This year FCOED is recognizing and celebrating Frederick County’s EmPOWERED Leaders who are experts and leaders in their industry, give back to the community and add significant value to their company and its culture. Join us every Tuesday and Thursday as we get to know our Top 50 EmPOWERED Leaders.
Ryan BonheyoRealtor, Bonheyo Real Estate Services110A W 3rd St #1
Frederick, MD
www.ryanbonheyo.com
After eight years in the real estate industry, Ryan Bonheyo noticed that the information in American Sign Language within the real estate industry needed to be improved. Ryan strives to fill that gap with his new company, Bonheyo Real Estate Services. In Ryan's first full year as a realtor, he completed over $5 million in real estate sales. In August 2022, Ryan was recognized as one of the fastest-growing agents in the first half of 2022. He also regularly volunteers at the Maryland School for the Deaf to assist with their athletic program.
Tell us about a professional achievement that you feel most proud of.
My favorite part about my role is providing direct communication with my clients. I feel accomplished whenever my clients receive access to information they wouldn't get anywhere else. I had a client who thought buying a home was impossible until they received appropriate guidance throughout the home-buying process. Now, my client is a homeowner for the first time.
What does EmPOWERED mean to you?
To me, EmPOWERED means having the confidence, strength, and resources to pursue your goals and dreams and make positive changes in your life and those around you. It's about feeling capable, in control, and having the knowledge and tools to overcome challenges and obstacles.
What motivates you and why?
My ability to make a difference in people's lives motivates me. It could range from providing appropriate guidance throughout the home-buying process to closing a deal as a Realtor.
Who has influenced you most professionally and why?
My parents have influenced me most professionally. I grew up watching them give their best at their job daily, and they instilled their work ethic in me. They also embraced the idea of me jumping into the real estate industry when I was 24 years old. Had they doubted my move, I would have balked at the thought of starting a business within the real estate industry.
What book or podcast would you recommend and why?
"Shoe Dog" is an excellent book for business owners because it offers a firsthand account of the challenges and triumphs of building a successful company from scratch. The book provides valuable insights into the importance of persistence, creativity, and risk-taking in entrepreneurship, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to start or grow a business.
What behavior or personality trait do you most attribute to your success and why?
Confidence. It allowed me to start something new and develop relationships with my clients.
What personal or professional goal would you like to accomplish in the next 5 years?
In the next 5 years, I aim to continue growing my business and significantly impact the Deaf community locally and nationally.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Try new things earlier. The sooner you try, the sooner you know if it is a good idea.
What is your favorite quote?
“It is thrifty to prepare today for wants of tomorrow.” Aesop
What do you hope to see for the future of Frederick County?
Frederick County has proliferated in the past 20 years, and I hope it will continue to grow to create a vibrant place for all kinds of people to live and work without giving up its charm.
Read Frederick News Post’s article about Ryan: Deaf real estate agent opens his own business, expands resources