Through pushing myself beyond what I thought was possible, I realized a critical lesson. Things are a matter of perspective and are often not how they first appear.

I thought back on the stories my nana told me many years ago. Images of her at 18 years old, shuffling through Ellis Island among a sea of people filled my mind. She had such a passion for her dream of homeownership that it imprinted onto me as a young boy. Through becoming a licensed REALTOR® in 1996, I was able to take that dream to a whole new level as I helped others achieve it too.

I bought my first home when I was 20 years old with my wife, Mary. While I had a career in business at the time, I was always interested in real estate. However, with a young family to support, it seemed out of reach for me. Then I met Lethea Myers, who gave me the very opportunity I needed to pursue my passion.

I became a licensed REALTOR® and dug in. Quickly, I built a reputation in new home communities. Then the crash came in 2007 and changed everything. With a lot happening in a short time between personal health challenges, both of my sons getting married, and the crash itself – 2007 was a year of ups and downs. However, I remained steadfast in my passion, figuring out creative ways forward. Looking back, I am not sure how we made it through some of those lean years, but no matter what, Mary and I were in it together.

Mary, my wife of over 45 years, has been with me through thick and thin. She is more steadfast and compassionate than anyone I have ever known. Even when there was no clear way forward, she was patient and resilient.

Through some of those hardest years, I discovered another passion that fueled my determination – running. I ran my first full marathon in 2010. It was a huge moment for me, and I went on to run four more full marathons in the following years. When I first took up running, I was challenged to do a five-miler. At the time, I thought it was impossible. Then, I did it. I moved on to 5Ks, 10Ks and half marathons before running in my first full-length marathon. Over the years, I have realized that things are not always as they initially appear.

I genuinely did not think I could run that first five-miler, but again and again I pushed past what had appeared to me as impossible. My favorite part of the sport was the camaraderie I shared with other athletes. Running in groups, at events, and with anyone I could, we shared that experience and the thrill of accomplishment. My relationships are the most important part of my life, and my family is my world.

In August 2022, I did the Honey Run with my granddaughters, and it brought back so many fun memories of running while creating new ones with them. We did not push too hard or too little —we went at their pace until close to the end. Then we finished with everything we had left, running hand in hand through the finish line.

I take every challenge seriously, whether it is personal or in business, and give it everything I have. My mother first inspired my drive with her tireless work ethic. I have since gone on to make it my own, serving my clients over the decades and building a life for my wife, two sons and two granddaughters.

Whenever I am not working, I enjoy watching Penn State games, running and spending time with my family. My favorite part of being a REALTOR® is sharing the excitement with my clients on the journey to their dreams.

We are going to have fun on this journey together. I will give you the ins and outs, asking questions along the way to ensure you understand what happens next with each step. Through providing the whys and all the information I can, I will simplify this process so you can make the best decision possible. Also, I have lived in this area my whole life and know it unlike anyone else.

I have been a REALTOR® since 1996 because it is fun for me – I really enjoy what I do! There may be bumps in the road, but we will be on this journey together. I truly mean that. I am available for my clients and any questions or concerns every day up until 11 p.m. (when I usually go to sleep). This is a huge investment, and the experience of a lifetime, so let’s make the most of it! I have extensive experience in residential, investment, and new construction. Once the transaction is closed, I will continue supporting your success as your lifelong REALTOR®.

Sincerely,

Denny Brandt
REALTOR®