For 21 years, Mike Ficzner served in the Ohio Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserves, completing multiple deployments in service to the country. After retiring in September 2022, he transitioned his leadership skills, discipline, and strategic mindset into the real estate and business development sectors.

Mike’s passion for innovation and technology led him to integrate cutting-edge digital strategies into his real estate approach. By leveraging platforms like Zillow, he has successfully helped renters transition into homeowners.

“When I found out about how Zillow was integrating all this cool technology into their platform, I was all in,” says Ficzner. “Now we’ve almost entirely refocused our efforts online with internet leads. It helps me start the conversation with renters [who may not realize they can purchase a home].”

This technology-driven approach played a pivotal role in helping first-time homebuyers like Rona Jones, a single mother who had been renting in East Cleveland for 14 years. Through Ficzner’s “Six-Month Pathway to Homeownership” program, Jones successfully transitioned into homeownership—securing a four-bedroom, one-bathroom home for her and her daughter.

“Mike was like a beacon for us,” says Jones, who works two jobs. “We looked at close to 30 houses, and he helped us stay the course without getting overwhelmed.”

Helping first-time homeowners achieve the American Dream is one of the most rewarding aspects of Ficzner’s work. From creating infographics to offering free consultations, he invests time in educating renters and guiding them toward homeownership.

“I’ll get calls after one or two years from people who say, ‘We’re ready to buy—thanks for all the tips you gave us,’ ” says Ficzner. “It’s the biggest compliment I can get.”