Dennis Cestra Jr.
30, Vice President of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services
Contributions to the business community:
National Association of Realtors Presidential Advisory Group, HRRA Finance Committee, Hampton Roads Realtor Association, Real Trends Emerging Leaders
Civic contributions:
Virginia Stage Company, Future Generations Board—Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, Bethlehem Haven, One Young World
How do you define success?
Ending every day with a sense of accomplishment and smile on your face.
What person or experience has made the biggest impact on your life?
My mother (Annie) and father (Dennis Sr.). Their work ethic and compassion have set a wonderful example.
What is your biggest accomplishment?
Growing the Virginia market of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services.
What’s the best compliment you’ve received from a colleague or manager?
You wouldn’t ask someone to do something unless you are doing it yourself.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
PGA Tour Professional, quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers or real estate agent.
Name a book that has inspired you professionally.
From Worst to First: Behind the Scenes of Continental’s Remarkable Comeback by Gordon Bethune.
What is your best time management hack?
Making lists and sticking to them … also brushing my teeth/shaving in the shower.
What’s your favorite restaurant for a lunch meeting in Coastal Virginia, and what do you order when you go there?
Bella Monte—Famous Fred Salad.
Is there anything that you would change about your generation as a whole? If so, what?
I don’t necessarily think that I’d like to change anything about my generation except the perception that we are not driven or are not engaged on a personal level.
What do you think is Coastal Virginia’s biggest challenge?
Regional priorities amongst different cities.
How can Coastal Virginia better retain its younger population?
Continue to promote entrepreneurship.
What’s something that gives you hope for the future?
The passion and level of care I see every day with the sales associates I work with.