One of the shining stars on the BBC series “Crazy Rich Agents: Selling Dream Homes,” which premiered in August 2023, is Michael Samushonga, also known as Mike Love. The Southern African Times recently caught up with this reality TV sensation to delve into his background, aspirations, and role on the TV series.
Michael Samushonga took a bold leap of faith when he left his old job to explore the world of high-end real estate. The stakes are high, with the opportunity to earn commissions on million-pound mansions, both in the UK and beyond. The show features a diverse lineup of contestants, including a former care home behavioral therapist, an international model, a building society worker, a Dubai estate agent, and a former music producer, all united by the common dream of making it big in luxury real estate.
Their challenge is to sell luxury homes in Castle Eden, Co Durham, with the ultimate prize being a position at Nest Seekers International, the renowned luxury property-selling giant based in New York.
Born in Bulawayo, Â Mike Love draws inspiration from the people he encounters, regardless of age. Witnessing the success of others motivates him, showcasing the potential to achieve one’s wildest dreams. His younger sister, Chelsea, who despite being autistic, maintains a remarkably positive outlook on life, deeply inspires him.
Mike’s journey in real estate began in 2020 when he successfully sold a home within just 14 days, earning £20k despite his limited knowledge of the field at the time. This success led him to partner with Nest Seekers.
Mike emphasizes the importance of patience in the real estate industry. He notes that instant results are often desired when starting something new, but real estate has taught him the value of patience. The process of finding a property to sell and the conveyancing process can be lengthy, sometimes taking up to 12 months for the first paycheck.
In the current season of “Crazy Rich Agents,” the show focuses on Mike’s role as a buying agent, with hopes that the second season will shed more light on his role as a sales agent and the client-finding process.
In an exclusive interview with The Southern African Times, Mike praised the show for inspiring people, especially those not born into wealth and luxury. He also highlighted how the show has boosted his lead flow and improved responses to his prospecting, resulting in an increase in inbound calls.
Moving to the UK during his teenage years with his parents has undoubtedly contributed to Michael’s success, given the robust real estate market and global appeal of properties in the UK. His long-term goals include becoming a globally renowned agent, assisting more clients in buying and selling real estate, educating and recruiting individuals looking to earn six figures or more in real estate, and expanding his presence in the African and music communities by becoming the go-to real estate advisor for selling or purchasing properties.
Looking ahead, Michael eagerly anticipates the filming of the second season of “Crazy Rich Agents,” as well as another secret filming project in the Caribbean that he’s keeping under wraps for now.