With family ties in the real estate world and previous experience in sales, Gian Dasdelen thought that it only made sense for him to move into real estate sales full-time. As he has improved his skills and discovered his passion over the past two years at the MG Group, he has continued to build imperative relationships with clients and team members alike. Today, Gian shares his past and perspectives in the Chicago real estate industry.
How did you get involved in the real estate business?
My older brother John has been with MG Group for nearly a decade, and he's been in real estate for the last 12-13 years. About 6 or 7 years ago, John and I started working together on renovation projects, which I contributed to as an investor, and then eventually, I learned enough about how real estate worked to want to dive in even further. We started completing an average of 2 to 3 properties per year, and I eventually became more involved in the sales end of the market more and more. I'd been in sales pretty much my whole life, so when it came to combining my renovation and development skills with my affinity for sales, it made sense to move into real estate sales full-time.
John had always said I had a knack for real estate because of my drive to succeed and my care for clients, so I interviewed with Mario, and he was excited to welcome me board. I wasn't sure where I was going to begin my journey. But starting at MG Group without any formal real estate sales experience felt like I was getting drafted by the Yankees, starting in the big leagues right away.
How long have you been at MG Group? What have you learned from your time at MG?
I've been with MG Group for about 2 years. What I've learned most is that communication is key. Everyone is informed, and we are constantly updating our team and our clients, and I think that people appreciate that. I've heard too many times from people trying to sell their home or buy a new one that they would go days without hearing from their broker. So, we stay in daily communication with our clients, and I know they appreciate being kept in the loop. I started from the bottom, so I've learned a lot as far as on-field experience because it's such a high-paced environment; I jumped into showings right away, learned how to properly list properties and discovered how to be a true professional at a high level. Without a doubt, a solo agent or a member of a regular/average team/group would take 5+ years to learn what I have in the past two.
What keeps you passionate about what you do?
I've always appreciated fast-paced environments because I get bored pretty easily if I'm not busy. With the way that our Group works and how we operate, there is always something to keep us moving. I've found that even with my renovation projects and developments - even if we're at a slow part of the year - there is always something to keep me busy, so it's easy to stay motivated and at the top of my game. I love challenging myself and being challenged by others; whether I have to find someone a dream home or try to sell a client's house for top dollar, I'm always looking to stretch my talents and reach my highest potential. My clients also continue to keep me passionate. Seeing the gratitude on a client's face after finding them their dream home makes all of the hard work worth it.
How does MG Group stand out from other teams, in the Chicago area or even nationwide?
The structure of our team at MG Group is exceptional. We have office staff that are truly dedicated to their work, keeping agents up to date on the market, pricing, properties, etc., which is extremely helpful to the sales team. Our level of service also stands out when compared to other groups. We are there for every showing, inspection, contractor appointment and repair appointment. We also constantly check in on our vacant properties. We consist of such a full-service team that our level of service is unmatched. And, the only reason we are allowed to operate that way is because of the superb team structure that we share as a group.
What accomplishments are you most proud of with MG Group?
Everyone I talk to says that need to be in the field for at least 4 or 5 years before seeing actual results. But, what I'm most proud of is my growth as a real estate broker in the short amount of time I've been working with MG Group. I remember my first showing and how nervous I was, and, looking back, I have grown immensely. Working with MG Group for 2 years would be like working with any other group for five if not more, so I feel like I've reached a level where I already see success. I can do things much more comfortably now as compared to when I started because I've had spectacular experiences throughout my time here. I'm also extremely proud of the satisfaction I witness from my clients; the fact that people are pleased with my contributions and work makes me love what I do even more.
What trends are you seeing in the Chicago residential market that are most interesting these days, or in looking forward to 2022?
What was most surprising to me, and I don't know if it was because I started just before COVID, but there was a big push to the suburbs. Everyone always told me that the city is so fast-paced and everyone was trying to move here, so coming into the Group, I had an idea that I was going to be super busy in the city with sales, but it was almost the total opposite. My knowledge in the suburbs helped me a ton because of the push out of the city. So many people are looking for larger spaces, indoor and outdoor, which is why more and more buyers are looking towards the Chicago suburbs. As far as what I'm looking forward to in 2022, I'm hoping the market stays strong throughout the year and is just as busy as 2021 was.
