MAY 2019 N. ORANGE COUNTY by Executive Agent Magazine

EXECUTIVEAGENT MAGAZINE

VERONICA BERTRAND Executive Agent of the Month

INSIDE FEATURES: Troyce Hargis-Monroe Coldwell Banker Residential

William Ruiz U. S. Bank

Jason Sands Premier Realty

ORANGE COUNTY BRANCH 320 Commerce | Suite 100 | Irvine, CA 92602

Build a partnership with a direct lender that offers exceptional service.

John J. Reed

Eric Miller

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Mark Martinez

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EXECUTIVE AGENT OF THE MONTH

Veronica K. Bertrand Red Diamond Realty

Inside Features

Troyce Hargis-Monroe

William Ruiz

Jason Sands

Coldwell Banker Residential

U. S. Bank

Premier Realty

ExecutiveAgent Magazine

N. ORANGE COUNTY - MAY, 2019

Editorials

E XECUTIVE AGENT

MAGAZINE

5 Ways to Stay Positive When You’re Having a Bad Day -Matt Fore

Fred Arrias Executive Publisher PO Box 73384 San Clemente, CA 92673 Ph: (949) 297-8323 Fax: (949) 266-8757 Fred@ExecutiveAgentMagazine.com www.ExecutiveAgentMagazine.com

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX What Do You Want Out of Life? -Tony Jeary

City of Hope....................................................34 Commerce Home Mortgage.............................16

Finance of America Mortgage...........................2 Kinecta Federal Credit Union...............................11 Michelle Fairless Photography..............................23 NAHREP..................................................................30

Wherever You Are, Be There -Jim Rohn

PWAOR.............................................................................10

The Termite Guy......................................................3

Ticor Title Company...................................................36 VAREP............................................................................31

Embracing Adversity For Achievement -Chris Widener

Planning -Zig Ziglar

08 ExecutiveAgent Magazine

Photography: iPhotography Studio, Michelle Fairless Photography, Rob Paino Graphic Designer: Garon T. Arrias Editorial Manager: Trudy Van Writers: Ben Angel, John Boe, Haley Freeman, Jim Rohn, Walter Sanford, Dirk Zeller, Zig Ziglar Craig Harrison, Simma Lieberman, Chris Widener © Copyright 2019 Executive Agent Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Although every precaution is taken to ensure accuracy of published materials, Executive Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors.

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Troyce Hargis-Monroe An Unprecedented Real Estate Experience Written by H. K. Wilson

f the qualities of communication, trust and integrity are your formula for the ideal Realtor®, look no further than Troyce Hargis-Monroe. As a lifelong resident of Orange County, Troyce brings his local

Troyce committed the first part of his professional journey to his passion for food. During his successful 22 years in the food and beverage industry, he rose to corporate management and oversaw flourishing teams throughout the country. Eventually, he decided it was time for a new adventure. “I’ve always had a love for real estate,” he says. “When I made the decision to do it, I quit my job and gave it my full focus.” Troyce took up real estate with the same passion he had given to his first career, and his first clients ended up selling and having him represent them totaling over $1.6 million. Today, he is an award-winning agent at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Southern California’s number one selling agency. “I chose Coldwell Banker because I knew it was a company that could support my clients on a grand scale. I can work with anyone all over the world, and that access has allowed me to do deals specifically because of our affiliations worldwide.” Troyce’s grace and polish reflect his many years of corporate business training and certification in negotiations. “I worked in corporate management with some big companies, and they put me through personality profile training. I learned how to interact with all different kinds of people and their personalities, and how to immerse myself in different scenarios that may be uncomfortable and still be able to adapt. In this business, it helps me walk into any situation and handle both sides effectively.”

knowledge, professional know-how and personal care to every transaction for an unprecedented real estate experience.

Motivated by his love for people and genuine desire to help them achieve their goals, Troyce is relentless in delivering excellence. “I live by something a former boss used to say, ‘We build great ships at a profit if we can, at a loss if we must, but we build great ships.’ I’m about quality. I get to know people personally, what their goals are, and then do the work to make it happen. I love learning about people, where they’ve been, where they want to go, and how I can help with that.”

