By chris.ha
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May 11, 2021
As the drive increases for society to become more inclusive, and provide sustainable and equitable support for Black communities, the real estate sector has come into the spotlight for lack of racial representation. To date, Rod Watson, founder of The Watson Group LAVIPagent team, and Director of Sports and Entertainment at Keller Williams Beverly Hills, has sold and negotiated over $120 million in real estate during his 14 year career. He says, "I've learned a lot of valuable information when it comes to real estate investing. My focus has been to help as many athletes and people of color as I can to generate, and maintain generational wealth through real estate investing. That is my purpose and reason for being in this business." His journey began with a dream to get out of the impoverished 5th Ward community in Houston, Texas, the community which he grew up in, and make his name in sports. He did that and so much more. Today, a successful Realtor in the luxury market, Rod counts his clients as some of the most recognised names in sports and entertainment. Yet, this real estate professional is much more than a salesman. I caught up with Rod to learn more about the switch from professional sports to real estate, and why he made a pledge to himself to put diversity and inclusion at the heart of what he, and his industry does.