Marcus Williams
Founder & Author
From my hometown, Seattle, WA, to the high-energy courts of the NBA and China, my previous career as a professional basketball player taught me resilience, the value of teamwork, and the thrill of pushing my limits. These experiences shaped my core beliefs in hard work, curiosity, and the power of shared experiences.
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Today, as the creator of "Real Keys," I draw on this rich tapestry of life lessons to guide and inspire others in the realms of real estate, finance, and economics. Beyond the blog, I love spending time with my beautiful fiance' and two incredible kids, watching our favorite TV or Anime series, bonfires at the beach, exploring Seattle, and embracing every moment of growth and discovery together. Join me on this journey to not only unlock a more informed future but to cultivate a life enriched with fulfillment and continuous learning.
The Real Story
Welcome to "Real Keys" – your guide in the ever-evolving world of real estate, finance, and economics. I'm Marcus Williams, the voice behind these pages; my interest and experience in real estate and finance began not in a boardroom but in a personal quest for understanding.
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It all began with a realization: I was an outsider in my own financial journey. Sitting in the comfort of my home, across the table from my financial advisor as she praised the performance of my investment portfolio, this routine investment meeting revealed a gap not just in my understanding but in my ability to engage with my financial destiny. Though in the past, I would have felt validated knowing I hired a great advisor, I found myself feeling vulnerable in a sea of jargon and statistics. This pivotal moment sparked a transformation – from a passive investor to an active participant in my financial future. Real estate became my vessel, and economics and finance became my new challenge.
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With over seven years as a multifamily property owner, landlord, active stock market investor, and realtor, my experiences have run the gamut from exhilarating gains to humbling losses. This hands-on, real-world education has equipped me with the confidence and humility to provide you with news and insights. As a perpetual student, I dedicate my mornings to dissecting economic reports and connecting the intricate dots that shape our financial and economic landscape. From company earnings calls to economic white papers and the MLS listings, I strive to clarify the complex interplay of forces that influence our lives.
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"Real Keys" is more than a name; it's a philosophy that knowledge is the key, only if the information is real. It's about unlocking truth in an age where information is plentiful, but insight is scarce. My promise to you is real talk, real experience, and real growth – together. While I may not always get it right, my commitment to learning, adapting, and transparently sharing my findings with you will remain unwavering.
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This blog reflects a journey – an ongoing pursuit of excellence through daily dedication and an open mind. Here, you'll find content that answers your burning questions, piques your curiosity, and occasionally challenges your worldview. I invite you to join me in this exploration, whether you're a seasoned investor or newly inspired in the pursuit of financial literacy.
For those in Washington state, you'll find resources like my monthly first-time homebuyers class and links for homebuyers and sellers' consultations, leveraging my expertise as a licensed real estate agent. Whether you're here to gain insights or to spark dialogue, I welcome you. Engage with me on social media, comment on blog posts, or email me. Let's embark on this journey together, fostering a community where truth and inspiration are the cornerstones of every discussion. "Real Keys" is a canvas, still fresh with possibility. As we both grow – in knowledge and understanding – so too will this space, enriched by the shared experiences and wisdom of a community united in the pursuit of financial literacy.
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As "Real Keys" embarks on this exciting journey, our shared milestones will shape not just a blog but a community. A community where understanding isn't just a goal; it's the very currency we trade.
Thank you for being here at the beginning. The path to mastery is long, but together, we'll make each step count. Let's unlock the doors to a more informed and empowered future.