Name: Zachary Gerg
Job Title: Realtor, ABR
Company: Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty – South End Office
What was your first job in the realty industry? Started off as a buyer specialist for a top producing agent on the South Shore. Just transitioned into this career almost three years ago. I was a teacher for Boston Public Schools!
Where did you grow up? All around the world really, but up until recently I claimed Alexandria, VA as my home. That’s where I went to high school, and I went to college in Virginia too.
Growing up, what did you want to be? I wanted to be an actor on Broadway!
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I drown myself in music and just focus on that.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Definitely not well known, but hands down that would be my mother. She passed away quite some time ago and there’s just so much we could talk about.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? Pretty much any city center or beachside outdoors kind of area. I love to people watch.
What do you love most about the industry? This industry keeps me moving. I don’t know how to stand still, and in this business I get to bounce around. I also am able to meet people from all walks of life which can prove to be incredibly fascinating and rewarding.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I’m not just throwing kitchen and bathroom pics at you, I can say that much! Honestly, I’m constantly trying to come up with new ways to sell. The process has to be as fun as possible for everyone involved.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Most definitely how unpredictable it can be. Just when you think you know somebody or have a situation figured out, BAM, you’re thrown a curve ball.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I’m everywhere. I’m at restaurants, bars, my gym, country clubs, hotel lounges, coffee shops, you name it. I sincerely enjoy building relationships regardless of whether or not business comes from it. I also enjoy being a connector. Isn’t it great to be able to say, “You know what? Yeah, I know a guy!”
What has been your greatest accomplishment? Career-wise: After being told (when interviewing for firms when I first started) by a vice president of a firm who shall not be named that I’d be lucky if I sold two houses my first year. Needless to say, I did NOT affiliate with them. I went on to sell 20 properties for over $7 million. Personally: My beautiful family is my greatest accomplishment. I’ve never been more motivated to succeed.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? Want an AWESOME book? Read “The Sell” by Fredrik Eklund. It’s not just about selling real estate.
What is your favorite restaurant? Without a doubt, Taco Loco in East Somerville. Nothing beats a burrito in my eyes.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Boston? I’m constantly discovering little gems, but as of right now my favorite is the St. Cloud building on Tremont St. French Second Empire design is really cool.
What kind of car do you drive? A beat up 2006 Chrysler 300 Hemi. Once day I’ll get my Audi Q5. One day.
Smartphone or paper? Smartphone. I just lose paper.
What is your favorite city after Boston? So far, I’m going to have to say Chicago.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Fail early, fail often, and fail forward
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? Homesnap
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? I’m not on Twitter anymore but on Instagram some of my favorites are Will Smith, The Rock, and Danny Nassi. They are real, and they are highly inspirational.
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