We had the good fortune of connecting with Ryan Knowles and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ryan, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I’ve always believed that without big risks, you can’t have big rewards. Very early in my career, I took a big risk when I left a steady concierge job at a swanky hotel to work for a real estate broker I had just met. It was an industry I knew absolutely nothing about but it felt like the right thing to do. Several years later, I took an even bigger risk by leaving that broker – who had become my mentor – to go and work at a rival real estate firm. I still remember how frightened I was to resign, but it ended up being the best decision I’ve ever made in my career. More recently, I took my biggest risk yet by starting my very own real estate firm. While the situations may change over time, the risk/reward dynamic will always be there. I truly believe that the biggest winners in life are those willing to take on a healthy amount of risk in pursuit of a big reward.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business caters to the very top end of the residential real estate market, properties valued at $2M or more. While luxury is our specialty, we do sell at all price points. I’ve been fortunate to represent many great clients over the years – from titans of industry and celebrities buying multi-million dollar compounds to young professionals buying their very first homes. Personally, I enjoy the variety. Every transaction and every client is different and you have to tailor your approach accordingly. Real estate is not a one-size-fits-all business. That being said, you never know where your next deal is coming from so it’s hugely important to stay grounded and treat everyone with the same level of respect.
When I started working in luxury real estate 15 years ago, there weren’t many people around that looked like me. I’m proud of the fact that I helped pave the way for so many young black men to enter and thrive in the business. I see throngs of 25 year old agents who are doing well and redefining our industry and I’m thrilled to have been a big part of that change.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For starters, I would take them to Dune for sunset cocktails. It’s by far the most beautiful spot on the island and is a favorite for celebrities and in-the-know locals. After cocktails, we’ll go to Cafe Matisse or Graycliff Restaurant for an elegant dinner, followed by a night of fun and dancing at the Baha Mar Resort & Casino.
The next morning we would get on a boat and cruise down to the Exumas – which feature some of the most beautiful waters in the world! Stops to Highbourne Cay, Staniel Cay and swimming with the pigs would definitely be on the agenda.
On their last day we would go back to Dune for a hearty Bahamian breakfast of chicken souse & Johnny cake. In addition to having the best views on the island, Dune also has the best brunch. Then I’d take them to the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas to take in some local art (our artists are incredibly talented), then head to the airport to make sure they make their flight!
What’s nice about Nassau is that while it’s an island, there’s a ton of fun things to do by day and by night. You never get bored here!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My biggest inspiration in life has always been my mother. From an early age, she instilled certain values in me, the biggest of which were hard work and relying on faith in tough moments. Thinking back to how she was able to juggle multiple jobs along with raising me and my three siblings, it’s a testament to her perseverance, determination and faith.
It’s incredibly inspiring to have someone like that to look up to and I know if I ever get stuck or need a pep talk, she’s only a phone call away. I’m forever grateful for that love and support.
