Go Where You Are Fed

There are few people who make an immediate impression on me upon first meeting, and David is one of them. Several aspects about him caught my attention. From his pristine appearance in a brand new suit to his engaging personality, he naturally attracts people. After our conversation, I was thoroughly impressed, and even more so after reading his book. He is an approachable and successful business owner, who is eager to mentor and coach the next generation (I admire this about him).

Who is David Seay and Why do I recognize that name

David Seay is a prominent figure in Charleston, excelling in various aspects of the business world. He is involved in selling real estate, businesses, and multi-million dollar properties. You may have come across one of his signs that says “YOU WIN HERE” or seen someone reading his book. David Seay truly does it all.

Has David been winning since day 1

Ten years ago, David put in a lot of time and effort to figure out how he could best serve the professional needs of others, and now he’s here. He takes great care in serving his clients, helping them achieve their individual goals with his passion for real estate, business brokerage, and consulting.

As a former Financial Advisor for one of the world’s largest banks, David knows how important people’s assets and investment goals are to them. He uses his past experiences with top companies and his own life as a small business owner and property owner to help real estate users and investors make smart decisions. With proper planning, he believes successful real estate choices can be made responsibly, maximizing gain and managing risk.

David’s experience as both a tenant and a landlord has given him insight into both sides of the equation, including the challenges and legal disputes that can arise. He has been involved in 1031 tax-deferred property exchanges, sale-leasebacks, and has served as a project manager, construction supervisor, and property regime representative.

On top of all this, David is a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM), a recognized expert in the commercial and investment real estate industry. Earning the CCIM designation means he’s proficient not only in theory but also in practice, joining an elite group of professionals that includes brokers, leasing professionals, investment counselors, asset managers, appraisers, corporate real estate executives, property managers, developers, institutional investors, commercial lenders, attorneys, bankers, and other allied professionals. David has been getting lots of wins in the professional world, but has had the most fulfillment and success with The Brokerage.

What is the best advice David has received

David Seay attributes the best advice he has ever received to his priest, who advised him to “go where you are fed.” This counsel underscores the importance of seeking growth and fulfillment in all areas of life. Inspired by his drive and motivation, David founded Seay Development and later co-founded The Brokerage with his best friend, John. Despite facing challenges and failures, their partnership endures. One of David’s main challenges is managing the inconsistency of income due to market fluctuations, which he addresses by adhering to a personal budget. He stays motivated during tough times by maintaining a positive outlook, engaging in one-on-one coaching, and relying on a supportive core group of advisors and his faith.

What is helpful to know as a business owner
For new business owners, David advises establishing a detailed budget, developing a clear vision, and considering the impact on personal finances. To balance work and personal life, he sets strict time blocks and rarely compromises on family time or personal commitments. Staying updated with industry changes involves seeking credible information and connecting with industry experts. Networking is essential to David, as it prevents work from becoming transactional and fosters personal connections, which he enhances by writing three handwritten notes daily. Differentiating himself and his business involves highlighting his strengths and articulating clients’ goals before they express them, creating a compelling vision for their success.

David acknowledges that the common perception of entrepreneurship as glamorous is misleading, as it involves significant behind-the-scenes challenges and problem-solving. David said that “Business ownership can be the American Dream, but can quickly turn into the American Nightmare”.  Despite these difficulties, he enjoys the flexibility of being a business owner, allowing him to attend his children’s events and appreciate the potential for uncapped income, while emphasizing the importance of prudent budgeting and saving.

Takeaways

• “Go where you are fed”- cut out things that are not fruitful
• Coaching/ mentorship– learn from experts
• Plan– make a budget, paint a picture
• Network– go out and meet new people, you never know what a connection can grow into
• Business ownership can be the American Dream, but can quickly turn into the American Nightmare– it’s not all rainbows and butterflies from day 1