Today we’d like to introduce you to MarkAnthony Ball.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
I’ve always harbored a deep love for real estate, a passion ignited in my childhood as I watched shows like Million Dollar Listing NY & LA, marveling at the stunning homes they featured. Growing up in San Diego, CA, where the landscape is dotted with similar breathtaking properties, my dream seemed like it needed to be more plausible. After graduating high school, I enlisted in the Army, dedicating 12 years of service. As my time in the military drew to a close, I faced a significant amount of debt. Initially, I viewed real estate as merely a means to financial stability, but it quickly became so much more. Licensed in January 2020, I dove headfirst into the industry, recognizing the importance of a strong, relatable brand early on. Remarkably, within seven months, I paid off my debt and discovered a profound joy in assisting clients and families in finding their dream homes. This was all while balancing my duties in the Army, where I served as an Instructor, starting my days at 3 am and ending with client showings well into the evening.
Joining a small boutique brokerage was a deliberate decision to avoid the overwhelming environment of larger firms, which allowed a more personalized learning experience. Despite juggling real estate part-time with my military obligations, I sold over $2.5 million in my first year, earning me the Rookie of the Year award, among other accolades. After leading a team for about a year and a half, we decided to go our separate ways.
In December 2021, a surprising direct message from Tarek El Moussa (yes, that Tarek) on Instagram, which I initially doubted, turned out to be genuinely him. This led to several FaceTime conversations, after which I transitioned to eXp Realty and joined his group at The Agentcy by Tarek El Moussa. In 2022, I was honored with the title of San Antonio Current’s “Best of SA” #2 REALTOR, a testament to my hard work and dedication. Each transaction has been a learning experience, bringing new lessons and tools to refine my business approach. In particular, forward-facing videos have become a hallmark of my brand, and my tagline, “Back with another hat,” grew to be. All the while, they are helping me transition to a referral-based business model. By 2023, I achieved the title of San Antonio Current’s “Best of SA” #1 REALTOR in the city, a milestone that feels like just the beginning.
Philanthropy is a cornerstone of my identity. Within my brokerage, I serve on the Board of Directors for the eXp Young Professionals Network and participate in both State and City Board Young Professional Network Committees. I firmly believe in the potential of the younger generation of agents, who have the skills to excel in an era dominated by the internet. My mission is to demystify the home buying and selling process for anyone in need, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right team to guide them through this daunting journey. After all, who you work with truly matters.
We all face challenges, but would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It could be smoother; I’m good at making it look that way. There are days when buyers backed out of the only contract I’ve had for the month, a listing I had under-appraised, a client I forgot to check in on ended up buying/selling with another agent, or because I didn’t do what I was supposed to do (thanks coach), I had nothing in the pipeline. But with these challenges, I’m always grateful to learn. No one tells you that once you get your license, that’s when the real work begins. Branding, marketing, systems, and processes are all things I’ll never have a complete grip on, but for now, it’s finally working the way I need it for my business.
As you know, we’re big fans of Ball International Real Estate Group. What can you tell our readers who might not be as familiar with the brand?
My business stands at the intersection of passion, expertise, and innovation in the real estate industry. Specializing in helping clients find (or sell) their dream homes, I bring a unique blend of military discipline and real estate savvy. Known for my robust and relatable brand and forward-facing video marketing strategy, I’ve carved out a niche that resonates deeply with clients and peers alike. What truly sets me apart is my dedication to a personalized, client-focused approach, combined with my deep knowledge of the VA manual, making me an invaluable resource for veterans and active military personnel looking to navigate the home-buying process.
My journey from a military career to becoming the San Antonio Current’s “Best of SA” #1 REALTOR in the city in 2023 is a blend of two very different niches combining into a detailed and client-focused business. Transitioning to eXp Realty and joining The Agentcy by Tarek El Moussa has broadened my horizons and enhanced my ability to serve my clients with even greater resources and support. Virtual tours are where I differ from many other agents. I go in-depth into the home, ensuring you know this guest bedroom is only large enough for a full-sized bed or the cabinets are slightly crooked. Many of my clients are military buyers and will never see their homes until the PCS arrives. It’s my responsibility to record a high-quality video explaining not only the home they will purchase but also the neighborhood.
Brand-wise, I am most proud of the trust and credibility I’ve built on social media and my in-person relationships within the city, evidenced by my transition to a referral-based business model. This shift directly results from my focus on creating genuine connections, understanding client needs at a deep level, and delivering results that exceed expectations. My brand is built on the foundation of giving back, not just in transactions but also through my involvement with the eXp Young Professionals Network and contributions to the real estate community. I want readers to know that my brand and services are about more than just transactions; they’re about creating meaningful, lasting impacts on people’s lives, empowering the next generation of realtors, and continuously innovating to meet and exceed the evolving needs of the real estate market. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a veteran, or looking to sell, I am here to ensure your experience is seamless, supported, and successful.
What’s next?
As far as business goes, this year is about returning to the basics of open houses, more networking, loving on my clients who have bought and sold with me, growing the next generation of real estate agents through mentorship, and continuously improving processes. Personally, my fiancé Justin and I are planning our wedding for next year. The most important is finding the right venue and planner and ensuring we have the proper budget. Our wedding is a love letter and a “thank you” to everyone who has loved and supported us as individuals and a unit.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bigretx.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markanthonyball/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarkAnthonyy.B
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markanthonywball/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markanthonyball
