Photos by Sincerely Gone Photography

Realtor for Coldwell Banker M.M. Parrish and Oakmont Barry Bullard Sales Team

Husband to Rachel Dad to Ethan, Ashton and Arden

Maintaining a healthy balance between work and family can be tough, but Tony Espetia learned early on from his own parents that a strong work ethic is the key to balancing the two. He may have to stay up well after his kids have gone to bed to stay on top of his work, but this father of three makes time to attend events that are important to his family because in his book, family always comes first.

What does your typical workday look like?

My schedule is different every day because I work around the needs of my clients. A typical day would include activities like scheduling inspections, ordering surveys, meeting with clients, showing homes, listing presentations and marketing meetings. My schedule gets filled quickly.

How do you balance work life and family life?

Balancing work and family is challenging. I have to stay organized and prioritize on a daily basis. However, because I make my own work schedule, I am able to attend important family events like soccer and tennis games, and I look forward to picking the kids up from school a couple times a week to hear about their days. Once a week or so, we have family pizza night and spend time together catching up on our week.

What advice would you give to other working parents?

It’s OK to not get everything done on your list. Work is important, but family comes first. A quote I’ve always liked, though I’m not sure of the author, is, “You will never have this day with your children again … spend time with those you love. One of these days you will say either, ‘I wish I had,’ or ‘I’m glad I did.’”

What sacrifices/compromises have you had to make?

I work late at night after the kids go to bed to have more time during the day to spend with my family.

When and how do you make time for yourself?

Weekends are the busiest time of my week. I usually take a day off during the week that I don’t schedule meetings to catch up on personal errands or projects. A couple times a week I play tennis in the evenings with friends at the Jonesville Tennis Center.

Who is your greatest inspiration?

My family. My kids motivate me on a daily basis; I want them to grow up knowing I worked hard to give them the best childhood I could. My parents have also been a source of inspiration. With their love and support I learned the importance of a strong work ethic and balancing time with family.

Who are your biggest supporters?

Without a doubt my wife and kids.

What is your go-to breakfast?

Not really a fan of breakfast, but I have Mexican food for lunch or dinner a couple of times a week.

What is your coffee order?

Regular with one cream and two sugars, unless my wife is around. Then we like having an espresso or cappuccino together.

What is your must have work tech item?

My phone. Don’t know what I would do without it!

Finish this sentence: I hope that I have taught my children …

respect, responsibility and hard work, so that one day they can achieve all their goals.