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Local Voices

New Keller Williams Agent Hopes to Help Clients Play Their Cards Right

One of the coolest things about real estate today is the infusion of career converts who are looking for flexible, entrepreneurial opportunities. In fact, last year the real estate profession earned top billing in CareerBliss’ annual review of the Happiest Jobs on Earth. The survey took into consideration career growth, job resources, work environment and compensation as key job factors.

Alex Santiago, started the new year with a new business – real estate. The 29-year old Brookline, MA resident took a non-traditional route to real estate sales but trusts that his entrepreneurial spirit, attention to detail, people skills and way with money will help him find equal success in real estate.

While in high school, Santiago developed a love for poker – in particular online poker playing. His skill and reputation grew during college and was solidified by the time he graduated from the University of Maryland with a History degree. His passion became a profession – one where he traveled, prospered and scored accolades along the way in both the online poker community and at live poker matches in Las Vegas, Atlantic City and the World Series of Poker. Santiago was doing what he loved – and doing it well. At one point the new Keller Williams Realty agent was ranked the 11th best online poker player in the world. Entrepreneurial at heart, Santiago also invested in six top tournament players, honing his management and investment skills in the process. Nearly three years ago, however, the brakes were applied to online poker playing in the United States, and Santiago was faced with relocating to another country to continue his career or find other pursuits closer to home. Engaged at the time (he is now married) and the owner of a new condo, Santiago opted to direct his strategic talent and his earnings to real estate. His first foray was investing in a commercial building with his brother in his hometown of West Hartford, CT.  Santiago managed the architectural re-design of the space, construction oversight and handles tenant relations today. His role as a hands-on real estate investor prompted his recent transition into real estate sales. Santiago is building the infrastructure of his business and currently working hard to establish a reputation as the go-to broker in Newton, Brookline and beyond. As his sales income grows, so too, will his real estate investment portfolio. Santiago’s newest passion or career choice may not seem as stimulating as his days on the poker circuit but he is equally excited about the risks, rewards and prospect of helping his clients invest wisely in real estate and command the best sales price for their property. Santiago’s new career choice also offers him the flexibility  to squeeze in the occasional poker tournament too - such as the one he will partake in during February in Florida.  It won’t be long before Alex Santiago is in the spotlight again  – only this time it will be about his mastery of the game of real estate!

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