Double Down: Lessons from the Tough Markets and a Father’s Legacy
In real estate, it’s easy to feel confident when the market’s booming. Homes sell quickly, buyers compete, and every listing seems to bring momentum. But the true test of a professional isn’t when things are easy — it’s when things slow down.
Right now, many agents are feeling that pressure. Showings are down. Buyers are hesitant. Sellers are cautious. But here’s the truth: tough markets don’t destroy great agents — they refine them.
I know, because I’ve lived it.
The 2008 Crash: The Year That Changed Everything
I’ll never forget the nightmare that was the 2008 real estate crash. It was beyond brutal. The phones went silent. Listings sat untouched. I watched agents — some with years of experience — walk away from the business.
In the middle of that storm, I called my dad — one of the top Realtors in Oklahoma. I told him how bad things were. His response was simple but powerful:
“Double up on everything you’re doing. Double your effort. Double your marketing. Double your calls. Because I promise you, you will reap the rewards later.”
So that’s exactly what I did.
I started marketing four hours every single morning — creating, calling, networking, writing, and posting. I did it relentlessly.
That experience shaped the rest of my career. I learned that when the market slows, it’s not a signal to stop — it’s a challenge to grow. You can’t control the market, but you can always control your mindset, your consistency, and your effort.
“Don’t wish it were easier; wish you were better.” – Jim Rohn
“Success is not owned; it’s leased — and rent is due every day.”
A Father’s Words That Still Guide Me Today
Before my father passed away, he left me a framed list of quotes and principles to live by. It sits in my bathroom to this day, and I read it often — this morning included.
My dad was more than a successful Realtor — he was an honorable man. He led with faith, humility, and discipline. My goal has always been to make him proud. He used to tell me, “I don’t want you to be like me — I want you to be better than me.”
Those words have guided me through every season of my life, and I want to share part of what he wrote:
“Your name is Wyatt Poindexter.
You have a name that stands out — a name people won’t forget. But a name only means something if it’s built on character, integrity, and consistency. Protect it. Honor it. Let it stand for excellence in everything you do.You are in control of your own business. No one is coming to do it for you. Don’t wait for opportunity — create it. Change will never happen until you decide to make it happen.
Work like someone is trying to steal your business — because trust me, they are. Outperform them. Outmarket them. Outwork them. Success doesn’t come overnight, but if you stay the course and refuse to quit, you will eventually rise to the top of your profession.
Always treat others with respect — no matter who they are or where they come from. Your reputation will outlive your transactions. People may forget what you sold, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.
Wake up each day like it’s your last. Work hard. Lead with heart. Start your morning in the Word, and pray about everything. Seek God’s wisdom in your decisions, His strength in your struggles, and His favor in your efforts.
Give 100% every single day — even when no one’s watching. Real success isn’t built on big moments; it’s built on daily habits. Treat this career like a true 9-to-5 job. Show up. Stay disciplined. Mentally clock in every morning and give it your best.
Because you are your own boss.
You write your own story.
And the legacy of your name will be defined not by what you said you’d do — but by what you actually did.”
Every word of that message still applies — not just to real estate, but to life.
“Work like it depends on you. Pray like it depends on God.”
The Lesson: Double Down Now
If you’re in real estate today, or in any business that feels uncertain — this is your time to double down.
When everyone else is slowing down, speed up.
When others pull back, lean in.
When people are waiting for “things to get better,” become better yourself.
This market will change — they always do — but the habits you build now will define who you are when it does.
“Champions are made in the dark, when no one’s watching.”
Discipline, consistency, and faith will carry you through any market. If you stay committed, stay humble, and stay the course, you won’t just survive this season — you’ll thrive because of it.
Tough markets don’t last. Tough agents do.
And the ones who stay consistent now will lead the industry when the storm clears.
Stay focused. Stay faithful. Never waste a day.
– Wyatt Poindexter
Managing Partner | The Agency Oklahoma
405-417-5466 | [email protected]
www.WyattPoindexter.com | www.TheAgencyRE.com