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Clear communication is the foundation for the trust Troyce creates with his clients. “I don’t just hear; I listen. I think there’s a difference. I want to understand what someone is looking for, and I don’t sugar coat a situation — I tell it straight up. It’s important because I think a lot of people received sugar-coated information in real estate. If I’m working with a seller, I’m going to be honest with them about what their home is worth and show them the data that proves it. I want a quality listing, and I want them to succeed in selling their home for the highest price the market will actually deliver. Or a buyer could miss their dream home because they want to go in and low-ball an offer, and in certain markets you can’t do that. They’re relying on me to be the expert, and that requires honest communication.” Integrity is another hallmark of Troyce’s service. “My name reflects on every transaction,” he says. “It’s important that every aspect is done correctly and I show up as a full-circle professional, not only with my client, but with anybody I come in contact with. I make sure that everyone who is working on the deal — agents, escrow, title, lenders — is equally professional with my clients. Professionalism and communication make this business a whole lot better. The highest compliment is when other agents say to me, ‘It was great doing a deal with you. It went so smoothly.’” Troyce lives with his husband, Greg, in Ladera Ranch, where he is fully immersed in the community. “It is such an amazing community, and I sell the lifestyle here that goes with the home. I was born and raised in OC so I know a lot of the areas really well. We have a lot of friends here, and we love to entertain at home with good food, drinks and music. Our home is our happy place for being with friends and family. We also love to travel. London is our favorite destination, and my goal is retire as a London tour guide and lead people on tours to the behind-thescenes, local version of the city.”

“When it comes to client care and dedication, Troyce delivers the best possible service. With his extensive knowledge of the local neighborhoods and his top-notch negotiating skills, I am extremely confident that any person I send his way will be given the best real estate experience possible.” Troyce Hargis-Monroe Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 28051 Greenfield Dr., Ste. A Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 Tel: 949.220.4888 Email: realtortroyce@gmail.com Web: www.Troyce.CBInTouch.com DRE # 01939173

When a client trusts him with their biggest investment, Troyce wants them to feel confident that they are making the right move. One client affirmed: ExecutiveAgent Magazine

PLANNING I

f I were to ask the question, Would you like to improve your productivity dramatically without working any longer or any harder? Chances are pretty good that you would say, “That would be nice! I’d be more effective and I’d probably get a raise! I might even have more fun in the process.”

Question: How many of you, on the night before the day you were going on vacation, sat down and wrote out a list of the things you wanted to be certain to do before you left work the next day? Chances are extremely good that most of you would say you had done that. And most of you would also admit that you managed to complete more than twice the number of tasks you complete on a normal day. Now think about this for a moment: If planning your job on the day before you go on vacation increases your productivity, doesn’t it make sense that if you were to spend a few minutes every day before you start your work day contemplating what is really important and what you really need to accomplish, that you would have the same great results? And the chances are excellent – definitely better than good – that this process will attract favorable attention, probably leading to more job security, perhaps a raise, and maybe even a significant promotion. The reality is, productivity has a direct bearing on profitability, and all businesses are interested – very much so – in profits. Profitability comes from loyalty, productivity, and having a character base from which to work. So as you ponder this question, I hope you will seriously consider not only planning your schedule as you prepare to go on vacation, but that every day you will spend a few minutes before you go to work planning how you can be more effective that day It doesn’t take long to plan; it does take a lot of time not to plan, because without a plan of action, people will impose on your time with idle chatter and requests that take you away from the task at hand. Not only will you be less effective, but the effectiveness of the people, who

take your time for casual chatter, or in some cases gossip, will be greatly reduced and everybody, including management and leadership, will be very unhappy about that. Chances are good, regardless of the job market, the most productive people with the right attitude are the ones who really have more job security, and in most cases a better income. When you feel good about yourself and your productivity, you probably will also be performing better at home. When there is no job related stress you are more aware of your mate and children, if you are a parent. You will spend more time being better organized so you can spend more time having that balanced life that all of us are really interested in. Planning for a balanced life will enable you to deal with the physical, the mental, and the spiritual aspects of your life. It will also enable you to develop more friendships, and stronger, better, more lasting relationships. There are many benefits that go with making the plan a daily part of your life. Time well spent results in more money to spend, more money to save, and more time to vacation. It will allow you to attend more of your children’s ball games or school functions as well. A plan is always successful if the plan is good. And if you’ve been on the job for any length of time, you can develop a better plan of action so that everyone benefits from it. I’m talking about planning today for tomorrow’s future. Think about it. I promise you’ll be more productive, happier, healthier, and have a much better chance for increased income when you are secure in who you are, where you are, and what you’re doing. I sincerely hope you’ll take action immediately to get that plan into your daily life. Zig Ziglar is a beloved author and America’s motivator. He is the author of 25 books and offers training and consulting to organizations all across the globe. To learn more about Zig and his business visit his website at www. ziglar.com.

