Going into Real Estate
“I Am African & I Can” is a women’s empowerment blog highlighting stories of black women’s struggles and successes.
By Hadiatou Wann | 08/30/19
As a little girl, when Aminata Kalle went to people's homes, she would always observe the decor. Little did she know, when she reached adulthood, she’d go into the business of buying and selling homes.
Amina was born in Guinea, Conakry and moved to Atlanta in 2001. After getting married in 2012, she moved to Canada, and then moved back to Atlanta to escape the cold weather. At first, she majored in Building Engineering at Concordia University (in Canada), then realized that wasn't the route she wanted to stay in.
Deep down, Amina always wanted to become a Realtor. For a a while, she assumed that a degree was required and didn't think it would bring her a steady income,until her husband convinced her to give it a try. He noticed the spark in Amina’s eyes whenever she watched “Million Dollar Listing” and other shows centered around real estate.
After being a stay at home mom for 3 Years, Aminata decided that it was time to roll up her sleeves and give real estate a try. She did research and found out that she could get her license in 6 weeks. For 3 days a week, she took courses until she received her license.
Amina always found it natural to interact with people. She believes what makes her stand out as a real estate agent is her honesty and ability to prioritize her clients' needs, and by ensuring that negotiations are in her clients’ best interest.
A client can visit 5 to 10 homes before deciding to buy. “It's not a pair of shoes they're buying, it's a home. So I have to be patient,” she said.
She finds pleasure in helping people—especially Africans—who are hesitant to become home owners because of other people's bad experiences.
Thierno SV Diallo and Amina have been friends for almost 10 years. Here's what he thinks of her: “Besides being one of the sweetest individuals I know, Amina has unwavering will and ambition. Although I believe that all women are strong, she embodies strength that enables her to exceed as entrepreneur, wife, and most of all as a mother to her two beautiful children. “
Going from a corporate job to being her own boss requires self-motivation. She chooses how and when to operate her business. But she also has to push herself to get out there find clients and close deals, because in her profession, you don't make money until you close a deal.
“She has grown so much in a short period of time, but I think that it’s only the beginning. She has a long road ahead, both valleys and peaks. However, she is ready to take on all challenges,” Thierno added.
How does this Realtor find clients?
Everyday, Amina sends private messages on social media and connects with at least 20 people. “Don't ever compare your journey to the next person, you don't know what they've been through. Check what you are good at and focus on it,” Amina advised. Her strength is networking, so she focuses on that.
Her friend Thierno also said that, ”The success she is experiencing in her Real Estate venture is simply a testament to her work ethic, intelligence, and entrepreneurial spirit. She is a great example to all, not just ‘Guinean Women.’”
Amina proved that you can change profession, take a break to build a family, and still manage to get back in the workforce and make a name for yourself. Once she dominates the industry in the states, she plans on going back to Guinea and help the youth find jobs. She also wants to break the stereotype among women, and show that real estate is not only for men.
Welcome to Amina's World
“A strong woman is someone who does not give up. Someone who will always find a way to make things happen. Someone who is killin it in her career, and goes back home and takes care of her kids and husband.”
“Don’t ever compare your journey to the next person, you don’t know what they’ve been through. Check what you are good at and focus on it.”
Aminata is a nature fanatic. She enjoys hiking, picnics, and going to different water parks.
“Happiness is winning in all areas of my life (e.g. career, family) and be able to help others.”
“In the beginning it’s rough. But don’t give up!”
Connect with Amina:
Instagram: @agent_kalle
Facebook: Kalle Amina
Email: Aminatakalle@hotmail.com
Read other success stories here: www.iamafricanandican.info/blog
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