Ken Kho
Real Estate Agent (Broker)
Fremont - CA

Every July 1 marks another milestone in my career as a Realtor, with 2022 representing my 16th year in the industry. Reflecting on my journey, I find both humor in the challenges I've faced and pride in the successes I've achieved.

Originally from the Philippines, I grew up in a Filipino-Chinese household enriched by a multilingual and multicultural environment. My parents, both educators, later transitioned into business and real estate, which provided me with early exposure to the industry. I vividly recall family dinners where discussions about property deals and investment strategies unfolded. My fascination with real estate began there, and I even assisted by typing purchase contracts on typewriters—a far cry from today’s digital landscape.

I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at the University of the Philippines, subsequently passing the board exams for both Electrical Engineers and Real Estate Brokers. However, I chose to focus on real estate, opting not to pursue a career in engineering. My professional journey began in the microcomputer sales sector, a burgeoning field at the time. After three years, I co-founded a family computer company with my younger sister, securing distribution rights for a line of microprocessor-based systems from a San Francisco manufacturer. Our venture enabled small businesses to leverage emerging computer technologies to enhance their operations.

As my sister moved to San Francisco to manage our buying office, I eventually joined my two older sisters in the family business. Over three decades, our company has grown into a respected IT firm in the Philippines, thanks to their capable leadership.

In the mid-1990s, while in Fremont, I witnessed the rise of the Internet and established a firm focused on hosting and server colocation. We later pivoted to developing database-driven web applications. After more than two decades in the high-tech sector, I recognized it was time for a career change—one that had always beckoned me: real estate.

Despite skepticism from others regarding my timing, my broker encouraged me to enter the industry during the recession, arguing that it was an ideal opportunity to learn the fundamentals without shortcuts. I not only persevered but thrived, emerging as a competent Realtor. Now, with over a decade of experience, I can pinpoint the key factors that have contributed to my success.

Firstly, my background in technology provides me with a unique advantage in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of real estate tools. This proficiency allows me to enhance the services I offer to clients effectively.

More importantly, my upbringing in a real estate-focused household has instilled a deep understanding of the industry. Daily discussions about real estate concepts have made them second nature to me, enabling me to assist clients with confidence and creativity. I am also fortunate to draw on my mother’s expertise.

Finally, my passion for real estate fuels my dedication to my clients. I find joy in witnessing the excitement of buyers as they discover their ideal homes, the laughter of children claiming their own spaces, and the satisfaction of investors closing successful deals. Each transition brings relief and gratitude, and I cherish the relationships I build along the way. I am honored to be part of my clients' real estate journeys and, more importantly, their lives.