When Ryan Tan first stepped into the world of real estate in 2009, it wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. “I came in during a global recession — market sentiment was very bad, and I was unsure if this move was right or not,” he says with a laugh.
But what Tan lacked in initial know-how, he more than made up for in grit, adaptability, and a burning desire to build something bigger than himself.
A natural salesperson, he immediately exudes an air of confidence and likeability among new acquaintances. As we rode together to the interview destination, I was enthused about his new electric car. Tan matched the energy, excitedly showing me all the car’s functions and features. He chuckled when I suggested a side hustle in the car industry.
“I’ve actually been in some kind of sales line since my University days,” he reveals. “Sales is something that has always challenged and intrigued me.”
Today, Tan is a key team leader at PropNex and the creator of SHARP Analysis, a proprietary system designed to equip agents with real-time data and structured insights to guide clients with clarity and confidence. His team isn’t just about closing deals — it’s about creating a community. “Working in real estate can be lonely. My goal is to ensure no one in my team ever feels alone,” Tan shares.
Tan developed the SHARP Analysis to empower agents with data-backed insights. (Picture: Ryan Tan)
Building with purpose
Tan’s team may not be the largest one around, but what they lack in numbers, they make up for in camaraderie and precision. “I’m not trying to build a factory — I’m building a tribe,” Tan grins. That tribe is bound together by shared values: professionalism, humility, and an openness to learn.
A key tool in their arsenal? SHARP Analysis. “I created it to help agents speak the language of data. It’s not about selling harder — it’s about advising smarter,” Tan explains. The system includes data modelling, market benchmarking, and customised portfolio strategies tailored to each client. “One of my agents closed a multi-million dollar portfolio restructure within months of joining, simply by mastering the tools and trusting the process.”
Tan entered real estate during the 2009 recession — today, he leads a data-driven team with his SHARP Analysis system. (Picture: Ryan Tan)
Real-life results
Tan loves a good underdog story, and many of his agents have become walking testaments to the power of mentorship and the SHARP Analysis approach. “One of my agents came from an auditing background — zero property experience. But she had the right attitude and was hungry to learn. Within her first year, she was already advising clients on new launches and investment strategies like a pro.”
He recounts another case: a couple who had been seeking opinions from numerous agents about restructuring their property portfolio to achieve a better performance, but eventually chose to go with Tan’s proposal. To execute that strategy required the family to sell their existing home, buy a new launch and secure a rental at the same time. “It was a juggling act. But with proper planning and our analysis toolkit, we helped them transition smoothly,” says Tan. “Now they refer all their friends to us. That’s the impact of doing it right.”
Every team member under his guidance benefits from real support, not just surface-level coaching. (Picture: Albert Chua/The Edge Singapore)
A manager who walks the talk
Tan’s warmth and authenticity stand out. He abhors the typical clipboard-wielding, numbers-only boss figure. “I’m here to guide, not micromanage,” he says. “Every agent is different. Some need more hand-holding and some just need a nudge. The important thing is that they feel seen, heard, and supported.”
Jason Tan, Propnex Chief Strategy Officer endorses Tan effusively: “Ryan Tan has been my team’s top leader and achiever for the past 12 years. He led new project sales initiatives and training programmes that boosted his team’s success in new home sales. Ryan is a knowledgeable, hands-on leader who invests time in one-on-one coaching with his agents.”
So, what kind of agents does Tan want on his team? “Honestly, I don’t care if you have five years’ experience or none. I firmly believe that ‘Attitude defines Altitude’.” he says without hesitation. “Give me someone who is open-minded, humble and willing to learn — that mindset will determine their success. I can teach them everything else they need to know.”
His team today includes people from all walks of life, including ex-finance pros and homemakers returning to the workforce. “Some of the most successful agents I’ve mentored started with zero property knowledge. What they had was resilience and a willingness to absorb.”
His message to aspiring agents? “If you feel intimidated by real estate, talk to me. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to be ready to learn.”
Tan turned early uncertainty into a resilient, purpose-driven career. (Picture: Ryan Tan)
Life beyond real estate
Tan isn’t all work and no play. He credits much of his success to the support of his spouse and three young daughters, aged between eight and 14, whom he dotes on. “My wife’s been my sounding board since Day One,” he says warmly. “She left her corporate job to join me in real estate so we could spend most of our days together. Having a supportive partner in this line of work makes all the difference.”
“And I’m so glad being a property agent gives me enough bandwidth to drive my three little princesses around to school and their dance classes!”
He also emphasises the importance of having mental balance in this career. “I encourage my team to travel, take breaks and volunteer. A burnt-out agent isn’t good for anyone — not themselves, not their clients.”
Adapting to a crowded market
The Singapore property scene is highly competitive and Tan doesn’t shy away. “Yes, the market is saturated with agents. But people are still buying homes, investing and upgrading. It’s about how you position yourself. That’s where tools like SHARP Analysis come in — it gives agents an edge.”
He’s also a big believer in community learning. “We share wins, we share losses. Every team meeting is a learning session. Someone might talk about a tough deal they cracked, and everyone takes away something useful.”
Tan knows the real estate journey isn’t easy. “It’s like training for a marathon with no finish line. That’s why you need a strong team, good tools, and mentorship that’s actually present, not just lip service.”
He wants to share his knowledge, but more than that, he wants to help agents build something. “I’m not here to babysit. I’m here to build professionals. If you are ready to put in the work, I will be right there beside you.”
For more information,
Contact Ryan Tan | 97105411
Senior Associate Group District Director (R014576B)
PROPNEX REALTY PTE. LTD.
