Today we’d like to introduce you to Hadiza Zakari-Costner.
Hi Hadiza, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My path has never followed a straight line, and that breadth of experience is what shapes how I work today.
I’ve lived and worked across five different countries, navigating diverse cultures, industries, and environments from a young age. That global exposure gave me an early understanding of people, communication, and adaptability, and it instilled a constant drive to better myself, both personally and professionally. Growth has always been a priority for me, whether through education, fitness, or pushing beyond what feels comfortable.
Before real estate, I built businesses and projects in fashion, events, and branding. I participated in beauty pageants, worked as a model and public figure, and went on to host fashion nights and exclusive events that required precision, discretion, and strong negotiation. Those experiences taught me how to read a room, prepare thoroughly, advocate confidently, and stay composed in high pressure situations, skills that naturally translate into the real estate world.
Along the way, I also faced one of the most defining challenges of my life, a breast cancer diagnosis. Surviving that chapter reshaped my perspective and deepened my appreciation for time, clarity, and meaningful relationships. It strengthened my resilience and reinforced the importance of showing up with both confidence and empathy.
At the core of my work is a thoughtful, strategic approach rooted in listening first and acting with intention. Clients often share that they appreciate not only my market insight and negotiation skills, but also the sense of calm, structure, and trust I bring to the process. I take that responsibility seriously and approach every decision with care, discretion, and long term vision.
Today, I continue to build a real estate business grounded in integrity, intelligence, and genuine connection, while using my platform to share insights on growth, reinvention, and creating a life with purpose.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges has been relocating multiple times and starting over in new environments, often while still prioritizing my health, family, and physical recovery. Each move required rebuilding networks, reestablishing credibility, and adapting quickly to new markets and cultures.
Throughout those periods, I’ve held onto a simple belief: as long as there is life, there is hope. No matter the challenge, having clear goals has always helped bring clarity to my path. I became very intentional about mindset, understanding that progress begins internally. Staying mentally focused allowed me to recover, rebuild, and continue moving forward with purpose.
I also learned the importance of reducing distractions, identifying time leaks, and staying organized. Protecting my energy and focus became essential. Ultimately, learning to rely on myself and trust my journey reinforced a deep sense of confidence. That self belief continues to guide my decisions and keeps me aligned with the path I’m building.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My business is built around thoughtful strategy, strong advocacy, and long term trust. I approach real estate as both a business and a responsibility, understanding that every transaction represents a major life decision, not just a sale.
What sets my practice apart is a highly intentional, people first approach supported by structure and preparation. My background in entrepreneurship, branding, and high level event production shaped how I operate, from market analysis and negotiation to communication and client experience. I’m deeply detail oriented behind the scenes, while ensuring clients feel informed, supported, and confident at every stage of the process.
I specialize in guiding clients through purchases, sales, and strategic real estate decisions with clarity and composure, particularly during complex or high-pressure situations. Clients often share that they value the calm, organized presence I bring, along with my ability to anticipate challenges and protect their interests with discretion and care.
Brand wise, I’m most proud of building a practice rooted in integrity, intelligence, and genuine connection. My goal is not volume for the sake of volume, but sustainable growth through trust, repeat relationships, and referrals. I want readers to know that my work is centered on creating informed, aligned outcomes and a real estate experience that feels intentional, respectful, and well guided.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Determination. Staying committed to my goals, especially during challenging or uncertain periods, has been essential to my success. When I decide on a direction, I stay focused, adapt when needed, and continue moving forward with intention.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hadizazakari
Image Credits
Whissel Beer Group Media Team
