Anthony Kolich is a third-generation real estate entrepreneur from Stamford, Connecticut. Growing up, Anthony was surrounded by his hardworking and successful family, who taught him the value of a hard days work. Many of Anthony’s early memories consist of time spent with his grandfather at his apartment building, where Anthony would help out with odd jobs- from sweeping the hallways to fixing plumbing issues.
After graduating high school, Anthony Kolich pursued a career in plumbing, working alongside his father. Though Anthony enjoyed this work, he ultimately longed to own and operate real estate properties like his grandfather. There was something so rewarding about seeing an idea come to life, and transform into something better than one could ever imagine. So, after some time in the plumbing business, Anthony decided to enter real estate with his own business. With help and support from his family, Anthony established Kolich Holdings, a property management company that currently owns and manages over 100 apartments in Fairfield county, in 2000. Since then, he has never looked back!
Currently, Anthony Kolich resides in Stamford, Connecticut with his family. His two children, Anthony and Siena, are the center of his world and motivate him every day to be better, both in his personal and professional endeavors. As Kolich Holdings continues to grow, Anthony hopes to expand his work throughout the U.S., helping thousands of hardworking, middle class citizens access luxury real estate properties.
How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start this business?
My family has been working in real estate for three generations. I was inspired to continue this legacy by my grandfather, who owned and operated various successful ventures. I am his name sake so I always say it was destiny. As for operating my own businesses, my desire and ambition to make my family proud and continue our legacy is what inspires me daily.
How do you make money?
I am profitable by owning and managing both residential and commercial properties under the business Kolich Holdings.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
I was fortunate enough to be profitable almost immediately. This was a combination of entering the real estate market at the perfect time, as timing is truly everything, and also growing up in the business. I am no rookie to real estate and luckily, I have a lot of knowledgeable connections in the business.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
Absolutely! But I choose to use fear or doubt as a motivation to work harder in every aspect of my life. I knew it wouldn’t be easy to live up to my grandfather’s legacy, but I would forever regret it if I didn’t try. Also, after I worked in plumbing, I longed for an opportunity to be a part of the bigger picture. I wanted to see ideas come to life. That being said, the real estate business is not for the weak or the impatient, and I am a firm believer that my focus and patience are two of the most integral components of my success. As a man and father, I naturally have a strong drive to provide for my family. This purpose awoke in me the idea that there is no room for failure because my children are watching. Sometimes, as in any business venture, projects and deals won’t go according to plan but I refuse to be a victim of fear. You learn more in failure than you ever will in success.
How did you get your first customer?
My first few customers were referrals. Since I had connections in the business already, it was fairly easy to get my name out there.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
Social media is by far the greatest marketing strategy in today’s technological age. Not only does it allow you to connect with consumers in a casual way, it also is fairly inexpensive compared to other forms of advertising. You can reach people all over the world and connect in seconds. For anyone starting their own business, social media should be one of their top priorities.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
The toughest decision has been to enter the commercial real estate market. Commercial real estate was unchartered waters but I am happy to have made the decision. I am always up for a challenge!
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
I don’t believe in failure and I don’t take no for an answer. I am also a highly motivated individual, I’m always on the move, always thinking of the next project. I always joke, “I’ll sleep when I’m dead!”
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
My most satisfying moment was certainly the sale of my Bridgeport portfolio. I acquired the properties over time and really put blood, sweat, and tears into making each property a great place for my tenants to live and, of course, making them profitable beyond my initial expectation. Another satisfying moment was naming one of my buildings after my beloved daughter, Siena. While it may just be a sign or a few letters, to me it is a symbolic. I am saying, “I’m doing this for you, for your future, for your legacy”.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
The future is bright and exciting! We have many upcoming projects that we’re excited about, particularly Empire 225 – a 69-unit apartment building in Stratford, Connecticut which will put luxury at the reach of the hardworking, middle class. We are also working on a couple self-storage facilities and the construction of a 110-unit apartment building in my hometown, Stamford.
What business books have inspired you?
48 Laws of Power and Principles by Robert Greene. This book is incredibly unique in its insight into power and control, breaking down what it takes to be successful with whatever life throws your way. This is a great book for someone looking to take control of their life.
What is a recent purchase you have made that’s helped with your business?
My Apple watch. I’m a busy guy and am always on the go, so having something that allows me to stay connected with clients, partners, and other opportunities is a must. It makes communication so easy!
What do you want to be your legacy to be?
I want to be remembered for being hardworking, dedicated, and kind. When you own a business, it can be easy to let greed get the best of you. But it’s extremely important for me to treat my employees, partners, and tenants fairly. Over everything, I hope that my children can learn from my successes and failures, and find their own path for success and happiness.