Meet your President 2024-2025

Tim Jackson brings over 6 years of hands-on real estate experience to his role as President. A well-respected leader in the Prince Edward Island real estate community, Tim is known for his deep knowledge and innovative approach. With a genuine passion for helping people, he’s earned a strong reputation for guiding clients through the often-complex world of real estate with ease and confidence. Tim’s dedication to his clients shines through in the 100+ glowing RealSatisfied Client Testimonials he’s received. These testimonials are a testament not only to his expertise but also to his heartfelt commitment to meeting each client’s unique needs. 

What motivated you to pursue a leadership role in this organization?

When I became a REALTOR® in 2018, I quickly realized the importance of contributing to the profession. My first step was joining the PEIREA Forms Committee because I saw opportunities to enhance the standardized forms we rely on. Over the years, my involvement deepened as I gained a broader understanding of the PEIREA's value to its members. This journey led me to serve on the Board of Directors, then as President Elect, and now as the current President, where I am committed to supporting both our current and future member.

What are you most looking forward to in your role as president?

As the new President, my top priority is member engagement and transparency. I want every member to truly understand the vital role that PEIREA plays in our daily operations as REALTORS®️ here on PEI. It’s important to me that members feel heard and know that their voices matter when it comes to making changes. I also want to ensure that everyone has a clear understanding of the valuable resources and support that PEIREA offers. My hope is to inspire more members to get involved in our committees and to work together to strengthen our industry as a whole. We’re all in this together, and by collaborating, we can make a real difference.

Can you tell us about a personal experience that significantly shaped who you are today?

One of the most defining experiences in my life occurred during my teenage years. At just 15, I found myself without a home due to my parents' divorce, which led to the breakdown of my family. I had to move in with a friend and his family, all while balancing full-time work and high school. This challenging period forced me to grow up quickly and ingrained in me a strong "fight or flight" mentality. It taught me resilience and the ability to handle stressful situations, skills that continue to shape who I am today.

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of your professional life?

As I've entered my thirties, my hobbies and interests have naturally evolved. One of my favorite ways to unwind is driving. You'd think that after spending so much time on the road in this industry, I'd be tired of it, but there's something incredibly calming about hitting the open road with the music turned up. Beyond that, I genuinely enjoy helping others. Whether it's fixing something or lending a hand where specific skills are needed, I find satisfaction in being able to assist whenever I can.

Who has been a major influence or mentor in your life, and why?

When it comes to personal mentors, my grandfather Harvey, or "Pop" as I called him, has had a huge impact on me. I credit him with my quick wit and sense of humor—anyone who knows me knows I always have a comeback ready. On the professional side, my last boss, Randy Johnston, played a significant role in shaping my career. When I was just 19, he entrusted me with managing one of his locations, giving me the freedom to learn and grow. His wealth of experience in managing a business, people, and situations provided me with tools I still rely on today. In terms of an industry mentor, that would be Kendra Stretch. She's the reason I initially got into real estate, and I've learned a great deal from both her successes and challenges, adapting those lessons to fit my own business model.

What book, movie, or piece of music has had the most impact on you personally?

The movie Erin Brockovich has had a significant impact on me. It taught me the importance of empathy and caring for others. The film also highlighted that when you're truly passionate about something, you're willing to put in the hard work to see it through to the end.

How do you like to spend your weekends or free time?

Let's talk about free time since weekends often involve showings and open houses. When I do get some downtime, I love staying busy and on the go. Whether it's visiting friends and family, hopping in the car to check out a new restaurant or food truck, or exploring different parts of PEI, I'm always up for an adventure. As for vacations, I'm a big fan of Cancun and usually find myself there with my partner Tyler and friends during the Christmas holidays and mid-spring.

What is one thing you’re passionate about that might surprise us?

Vacuum cleaners—sounds strange, right? Ever since I could walk, I've been fascinated by them. I'd always find someone's vacuum, take it apart, put it back together, or fix it. Even today, it's still something that captures my interest.

Can you share a meaningful lesson you’ve learned from a past failure or challenge?

One of the most meaningful lessons I've learned is that we're selling houses, not saving lives. When I first started as a REALTOR®️, I would internalize my clients' stress—if they were anxious, I was anxious, and if something went wrong, I took it personally. Over time, I've learned the importance of stepping back and "pumping the brakes." Sometimes, you need to take a moment, an hour, or even a day, depending on the situation. And if you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask for help. It's crucial to clear your head, accept guidance when it's offered, and remember that at the end of the day, we're helping people find homes, not performing life-saving surgeries.

What personal values are most important to you and how do they influence your decisions?

