Brandon Bushaw - The Deforrest Team

Bridging Dreams in Real Estate and Wrestling

In the dynamic world of real estate, a unique blend of talents and passions defines the journey of Brandon Bushaw. With unwavering dedication, Brandon has carved a path marked by achievements, resilience, and a love for both the world of property transactions and the fierce battleground of wrestling. 

Brandon Bushaw's journey marries his love for wrestling with his passion for real estate, creating a tapestry woven with dedication, joy, and a warrior's spirit.
Brandon grew up in a tiny town called Waite, Maine. He thinks that growing up in such a small town forged his family to be very close. Looking back, he appreciates the amazing job his parents did in raising them. This makes him strive daily to be like the dad his dad was. Brandon learned early on that he loved competitive sports. Brandon believes along with his family, his love of wrestling helped get him to where he is today. “Wrestling is a small sample of what real life is. You have people around you to help you and get you ready, but when you are on the mat, it is up to you to get the job done. Wrestling, a sport that mirrors the challenges of life, played a crucial role in shaping my character. Wrestling taught me the value of perseverance, resilience, and embracing challenges," he reflects.

He started wrestling in high school and was very good at it. In fact, he was so good, he got a scholarship to Michigan State where he majored in Communications and Advertising. Brandon was inducted into the Maine Hall of Fame in 2011, but the most gratifying thing the sport has given him is the ability to coach his kids and the rest of his youth wrestling club, The Carolina Reapers.

From Restaurateur to Realtor
Before his foray into real estate, Brandon and his wife Cynthia owned and operated a restaurant, Island Bar & Grill in Surfside, a venture that began in August 2004. His entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with his fervor for business, laid the foundation for his jump into the restaurant business.  They created an eclectic menu of delicious bar food and great craft beer.

Brandon’s real estate journey is fairly new, but he has already won several prestigious awards including - Rising Star, Multi-Million Dollar Producer, and consistently ranks in the Top 20% of the MLS. Such accolades are a testament to his dedication and proficiency in learning everything he can about this new profession.

"I embarked on my real estate journey in the spring of 2019," Brandon shares. “My sister, Juliann DeForrest and her husband, Trip, had started the DeForrest team within BRG. I had a great staff at the restaurant so had a little time on my hands. I asked her if she thought I should get my real estate license. She thought it was a great idea and wanted me to join her team!” With an already packed schedule, he navigated his online real estate courses, dedicating a few hours each week. After completing his courses and passing the exams in December, he officially launched his real estate career in January 2020.

Brandon's transition into real estate was influenced by a unique opportunity, rather than specific life events. "It was the mutually beneficial situation that intrigued me," he explains.
 
While Brandon has faced his share of challenges, he has weathered them with strength and determination. "The restaurant business experienced market woes in 2008 and the upheaval of Covid in 2020," he recalls. With a mindset of "Embracing The Grind," borrowed from wrestling, he emerged stronger from adversity.

In the dynamic landscape of real estate, Brandon's fervor for learning remains unquenchable. "I am currently learning more about Commercial Real Estate, which has been really fun and slightly intimidating," he reveals. His commitment to growth exemplifies his dedication to providing exceptional service to his clients.

Balancing Act: Professional and Personal Rewards
While helping clients achieve their dreams is inherently rewarding, for Brandon, the real treasure lies in the ability to be present for his family. "The most rewarding thing is being able to coach my kids in wrestling and be there for all of their sports," he shares. Balancing his professional success with his family's growth is his ultimate achievement.

For Brandon, real estate is not just a career, but a dream realized. "I am living a dream now," he exclaims. Working alongside his sister and brother-in-law at The DeForrest Team, he relishes the flexibility to provide for his family while cherishing precious moments with them. To Brandon, success isn't just about personal accomplishments but also about elevating others. "Success is hitting our goals while lifting those around us," he says, reflecting his ethos of teamwork and empowerment.

A Family Anchored in Love
Brandon's family, including his wife Cynthia, and children Aria and Kellen, paints a vivid picture of togetherness. Beyond business and wrestling, they share a love for traveling, especially for wrestling tournaments, accompanied by their dogs Reaper and Dozer.
Outside of real estate, Brandon's competitive spirit extends to his involvement in mixed-martial-arts. From college wrestling to twenty-seven MMA fights, he personifies the grit that defines his character. Beyond the public eye, Brandon's passion for cooking and entertaining shines. Hosting gatherings, preparing meals, and sharing moments with friends and loved ones bring him immense joy.

Brandon's journey offers pearls of wisdom for those aspiring to shine. "Find a mentor and a great company to work for," he advises. The guidance of mentors and the right environment are crucial to success, as exemplified by his journey.

A Joyful Balance
A captivating balance between work and enjoyment is Brandon's signature style. "We can have fun and get the job done at the same time," he asserts. “His philosophy of finding enjoyment in work underscores his success. I am an honest family man who enjoys having a good time. To me, the finer things in life are time and experiences with loved ones.”

For Brandon, the legacy he aspires to leave is one of authenticity, love, and cherished moments. "To be remembered as an honest family man who enjoys a good time," he states, encapsulating the essence of a life well-lived.

In closing, Brandon's message to his children resounds with pride and love. "Aria and Kellen, I am so proud of you both... Keep working hard, expect nothing for free, and the sky is the limit!" This sentiment encapsulates the heart of a father who champions both in the ring of life and in the journey of real estate.