Every experience, from setbacks to achievements, gave me strength, empathy, and perspective. That became the foundation for the start of a new chapter, building a business on real, genuine connections and truly serving others.
Every job I’ve ever had has involved people. I studied Hospitality and Tourism Management in college and worked in hotels and restaurants early on, but the majority of my career was in retail. I spent over 16 years in management at Men’s Wearhouse, where I became the go-to person for both my team and my clients. I knew how to lead, how to handle pressure, and how to solve problems for people. But when COVID slowed everything down, I realized I was ready to take everything I’d learned and put it into building something of my own.
I’d been thinking about real estate for a while. Then one day, while grabbing carryout, I ran into the team leader from Keller Williams Lakeside whom I knew through family. We started talking, and he asked me if I have ever considered a career in real estate. We exchanged numbers, and about a year later, I called to chat and that’s when he invited me to take the class. The timing couldn’t have been better—I already had vacation scheduled, and the class happened to fall that exact week. I figured, why not give it a shot?
I didn’t pass the test the first time. But my instructor saw something in me and pointed out that I wasn’t thinking about the questions the right way. She even said my brain worked differently than most people’s—and once I shifted my perspective, I passed on the second try and hit the ground running.
Starting a business came with new challenges, but I wasn’t new to doing hard things. The biggest challenge I’ve ever faced was getting sober. In 2009, I reached a turning point, went to AA, and never looked back. My faith has also been a huge part of that journey, giving me peace knowing I may not always have the answers or know what will happen next, but God has a plan. And my family has always been supportive and there for me. Without that foundation, none of this would be possible.
So when it came time to launch my real estate career, I knew I could do it as long as I had my faith, my sobriety, and my support system. This aligns with Keller Williams Lakeside’s core values which are God, Family, and then Business.
Stepping into real estate, I was committed to doing it my way. I don’t use scripts or cold call. Every single deal I’ve closed has come through relationships and referrals. Nothing about me is cookie-cutter, and neither is my approach. I tell it like it is, bring a sense of humor and fun into the process, and advocate for my clients like their goals are my own. I’m always my authentic self, and that translates into every aspect of my service, from how I communicate to how I present myself. I’ve got 72 pairs of glasses, and yes, I coordinate them with my socks, shoes, and jewelry.
When I’m comfortable being me, my clients feel comfortable being themselves, too. No pressure. No expectations. Just real connection. The relationships have become my favorite part of real estate because many of my clients turn into friends, and that’s what makes the work so rewarding.
Each year the business has grown steadily: two deals the first year, twelve the second, eighteen—then over thirty! My broker told me, “If you ever want to leave Men's Wearhouse, you have to have a certain amount of money in the bank.” I thought: Yeah right, that will never happen. But it happened in only a year and a half. I’ve built my business by drawing on my experiences and staying true to who I am. And that’s how I’ve been able to impact so many people and truly serve others.
Outside of work, I love the Golden Girls, baking, coffee, and CrossFit. I’m an ordained minister, part of the LGBTQ+ community, and enjoy staying involved in real estate, sitting on the Board of Directors for the Grosse Pointe Board of REALTORS®, serving on the Associate Leadership Council as the Culture Chair for my office.
When you work with me, you can expect someone who is 100% honest, always. I don’t pressure people or rely on sales tactics. I let the home speak for itself, but I’ll also point out things others won’t—potential issues, red flags, or anything that might affect your decision down the line. Anyone can walk into a house and see what’s beautiful, but it’s the cons that can make or break whether it’s the right fit. I treat every client the same, no matter the price point. What matters to me is that you feel heard, informed, and supported throughout the entire process.
My business is built on trust, relationships, and follow-through. I bring professional expertise, high-level service, sharp instincts, and yes—a sense of humor. I make the process feel approachable while handling the details that matter most. This isn’t just a job to me—it’s my business, and I take that seriously. You’ll always get my full energy, clear communication, and someone who genuinely gives a damn. Now that you have me as your realtor, sit back because now you have just found “Your Keys to Peace & Serenity.”
With gratitude,
Mitchell Allen
Founder & CEO | Associate Broker
Mitchell@TheSerenityTeamRealty.com