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EXECUTIVEAGENT MAGAZINE

Jason Sands

n Orange County native who graduated from Dana Hills High School and was a member of the surf team, Jason Sands knows SoCal. And with a name like Sands, it is fitting that he grew

up to become a real estate professional who helps people find their piece of beachfront paradise in one of South Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sought-after coastal communities.

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Delivering Service With Distinction Written by H. K. Wilson

Always an entrepreneur, Jason purchased his first home at only 18 years old. “It was a HUD home in Lake Forest,” he recalls. “The mortgage was only $400. I eventually sold it for a profit and went on to buy and flip subsequent properties.” Jason became a licensed Realtor® in 2005, alongside his work as a brand ambassador for Porsche Newport Beach. A car enthusiast himself, Jason loves working around these precision machines. “If someone buys a house from me, I can give them a ride in a Bugatti,” he says. “It has 1,500 horsepower and is a once in a lifetime experience!” Accustomed to working with elite clientele, Jason is adept at meeting the highest expectations for service and professionalism. “I believe in giving the same attention to anyone, regardless of the price of a home. I present them with as many options as I can so they can make an informed decision when buying or selling.” Jason’s reliability and negotiation skills set him apart from others in the industry. “A lot of salespeople make initial contact and then never follow up or do what they say they will. I make a lot of personal contact with clients, whether through text, email or phone calls, whichever is most comfortable for them. In a purchase transaction, my favorite part of the deal is the negotiation. I keep my client informed and realistic as far as what can be done, setting expectations initially. I also build camaraderie with the other agent. By treating everyone in a transaction with respect, I can help my client get the best deal.”

With his extensive experience buying and rehabbing properties, Jason can advise buyers about what is possible, helping them see past what a property is today and reimagine it as something greater. “I love the architecture of homes and seeing different projects come to life. I can look at the bones and see what a property could be. Some people just look at price, but I can look at the market data and identify what could potentially be a profitable purchase. Some of my clients have made quite a lot of money on a house they weren’t initially interested in. I also have a number of contractors and vendors I work with, and I can give my client work samples and prices so they know ahead of time exactly what a project will entail.” Jason is a certified Microsoft engineer, and he uses his technology background to leverage digital media platforms, giving his listings maximum marketing exposure. “Technology has changed the real estate industry a lot, and buyers are so much more savvy than they used to be. I focus on using social media and YouTube videos to make my clients’ homes stand out from the rest.” With his combination of local knowledge, business savvy and persistence, Jason is delivering service with distinction. “Owning a home is a fulfilling experience in life. For me, helping people through that process is the greatest reward.”

Jason’s lifelong relationships and business connections bring value to his clients during any real estate transaction. “When I’m selling a home, a lot of times I have people from my own network lined up ready to see it. This is a benefit that comes from the longterm relationships I build with people. I make it a point to check in with them every once in a while and let them know what’s currently available on the market. I keep a list of what people are looking for so I can keep them informed when something has opened up.”

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Jason Sands Premier Realty 4858 Mercury Street San Diego, CA 92111 Tel: 949.292.1280 Email: mcsejay@yahoo.com DRE # 01495198

5 Ways to Stay Positive When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Having a Bad Day Written By Matt Fore 14

ExecutiveAgent Magazine

t’s Murphy’s Law. The line you get in at the department store doesn’t move because there is a lady at the register who waited until the last minute to dig through her overstuffed wallet for a coupon. So you change checkout lanes only to get stuck behind a man digging through a deep pocket for exact change.

