Throughout my 19 years in the real estate industry, perseverance has been my guiding principle. From my humble beginnings to becoming the number one Remax agent in the state of Ohio, my journey has been marked by challenges, setbacks, and ultimately, triumphs.

Born and raised in the world of corporate America, I had a fulfilling career with 3M Company in domestic and international business. However, life took a turn when my husband's job brought us to Cincinnati, Ohio. It was here that my curiosity for real estate blossomed, leading me to embark on a new chapter in my professional life.

Making my Mark

I vividly remember the skepticism I faced when I decided to pursue real estate in Cincinnati. With 8,000 agents in the small town, the odds seemed stacked against me. Yet, armed with determination and a thirst for knowledge, I obtained my real estate license and set out to make my mark in the industry.

My first year in real estate was far from glamorous. I sold only one house, earning a meager $1,800. Many doubted my ability to succeed, questioning my decision to leave behind a stable corporate career. Despite the discouraging voices, I refused to be deterred.

In The Face of Adversity

In the face of adversity, I drew inspiration from my background as a track and field runner. Just as in running, success in real estate requires perseverance, discipline, and unwavering determination. I embraced the challenges as part of the journey, knowing that every setback was an opportunity for growth.

With each passing year, my resilience paid off. From five houses to 35, and eventually to over 200 annual transactions, I steadily climbed the ranks in the real estate world. I transitioned from being an individual agent to obtaining my broker license, driven by a desire to give back to fellow agents and provide the mentorship and support that I had lacked early in my career.

Joining eXp Realty

My decision to join eXp Realty in 2020 was a culmination of years of exploration and introspection. I sought a brokerage that shared my values of excellence, integrity, and commitment to client satisfaction. Exp Realty offered the platform and resources to not only thrive as an agent but also to cultivate a community of empowered professionals.

The Importance of Perseverance and Resilience

Reflecting on my journey, I am reminded of the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. Real estate is not for the faint of heart; it requires grit, tenacity, and a willingness to embrace challenges head-on. Success is not measured by the number of transactions or accolades but by the impact we make in the lives of our clients and colleagues.

Key Advice

For aspiring realtors, my advice is simple yet profound: never underestimate the power of perseverance. In an industry as competitive and dynamic as real estate, setbacks are inevitable, but it's how we respond to them that defines our success. Embrace failure as an opportunity to learn and grow, and let it fuel your determination to push past your limits.

Moreover, surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, colleagues, and clients who believe in your potential and inspire you to reach new heights. Seek out opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, whether through workshops, seminars, or networking events.

Real estate agent doing handshake

A Journey

As you navigate the ever-changing landscape of real estate, remember that success is not a destination but a journey. Stay committed to your goals, remain adaptable to change, and above all, never lose sight of the passion that drives you.

In closing, I would like to extend my gratitude to all those who have supported me on this incredible journey – my family, colleagues, clients, and mentors. Your unwavering belief in me has been the driving force behind my success, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Get Into Contact 

Ready to find your dream home or sell your property in the vibrant Cincinnati metro area? Whether you're buying or selling, let's connect to explore your options and navigate the real estate market together. With expertise in areas like Mason, Liberty Township, Madeira, Indian Hill, and Anderson, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. 

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Meet Monika DeRoussel

Monika is a seasoned real estate professional with over 19 years of experience in the industry. Her journey began with a successful corporate career at 3M Company, where she worked in domestic and international business. A move to Cincinnati, Ohio, ignited her passion for real estate, leading her to transition into the dynamic world of residential sales.

Throughout her career, Monika has distinguished herself as a top-performing agent, earning accolades such as the number one Remax agent in the state of Ohio and ranking among the top 100 agents nationwide. Her commitment to excellence, integrity, and client satisfaction has earned her the trust and admiration of clients and colleagues alike.

In addition to her achievements in real estate sales, Monika is deeply passionate about mentorship and education within the industry. She obtained her broker license in 2018 with a vision to empower and support fellow agents on their journey to success.

Monika's dedication to her craft, coupled with her unwavering perseverance, serves as a testament to her resilience and determination to overcome challenges. As she continues to make an impact in the real estate world, Monika remains committed to delivering exceptional service and fostering a culture of excellence within her community.