134: Justin Toomey – The Best Job in the World

Guest: Justin Toomey

Guest Bio:

Justin founded SVN | Toomey Property Advisors in 2019, bringing a national full-service commercial real estate firm to Mobile, Alabama. Since expanding into property management in 2022, the company now manages over 903 multifamily units and 30,000 square feet of retail space.

Under Justin's leadership, the company achieved 268% revenue growth by the end of 2024, a testament to his strategic vision and innovative approach. As a licensed real estate broker in five states, he has earned national recognition, including the SVN Achievers Award (2021–2024), Costar Power Broker Award (2019), and being named one of The Bay Magazine's 40 Under 40 (2025).

Key Points:

Journey into Commercial Real Estate:

Despite his father's warnings about the industry's difficulties, the Justin pursued a career in commercial real estate, earning a license at 19 and a broker's license after college in 2011. He worked with his father until 2014, then moved to Sterling Properties to expand his knowledge in other areas of real estate, like retail and markets outside Mobile.

Founding SVN Toomey Property Advisors:

Justin founded his own company after learning valuable lessons at Sterling Properties, despite knowing the risks and challenges. He faced significant losses in 2020 but continued working hard during the pandemic, learning from mistakes, and adapting to growth.

Challenges and Rewards in Commercial Real Estate:

The commercial real estate industry is challenging, with long sales cycles and constant rejection. Success requires perseverance, working hard despite setbacks, and managing expectations. Justin values the autonomy and flexibility in the industry but emphasizes that it requires working far beyond a typical 40-hour week to achieve success.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

Be resilient in the face of setbacks, working harder than others, and build discipline in everyday tasks. Don't try to do everything yourself, especially when starting out, and fearing failure. Delegating tasks and understanding the limits of your role is crucial.

Business Growth and Success:

Despite a rough start in 2020, the company grew by 268% in 2021 and continued to see around 100% growth annually since then. Growth was driven by learning from mistakes, expanding services, and adding new market segments, including multifamily and retail management.

Managing a Team:

Justin faces challenges with managing independent contractors (1099s) who don't have the same level of control as employees. He emphasizes the importance of communication, drive, dedication, and consistency within the team, often relying on shared calendars and teamwork to keep things running smoothly. Struggles with ensuring consistency in sales meetings but recognizes the value of collaboration among team members on deals.

Hiring Strategy:

Justin tends to hire individuals with no prior experience in the industry, believing they are more coachable and aligned with the company's values, especially cold calling. He avoids hiring senior brokers with established businesses as they can be harder to integrate into the company culture and may resist change.

Guest Links:

www.svntpa.com

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