We all have bad days when it seems like nothing is going right. But few can compete with Charles, a man who experienced a lifetime’s worth of bad news in a single day. Charles lived a stressful life. He worked from morning until night without any spare time for annoyances. Little did he know, when he woke up one morning, he had already lost more than $200,000—embezzled from his inheritance by a family “friend.” In an unrelated turn of events, he lost his job the same day. That evening he discovered his wife was filing for divorce. We don’t have control over the way life plays out, but we do not have to be a victim to its tyranny. With a few savvy insights and positive action steps, we can power through almost anything that comes our way. Here are five ways to stay upbeat and positive, even when life is not cooperating: 1. Develop a plan. Often we just feel “off” and we let it affect our day without finding out what it is that made us feel down in the first place. So identify what’s making you feel despondent. Be specific. And once that is done, make a plan. Write out what you can do to turn around your sour mood. In her Psychology Today article, “Thirteen Small Decisions That Will Ease Anxiety,” Meg Selig writes, “If you start to ruminate over a situation that you’ve already planned for, tell yourself, ‘Stop, I’ve already made a plan.’” The very act of identifying and planning can result in tremendous stress relief. 2. Associate with winners. We tend to think like the people we hang around. That’s not news, but how often do we stop and notice who we talk to every day? The group that laments over a two-cent gas hike is not likely the same group that discusses the latest stock options. It’s two different mindsets. The greatest investment for the worrywart is to find a cell of positive-

minded, successful people. How did they get where they are? How do they think? Let the osmosis begin. 3. Speak positive words. We tend to believe what we say. Our minds literally go in the direction of our words. Of course, we can’t talk ourselves into being taller, but we can have a more positive outlook by noticing the good, anticipating a positive outcome and speaking it out loud. It’s almost impossible to shout, “I feel fantastic!” and be depressed at the same time. A few verbal affirmations throughout the day will go a long way toward lifting your spirits. 4. Laugh anyway. There is so much to stress over these days—politics, the economy, the ozone layer, the missing button on your favorite shirt. Still, there is a consensus among many medical professionals that laughter will do you a world of good. In fact, the Mayo Clinic article “Stress relief from laughter? It’s no joke” says, “A rollicking laugh fires up then cools down your stress response and it can increase your heart rate. The result? A good relaxed feeling.” To stay upbeat and positive, make laughter a deliberate part of your arsenal against the blues. 5. Execute. Once you’ve identified what deflates your spirit, made a plan to overcome it and developed some mental weapons, it’s time to bring out the big guns. Put your thoughts into action. It’s hard to worry about a problem while you are busy solving it. This is no time to be passive. Get angry. Get aggressive. Attack your problems with a vengeance. What right do they have to destroy the pleasure you get out of life? The physical act of execution is a diabolical weapon against whatever ails you and can create a surprising sense of bliss in the midst of the turmoil. Charles, who arguably had a much worse day than you, adjusted to his loss and even forgave his thieving friend. He used his skills to move forward in a new career and met a beautiful woman in the process. He learned a lot about himself, found some new priorities and doesn’t stress about the length of a department store checkout lane. He is happier than he has been in a long time and looks for opportunities to share his success with others. If Charles can do it, so can you.

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Nomination Form Nominate a fellow REALTORÂŽ to be featured in one of our feature stories; on the cover as Executive Agent of the Month, or as a special feature story. All candidates must be nominated by a real estate professional. The selection process includes a questionnaire, personal interview, reference check and final approval by the Advisory Council. Candidates are evaluated based upon professionalism, length of service and uniqueness of story, as well as industry and community involvement.

I Nominate: Name_______________________________ Company___________________________ Address____________________________ _____________________________________ City, State, Zip_____________________ _____________________________________ Phone______________________________ Email_______________________________ Submitted By: Fax/Email nomination to: Executive Agent Magazine PO Box 73384 San Clemente, CA 92673 Fax: 949.266.8757 Email: Fred@ExecutiveAgentMagazine.com Tel: 949.297.8323

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Cover Story

VERONICA BERTRAND Executive Agent of the Month

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VERONICA K. BERTRAND RED DIAMOND REALTY Written by H. K. Wilson - Photography by Michelle Fairless

hen Veronica Bertrand opened the doors on real estate boutique Red Diamond Realty in January 2018, she did so with the vision of setting a new standard for real estate in Orange County. With her comprehensive background in virtually all aspects of real estate, Veronica brings a fresh approach to the practice and adds value that far surpasses her competition. Raised in Central California inside a close-knit family of Portuguese decent, Veronica began life with strong family values and a solid work ethic. Her father, a civil engineer, took her along on job sites at an early age, and through him she learned to read construction plans and blueprints, and developed a love for the buzzing energy and creativity

associated with his work. She knew that real estate would have a profound place in her future. Veronica earned her degree in sociology from UCLA and went on to work for homebuilder Centex Homes as part of its model merchandising team. She explains, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was at the height of the building boom, and I worked with a small group who did everything from setting up construction trailers at new residential communities and furnishing them for field personnel, to designing, specifying, and managing the installation of finishes and interiors for our model homes and on-site sales offices. I was on-site with every building trade making sure that what we specified went into each home.â&#x20AC;?

