What Marathon Training Taught Me About Real Estate (and Life)

When I decided to train for a marathon, I thought I was just signing up for a physical challenge. What I didn’t expect was how much the journey would teach me about persistence, discipline, and adaptability — lessons that go beyond running and influence how I approach real estate, relationships, and life itself.

Lesson 1: Start with a Clear Goal, and Break It Down

Marathon training begins with a big goal — running 42.2 kilometers. But no one just wakes up and runs that distance. It’s broken down into smaller, manageable runs that build strength and endurance over time.

Real estate is the same. Whether it’s helping a first-time buyer find their dream home or assisting a seller in a competitive market, the process requires breaking a larger goal into actionable steps. As a REALTOR®, I guide my clients through each phase — one step at a time — making the overwhelming feel achievable.

Lesson 2: Consistency Is Key

Training isn’t glamorous. It’s about showing up, rain or shine, and putting in the miles. There were days I didn’t feel like running, but I laced up my shoes anyway because consistency is what leads to success.

In real estate, consistency is equally crucial. Staying on top of market trends, maintaining communication with clients, and following through on promises — it’s these steady efforts that build trust and deliver results.

Lesson 3: You Have to Adapt to the Unexpected

Every runner knows the weather can change, routes can be blocked, and injuries might happen. The ability to adapt is essential. During my training, I learned to listen to my body and adjust my plan when needed.

In real estate, the unexpected is part of the game — offers fall through, inspection issues arise, or market conditions shift. The key is to stay flexible, find creative solutions, and keep moving forward. This mindset ensures my clients feel supported no matter what challenges arise.

Lesson 4: Support Makes All the Difference

Training alone is tough, but having a support system — friends who cheer you on, training partners who push you, or family who helps you recover — makes the journey not only easier but more meaningful.

In my career, I aim to be that support for my clients. Buying or selling a home can feel like a marathon, and having someone in your corner who believes in your goals and works tirelessly to achieve them is invaluable.

Lesson 5: Celebrate the Wins, Big and Small

Crossing the finish line of my first marathon was exhilarating, but the smaller milestones along the way—like my first 10k without stopping — were just as rewarding.

In real estate, those little wins matter too. Whether it’s finding a client their dream home or successfully navigating a tricky negotiation, I make a point to celebrate the journey. Those moments of progress keep the motivation high and remind us why we started.

Running and Real Estate: A Shared Journey

Marathon training taught me that success comes from a mix of preparation, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace the process. These lessons are deeply embedded in how I approach my work as a REALTOR®.

So, whether you’re lacing up for a race or searching for a home, know that the journey might be challenging — but with the right mindset and support, the finish line is always within reach.

Ready to Start Your Real Estate Journey?
Just like marathon training, finding the perfect home or selling a property takes strategy, perseverance, and a trusted guide. Let’s work together to achieve your real estate goals — one step at a time.

Blake Chancey,
Personal Real Estate Corporation
South Delta Resident and Real Estate Agent

blakechanceyrealestate@gmail.com
604-788-0480

A Day in the Life of a Tsawwassen REALTOR®

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a REALTOR®, let me pull back the curtain and show you. No two days are the same, but every day is packed with a mix of strategy, hustle, and connection. Here’s a glimpse into my typical day as a Tsawwassen REALTOR®.

6:00 AM – A Morning That Sets the Tone

I’m an early riser — it’s the only way to stay ahead in a fast-paced market like Tsawwassen. My mornings usually start with a workout, whether it’s training for a marathon or taking Boomer and Leo for a walk along Centennial Beach. This sets the tone for the day, giving me energy and focus.

After that, I check in on emails and market updates. What’s new? What’s pending? What trends are we seeing in the local market? Staying informed is non-negotiable for me in real estate.

8:00 AM – Coffee and Client Calls

With a strong coffee in hand, I dive into client calls and planning. From discussing listings with sellers to checking in with buyers about new properties hitting the market, mornings are all about making connections and laying the groundwork for the day.

I’ll also confirm showings and touch base with other agents, and coordinate schedules. Tsawwassen is a tight-knit community, and building relationships within the industry is just as important as connecting with my clients.

10:00 AM – Showings and Tours

By mid-morning, I’m usually out the door for property showings. Whether I’m walking buyers through a charming Beach Grove bungalow or touring a stunning Boundary Bay waterfront property, this is where the magic happens.

Every showing is an opportunity to highlight not just the home, but the lifestyle. I don’t just sell square footage — I sell the community, the lifestyle, the proximity to Centennial Beach, the walkability of Ladner Village, and the small-town charm that makes Ladner and Tsawwassen unique.

1:00 PM – Lunch (Sometimes on the Go)

Lunch is often a quick bite in between appointments. If I’m lucky, I’ll squeeze in a stop at one of my favourite local spots, like L’aromas. Supporting local businesses is a big part of why I love working in this area — it is all about community for me.

2:00 PM – Staging and Marketing Prep

Afternoons are often dedicated to prepping listings for market. This might involve working with stagers to ensure a home looks its best or collaborating with my go-to photographer and videographer to capture the property’s appeal.

I’ll also fine-tune marketing plans — writing engaging property descriptions, strategizing social media posts, or reviewing analytics to see what’s working. Presenting a home to the market is an art, and I make sure every detail is on point. This is when I post ads, and order my print marketing materials as well. I have an extensive custom marketing plan for each listing.

4:00 PM – Negotiations and Offers

Late afternoons often bring negotiations. Whether it’s crafting a competitive offer for buyers, or reviewing offers with sellers, this is where the stakes are high and the adrenaline kicks in.

Negotiations are about more than numbers — they’re about understanding people, reading situations, and finding a win-win. It’s not always easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

6:00 PM – Evening Showings or Networking Events

Evenings often mean more showings, or seller meetings, especially for clients who work during the day. Alternatively, I might attend a community event or meet with clients to discuss their next steps.

Tsawwassen’s real estate market doesn’t stop at 5:00 PM, and neither do I. This is also a great time to reconnect with my network and keep a pulse on what’s happening locally, as well as check what else hit the market since I looked last (which was likely just an hour ago!).

8:00 PM – Wrapping Up

After a long day, I spend some time reviewing the day’s progress and planning for tomorrow. I might catch up on emails, review contracts, or research properties for clients.

Before calling it a night, I’ll relax with my partner and our two dogs, Boomer and Leo — maybe with a walk around the neighbourhood or some quiet time at home. Balance is key in this business, and having a moment to recharge is what keeps me energized and ready for the next day.

Why I Love What I Do

Being a REALTOR® isn’t just a job — it’s a lifestyle. I get to help people make one of the biggest decisions of their lives, all while showcasing a community I am passionate about, and have lived in my whole life. The fast pace, the problem-solving, the connections — it’s all part of what makes this career so fulfilling.

Let’s Connect
Thinking about buying or selling in Tsawwassen? I’d love to help you navigate the market and achieve your real estate goals. Whether it’s answering questions or guiding you through the process, I’m here to make your journey seamless and successful.

Blake Chancey,
Personal Real Estate Corporation
South Delta Resident and Real Estate Agent

blakechanceyrealestate@gmail.com
604-788-0480