Welcome to Ten, CORE founder and CEO Shaun Osher’s rapid-fire interview series with prominent CORE figures. Read on to find out how this week’s subject deals with being on the hot seat.
Ben Jacobs’ affinity for real estate goes beyond the typical parameters of a Manhattan broker. However, working with one of the city’s most respected industry veterans, his path to CORE was anything but ordinary. Here are Ben’s answers to Ten questions:
1. What did you do before you found this career?
I was a student at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY. I always planned on getting involved in the real estate business at some point. My family has been buying and renting buildings in Vermont for the last 40 years, so real estate has always been a common topic at the dinner table throughout my life.
2. What has been the highlight of your career?
Working with Doug Eichman has been an unbelievable experience and certainly a major focal point in my career. Joining CORE with Doug has also certainly been an exciting highlight.
3. What is your greatest daily challenge?
Problem solving. Almost every deal has one or two hiccups. Sometimes that deal takes a turn for the worst, resembling a tragic group project. Managing that deal, and by that, I mean managing your buyer and seller’s expectations, is truly an essential component in consummating the transaction.
4. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Still selling real estate. I hope to own some investment property by then, but I plan to never leave the brokerage side. I really enjoy helping people find their homes.
5. Where do you find inspiration?
I find most of my inspiration through reading and exploring. Traveling also, when I have a chance to get away.
6. Name one thing we might not know about you.
I enrolled in college with the intention of becoming an actor. I used to participate in student-organized shows and short films on campus. I decided I preferred working in the real estate industry. Besides, paying rent and buying groceries became more important and acting just wasn’t paying the bills!
7. What’s your favorite movie or book?
My favorite book is Papillon by Henri Charriere. It is the ultimate story of human perseverance. I also come from a family that has an unquestionable love and respect for movies. For starters, Pulp Fiction is definitely one of my favorite films. I’m a big Tarantino fan; anything dark, pulpy, and noir is right up my alley.
8. What do you do in your free time?
Watch movies, read and explore new movements in NYC, particularly the artisan spirits industry that is currently exploding in Brooklyn.
9. What’s your favorite restaurant.
Red Farm in the West Village. I believe they just opened one on the Upper West Side as well.
10. Tell me something about your home.
It’s shiny and brand new. I live in Williamsburg.