Jonathan Lindley started taking pre-license courses in high school—before he was old enough to even take the exam. Although he was a bit tentative at first, he found his footing and hasn’t looked back.
“Fast-forward 15-plus years later, I wouldn’t have had it any other way,” Lindley says. “This business has been so rewarding to me, and I am truly thankful for every day I get to be a REALTOR®.”
Lindley is now a co-owner and broker in McAllen overseeing more than 20 agents; his real estate specialties include commercial sales and leases, farm & ranch sales, and foreclosure listings.
His advice to new agents is don’t be afraid to ask questions and don’t be afraid to hear the word no. “A close friend and mentor told me that the answer is always no unless I ask the question,” he says.
Lindley became involved in his local association in 2017 and wishes he had sooner. “The networking has been phenomenal, and I feel the people I’ve met and things I’ve learned have elevated my career to a whole new level.”
He became president of the Greater McAllen Association of REALTORS® in 2020. He says the uncertainty surrounding that year greatly impacted him in his association involvement. Instead of waiting for more stability, Lindley rose to the challenge. He fought to have REALTORS® declared essential workers, helped to establish a diversity and inclusion committee, and worked with association staff and leaders to equip their members with the tools necessary to navigate the new and fast-paced market.
“Our industry is constantly changing, and we need to be in front of those changes not only for our fellow REALTORS® but also for the consumer,” Lindley says.
Lindley volunteers with his local and state associations as well as his community at large. Whether leading a food drive or volunteering with his local association to serve meals to underserved communities, raise supplies and monetary donations for assisted living communities, or donating to the local dog shelter, Lindley seeks opportunities to help those around him.
This passion for his community seems to translate well to his career.
I am in a profession that grants me endless opportunities, but more importantly I’m in an industry where I feel I am truly changing people’s lives,” he says. “It’s exciting to wake up and not know how the day is going to play out, who you’re going to meet, or what impact you will have on them!”
About the Award:
The REALTORS® to Watch Award is a Texas Young Professionals Network award recognizing excellence in leadership, community involvement, and everything else that makes a well-rounded young professional successful in real estate. Any active REALTOR® member of Texas REALTORS® under the age of 40 can apply for this award. Click here to check out past recipients of this award and to find out more.