By Wayne Throop | Real Estate Broker, Business Coach, Author of The Reality of Real Estate
💡 Introduction
If there’s one truth I’ve learned after more than two decades in this business, it’s this: real estate is not a solo sport.
Yes, you’re technically self-employed. Yes, your name is on the sign. But if you’re trying to do everything on your own from marketing to paperwork to managing the emotional rollercoaster of the business you’re setting yourself up for burnout, not breakthrough.
The most successful REALTORS® I know don’t do it all alone. They’ve built a network of people who support, challenge, and lift them up not just when things are going well, but when they’re not.
And if you’ve been struggling to find consistency or momentum in your business lately, that’s probably the missing piece.
🚫 The Lone-Wolf Myth
When I first started in real estate back in 2004, I thought success meant being independent. I didn’t want to ask for help. I figured I could work harder, learn faster, and do it all myself.
You can probably guess how that went.
I was exhausted. My business plateaued. And instead of feeling free, I felt trapped by my own stubbornness.
It wasn’t until I surrounded myself with the right people, mentors, peers, and support staff that everything began to change. Not overnight, but consistently.
That’s when I realized that success in real estate isn’t built on independence, it’s built on interdependence.
🌐 Your Network Is Your Net Worth (and Your Lifeline)
A great support network in this business usually includes four key types of people:
- The Mentor – someone who’s been where you want to go and can help you get there faster.
- The Peer – someone walking the same path, who understands the wins and frustrations of the business.
- The Accountability Partner – someone who won’t let you make excuses when it’s time to take action.
- The Encourager (Your Cheerleader) – someone who reminds you of your potential when you forget who you are.
The balance of those four relationships keeps you grounded and growing. Because the truth is, this business will test your mindset before it tests your skills.
🏃 Why Going It Alone Doesn’t Work
Real estate can be isolating. You can be surrounded by people all day — clients, other agents, mortgage brokers and still feel completely alone.
That isolation can lead to comparison, discouragement, and self-doubt.
You start scrolling social media and seeing other agents posting “Sold Over Asking!” every 48 hours, and you think: What am I doing wrong?
You’re not doing anything wrong.
You’re just forgetting that every agent’s journey looks different and that behind those highlight reels are late nights, rejections, and self-doubt too.
When you have a real support network, you’re reminded of that truth.
You realize you’re not the only one having a tough week and that helps you keep going.
It’s not weakness to lean on others it’s wisdom.
⚙️ What a Support Network Actually Does for You
- It Gives You Perspective – Problems that once felt massive start to look manageable when shared.
- It Speeds Up Your Growth – Learning through trial and error is expensive. A mentor saves you time and money.
- It Holds You Accountable – Accountability is the bridge between knowing and doing.
- It Keeps You Inspired – When your motivation dips, your network reminds you of your purpose.
🧭 How to Build Your Own Network (Starting Now)
If you’re serious about growing your business, here’s how to begin:
1️⃣ Identify Your Gaps
Ask yourself honestly: Where am I struggling most right now?
Lead generation? Consistency? Time management? Confidence?
Once you know your weak spot, find people who are strong where you’re not.
2️⃣ Seek Out Mentors
You don’t need to find a superstar — just someone who’s two or three steps ahead. Watch how they operate. Ask questions. The best mentors guide by example, not ego.
3️⃣ Connect with Peers Who “Get It”
Find REALTORS® who share your values and hunger to improve. Avoid complainers and cynics — they’ll drag you down faster than a falling market.
4️⃣ Hire a Coach or Join a Group Coaching program
A great coach doesn’t just motivate you they help you design a system for consistent results. They challenge your thinking, refine your habits, and help you stay accountable when the going gets tough.
Even top producers have coaches. Coaching isn’t about fixing weakness — it’s about amplifying strength.
5️⃣ Give More Than You Get
Support works both ways. Offer encouragement, share insights, and celebrate others’ wins. The more you give, the stronger your circle becomes.
💬 Who’s in Your Corner?
If your business feels stuck right now, it’s not a sign to work harder, it’s a sign to reach out.
Every REALTOR® needs a place to recharge, recalibrate, and re-ignite their focus. You don’t have to carry the weight of this business alone.
What you need is a community that reminds you what you’re capable of when you start showing up as your best self.
🌱 Final Thoughts
The next time you catch yourself saying, “I just need to figure this out,” remember this:
You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Every great agent I’ve ever known had someone or even several people helping them along the way.
So don’t isolate. Connect. Collaborate. Grow.
That’s how you move from surviving to thriving in real estate.
🤝 If You’re Ready for a Fresh Start
If this message resonates with you and you’re ready to start building a stronger foundation in your mindset, systems, and business I’d love to help you explore what’s next.
Take a look at my coaching programs and see if one feels like the right fit for where you are right now.
👉 Visit waynethroop.com to learn more.
Whether we work together or not, remember this: you’re not alone in this business. The right support can make all the difference.
Sources
Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash