A life-altering experience set me on a new path, reshaping my perspective on what truly matters and guiding me toward a more meaningful life. 

It hit me like a ton of bricks—in 2011, I had a spiritual awakening so intense that it felt like God Himself had hit me upside the head. This awakening was a profound realization that I had been living my life out of line, consumed by the relentless pursuit of success and money. I lost my drive for wealth almost overnight and began to question the foundation of my life and motivations.

For much of my life, I was hustling to build stability. Growing up in St. Paul, I’d collect and sell golf balls as a kid, pulling in about $40 a day—big money for my family back then. After high school, I joined the Navy during the First Gulf War. The military taught me self-discipline and how to push myself without needing direction.

When I left the Navy, I returned home to find my younger brother struggling in school. He was on a downward spiral, 

and I couldn’t let him fail. So, I took on three jobs, enrolled him in a private school, and did everything I could to support him. My own ambitions were put on hold. During this time, my mom suggested I try real estate, a field she had been involved in most of her life.

I threw myself into real estate with intensity. I built a successful career, earning a reputation as the "Townhome King." At my peak, I was selling multiple properties before noon, and clients lined up for my services. My business was booming, and I was making more money than I ever imagined. But the 2007-2008 financial crisis changed everything.

When the market crashed, I lost nearly a million dollars in land development deals. My financial situation crumbled, and the life I had built seemed to

vanish overnight. I was bleeding money from my rental properties and faced devastating losses. The pressure was immense, and it didn’t stop at my finances—I lost a 13-year relationship too.

I hit rock bottom. I went from living in a big house to renting a room from a friend. My identity, once tied to my financial success, was shattered. It was in this desperate state that my spiritual awakening occurred. 

This awakening was a wake-up call. I realized that my endless pursuit of money had been hollow. I developed a new outlook on life, focusing on treating others well, not worrying about their opinions unless I had wronged them, and not wasting time on things I couldn't change. I decided to pursue what truly mattered to me, knowing life is too short.

Returning to real estate after the crash, I was a different person. The business was no longer just about making money; it was about finding fulfillment in helping others. I began advising clients with empathy and honesty, guiding them through the market with their best interests in mind. I’m still my normal outgoing self, but this journey has made me more focused on helping people and forming genuine relationships.

During this transformative period, I reconnected with Maila, who I met years ago when I was stationed in the Philippines. Twenty-five years later, we found each other on Facebook. She was working as a maid in Singapore, and after months of talking, I convinced her to meet me in the Philippines. We rekindled our relationship and in 2018 got married. Her presence and support during such a transitional time in my life was invaluable. 

Today, I appreciate the importance of sustainability—not just in business, but in life. I advise clients to make smart, sustainable decisions, understanding that life is about more than financial success. I’m more knowledgeable, empathetic, and resilient. This transformation has improved my business and allowed me to live a more fulfilling and balanced life, for which I am truly blessed.

Having weathered the highs and lows of the market, I understand the emotional and financial stakes involved in buying and selling homes. This perspective allows me to connect with my clients on a personal level, guiding them through each step with honesty and compassion. I prioritize their needs and best interests, ensuring they feel supported and well-informed throughout the process. My goal is to make real estate not just a transaction, but a positive and fulfilling experience.

With nearly three decades of experience, I have honed a unique blend of skills that set me apart in the industry. Having viewed and shown tens of thousands of homes, I know the houses and housing market better than anyone. To my clients, I offer unmatched value, investment worth, and a knack for picking homes apart, identifying necessary repairs, and the best strategies to take moving forward. For me, the client is more important than the sale. My greatest satisfaction comes from knowing I’ve played a part in helping people make smart real estate investment decisions that will positively impact their lives.

Sincerely,

Darryn Sanders 

Darryn Sanders, REALTOR®
Direct Call/Text 651-428-4346 | DarrynSanders@gmail.com | DarrynSanders.com