20 Under 40: Ace Lahli
Ace Lahli – REAL ESTATE
Age: 29
Business: Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate
High School: Plano Senior High School
College: UTD
Community Involvement: Dallas Millennial Club along with volunteering opportunities done through my firm, Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate.
Ace Lahli used to drive through the Park Cities as a child, staring in amazement at the large, beautiful houses that are synonymous with the area. Now, he’s selling those very homes. In two years as a real estate, agent Lahli sold almost $20 million in volume while dealing with units ranging from condos to mansions. He’s a member of the Dallas Millennial Club and participates in countless volunteer opportunities through his firm, Dave Perry-Miller. As a resident of Uptown, Lahli loves being able to walk everywhere, and he’s a big fan of the beach, steak, Game of Thrones, and the television show Million Dollar Listing: LA.
What is the best advice you received when beginning your career? Don’t sell yourself out and remain true to who you are. Stay consistent with hard work and grit and eventually things will fall into place. It doesn’t happen overnight nor right away, but the longer you stick to it, the more likely it is to happen. And always remember, never give up because, in the end, you will be alright.
What is your business philosophy? Do good and be good. Focus on your clients and the relationship you have with them rather than the potential payday you might have because the stronger the bond between you and them, the more rewarding it will be for both parties because they will have someone they know they can count on and trust and in return, they will refer their friends and family to you. There is no better feeling or compliment than someone referring someone else to you because of the work you put in to help them. I tell my clients that a win for them is a win for me.
What inspires you? Knowing that people trust me with the biggest asset they have, whether it is a $150,000 condo in Uptown or a $4,500,000 estate in Preston Hollow. Having that trust and confidence put in me lets me know that people believe in me, which in turn helps me believe in myself. The more I do that, the more I realize that any goal I set forth can be achieved. You can’t be inspired if you don’t have goals set for yourself because you won’t be able to determine a purpose in doing certain things.
If you could tell 16-year-old you anything, what would you say? Find someone who is doing what you want to be doing and has done it for a long time. Develop a relationship with them and try to shadow them whenever you can so that you can see exactly what they do on a day in and day out basis. The best way to learn whatever it is you want to learn is by observing someone who is already successful in doing it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if you think it’s stupid. We have the greatest tool in our hands, the internet, that you can learn so much from if you really want to learn something and take the time in doing so.
What is your proudest career accomplishment? My biggest sale, 4626 Dorset, that was listed at $4,500,000 and just so happened to be my first Preston Hollow listing. The house had been on and off the market for a while so when we took over the listing, people we skeptical because of its history. However, through determination, overcoming objections, and consistent work, we were able to get it sold for our clients, who happened to be some of the friendliest and nicest people ever. We became so close throughout the time of the listing that we all consider each other friends now. That, to me, is super cool because so often you see people do a deal together and then go their separate ways forever.
What did you learn from your best boss or mentor? Never give up. It’s going to be tough at times and you will feel like giving up, but remind yourself that you didn’t come this for to let it all go and call it quits. If you’re overwhelmed and can’t find a solution, take a step back and breathe because every problem can, for the most part, be solved.
What was your first summer job? Cleaning towels at Lifetime Fitness
What do you love about your community? I live in Uptown currently and am not sure where to start on what I love. The fact that I can walk anywhere, from Whole Foods to fine dining to the Katy Trail and everything in between. You have the nightlife options as well as the more low-key options, giving you an endless amount of options and activities to do. Not to mention, you can’t beat all the brunch options you have!
Where is the best place for a business power lunch in Park Cities or Preston Hollow? I personally love R&D in Preston Center because of the ambiance, food options, and quick service. You can sit down and discuss business while enjoying a nice meal without feeling rushed or pressed for time.
What is your fondest Park Cities or Preston Hollow memory? Driving through the neighborhoods when I was younger and in complete awe of the homes, I would see. It was a reminder that anything and everything is possible if you have the right work ethic.
Where will we find you enjoying your hard-earned time off? Wherever there is a beach!
What do you want your last meal to be? A medium rare filet with a side of lobster mac and cheese, accompanied by a nice glass of Malbec (thank you Del Frisco’s).
What is your favorite color? lack. I’m a big fashion guy and black just goes with everything.
What fictional world or place would you like to visit? The 7 Kingdoms from Game of Thrones
If you could be on a reality TV show, which one would you choose? Million Dollar Listing LA. I used to live in LA and would drive around Beverly Hills and Malibu, gushing over the properties I’d see.
What would your superpower be? To time travel. I would love to go back in time and teach my then-self everything I know now.
