Get to know Tore Jacobsen, Managing Broker of Macdonald Realty’s Eastern Region, in this 10 Questions interview.
How did you get into the real estate industry? I had been working as a territorial sales rep for a national food wholesaler and realized that I was approaching the ceiling of growth. It was in a conversation with my dad that he suggested I pursue real estate with my abilities in communicating, connecting, and selling, and my comfort with it (given our family business of commercial real estate). So I ended up getting my license and joined another brokerage for a year in the Vancouver board, then ultimately transferred to Macdonald Realty in Surrey in 2010.
What led to you to become a managing broker? I went into Drew McLean’s office (he was my managing broker at the time and later became my mentor and broker partner) to get advice on a contract I was dealing with. After that conversation, he asked if I had ever given any thought to management due to the fact that I grew up in a business-oriented household and studied business in university. We started talking about it over the following three months and, as they say, the rest is history. I am so glad I said yes because I truly love what I do. The agents I get to serve each day are second to none, they’re inspiring, and I just find it so easy to get motivated to work each day.
What is one thing you wish you knew when you first got into real estate? I wish I would have known how valuable good managerial support and a collaborative office environment really is to setting one up for success. I had an amazing manager when I started, and then came to Drew, who was absolutely fantastic. But before joining Macdonald, there was a lot of time spent in the trenches on my own and unfortunately, there weren’t a lot of experienced agents who were willing to share their experiences with me and guide me. I had to figure out my own way and while it turned out great, it certainly made it more of a challenge.
What is your advice to someone who wants to become an agent? I would really take the time and do the research to make sure the business is for you. A lot of people incorrectly assume you get your license and the next day you are starring on “Million Dollar Listing” on HGTV. The truth is: you see the glamourous part of the business but you do not see the hours and hours invested in doing the little things each day over and over and over before there is a transaction and ultimately a paycheck. Then you need to consider the commission nature of the job and the (often) irregular paycheck and being able to balance that with your personal financial needs. Ultimately this business is all about your ability and willingness to connect with people and it is surprising how many folks really struggle in this aspect. I think the reason is: when we are meeting new people or old friends with no “agenda” it is easy, but when we add the aspect of asking for business in the mix, then people get uncomfortable, hesitant, and unable to close and that often leads to an exit from the business.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received (related to real estate industry)? “You have to earn their respect (clients, agents, etc.) over time through consistent action and commitment to what you do. It is not just going to be given.” – Drew McLean.
Why do you enjoy working in the real estate industry? No day is ever the same and there is constantly something new to navigate through and/or learn. I love how important an agent’s role is in the home ownership cycle and I love being there to help guide and assist them as they navigate through that with their clients. I also love the opportunity to give back whether it’s by volunteering at the [Fraser Valley Real Estate Board] or by sharing my experiences and educating all of our agents through Macdonald Realty’s Connected Learning programs.
What is your favorite thing about working at Macdonald Realty? Ownership is second to none, my manager, colleagues and all the support staff are outstanding, and I tell everyone we have the best agents in the business in our company. They are dedicated to this business and are extremely professional, which makes what I do a lot more enjoyable. This really is a family and we care about each other and it shows in how we and our agents operate. I am proud to bleed blue and white!
What is a fun fact about yourself? I try not to take myself too seriously so I love to sing and dance and also make silly voices for my kids’ stuffed animals at bedtime.
What is your favorite quote? “Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear.” – George Addair
What is a book that everyone should read? Power of 1 More by Ed Mylett. I am a huge believer in personal growth and the need to make it part of your daily routine. In order to be the best husband, dad, managing broker, friend, colleague, FVREB director, etc., I need to be the best version of me so I work at it and make it a priority. Ed Mylett is an individual I follow and listen to religiously and his latest book is so powerful, as often, the line between success and giving up is 1 more call, 1 more appointment, 1 more email, 1 more “I love you” and so on. It is amazing what you can achieve if you are willing to do 1 more than others might be.
