Posted by: Karim Ali
Coffee with Karim
How Military Service Built Real Estate Success
People ask me sometimes if I enjoy being a Realtor in Ottawa. The answer’s that I have a fun time. From the flexibility to the people I meet, to being there for clients during life-changing moments, it’s a job that keeps me energised and grateful every day.
The Flexibility to Shape My Days
One thing I love about real estate is the flexibility. No two days are the same. Some mornings I’m on the road showing homes, other days I’m at my desk negotiating a deal or researching the market. I can fit in time for the gym or family without feeling tied to a strict schedule.
Sure, the phone doesn’t stop ringing and evenings & weekends can be busy, but I wouldn’t trade the variety. It keeps things interesting!
I’m an Introvert Who Likes People
I’m naturally an introvert, but I lean toward the extrovert side. I enjoy being around people and hearing their stories. Real estate gives me that mix of connection and quiet time. I can spend a day with clients and still have time alone to recharge and focus on the behind-the-scenes work.
Being There for Big Life Changes
Buying or selling a home is rarely just about the property. It’s usually tied to something bigger – a new job, a growing family, downsizing, or moving cities. I like being there for those moments. Housing has such a big impact on people’s lives, and it’s rewarding to guide someone through it.
Sometimes my role is to keep things calm when stress levels rise. Other times it’s to celebrate with them when everything comes together.
Negotiating a Fair Deal
I enjoy negotiating, not just to “win,” but to get a fair deal that works for my clients. In Ottawa’s fast market, having a clear strategy can make a big difference. My focus has always been on protecting my clients’ interests while still getting the deal done. It’s rewarding to see clients remain – mostly – calm through the stressful process!
Building Long-Lasting Relationships
For the team and I, this isn’t just a one-time business. We like keeping in touch with clients over the years, hearing how life in their home is going, and sometimes helping them again down the road. Seeing people and families grow and make memories in the homes we found together is one of the best parts of the job.
Grateful!
Being a Realtor isn’t just my job, it’s something I genuinely enjoy. It’s flexible, people-focused, and full of moments that matter. And no two days are the same!
2 Quick Stories
1
We’ve previously had a hard time selling a condo townhouse. It took several weeks of marketing & dozens (if not hundreds) of calls to fellow realtors to find one with an interested buyer. But we eventually did it – and we got to celebrate it with our clients that same evening.
2
I was previously a server at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier and remember one of my toughest Sunday nights there. We were short-staffed, the place was packed, and I was running around trying to keep guests happy. One couple stood out for their kindness – the most patient people I’d ever served. They slowed me down, chatted for a moment, and reassured me I was doing fine.
Years later, during an interview to become a Realtor, I met one of the office managers and couldn’t shake the feeling I knew him. At the end, I asked if he’d been to the Chateau Laurier patio. As soon as I did, I remembered – he and his wife were that couple. Ian and his wife were guests I’d never forgotten. Joining that firm was a no brainer. Thank you, Ian.
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