BRUCE'S STORY

BRUCE'S STORY

Finding the right career can be challenging, and as we grow older, our career paths may undergo significant changes. I, Bruce, have always known that my true passion lies in Real Estate. Despite this, I dedicated years to acquiring my Master's Degree in Counseling, followed by an Educational Specialist Degree in Adult Education. However, my fondest memories from childhood revolve around construction sites, exploring new homes during their construction phase, and immersing myself in various commercial spaces. I had an inherent curiosity about how others lived. When a dear friend asked me what I wanted to do with the rest of my life, I didn't hesitate to answer, "Real Estate." Unfortunately, I doubted the financial prospects in the field compared to my current situation, but I quickly learned how mistaken I was—a friend revealed their income, blowing my mind. This revelation prompted me to delve into the world of real estate and plan my next move.

After two years of closing my counseling office and completing the necessary real estate courses, I established my own company, Urban Realty, in Charlotte. Overcoming numerous obstacles along the way, my company emerged as one of the top three residential sales companies in Charlotte for three consecutive years (2006-2008), according to the esteemed Charlotte Business Journal. Impressively, we achieved this feat even with the fewest number of agents compared to other companies. Recognizing this success, I realized I had tapped into something special. Not only was I enjoying the financial freedom that came with it, but I also witnessed my agents experiencing the same freedom by following the method I had developed. Needless to say, I was in love with my career.

My insatiable thirst for knowledge led me to come across a quote by Aristotle: "The one exclusive sign of thorough knowledge is the power of teaching." This quote resonated with me deeply, and soon enough, I crossed paths with William H. Gallagher, better known as Bill Gallagher, from the Superior School of Real Estate. Embarking on a mentorship that spanned almost two decades, Bill reminded me of my own passion for teaching. Subsequently, I began teaching full-time alongside him at Superior, refining my teaching skills and effectiveness with adult learners. It became apparent that my greatest passion and calling in life was to teach, to impart the wisdom I gained throughout my journey, and to support others in achieving financial freedom through real estate practices and proven principles.

After several years of teaching at Superior, I decided to pursue a statewide position that would grant me more influence and allow me to help aspiring real estate professionals throughout North Carolina. Consequently, I joined the North Carolina Real Estate Commission as the Education and Licensing Officer and later assumed the position of Director of Education and Licensing upon Larry Outlaw's retirement. As Director, I played a key role in implementing and updating educational models and content to cater to the evolving needs of real estate brokers. I supervised a staff of 35 individuals, approved and edited educational materials for the state's Real Estate Manual, developed numerous license examination questions, and undertook various other responsibilities that may bore most of you here.

Parallel to my role at the North Carolina Real Estate Commission, I actively engaged with the Association of Real Estate License Law Officials (ARELLO) through their examination accreditation and education committees.

Throughout my career, I remained actively involved in real estate professional organizations. I served as a board member and former President of the national Real Estate Educators Association (REEA). Moreover, I proudly hold esteemed designations such as Distinguished Real Estate Instructor (DREI), Gold Standard Instructor (GSI), and Gold Standard Leader (GSL). These credentials were obtained through my collaboration with Theresa Barnabei of Course Creators in Arizona.

To further contribute to the real estate education field, I organize and lead Instructor Development Workshops (IDWs) across the country. I am also involved in national and international real estate education initiatives.

Aspire Beyond Limits, my venture, aims to become the leading real estate education provider throughout the Southeast, initially starting in North Carolina. Rest assured, we are actively expanding to more states. I genuinely care about the success of all my students and strive to equip them with comprehensive real estate skill sets to best serve their clients and customers. Over the years, many students have held me in high regard due to my relentless pursuit of up-to-date laws and regulations. Furthermore, my students can rely on me as a constant and trustworthy resource, even long after their classes have ended. I am thrilled that you have taken the time to read this, and I eagerly anticipate assisting you in achieving your goals swiftly.

EDUCATION:
- University of South Carolina- Columbia, SC:                                                                    Educational Specialist Degree (Master's +30)

- Baptist College at Charleston-Charleston, SC:                                                                  Bachelor of Arts Degree

DESIGNATIONS & CERTIFICATIONS:
- DREI - Distinguished Real Estate Instructor
- GSI - Gold Standard Instructor
- GSL - Gold Standard Leader
- NC REALTOR®

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about my background, experience, or the real estate education services I provide, please don't hesitate to reach out. I am committed to helping you excel in your real estate journey and achieve the success you desire. Remember, at Aspire Beyond Limits, your aspirations become our utmost priority. Thank you for taking the time to read this, and I look forward to assisting you on your path to greatness.

Warm regards,

Bruce