A Wake-Up Fall That Changed Everything

Mark Hewitt’s path into real estate was shaped by his steadfast work ethic — and a moment that could have changed everything.

Raised in California, Mark started working young. He launched his first company at 11 and was employed in construction by 14. Over the years, he worked everywhere from auto wrecking yards to tire shops to construction sites.

“I had a drive to just do things and get things done. It always motivated me not to be sedentary,” he said.

He earned a business degree from Western Washington University and later pursued a degree in math and computer science. Following graduation, Mark stepped into sales in the resort industry.

“I got very good at it in a very quick period of time, and all of a sudden sales seemed to kick in,” Mark said.

But it was construction that led to the turning point. While sick with the flu and working high on a wall, he fell.

“I had a potential fall that could have incapacitated me,” he said. “It was one of those things where you had milliseconds to decide what you were going to do.”

The incident forced him to reevaluate his path. He had already completed his real estate coursework and had a license “on ice.”

Licensed in 1991, Mark quickly found success in the industry.

“When it was time to go into real estate, I felt it was a great mix because I had the business background, I had the math, the computer science, the construction, the sales,” he said. “The ownership of homes was, to me, a no-brainer.”

Within nine months, he became the top sales associate at his company. His focus was simple: build an inventory, and the rest will follow.

“I got after listings as quickly as possible,” he said. “Just get in front of them. If you can get in front of people, and then you have the desire to win, then you can be successful at it.”

Today, as Operating Principal of Keller Williams Bothell, Mark credits discipline and persistence for his success — coupled with the support of the Bothell office. 

“Being a part of an office as stellar as Keller Williams Bothell is probably the first blessing you’ll get, and then the rest of them will follow,” Mark said.

Listen to the rest of Mark's story on Real Conversations: Episode 10.