Choosing to start something of my own, I veered off the beaten path to try something new. By taking a risk and believing in myself and my capabilities, I created a business that has changed my life.
Entering real estate was a leap of faith for me. After years of managing my father's successful transportation business, I felt a longing for something more, something that was truly mine. My father had taught me so much as a businessman, and I had a clear career path ahead of me, but it simply wasn’t my dream.
When I saw the limitless potential in real estate, I recognized an avenue to create something of my own. But taking that first step was hard. Was I really going to leave it all behind to start from scratch? The stability of a steady paycheck was all I'd known, and the uncertainty of commission-based income was daunting.
But then I reflected on my own real estate experiences, one of which I was left completely unimpressed. My agent hadn’t done much to help us, but at the end of the day, they walked away with a huge check. If they had found success in the industry, what would I be capable of achieving with a great work ethic, exceptional communication skills and a dedication to helping the clients I serve?
In 2002, I received my real estate license, balancing two jobs at once to ensure I could pay my bills and uphold my responsibilities. That first year, I juggled both worlds, working tirelessly to build my real estate business while still managing my father’s business every day.
There were moments when I doubted myself and wondered if I'd made the right choice, but I knew I couldn't let fear hold me back. Slowly but surely, things started to fall into place. I found my footing in the industry, leaning on my past experiences in business and knack for connecting with people. By my second year in real estate, I had won Rookie of the Year and was able to officially become a full-time REALTOR®.
The 2007-2008 downturn was especially challenging, but it also taught me a lot. I had to rethink my approach and adapt to a changing landscape. It is my responsibility, even in the most difficult markets, to help people navigate the buying and selling process. I see myself as the ultimate real estate resource, here to support my clients during the good times and the hard times—whenever they need me, I am here to help. By showing up every day and treating people with care and integrity, I grew a fantastic business I am proud of.
Then, in 2015, my wife, Tammy Lynn, and I became parents to our first daughter, Brooklyn, and then had our second daughter, Madison. Becoming a father changed everything. Suddenly, my days were no longer solely about work and personal goals—my life became centered around being there for my daughters and providing for our family. They gave me a whole new motivation and purpose in life.
All of the work I put into building my business has paid off tenfold for our family because I have the stability and autonomy to ensure when they need me, I am there. I’m grateful for my wife, who always offers unwavering support and encouragement through the ebbs and flows of the real estate business.
As a family, we love going to Aruba or spending time at the beach house my family has owned for decades, getting together with my sisters, nieces and nephews for a weekend getaway. Staying active, I like playing pickleball and basketball and going on a walk with my wife every morning.
Between showings, listing appointments and meeting with clients, I now make time to be there for dance rehearsals, coaching soccer or basketball and going to school events. Through my kids’ events, I have added even more opportunities for me to connect with new people. My ultimate goal is to leave a positive impact on my family, my clients and my community!
If there's one thing you can count on with me, it's consistency. I pride myself on being reliable, showing up every day without fail. This is proven through the steady repeat and referral clients who continue to entrust me to help them and their family and friends through one of life’s most significant decisions. I have also achieved the Circle of Excellence year after year for 19+ years running through the New Jersey Association of REALTORS®, reflecting my commitment and dedication to this industry and the clients I serve.
When you choose to work with me, you get me! I handle everything from start to finish, taking a hands-on approach to ensure it is done correctly and timely. Whether it's crafting compelling marketing materials, writing a winning offer, or walking a client through the complex process in an easy-to-understand way, I want to empower my clients with knowledge and confidence. My ultimate goal is to make sure every client is satisfied and successful. With a business built by word of mouth, it is important to me that every client receives the same exceptional service!
Sincerely,
Thomas Mikalouskas
REALTOR® | Lic.#0235388
Cell 201.370.6175
tommikalouskas@gmail.com
www.BergenCountyHomeSearch.com