What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
I was a CAD (Computer Aided Drafting) tech for an architectural firm that worked on large projects like the VA Hospital and Sky Harbor Airport.
Where did you grow up?
Shady Cove, Oregon
Growing up, what did you want to be?
A marine biologist
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
First and foremost, I meditate! Every single morning and some days in the afternoon and evenings. I also love spending time cultivating my Bonsai.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Elon Musk. He’s a visionary and a creator at the highest level.
What is Phoenix’s best-kept secret?
We’re centrally located in proximity to so many wonderful places. The forests up north are a short drive, the California ocean and Rocky Point are not far, and incredible adventures in places like Cabo San Lucas and Cancun are a short flight away.
What do you love most about the industry?
Besides the ability to substantially grow one’s network of high quality individuals who do great work, the opportunities available to create multiple sources of income. Offering products and services that are unique to differentiate from the normal is of greater value to customers. We earn compensation in direct ratio to the value we provide to the market demand.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
Both as an agent and coach, my ability to address clients’ wants, needs, fears and concerns cultivates a level of trust in me so that I can guide them through defining a clear intention of their desired results. Once we’re both abundantly clear on the highest and best outcome, I diligently provide my insight derived from a vast experience of mistakes and successes spanning over more than two decades.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
There are occasionally situations where the opposite party in a transaction operates from a faulty “win-lose” perspective where they need my client to experience a loss, sacrifice or lack that directly benefits them so they can feel they have the upper hand. It requires self-awareness in order to extend grace and compassion towards them when articulating a different solution where both parties receive exactly what they want without negatively impacting the other.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Decide on the specific target audience you enjoy serving. Identify their wants, needs, fears and concerns so you address those in your unique value proposition.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
I’m constantly listening to a book with several in my queue. The areas I love to learn about most involve personal development, spirituality and entrepreneurship.
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
For the majority of my life I was overweight. In 2016 I weighed 243 lbs and released 63 pounds effortlessly in a matter of months by reframing my self-image and the relationship I had with myself.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Anywhere in nature where there’s tall trees and a river or lake in solitude. Nature is the greatest equalizer of energy and the best environment for me to recalibrate. I enjoy absolute silence to sit with self, it gives me clarity and inner peace.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Never, ever, ever quit.
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Dr. Joe Dispenza, Alan Watts, Neville Goddard, Ram Dass and Bob Proctor. Even though the last four are deceased, their profiles are maintained with content from their life’s work.
What are your social media handles?
Facebook: Justin Thorstad
Instagram: @justinthorstad
YouTube: Entrepreneur Mindset Coaching