Sometimes a crisis, as uncomfortable as it is, can be exactly what’s needed for a change in life. 
 
Since I can remember, I’ve loved numbers and I’ve had a business ambition. This motivation stems from my grandfather, who is an inspiration to me. He migrated from Romania to the United States to provide a better life for his family, bringing his wife and his children with him; my father was 5 at the time. As inspired as I felt to honor their legacy by building a prosperous life, I had no idea how.  
 
I studied accounting in college, yet the idea of real estate was always close. I read books about investments and listened to podcasts. However, life moved forward, and I followed a different path. 
 
I continued dating Carly, my girlfriend from high school, and pursued a Master’s in Accounting at the University of South Carolina. While studying, I began working as an auditor—the person responsible for ensuring a company’s finances were accurate and compliant with accounting laws. I reviewed financial statements, verified their accuracy, and gave the company a final stamp of approval. 
 
 I worked at an accounting firm and even became a certified public accountant (CPA). I still remember the endless hours of studying for the CPA exam; it required immense focus and mental stamina, but I passed. With my CPA credentials, I transitioned into consulting for private equity deals. This role involved calculating the value of companies rather than just verifying their financial information. 
 
Carly and I bought a house –– I wasn’t even 30 and I had already accomplished a successful career –– when I had a realization, one that had been brewing for a while: I didn’t like what I was doing. I enjoyed the broader aspects of business, but the detailed financial analysis my job demanded wasn’t fulfilling. It was a tough realization after all the hard work I’d put into my CPA, but I couldn’t ignore it. 
 
As I reflected on what truly interested me, the idea of real estate resurfaced. I enjoyed the process of buying my home and realized that my longstanding interest in the field had never faded. Over the years, I had educated myself through books and podcasts, and I felt confident that I had the passion to succeed. 
 
 In 2022, I took the leap and got my real estate license. From the start, the industry felt like the right fit. Meeting new people and showing properties didn’t feel like work—it felt exciting. Real estate also challenged me to develop new skills, from time management to clear communication. The learning curve, although difficult, brought valuable opportunities for growth. Those efforts paid off when I was honored with the Rookie of the Year award at my brokerage. 
 
Meanwhile, Carly and I got married, and we recently welcomed our first daughter, baby Stevie. Becoming a father has opened a new chapter in my life, and I’m cherishing every moment. Outside of work, I’ve embraced a health-focused lifestyle. Training for fitness competitions, especially HYROX events, has become a passion. Golfing, working out, and avoiding alcohol have become my new definitions of fun. I also love spending time outdoors and, of course, catching a Ravens game. I’m committed to giving back to the community by serving on the board of an organization that raises money for a local homeless shelter. 
 
 Looking back, my journey has been one of taking bold steps to find a career that truly resonates. I’m forever grateful that I gave myself permission to change directions. I often think of my grandparents and the sacrifices they made. Now that I have a family of my own, I understand their efforts even more deeply. I owe it to them to give my best as a REALTOR®. 
 
 What I love about my job is its meaningful impact—seeing my clients’ reactions at the end of a transaction is deeply fulfilling. As a REALTOR®, my accounting background is one of my strongest assets. I excel at analyzing the numbers behind a deal—the cost of a home, taxes, and unforeseen expenses—allowing me to offer a careful analysis that supports my clients’ wealth management. 
 
A home is more than just shelter—it’s an investment. I have the skills to evaluate a property and determine if it’s a smart financial move. With experience handling multi-million-dollar transactions, I never get overwhelmed by large figures, which makes real estate deals second nature to me. 
 
Another trait that sets me apart is my discipline and problem-solving mindset. Once I set my mind to something, I stay focused until it’s achieved. I thrive on challenges and won’t give up until my clients find exactly what they’re looking for. Specializing in residential real estate and investment properties, I bring particular expertise in opportunities for the Airbnb market. 
 

Sincerely, 
  
 
 
Jared Schwartz 
REALTOR® 
Direct Call/Text 301-906-5301 
Office 410-266-0600 
jared.schwartz@penfedrealty.com 
 jared-schwartz.com