Transitioning from one career to another can be daunting, especially when you’ve spent years in a highly specialized field like professional baseball. But for Shea Murray, former baseball player turned real estate professional, the move from the dugout to property deals was a calculated and purposeful journey. In this podcast, Shea reflects on his path, discussing how his athletic career laid the foundation for success in real estate and how immersing himself in education helped him pivot. Let’s dive into the conversation to uncover the strategies that led him from professional sports to real estate success.

The Journey from Baseball to Real Estate

Shea Murray’s real estate journey started long before he formally entered the industry. With family members already in real estate — from his mom, a real estate agent, to his brother who invests in properties — Shea was aware of the power of real estate as a long-term wealth-building tool.

But it was his time as a Minor League Baseball player that sparked his deeper interest in real estate. Shea shares how, during long bus rides between games, he had ample time to reflect on his future. This “dead time” allowed him to listen to podcasts like BiggerPockets and eventually stumble upon the Straight Up Chicago Investor podcast, which zeroed in on real estate investing in the Chicago area. Shea explains, “I wanted something more specific to the area, and listening to local experts on Chicago neighborhoods helped me learn in a practical way.”

Finding Mentorship and Making the Leap

One of the most compelling parts of Shea’s story is his proactive approach to finding his first real estate job. After leaving baseball, he wasn’t content to follow the typical path of sending out résumés and hoping for a response. Instead, Shea cold-called the hosts of the Straight Up Chicago Investor podcast, including Mark Ainley, who happened to be looking for someone to join his real estate team at GC Realty & Development.

Though the position wasn’t even posted at the time, Shea’s determination and willingness to learn made an impression. He explains, “I didn’t really know what I was applying for. I just knew I wanted to be involved in real estate somehow, and I was ready to learn on the job.”

This willingness to seek out mentorship and dive into the unknown was a critical factor in Shea’s successful transition. His story underscores the importance of persistence and the value of seeking out those who have already achieved what you’re striving for.

From the Field to the Real Estate Market: The Power of Preparedness

As a former athlete, Shea brought a strong sense of discipline and preparedness to his new role. He explains how his time in baseball equipped him with a mindset geared towards high performance, whether in sports or real estate. “In sports, you’re used to being prepared to perform at your peak all the time,” Shea says. “That mindset transfers to sales, where you need to be ready to perform on important calls or during property tours.”

His preparation didn’t stop there. Before taking cognitive tests required for his job application, Shea spent time improving his cognitive skills using apps and brain exercises, a testament to his commitment to self-improvement.

The Importance of Mentorship and a Growth Mindset

Shea emphasizes the importance of learning on the job and finding a mentor who can guide you through the intricacies of real estate. He credits his success in real estate to the guidance and opportunities he received while working with experienced professionals at GC Realty & Development. But more than that, Shea’s growth mindset kept him open to constructive feedback and continuous learning.

“Responding positively to criticism is huge,” Shea shares. “It’s all about being curious about why things work the way they do, why certain decisions are made, and how you can improve your skills.”

Building Success Through Real Estate

Shea’s story is an inspiring example of how transitioning careers doesn’t have to be a leap of faith — it can be a well-calculated move. His journey from professional baseball to real estate success highlights the importance of education, mentorship, and a relentless desire to improve. By leveraging the skills he honed on the field and applying them to the real estate market, Shea has found a new passion and a fulfilling career.

For those considering a career change or looking to break into the real estate industry, Shea’s story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, preparation, and support, success is well within reach. If you're curious about how to navigate your own real estate journey, keep tuning into the Straight Up Chicago Investor podcast for insights and inspiration.

Key Takeaways for Real Estate Enthusiasts:

• Education Matters: Podcasts like Straight Up Chicago Investor can provide hyper-local insights that are valuable for new and seasoned investors.
• Seek Mentorship: Don’t be afraid to cold outreach professionals for guidance or job opportunities.
• Transferable Skills: Skills like preparedness, discipline, and the ability to take feedback from previous careers can be your secret weapon in a new field.
• Growth Mindset: Be open to continuous learning and self-improvement, whether it's through formal education or on-the-job experience.

Ready to take the next step in your real estate career? Follow in Shea’s footsteps and dive into the wealth of knowledge provided in each podcast episode!

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