J
ay Avant's journey to becoming a successful real estate agent began with a personal goal: buying his mom a home. Growing up, he and his five sisters were raised by their mother alone after their father went to prison twice for dealing drugs. To make ends meet, their mother worked three jobs and relied on government assistance programs. Despite the challenges they faced, Avant's parents instilled in him that there was more to life than the struggles they endured.

    Avant's father, who was incarcerated when he was young, steered him away from a life of crime, telling him "there's more out there for me." His uncle, also involved in the justice system, echoed this message. Avant said his parents' words stuck with him and motivated him to create a better future.

    After graduating early from Hoover High School in 2021, Avant met his mentor Kyle Clarkson through an email campaign. Clarkson not only responded but also sponsored Avant's real estate education and showed him the possibilities beyond his neighborhood. Under Clarkson's guidance, Avant has thrived in his fourth year as a realtor with Clarkson Realty Group.

    Avant is now selling a $1 million home in Adel and plans to buy a condo soon. He credits his success to hard work and the support of his mentor. "Destiny is determined by decisions," he quotes his father, emphasizing that his choices have led him down a path of opportunity.