From Beef Jerky to Real Estate: Houston’s Thao Nguyen Always Finds a Recipe for Success
It can safely be said that Thao Nguyen has always had a big taste for success. Her parents were major real estate investors in their home country of Vietnam. And then there was this thing about beef jerky.
“In college, I used to own a beef jerky business called “Thao’s Jerky.” I brought it to Warren Buffett as a gift when I met him. He said if I ever get rich selling beef jerky, he will take 10% equity of the company,’’ Thao said.
It wasn’t a chance meeting, either. The reason Thao was in the room with the legendary Oracle of Omaha was due to her top-ranking at the University of Houston.
Thao excelled in the Marketing and Entrepreneurship program, which is ranked No. 2 in the United States. Only 20 students were invited to meet Buffett, a testimony to Thao’s ambition and entrepreneurial skills.
Now a top-producing Houston-area eXp Realty agent who tallied $73 million in sales in 2022, Thao had role models. She was able to observe her parents’ success and it fueled Thao’s own passion for real estate. She learned early on how to communicate with clients and negotiate deals.
“Growing up in the real estate environment where both parents are major real estate investors, I could really understand the potential and important impact of real estate to the economy,’’ she said.
And, it shouldn’t surprise anyone: This dynamo with a 5-agent team still has some time left for beef jerky.
“Now, I mostly make beef jerky as a hobby in my spare time, for hungry family and friends,’’ she said.
Learn More About Thao Nguyen
Gross sales and transactions in 2022: $73 million on 250 transactions.
Brokerage history:
- eXp Realty (March 2021-current)
- Keller Williams (Dec. 2017-March 2021)
Main territory: Houston, Katy, Cypress, Richmond
Main focus: New construction homes
Number of people on team: 5 agents and 3 staff members.
Accolades, accomplishments & awards:
- Keller Williams Memorial Office Rookie of Year (2018 at one of the biggest KW offices in Houston with over 700 agents)
- No. 2 in unit sales at KW Memorial office (2019)
- No. 9 Realtor in South Texas Region for individual units (2020)
- Closed $42 million in 2021
- Closed $73 million in 2022
When and why did you join eXp?
“I joined eXp in March 2021. I heard about eXp through Huy Nguyen. Close-minded, I did not want to open up a conversation about switching brokers even though so many people tried to recruit me, including Compass, RE/MAX and other brokerages. I was very comfortable at KW, and they treated me well as a top producer. However, when I decided to grow and expand my staff and infrastructure, the KW model didn’t make sense anymore. I find value in the opportunities that eXp gives to the top agents. They not only reward you with awards and recognition, but also company stock and equity. I have confidence that I will always cap and will be able to get 100% of the cap back after becoming an ICON agent, which is a huge benefit.”
What has the eXp model done for your business?
“I like how the eXp model helps me with the retention of my team members. The model encourages us to build leaders instead of workers. Early on, I was too focused on production and not on revenue share. That was a huge mistake. I am very passionate about helping other agents succeed with eXp technology and the business model. I think this is a life-changing model and the best and fastest way for me to create passive income and build generational wealth for my family and others.”
How has your production changed since joining eXp Realty?
“Since I joined eXp, I tripled my business in 2021, did $73 million in 2022 and grew the team bigger and stronger.”
What makes eXp special to you?
“I love helping other agents succeed in real estate while building wealth for my family. It’s the WIN NGUYEN (WIN).”
What is one thing about eXp that surprised you?
“The collaboration and the willingness to share.”
Best tip to share with other agents:
“Start using a separate work phone so you can hire help when your production is increasing. Smart number by kvCORE (a VOIP voiceover IP) is by far the best decision I ever made.”
7 Fun Things About Thao Nguyen
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Sitting on a hammock at Waikiki Beach and watching the sunset.
Who is the person you most admire?
My fiance. He is a perfect example of a successful man who has financial freedom and time. I want to be like him when I grow up 
One thing you can’t live without?
Acai bowls.
One trait that has led to your success?
Learn quickly and adapt to the environment.
Song you never tire of?
“Always Remember Us This Way,” by Lady Gaga.
Favorite meal?
Vietnamese Street Food and Noodle Soup.
Your epitaph will say:
Live to Inspire.
__________
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