From athlete relocation to luxury marketing trendsetter, Steven Liambas has built a solo brand defined by creativity, AI innovation, and impressive property presentations.
REM: How did you first get into real estate?
SL: Before real estate, I worked at a sports nutrition company where I built close relationships with NHL athletes. While I loved that experience, my passion was always marketing, architecture, and luxury real estate. With my network of professional athletes, my marketing background, and the credibility of having a brother who played pro hockey, I carved out a niche in athlete relocation — and quickly found success in luxury real estate.
REM: Why did you choose to be a solo luxury agent?
SL: Eight years ago, I saw a gap in how agents built their own brand alongside their brokerage. I spent six months creating a personal brand before launching my career, treating myself as the product. I wanted full creative control, especially in luxury marketing. Over the years, that vision has evolved into a brand known for creativity and unique marketing.
REM: What roles do you juggle today?
SL: My main focus is marketing and building my brand, especially by leveraging AI to stay ahead. At the same time, I handle all day-to-day real estate duties — showings, listing presentations, negotiations — so my clients always get a personal, hands-on experience.
REM: Give us a snapshot of your business today.
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Markets: Toronto, Vaughan, Kleinburg, Woodbridge, King City, Nobleton, Etobicoke
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2024 Production: 32 transactions / $24.5 million in sales volume
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Business Mix: Balanced between buyers and sellers
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Support: Solo agent, with brokerage admin support, plus a marketing consultant and media company
REM: What are your top lead sources?
SL: Referrals are my biggest driver, followed by Instagram and social media networking. About 70 per cent of my marketing budget goes to media production, from high-end video to lifestyle shoots. I’ve even used a replica Batmobile to promote a Batman-inspired home. The rest goes to social ads and bus ads in key markets.
REM: What early investments shaped your business?
SL: First, I built my personal brand with a designer. Second, I committed to high-quality media and video production for every listing. Third, I embraced technology, especially AI and digital tools, to stay ahead of trends and deliver standout marketing.
REM: What advice would you give a solo agent making their first hire?
SL: Focus on creating a strong personal identity first. If branding and marketing aren’t your strengths, outsource them. Freeing up your time to focus on clients is the smartest investment you can make.
REM Magazine Printed Version
