particular skill… but I might still be able to pull it off. Just don’t ask me to prove it!
What is your favorite quote?
A favorite of mine comes from John F. Kennedy: “There are risks and costs to action. But they are far less than the long-range risks of comfortable inaction.”
I often think about this when looking at the changes happening in real estate. Avoiding change just because it feels uncomfortable can be far more damaging than making difficult decisions. Inaction might feel safe, but it rarely leads to success.
What is a book that everyone should read?
I don’t have as much time to sit and read these days, but I do listen to a lot of podcasts on my commute. One I highly recommend is Context with Mike DelPrete—it’s a must-listen for anyone in the industry.
Interested in joining Macdonald Realty? Connect with our team today.