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When the recession hit, Veronica was in between a job transfer to the northern California division of Centex Homes when her grandmother suffered a massive stroke. She decided to become her full-time caregiver and during that period, she was accepted into the Master’s program for Interior Design at Fresno State, where she studied for a year. Veronica also worked part time as a Commercial Property Manager for a large management company in central California. It wasn’t long before Veronica decided she needed to return to southern California as she was recruited by a prior senior executive from Centex Homes to participate in a new venture, rehabbing REOs for real estate brokers and banks. She was the only woman and the youngest member of the team, and there were no established systems in place. With her characteristic can-do attitude, she picked up the phone and started making calls. As it happened, her first “yes” came from one of Southern California’s most prominent brokers, leading the way for her company to become one of the largest general contractors for REO repairs. Two years later, she and her colleagues began buying and flipping distressed properties. Veronica was in the fray, purchasing homes on the courthouse steps, managing escrows,

overseeing repairs, handling evictions and running pro formas and financial projections for more than 300 properties each year. She also brought in significant investment dollars. “I figured I should just get my real estate license and do this for myself,” she says. After several prosperous years in real estate sales, property management and interior design, Veronica decided it was time to manifest her own real estate concept. “My mom was the one who really pushed me to open my own company. She has always been my biggest cheerleader in life.” Veronica’s company name conveys the true spirit of her brand. “My favorite color is red, so I knew I wanted to incorporate that into my brand somehow. One day I was picking up my daughter from school and sitting in the parking lot. I started thinking about what is so rare that is also red? I literally did a Google search and sites about gemstones came up. I stumbled on a site that talked about red diamonds being among the rarest on Earth. In my mind, that tied exactly to the kind of service I offer. With my background in design, investment, construction, property management and sales, my value in the industry is unique. I want to make sure the experience clients have with my company is something they’ll never forget.”

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MAKING REAL ESTATE A PRICELESS EXPERIENCE

When she announced that she was opening her company, there were talented agents eager to join her right away. “I’ve never had the lofty goal of hiring a lot of agents. My business is more about quality than quantity. My focus is on delivering world-class service and making sure my agents deliver the same.” Relationships are the cornerstone of Veronica’s service model. “I want clients to think of me as someone they can trust, a confidante. All of my real estate clients are friends of mine now. When they have weddings, baby showers or block parties, I’m there, and I invite them to mine too. I love that. To me, it’s not so much about building a business but having all these relationships for the long haul. I strive to communicate to my agents that it’s not about being number one in the city; it’s about how many relationships you can build and maintain.”

Veronica maintains an astonishing 100 percent referral rate. “Whether they have come back to me to resell their home, or referred me to at least one other person for design, remodel, property management or a real estate purchase or sale, everyone I have worked with has come back to me with more business. There is no greater compliment I could receive.” Clients rave about the service they receive from Veronica and her associates. One said: “We were beyond thrilled by our amazing experience with Veronica Bertrand. She is an incredible agent and an even better person. Her knowledge, patience, and negotiating strength made our first-time home buying experience so much more wonderful than we could have hoped for. We can’t say enough about Veronica, as well as her wonderful team. Thank you!”

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Veronica’s father served and was wounded in Vietnam. She holds a special place in her heart for veterans, and she goes above and beyond to make sure they receive the highest level of service. “I’ve always noticed that there is a certain prejudice against VA buyers in the industry, and a few years ago, I made it my mission to help as many of them as I could. It’s always gratifying to help any buyer get into a home, but knowing what VA buyers have sacrificed to serve our country makes helping a Veteran an extra special experience for me. It hits very close to home.” An Army veteran expressed his gratitude for Veronica’s representation: “As a first-time buyer in over 25 years, I was hectic and a bit concerned as to how the process will go. After going through a number of Realtors® in over a six-month period, I finally ran into Veronica. Let me start by saying she made the home-buying process easy and stressless. She would go to open houses on her own, videotape them, and send me the link allowing me to continue with my day to days and still have the ability to attend open houses virtually. With her diligence and persistence, she found me

