What felt like a setback in 2020 was actually the start of the life I was meant to build.

COVID was both my greatest challenge and the most pivotal moment of my life. Up until then, I had been working at CBS Sports as a video editor. Honestly, it was a dream job. I created highlight videos for basketball season—a total win for a sports aficionado like me. But in 2020, like so many others, I was unexpectedly laid off. That layoff opened the door to something that had been brewing in the back of my mind for years: entrepreneurship.

I had been interested in starting a business since high school, largely inspired by my dad. He was a business owner who spent plenty of time at home. His work allowed my mom to be a stay-at-home mom, so both of my parents were always around deeply involved in my life. That foundation shaped me. I became the relaxed and loving person I am today because of their support. We always had everything we needed. I am who I am thanks to them and my faith.

So, by the time I graduated high school, I was interested in business. However, I was also creative and passionate about sports, so I studied communications with a hands-on focus in multimedia production. That path led me straight to CBS. It felt like everything was lining up.

Then the layoff happened. I spent six months not knowing what was next, but as luck would have it, some friends called me with a business idea. My friend’s dad had owned a construction company for 30 years. He was mentoring his son––my friend––to start his own. When they invited me along for the ride, it felt like a now-or-never moment.

I joined them as an acquisition manager, which meant I met with potential clients, understood their needs, and helped create solutions. Sometimes I connected investors with sellers who had distressed properties. Other times, I coordinated house flips or new construction projects. That’s where I learned real estate from the ground up.

I became fluent in the language of the industry and realized there isn’t just one way to do real estate. There are multiple strategies, creative financing options, and flexible paths depending on the situation. That complexity sparked something in me––a desire to get my real estate license. 

I was nervous about the 100% commission-based structure, but I knew I would be good at it. I genuinely love connecting with people. I’m not greedy or sales-driven—I simply enjoy guiding people through one of the biggest financial decisions they’ll ever make.

Today, I’m a full-time REALTOR®, grateful for the layoff that once felt devastating. It changed my life in the most exciting way. Outside of work, I enjoy golfing, attending sporting events with friends, and anything involving the water—whether  that’s being out on a boat or near the ocean. Family remains my priority. I love visiting them and just spending time together. In fact, I look forward to becoming a dad one day. 

Looking back, I can see that what felt like loss was actually redirection. God closed one door and quietly placed me on a path that aligns far more with who I am. Real estate isn’t just my career—it’s my opportunity to serve, to connect, and to create stability for my future family the way my dad did for ours. 

I am guided by what’s best for my clients, always leading with patience and integrity. For me, it’s never about “selling”—it’s about building lasting relationships and earning trust. My background gives me versatility and perspective, allowing me to approach every situation with creativity and care. I’m not driven by quick money; I’m committed to meaningful, well-aligned outcomes.

I work across residential and commercial properties, including wholesaling and distressed homes. I also enjoy exploring creative financing options that aren’t simply black and white. There are multiple ways to buy a house. Part of my role is helping clients see possibilities they may not have considered.

Honesty defines how I operate. I pride myself on being responsive because I know how fast homes move and how frustrating silence can be. Even if it’s just a quick update, I stay in communication. Ultimately, I want to find the right fit—not just close a deal. I understand the stress families face, and I take seriously the responsibility of guiding them with clarity, steadiness, and care.

 

With gratitude,

  

 

Michael Labriola