We recently had the chance to connect with Tessa Neva Trlaja and have shared our conversation below.
Tessa Neva, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What battle are you avoiding?
I avoid battles where the focus is on winning the argument instead of solving the problem — especially when someone isn’t open to considering other perspectives. In those cases, continuing the debate rarely changes the outcome, so I acknowledge their viewpoint, find common ground, and redirect the discussion toward solutions that actually move the work forward. Besides this, you will never win a battle or argument from unintelligent people.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Tessa Trlaja, and I’m based in Miami Beach, Florida, where I lead About Homes Miami — a boutique real estate brand specializing in lifestyle-driven properties. I’m a licensed real estate agent and loan officer, have completed my CCIM for commercial licensing, and studied interior design at Instituto Marangoni. I’m now in the process of earning my Florida General Contractor license, which will allow me to offer clients a true 360° approach — from financing to design to construction.
With over a decade of experience and a strong network of international clients, I offer a highly personalized, multilingual service. What makes my work unique is the passion I bring to every stage of the process, whether it’s finding a dream home, structuring a smart investment, creating beautiful interiors, or building from the ground up. For me, it’s never just a transaction — it’s about creating spaces and opportunities that truly inspire.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was someone endlessly curious and always creating — whether it was designing, building, or finding new ways to make ideas real. Born and raised in the Netherlands, I grew up in a culture that often favors working within defined squares rather than encouraging entrepreneurship. Moving to America showed me who I really am — here, I found endless possibilities and the freedom to create without the negativity or judgment I often felt in my native country. For me, creativity isn’t a job, it’s a way of living, and today I channel that energy into real estate, design, and development to help people bring their visions to life.
When did you last change your mind about something important?
I recently changed my mind about how much I should handle personally in my business. In my younger years, I tended to see things in black and white, believing I needed to control every detail to guarantee quality. Over time, I’ve become calmer and learned to approach situations in different shades — trusting the right team and collaborating more. I’ve also changed my perspective on people, realizing that everyone is here to learn and that mistakes are part of growth. This shift has allowed me to focus on the bigger picture, support others, and deliver better results overall
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest misconceptions in real estate is that it’s easy and that anyone can become successful overnight simply by getting a license, especially compared to countries abroad where a four-year degree is mandatory. Many are attracted by the flexibility and earning potential, but the reality is that this work is demanding and requires a broad skill set — not just knowledge of properties, but also expertise in financing, marketing, accounting, and business management. You’re essentially running your own business, and success requires a true passion for design, helping people, and handling stressful situations.
Unfortunately, some pursue a license without fully committing, which is why many leave the industry quickly. The idea of ‘playing’ entrepreneur or agent may seem fun, but delivering real results is another story. Another factor affecting the profession’s reputation is that some use real estate to cover up other careers they feel ashamed of, giving the impression that the work is less serious than it truly is. In reality, it takes dedication, professionalism, and constant learning to succeed, and ultimately, only a small group truly masters what they do.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
Yes, I have. For me, it often applies to material possessions — the older I get, the less satisfaction I derive from them. True fulfillment comes from feeling peaceful and being surrounded by good, healthy people.
It also applies to academic achievements. I completed a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business, something I genuinely wanted, but after graduating and starting my first job, I realized it didn’t bring the satisfaction I expected. I think universities and society often sell the idea that if you follow a certain path, everything will fall into place. In reality, we often overlook what truly excites and motivates us.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://abouthomesmiami.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/about_miami_homes/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessa-neva-trlaja-b2105b83/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abouthomesmiami
