Tonya Knight sits down with broker Maria Quattrone to celebrate a remarkable milestone – her second anniversary as a real estate professional with MQA. What makes this achievement extraordinary? Tonya transitioned from a cosmetology background with zero sales experience after spending seven years as her mother's caregiver.
The raw, emotional conversation reveals how TO\onya built her business from scratch, including the moment she broke down crying when overwhelmed by new systems and processes. Rather than receiving comfort, Maria's straight-talk approach – "You're not going to get it in one night" – became the catalyst for Tonya's determination. This authentic exchange highlights the significant gap between HGTV's glamorized portrayal of real estate and the gritty reality of building a sustainable business.
Most compelling is Tonya's methodical approach to growth. She details how she expanded from 20 personal contacts to nurturing relationships with 649 clients through consistent follow-up, leveraging MQA's database of over 50,000 opportunities. The disciplined three-point contact system (text, call, email) combined with daily accountability huddles transformed her into a confident agent on track to serve 50 families in just her second year – a testament to the power of trusting the process.
Beyond statistics lies the heart of Tonya's motivation: "Changing my life allows me to change lives for others." Her joy in helping first-time homebuyers across generations reveals what truly drives sustainable success in real estate – genuine care for clients paired with unwavering persistence. Whether you're considering a career change or seeking inspiration to overcome professional challenges, Tonya's journey proves that with the right support system and consistent effort, extraordinary transformations are possible.
💡 Key Takeaways:
- Success doesn't happen overnight—it’s about consistency, faith, and showing up daily.
- Learning the systems is tough at first, but with support and grit, you grow.
- Building a pipeline means building relationships—every person is an opportunity.
- Morning accountability huddles and weekly training drive Tonya’s performance.
- Trusting in God and the process has been Tonya’s guiding light.
📚 Books/Tools Mentioned:
- Follow-Up Boss CRM
- “Be The Solution” methodology
- “F.O.R.D.” framework for conversation (Family, Occupation, Recreation, Dreams)
🗣️ Quotes:
“What you gave me is what I needed.” – Tonya Knight
“It’s not about leads. It’s about opportunities.” – Maria Quattrone
“Changing my life allows me to change the lives of others.” – Tonya Knight
“Most people think real estate is HGTV—it’s not.” – Maria Quattrone
“Every devil has its level.” – Maria Quattrone
Connect with Maria Quattrone:
Facebook: Maria Quattrone
Facebook Page: REMAX at Home Facebook
Facebook Page: Rise in Real Estate Facebook
LinkedIn: Maria Quattrone
YouTube: Maria Quattrone
Instagram: @maria_quattrone
TikTok: mariaquattronerealestate
Website: MQrealesate.com
Office number: 215- 607-3535