How Jake Maines Turned Authentic Networking into a Thriving Real Estate Career
October 16, 2025
My guest on today’s podcast is Jake Maines—a realtor whose path to success blends sharp marketing expertise with a passion for building genuine relationships. Before becoming a top-producing agent, Jake spent years mastering digital marketing—running Google ads, crafting SEO strategies, and learning the art of targeted outreach. But during COVID, his own real estate investing goals pushed him to get licensed, and what started as a side hustle quickly became his full-time calling. In this episode, you’ll hear how Jake built his business without cold calls or high-pressure sales. Instead, he’s focused on two things: smart, strategic digital marketing and hosting one of the region’s most popular in-person networking events—Networking Happy Hour—now four years strong and attracting hundreds of professionals each month. We’ll also talk about his transition from salary to commission, how he’s adapted through shifting markets, the value of long-term relationship building, and his take on what real success really means.
- Jake Maines transitioned from marketing to real estate to facilitate his own investments.
- Networking Happy Hour has become a significant lead generator for Jake's business.
- Building genuine relationships is key to success in real estate.
- Jake focuses on midterm rentals to create passive income.
- The real estate market is a roller coaster, requiring adaptability and resilience.
- Success for Jake is defined by financial safety and enjoying his work.
- Networking events should be relational, not salesy.
- Jake emphasizes the importance of negotiation in real estate transactions.
- He believes in the long-term approach to building a successful business.
- Jake values helping out nonprofits and giving back to the community.