Realtor Lifestyles: From the Football Field to the Leasing Office

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Former NFL star transitions to a career in real estate
Former NFL star transitions to a career in real estate

Do you ever wonder what happens to pro athletes once they?re done playing? Some take jobs in business or player development in the league; some coach; some go on

to have careers in broadcasting and some leave the game altogether. For former NFL safety Steve Atwater, after 11 years, it was time to hang up his cleats and try something new?real estate.

?I actually started becoming interested in real estate when I was still playing [for the Denver Broncos],? Atwater says, in an exclusive interview with RISMedia. ?But, back then, I was more into investing.?

Atwater bought his first rental property in Denver in 1991, and subsequently purchased other properties, including a single-family home and a four-plex. ?Throughout my football career, I started reading more and learning about real estate,? he explains. ?I decided that once I was finished playing, that I?d go into that field.?

That said, Atwater acknowledges that at the time, he didn?t envision selling real estate, but rather being more involved in investments. Some years later, after his retirement in 1999, Atwater began working as an investment advisor in Atlanta.

However, ?once I started investing, I quickly realized that it made more sense to become a Realtor,? he laughs.

Atwater dabbled in selling residential real estate, but has since taken a strong liking to the commercial side of the business. In fact, he?s been studying up on commercial properties and leasing.

?I already have some experience selling commercial investment properties,? he says. ?But I?m still going to take some time to learn more.?

Atwater says he doesn?t plan on using his time in the NFL as a deal getter; in fact he says he prefers not mentioning it at all.

?I don?t publicize [being a former NFL player] that much,? he says. ?If I were in Denver selling real estate it might be different?I?m pretty well known there. But in Atlanta, I want this to be more about me getting business based on my abilities.?

Still, Atwater relishes his time in the NFL.

?It was a great part of my life,? he says, ?but now that chapter is closed.?

During his time in the NFL, Atwater played 10 of his 11 seasons with the Broncos, winning two Super Bowls with the team. In October 2005, he became the 20th member of the Denver Broncos? Ring of Fame?a distinction bestowed on only the most elite retired players.

?That was such a great experience,? he says. ?Just to know that the fans and organization thought enough of me to put me up there is wonderful?For years to come, everyone that comes into the stadium will see my name up there and when I look up there, after all of the years I played there, it will be a very special feeling.?

?Stephanie Andre

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