Editor’s note: In celebration of Pride Month, we are featuring eXp Realty agents who are sharing their stories of service, values and commitments.
In the world of real estate, agents often come from diverse backgrounds, but few have a journey as captivating as eXp Realty agent Nick Nelson. From the bright lights of multiple stages of musical theater and a national tour with Nickelodeon, to the bustling streets of the real estate market, Nick’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and reinvention.
Covid Interrupted His Career on the Stage
Nick’s journey began at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, where he majored in musical theatre. His career took off as he performed in summer theater productions, appeared in a national tour of Nickelodeon shows, and even danced his way through the Caribbean on cruise ships. But it was his role in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage” at Hollywood Studios in Orlando that became a defining chapter in his life. For eight years, Nick enchanted audiences with his performances, becoming a beloved fixture of the show.
Then, the unexpected happened. The Covid-19 pandemic brought the entertainment industry to a standstill, forcing Nick to reassess his career path. Nick pivoted to real estate, leveraging his skills in communication, negotiation, and performance to excel in his new role.
“Covid was a blessing in disguise because it forced me into the industry that I didn’t believe was going to pan out for me,” said Nick. “Luckily it did work out!”
Despite receiving an offer to return to Disney in 2021, Nick declined.
“At the time, I had five deals in escrow and made the difficult decision to decline the offer and pursue real estate full-time. I felt like I was closing a 10+ year long chapter in my life of performing and being onstage to transitioning into real estate full time.”
Nick Is Happily Entrenched in a Successful Real Estate Career
Today, as an agent with eXp Realty on the Ben Laube Homes team in Orlando, Nick brings his energy, enthusiasm, and theatrical flair to every transaction.
“I officially joined eXp at the end of 2020,” said Nick. “I felt like eXp was leaps ahead of where other brokerages were. I found them to be innovative and ahead of the game. I loved all the benefits they provided to their agents and I really liked the idea of being able to work remotely.”
And, in case you’re wondering if Nick misses the theater, he is still keeping his hand in the game as an investor in the Broadway revival of “The Who’s Tommy.”
”I would encourage anyone making a trip to New York City to go see The Who’s Tommy if they want an electrifying, non-stop surge of energy onstage with the best and most innovative technical elements you’ll see on Broadway.”
Learn More About Nick Nelson:
Years in real estate: Since 2020
Gross sales and transactions in 2023:
- $8.4M in gross sales volume for 2023 / 18 transactions.
- $27.8M in gross sales volume since 2021 / 70 total transactions
Main territory:
Central Florida / Orlando Metro
Main focus:
“I’ve facilitated real estate transactions for first-time home buyers, sellers, investors, etc. However, working with new construction buyers is my favorite.”
Accolades, accomplishments & awards:
- Top Producer Award: Ben Laube Homes 2022: $11.5M Sales Volume
What makes eXp special to you?
“The people. I find that the agents at eXp are kind, nurturing and always willing to help.”
What is one thing about eXp that surprised you?
“How much fun I would have being with eXp.”
What kind of collaboration have you experienced at eXp?
“I’ve been able to learn so much from other agents, whether it is at conferences, in-person collaboration meetings or even direct calls from eXp leaders on how to better my business.”
Best tip to share with other agents:
“Be kind to everyone – clients, other agents, your sphere etc. My high school theatre teacher always taught me to “find the good” in everyone and everything you encounter in life. I’ve always remembered that. “
10 Fun Things About Nick Nelson
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Vacationing with my husband.
Who is the person you most admire?
Holly Stanfield, my high school drama teacher.
One thing you can’t live without?
Sparkling water.
One trait that has led to your success?
Personability.
What celebrity would play you in a movie or TV show?
Zach Braff.
Pet peeve?
Tardiness.
Little known fact about yourself?
I’m a Broadway investor in The Who’s Tommy revival playing at the Nederlander Theatre in NYC right now.
Song you never tire of?
“That’s The Way It Is” from “& Juliet” musical sung by the Broadway cast, recording by Betsy Wolfe
Favorite meal?
Sushi or chicken pesto pasta with cavatappi pasta
Your epitaph will say:
One of my favorite quotes is: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” by Maya Angelou. I hope I made people feel good, special and seen.