the perfect home in La Habra. If there was an angel out there and she was a Realtor®, it would be Veronica. Thank you for all you’ve done, do and continue to do for Veterans, as you have a kind heart for us. I will thank you daily as I wake up in my new home.” Veronica says that without the support of her amazing family, she could not fulfill the dreams of others. “It takes a lot to do what I do, and it would not be possible without my husband, Bryant, my in-laws and my parents who help me with the kids and support me emotionally. It’s important to me to show my daughters they can grow up to be anything they want to be. The sky is the limit.” Her caring personality, unparalleled professional knowledge and tireless work ethic make working with Veronica a truly priceless real estate experience. “I have the resources to deliver value on every front possible, and I want to be the person people trust when they need help with any aspect of real estate. For me, real estate is not a single transaction, it is a lifelong relationship.”

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Veronica Bertrand, Broker/Owner Red Diamond Realty 1261 N. Lakeview Ave., Ste. J-511 Anaheim Hills, CA 92807 Tel: 714.616.7255 Email: Realestate.veronicab@gmail.com Web: www.RedDiamondRealEstate.net DRE # 01903853 ExecutiveAgent Magazine

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What Do You Want Out of Life? Written by Tony Jeary

ExecutiveAgent Magazine

ood things don’t usually come through happy accidents. The most successful people design their own lives and then live their lives with purpose. Their first step is attaining clarity.

I define clarity as understanding and documenting your personal and professional goals, and determining the “why” behind reaching them. It’s vital to developing a clear vision, outlining priorities and objectives, and tackling goals with a real sense of urgency and focus. Clarity is achieved when we know where we are in relation to where we want to go. Without clarity, it is almost impossible to generate the kind of focus necessary to act swiftly and deftly on a daily basis. If you have no clear vision, there is nothing to tie your objectives to and nothing to measure your progress and performance against. When you have clarity about your vision, you discover yourself being pulled toward it, and all you have to do is follow the connecting opportunities that carry you along, allowing you to mark your victories faster and faster. Think about a time when you’ve been excited and regenerated at the thought of achieving a big goal. There’s nothing like that adrenaline rush. When you have clarity, you get that excitement, building and fueling your energy. Clarity and focus together form the basis of execution. So get completely clear about the things that you want, and then take action.

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E XECUTIVE AGENT

MAGAZINE

William Ruiz Written by H. K. Wilson

n honor of Hispanic Heritage Month in 2018, U.S. Bank featured Loan Officer William Ruiz as an example of someone who is passionate about helping families achieve the American Dream. An

immigrant who came to the United States when he was just 19 years old, William says he is proud to help others attain the elevated quality of life that comes with home ownership. “When I came here, I was not only able to assimilate to the culture and become successful professionally, but with it I have been able to help other families, no matter where they are from and to realize the American Dream. The American Dream is not just for foreigners, rather it’s for everyone.” William began his industry career working in the builder/ developer sector. After learning more about real estate, he realized that finance was his true calling. Throughout his 20-plus years in the business, William has worked with some of the world’s largest financial institutions. Along the way, he has managed top-producing sales teams and won national production awards. For the past five consecutive years, U.S. Bank has been recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by the Ethisphere Institute, an agency committed to defining and advancing global standards for ethical business practices. U.S. Bank’s solid values and array of consumer-driven programs and systems have opened an exciting new chapter in William’s mortgage lending career. “We have products for people with all kinds of incomes, and we do a variety of loans for underserved markets. I love working with first-time buyers.”

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Member of FDIC

William also values U.S. Bank’s advanced technology platform. “It’s so important to be tech savvy and up-to-date. We understand that consumers are looking online for real estate and loans, and we want to connect with them in ways that are efficient and convenient. Our online loan application is a user-friendly program that allows the customer to fill out and submit their loan with me as the copilot. I can be there with them while they complete the application. The system keeps track of all the documentation that has been sent and what is still needed, and the borrower can see updates at the click of a button. Buying a home is a very emotional process for most people, but this makes it easier to explain why things are needed and to be proactive about the process.”

Humanity. The homeowner was a Korean War veteran. “In the end, his home was spotless, and we went home feeling great. These are the kinds of things I look for when I want to be part of an organization.”

In addition to William’s many years of professional experience, he is also an industry leader who gives substantial time to various organizations that promote education and home ownership. He has served on the board and committees for the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP), and in 2015, he was recognized as one of the top 250 loan originators in the nation. In 2019, William was asked to serve in leadership for the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA). William is also an avid supporter of the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP). “Nothing brings me more joy than helping someone who has served our country realize their American Dream.”

