Transitioning from one dream to another, I faced challenges head-on, confident that my dedication and hard work would not only lead to satisfied clients but also build the life I envisioned.

 

For a long time, my dream was to play football professionally. However, after graduating from South Dakota State University in 2012, I couldn’t make the next step to the NFL. I found myself at a crossroads, unsure of what was next.

 

Growing up on a dairy farm in Iowa, I had spent my childhood milking cows and doing farm chores. It didn’t matter if it was a holiday or weekend, the cows still needed to be cared for. While it taught me a phenomenal work ethic, I knew I didn’t want to continue that lifestyle. I wanted to live in Sioux Falls—the "big city" that had always seemed full of opportunities and excitement when I was younger.

 

Needing a new direction, I started exploring my options. That’s when I met a broker in Sioux Falls who introduced me to the world of real estate. He mentioned that they offered classes to get licensed, and if I passed, I could join their team. With nothing to lose, I took the plunge and enrolled in the classes, becoming a licensed REALTOR® on January 1, 2014.

 

My background as a football player influenced my approach to real estate. Football taught me to handle criticism and emotional highs and lows, which comes in handy when dealing with the stress of buying or selling a home. The discipline and work ethic that I learned on the farm translated to sports, and now, directly to my professional life—showing up and putting in the work is crucial to success.

 

Despite the strong foundation I had developed growing up, the first year in real estate was brutal—I lived very frugally, relying on my ability to stretch a dollar. Thankfully, I had no car payments or student loans, which made it somewhat easier to manage on a tight budget. The second year was still hard, but I managed to double my business, gaining confidence in my skills and abilities to help people. By the third year, things started to look up. The phone began to ring, and I felt a sense of purpose in not only serving my clients to the best of my ability, but also in helping the community grow.

 

Through these initial challenges, I constantly debated whether I should quit or not. Pushing through those moments of doubt was the greatest thing I could have ever done. Through real estate, I hope to make a difference in the lives of others by providing real estate education, resources and guidance to bring dreams to life. Helping people find their homes and being involved in the community's development has given me a sense of purpose and fulfillment.Top of Form I feel fortunate that my first job after college turned into the perfect career for me— I love what I do and wouldn’t trade this journey for the world.

 

As I built my business in real estate, I also started a family. My wife, Kendra, and I have two young boys, Fletcher and Miles. Family time is precious to me, and we often visit the farm where our kids can run around and enjoy the outdoors. We love to travel as a family, exploring different parts of the country. Fletcher was on his first plane at just a year old, while I didn’t fly until I was 15—it is amazing to provide these experiences for them! I also love being social and spending time with friends and old teammates. 

Looking back, I’m proud of the journey from the family farm in Iowa to creating a successful real estate career here in Sioux Falls. The community here is forward-thinking, always looking to improve and grow, and I'm glad to be part of that.

 

Having experience in both residential and commercial real estate, with a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation, I've handled everything from residential upgrading and downsizing to working with investment properties, leasing, land, and commercial buildings. This breadth of experience has equipped me with a unique perspective to offer the best professional advice backed by years of experience and market knowledge. I enjoy addressing the diverse needs of each client and providing comprehensive advice, support and personalized service.

 

Over the years, I've consistently heard from clients that they chose me because they trust me. I pride myself on providing straight answers and being transparent about all aspects of a transaction. My role is to lay out all options, discuss the pros and cons and ensure my clients feel fully informed to make the best decisions for themselves. This commitment to transparency and responsibility is something I take very seriously as this is one of the biggest assets in your life. Even when the transaction is over, I am committed to providing my full support and professional advice as your REALTOR® and friend for life!

 

Sincerely,

 

Jon Fick

REALTOR®, Broker | LIC#15630

Phone (605) 360-7643

jon@605advantage.com

jonfick605.com