Know Your Neighbor: Malcom Askew
By Jennifer Kennedy
The weather was miserable, and his undefeated 1999 Jacksonville Jaguars were losing to the Tennessee Titans. Despite the cold, the pouring rain and the disappointing outcome, that day 25 years ago remains one of Malcom Askew’s favorite memories. He was eight years old, and money was tight, yet his single mother found a way to take him to his first NFL game. An avid fan, Askew faithfully watched on TV, but seeing the players live was an experience he will never forget.
Today, the multimillion-dollar Keller Williams top producer has season tickets to the Jaguars– and his passion for the sport remains. As a resident of Gainesville for the past 18 years, the former high school football player is often found in the stands cheering for his new hometown team, the University of Florida Gators.
Community Connections
It was in Gainesville that Askew discovered his other passion, real estate. The Santa Fe College student was working on his business degree when he contacted a prominent realtor he admired for advice.
“He was one of the first successful and down-to-earth black men I felt a strong connection to,” said Askew. “Not only was he well-spoken and intelligent, but he also had a huge heart for serving and loving others.”
The well-known community leader admired the recent college graduate’s drive and hired him to support his business. Askew learned the fundamentals, worked hard and started to grow his own real estate career.
Today, the father of two is committed to empowering other young professionals in Greater Gainesville. He has served as the membership committee chair of Alachua County Emerging Leaders (ACEL), chair of Gainesville-Alachua County Association of Realtors (GACAR) Young Professionals Network and an ambassador for Gainesville Black Professionals. He is currently the vice chair of the GACAR Technology Committee and a member of the Associate Leadership Council for Keller Williams Gainesville.
Mentoring others in the industry and watching them succeed are some of his favorite parts of the business.
“I love the stories of triumph from my clients and fellow realtors, where the real estate journey was laced with challenges that their agent helped them overcome,” Askew said. “They are constant reminders of the power of real estate to elevate people’s lives.”
Defining Success
In 2021, Askew helped a single mom buy a house during an especially tough market for a first-time homebuyer. Throughout the challenging process, the client and her son, a fellow Jaguars fan, became close to Askew and his wife and business partner, Ashlei. Handing the family the keys to their new home on the long-awaited settlement day was one of their most rewarding professional experiences.
The friendship led to a full circle moment for the diehard football fan. The following year, as one of the most important contests of the Jaguars season approached, Askew went to his family with an idea that aligned with his definition of success. He gave his coveted tickets to the single mom so she could take her son to his first NFL game.
“I am grateful for every achievement I’ve had in my real estate career,” he said. “But the opportunity to connect with the community, mentor young people and give back to a family like mine has been my greatest reward.”
Keller Williams Realtor Malcom Askew hosts free community networking events in Greater Gainesville throughout the year.
Chess N Chill
Wednesday, March 20 & Wednesday, April 17 8:00 – 11:00 pm
Havana’s Wine & Cigar Lounge
Beginner and seasoned chess players over age 21 are welcome for connection and conversation.
Handshakes & Headshots
Saturday, May 4 11 am – 4 pm
Uptown Village Apartments
A one-of-a-kind experience tailored for entrepreneurs, influencers and professionals interested in boosting their online presence.