The personal values that matter most to me are trust, transparency, and integrity. I want my clients, whether buying or selling, to feel confident that the decisions they're making are grounded in trust. It's essential to disclose everything to the best of your knowledge so that clients can make informed, sound decisions based on the advice I provide. Without these three principles—trust, transparency, and integrity—who are you really advocating for? It should always be about serving the best interests of your clients, not your own.

What was your first job, and what did it teach you about work and leadership?

My first job was as a Full Serve Attendant with Irving Oil when I was 15. That job taught me that hard work and going the extra mile eventually pay off. What started as a simple gig evolved into a full-fledged career, leading me through various roles until I was managing my own location. From there, I exceeded expectations and was entrusted with an even larger location. One of the most important lessons I learned was that if you no longer enjoy going to work, it’s time to make a change. When it comes to leadership, I realized that not everyone will like you or agree with the changes you make. However, effective leadership is about implementing changes and procedures that benefit everyone, not just yourself.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

If I could have dinner with any historical figure, it would be Robin Williams, hands down. You want to win me over? Just make me laugh—the kind of laugh where you're gasping for air and wondering if you might need an oxygen mask. With Robin at the table, every event would have a hilarious twist, and I'd probably spend the entire dinner trying not to snort my drink out of my nose.

What is a goal or dream you have outside of your professional aspirations?

To keep waking up every day, look in the mirror, and still love what I’m doing.

Can you share a favorite memory or experience from your time working in this field?

It's hilarious now, but at the time, not so much. I was helping a client with mobility issues sell his home, and part of the offer was locating and digging up the septic tank cover. I thought, "No problem, just a shovel and some dirt." Well, there I was, digging away while the seller watched from the window, cheering me on with a classic, “Ya should almost be there, b’y!” One mighty swing of the shovel later, I found it all right—the septic cover gave way, and my whole leg plunged into a septic tank that hadn't been pumped in over 20 years. And did I mention this was mid-November? There I was, lying on the ground, screaming and gagging, while the seller just said, “Oh Jaysus, ya found’r, are ya alright?” I ended up leaving my client’s home with one Blundstone boot sacrificed to the septic gods, no pants, no socks, and just a dress shirt—facing a 35-minute drive home. Looking back, it’s funny… but at the time, I was pretty sure my real estate career was going down the drain along with that boot.

What is your approach to work-life balance, and how do you manage it?

Starting out, this was a huge struggle for me. I was constantly "on," probably a habit leftover from my management days—except this time, there was no guaranteed salary to soften the blow! I’d be answering phone calls at 10 PM, trying to solve problems that couldn’t possibly be fixed at that hour. And then, of course, I’d be up all-night stressing about it. Eventually, it clicked: some things just have to wait. If you can’t fix it now, tomorrow is the next best thing. Once I realized that, my stress level took a nosedive. The truth is, you’ve got to make time for yourself, or your body will make it for you—usually in the form of a cold or some other “forced vacation.” There’s no point in working hard if you can’t kick back and actually enjoy the fruits of your labor.

How do you stay motivated and focused during challenging times?

Treat real estate like a career, and the tough times will be just that—tough times. Treat it like a hobby, and guess what? It’ll pay like a hobby. So, show up, hang out at the office, and use the slow times to get your act together. Hit up your contacts, get your name out there, and sharpen your skills. We’re in an industry that’s always changing—if you don’t change with it, you’ll be left behind, holding a hobby instead of a career.

What personal accomplishment are you most proud of?

Helping my friends start a family has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Even though I never personally wanted children, being able to provide that gift to friends who I knew would be incredible parents has been truly rewarding. Knowing that there’s a little person out there who shares a part of me and with whom I’ll always have a special connection is something I’m deeply proud of and grateful for.

How do you like to celebrate your successes, both big and small?

Always remember to express gratitude to your clients, support system, family, friends, and colleagues. A simple "thank you" can go a long way. When you have the opportunity, offer a helping hand—what might seem like a small gesture to you could mean the world to someone else. Never underestimate the power of kindness and appreciation. Without these folks, there would be no successes.

What’s a personal mantra or quote that you live by?

If you work just for money, you'll never make it, but if you love what you're doing and you always put the customer first, success will be yours - Ray Kroc

If you had to choose a theme song for your life, what would it be and why?

Up! – Shania Twain Anyone who knows me knows I’m a huge Shania fan. And as the song goes, “It can only go up from here,”—which is exactly what you’ll hear blasting from my Subaru as I rock out, pretending I’m Shania’s backup singer. It’s one of those tunes that can turn my day around faster than you can say, “Man! I feel like a woman!” If you ever catch me at a red light, don’t be surprised if you see me belting it out like I’m on stage at the Grand Ole Opry.