Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe Timberlake.
Hi Joe, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in the quaint country town of Rockville, VA just west of what is now Short Pump outside of RVA with an immediate love for the outdoors, animals and music. My youth was spent playing most sports and attempting to be a skateboarder. My pre-teens led me to dive heavily into music after getting my first guitar at 8 and drum set at 12. I played in several bands for the next few decades in genres ranging from punk rock, metal, funk, jazz fusion, jam, electronica and more. I even DJed for many years into my early 30s at some of the biggest venues in the area and smaller clubs across the country. I was having the time of my life, but there was a catch.
I barely squeaked through high school and eventually graduated from VCU (Go Rams!) in 2006 after 6 years of indecision and switching majors multiple times all while living the fast life in the subcultural spotlight. My inner demons from past traumas and self narratives concerning my worth, purpose, imposter syndrome and excessive behavior fueled a regularity of self destruction as I found myself in the grips of alcohol and substance abuse to numb my thoughts, anxiety and to be the life of the party, until it didn’t work anymore. Fortunately and by the grace of God, I was spared any significant damages. In 2015, just a few years after entering the Real Estate arena, I knew I had to make a change. A big one that was terrifying at the time. To give up the lifestyle, the behaviors, and the mindset that I’d grown so comfortable with and shift my sense of “fun” to a life focused on preservation, service, recovery and responsibility.
I’ve been sober for almost 11 years now and have a life (while far from perfect) that I couldn’t have fathomed back then. I met my amazing wife who I’m tremendously grateful for every single day. I’m in my best physical, mental and spiritual shape of my life at 43 and get to show up fully for my clients, my family and myself. In 2016 I co-founded the first chapter of Refuge Recovery in Virginia which has since spread across the commonwealth. I remain very active in my local recovery community with AA serving as my keystone.
Through this transformation and persistence for a better life, I gained some traction. Some confidence. Some much needed leverage over my past decisions that no longer served me. I bounced around Real Estate firms with increasing success until the day came when I decided it was time to go in a new direction.
When the world was shut down, in-person team meetings ceased, and life as we knew it shifted,
I started my own brokerage in late-2020 and haven’t looked back. I’m able to be authentic and thrive with a new outlook on life and sincerely become the broker, man, husband, step father, son, uncle and friend that would have been impossible 11 years ago. My business runs almost entirely off of referrals from satisfied clients who I’ve been able to wholeheartedly serve at some of the most pivotal points in their lives. No advertising, no gimmicks, just hard work and on-brand dedication. My gratitude knows no bounds for the second chances I’ve been given and for the willingness to continue learning and growing as I trust the best is yet to come. I owe it to myself and those around me.
These days I live for good health, positive relationships, almost daily exercise, making music, playing handyman and landscaper around the house, spending precious time with my wife, our chickens and two French bulldogs while never losing sight of the countless priorities and obligations I owe to my clients at every phase of their home buying, selling or investing journey. I also love nerding out on Wordle and most of the other NYT games.
I’m honored and grateful to be a living testament of what keeping hope alive looks like through resilience and an existence based on love. Less fear. Less worry. More joy and more sacred love. Thank you for reading my story and never underestimate the ripple effect and positive impact you can have on yourself, those around you and the world at large.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Rarely a smooth road, but with patience, practice, resilience and a deep desire for growth, things tend to work out as they’re supposed to. Of the hundreds of deals I’ve been involved with, each one is different and teaches me something new.
As you know, we’re big fans of Timberlake Realty RVA. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I specialize in making my clients dreams come true. What sets me apart is my focus on quality over quantity. I didn’t get into this business to make a ton of money, but to be of maximum service to my clients while being compassionate, genuine, authentic and honest. I’m far more likely to tell you why you shouldn’t buy this house or why you shouldn’t sell or invest in that house. I’ll be the first to not let you settle. I dedicate more time, blood, sweat and tears into the entire process than most. And there are some fantastic brokers and agents out there!
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I started out as a lone wolf with little direction, structure or accountability. It wasn’t until I joined a team that my career began to accelerate. So many new agents simply don’t understand the complexities and nuances of the business and only see the glitz and glam from TV or social media. It takes a certain type of individual to survive let alone thrive in an industry with such extreme highs and lows and a constantly evolving landscape. Surround yourself with support and expertise and most importantly, those who compliment your values and objectives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://JoeRVA.com
- Instagram: @timberlake_realty_rva
