The pandemic pushed me to finally pursue the freedom and impact I’d been craving for years.

 

When the pandemic hit, I was running a movie theater. I loved that my job empowered people—using art as a vehicle to inspire and build confidence—but I had reached a breaking point with my schedule. I wanted more flexibility. I wanted control over how I spent my days. I wanted to be an entrepreneur.

 

This probably didn’t surprise anyone who knew me since I’ve always been a people person. Since college, I’ve wanted a career that lets me collaborate and contribute to a larger purpose. After earning my journalism degree, I left Wisconsin and headed to Washington, D.C. The energy of the political world was contagious. I liked being part of something that had a real impact.

 

As an administrative assistant, I picked up skills I still use today—treating people with respect, communicating clearly and often, giving regular updates, and always asking, “How can I help you?”

 

I had a good run, but when my wife, Kayla, got pregnant, we moved back to Wisconsin so our son, Rowan, could be born close to family. Without knowing it, that move marked the beginning of my real estate journey—but it wasn’t immediate. Over the next eight years, I worked across different industries—retail, sales, hospitality, and managing a movie theater. Through it all, I kept gravitating toward roles where I could teach life skills and mentor people.

 

But as much as I loved that aspect of my work, I kept feeling trapped by rigid schedules and a lack of freedom. The pandemic forced me to reflect on my life. I believe one has to prioritize to succeed—you have to focus on what you’re good at and let other things go.

 

I knew I was good with people. I knew I was good at management and helping others dream bigger—seeing possibilities they hadn’t yet imagined. And I had always been intrigued by real estate. I thought, Maybe this is the moment.

 

I took the leap, motivated and determined, but the transition was rough. Some months were slow, and more than once I thought about quitting. I wasn’t sure if I could continue working solely in real estate. I was at a crossroads: give up or refocus.

 

I chose to refocus. To recommit. To double down on the activities that would move my clients forward.

 

After that decision, my business grew—and I had some of my best months ever.

 

Today, my son Rowan is 13. I coach his baseball team, both to stay involved with him and to give as many children as possible the chance to play. With my wife I help raise funds to support our local schools by coordinating "Nickel Night"—too often, schools can’t run at full potential because of a lack of resources. More importantly, I want teachers to dream big, to design the class they want to teach without worrying about the budget.

 

I take the mindset of "let's make it happen" with my real estate clients. I encourage them to dream—not to limit their vision to their budget, but rather to dream about what they want first. That’s where great things begin.

 

For me, real estate is about helping people dream big and then take the steps to turn that dream into reality.

 

Homeownership is an achievable goal for everyone—with the right plan and support. I take a positive, practical approach, working closely with each client to create a clear path toward homeownership. Every client’s situation is unique, and I lead with empathy, patience, and problem-solving. Whether the process takes six months or six years, I’m committed to staying by my client’s side for as long as it takes. I have a special passion for helping first-time homebuyers. I take the time to teach them the entire process, empowering them to move forward with confidence and clarity.

 

Above all, I’m a strong advocate for my clients, determined to help them find a home that truly fits their needs. I value building relationships with them—not just completing transactions. Many of my clients become lifelong friends, and I strive to be their trusted real estate advisor for years to come. For me, real estate is about more than buying or selling a home—it’s about helping people create the life they envision.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Jake Johnson

REALTOR®

C: 608.215.3627

jake.johnson@compass.com

JakeKnowsHomes.com