Fresh out of college, Charlie embarked on a successful career journey that paved the way for his role as a Realtor. Before venturing into real estate, he served as the Marketing Director at Butler, Rosenbury & Partners, the largest architectural firm in Southwest Missouri. In this capacity, Charlie helped secure multi-million dollar projects, many of which are today's Branson's biggest attractions.

Charlie took a significant step in his real estate career by obtaining his Missouri Salesperson and Broker's licenses in 2005. He joined forces with his family, becoming a partner at Gerken & Associates, a reputable real estate office established in Branson in 1975. Over an 18-year tenure as a Broker, Charlie excelled in selling real estate and recruiting a talented team of professionals, contributing to the firm's enduring success.

Charlie's personal and professional life intersected during this period as he met his future wife, Yulia, who joined the office in 2013. The dynamic duo quickly became a force in real estate, establishing Hustle Back LLC in 2014. Initially conceived as a creative outlet, the company rapidly evolved into a powerhouse referral organization, boasting over $100 million in sold real estate nationwide. In 2015, Charlie and Yulia eloped to Jamaica, solidifying their partnership in life and business.

Anticipating the future and the evolving real estate landscape, Charlie and Yulia shifted their focus to Hustle Back Realty in 2023. In doing so, they crafted a virtual office platform comprising two brokers, skilled administration, and an extensive network of top referral agents specializing in diverse property types and locations across the United States. By leveraging a robust set of cloud-based tools, they streamlined transactions, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.

Charlie's role as a real estate investor shines through Team Lion LLC, where he and Yulia have successfully bought and sold various properties, from homes and condos to apartments, vacant land, and even a Branson theater! Additionally, their rental portfolio includes a growing fleet of lakefront vacation rental properties. Charlie's real estate expertise also extends to new construction, having personally built three homes and represented numerous prominent builders and area developers.

Eager to serve and always excited to talk sales, Charlie Gerken stands as a seasoned veteran in Southwest Missouri real estate. Throughout the thrills of the market, including the 2008 housing crash, the 2012 tornado, and the wild ride of Covid 2020, Charlie has consistently placed customer service at the heart of his business. Come join the list of satisfied clients who have benefited from his seasoned expertise and seize the opportunities in your real estate journey.

General Education

Branson High School, General Diploma

Missouri State University, Bachelor of Science in Marketing

Action School of Real Estate, Broker & Salesperson Licenses

Designations & Certifications Achieved

Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)

Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI)

Seller Representative Specialist (SRS)

e-PRO Training Program

National Association of Realtors GREEN

Branson Chamber of Commerce's Leadership Program

Awards & Recognition

417 Magazine's Top Branson Real Estate Agents

Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Honor Society

Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Member Appreciation

Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors Rookie of the Year 2006

Gold & Silver American Advertising Awards (14 Honors)

Springfield Business Journal “40 Under 40” Recipient

Boards & Organizations Served

Branson Financial Center, Board of Directors

Branson Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors

Branson-Hollister Rotary Club, Board of Directors

Country Buff Estates, Board of Directors

Briarwood On Lake Taneycomo, Board of Directors

Branson Chamber Ambassador

Springfield Chamber Ambassador

Branson Business Network International, President

Realtor Political Action Committee (RPAC)

OTC Table Rock Campus Advisory Council

Tri-Lakes Board Of Realtors Board of Directors Election Committee