Brandon Gilkey, CEO of Investor Deals Today, has made a name for himself in the real estate industry. Not just through the impressive success of his business, but also by consistently putting his faith in Christ first by weaving community engagement, integrity, and mentorship into his professional journey. Operating in the high-stakes world of real estate investment, Gilkey’s journey from Edmond, Oklahoma, to managing a substantial portfolio of properties nationwide is one of resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to personal and professional growth.
A Strong Foundation and a Unique Path
Born and raised in Edmond, Oklahoma, Brandon grew up in a tight-knit community, where he spent countless hours on the basketball court, football field, and golf course. The values he learned from sports — perseverance, teamwork, and strategic thinking — laid the groundwork for his future in real estate. “Sports taught me discipline and how to work towards a goal with dedication,” Brandon shares. These values, instilled early on, continue to guide his career and personal life.
Gilkey’s educational journey took him to Abilene Christian University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Theology with a minor in Economics. He initially pursued a path in community service, working with youth at AltaMesa Church in Texas, where he built strong mentoring skills that he would later integrate into his real estate work. His early years of service taught him the importance of connection and communication — elements he considers fundamental in real estate. Reflecting on this transition, Gilkey notes, “My background in community work showed me how to build genuine relationships, and that’s something I bring into my business every day.”
Building a Real Estate Empire
In 2007, Brandon relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, and soon transitioned into the real estate field. He worked diligently to learn the intricacies of the industry, including market analysis, property valuation, and client negotiation. These early years of hands-on experience helped him navigate the complexities of real estate and lay the foundation for what would eventually become a successful career.
In 2019, Gilkey founded Investor Deals Today, a firm specializing in off-market transactions and Single Family Residential Portfolio investments. His firm quickly gained traction in the market, serving investors looking for reliable and strategic investment opportunities. With over $8 million in real estate holdings across multiple states, Gilkey has become a trusted partner for investors seeking steady, growth-oriented real estate investments. As managing partner of companies like Sooner Business Holdings, BVVA Holdings, and Oklahoma MHP Investors, Gilkey’s influence extends across a diverse range of properties and markets.
His colleagues and clients often praise his strategic acumen and ability to simplify complex deals. “Brandon has an unmatched ability to see the big picture,” shares one of his clients. “He knows how to navigate the challenges and sees potential where others might see risk. Working with him, you feel secure and guided every step of the way.”
Emphasis on Community and Mentorship
Despite his demanding schedule, Gilkey remains committed to giving back to the community. His belief in mentorship and community building has led him to support various youth-focused initiatives, particularly those that emphasize personal development and education. “I believe that when you invest in people, you’re investing in the future. There’s a lot of talent out there, and I want to help young people realize their potential,” says Brandon.
In addition to his professional mentorship, Gilkey actively participates in coaching youth sports and volunteers for nonprofit organizations focused on youth empowerment. He frequently speaks about the value of leadership, integrity, and perseverance, values that guide his professional life and community efforts alike. His contributions have made a lasting impact, not only in real estate but also in shaping future leaders.
Adapting to Market Changes and Navigating Economic Shifts
A seasoned professional in a volatile market, Gilkey has learned to pivot with changing economic conditions and leverage trends to stay competitive. Whether it’s adapting to interest rate fluctuations or capitalizing on emerging markets, he approaches every shift with a calculated strategy. “The market can be unpredictable, but every change brings new opportunities,” he explains. “If you’re prepared to adapt and stay informed, you can thrive in any market.”
Brandon emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, regularly attending workshops and industry events to stay updated on real estate trends and innovations. This adaptability is a cornerstone of his approach, enabling him to stay relevant in a competitive field and guide his clients through varying market conditions.
Technology and Efficiency in Real Estate
Embracing technology is another key component of Gilkey’s approach to modern real estate. From virtual tours to data analytics, he uses the latest tools to streamline operations, enhance client interactions, and make data-driven decisions. Investor Deals Today relies on customer relationship management (CRM) systems and virtual platforms, which allow Gilkey and his team to manage portfolios efficiently while providing clients with timely updates and insights.
“Technology has changed the way we work. It’s about enhancing the human connection, not replacing it,” he says. His firm’s approach to digital tools helps him deliver a personalized yet efficient experience to each client, maintaining strong communication even in a digital-first world.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Gilkey envisions expanding his business and creating even more opportunities for collaboration and growth within the industry. He is committed to fostering a culture of integrity and transparency in his work and hopes to encourage a similar approach across the real estate sector. “Real estate isn’t just about properties and investments; it’s about trust and community,” he shares. “I want to help shape an industry that values people and their dreams, one that brings real value to clients and the communities where we work.”
Brandon Gilkey’s journey illustrates the power of combining professional success with a strong ethical foundation and community commitment. From his early days on the sports field in Oklahoma to his leadership role in Phoenix’s real estate market, he has consistently demonstrated that success is best achieved when balanced with a sense of purpose and service. Whether through innovative investments or mentorship, Gilkey continues to leave a lasting impact on his industry and community alike.