William Ruiz NMLS ID 455510 U. S. Bank 17700 Castleton St., Ste. 538 City of Industry, CA 91748 Cell: 213-700-1190 Office: 626-923-3567 Email: William.Ruiz@usbank.com Web: https://mortgage.usbank.com/williamruiz

William remembers the difference home ownership made for his own family many years ago, and he describes what the American Dream means to him. “Our kids were finally able to play outside and paint their room any way they wanted. We made a game room in the garage so their friends could come over. This is the beauty of owning your own home. It means having a life that feels more stable, and a place to enjoy moments together.”

Recently, William and his U.S. Bank colleagues participated in a home makeover with Habitat for

The American Dream Is For Everyone ExecutiveAgent Magazine

Wherever You Are, Be There

nce we master the art of being, we open the door to a lifetime of happiness.

One of the major reasons why we fail to find happiness or to create unique lifestyle is because we have not yet mastered the art of being. While we are home our thoughts are still absorbed with solving the challenges we face at the office. And when we are at the office we find ourselves worrying about problems at home. We go through the day without really listening to what others are saying to us. We may be hearing the words, but we aren’t absorbing the message. As we go through the day we find ourselves focusing on past experiences or future possibilities. We are so involved in yesterday and tomorrow that we never even notice that today is slipping by.

Lifestyle is learning to be wherever you are. It is developing a unique focus on the current moment, and drawing from it all of the substance and wealth of experience and emotions that it has to offer. Lifestyle is taking time to watch a sunset. Lifestyle is listening to silence. Lifestyle is capturing each moment so that it becomes a new part of what we are and of what we are in the process of becoming. Lifestyle is not something we do; it is something we experience. And until we learn to be there, we will never master the art of living well. Jim Rohn knows the secrets of success - in business and in life. He has devoted his life to a study of the fundamentals of human behavior and personal motivation that affect professional performance. He can awaken the unlimited power of achievement within you! Reproduced with permission from the Jim Rohn Weekly E-zine. Copyright© 2006, Jim Rohn. All right reserved. For information about Jim’s keynote presentations and seminars, contact the FrogPond at 800.704.FROG(3764) or email susie@FrogPond.com http://FrogPond.com.

We go through the day rather than getting something from the day. We are everywhere at any given moment in time except living in that moment in time.

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Written By Jim Rohn ExecutiveAgent Magazine

IN ADDITION to the analysis on homeownership

trends and nuances influencing household formation, this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s report has an increased focus on to the impact of language and culture in the home purchase transaction and includes recommendations on marketing strategy to more effectively reach the Hispanic consumer.

DOWNLOAD THE REPORT TODAY: hispanicwealthproject.org/shhr

HELPING MILITARY & VETERAN

FAMILIES REALIZE THE

AMERICAN DREAM! 2,600 + VETERANS

EDUCATED ABOUT HOMEOWNERSHIP

1,500 + FAMILIES

WHO WE ARE Established in 2011, the USA Homeownership Foundation, Inc. DBA Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP), is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to increasing sustainable homeownership, financial-literacy education, VA loan awareness, and economic opportunity for the active-military and veteran communities.

WERE HELPED THROUGH VAREP CARES

750 VETERANS PLACED IN HOMES THROUGH OUR PROGRAMS

UPCOMING LOCAL VAREP EVENT VAREP Orange County - Golf Tournament September 14, 2018 Tustin Ranch Golf Course 12442 Tustin Ranch Rd, Tustin, CA 92782

66 HOUSING SUMMITS TO EMPOWER VETERAN HOMEOWNERSHIP

WHO CAN JOIN? Any individual regardless if you have served or not. VAREP and its members represent and work within all sectors of the real estate, housing and financial services industries... WE WANT YOU!

VAREP San Bernardino - Veterans Housing Summit Saturday · September 22, 2018 Check In 8:00AM Event 9:00AM - 2:00PM Ontario Chamber Of Commerce Education Training Room 3200 Inland Empire Blvd., Ste 130 Ontario, CA 91764 VAREP San Diego - Golf Tournament September 26, 2018 Riverwalk Golf Club 1150 Fashion Valley Road · San Diego CA 92108 View the full VAREP Events Calendar at:

https://varep.net/eventsfront/advocacy

info@VAREP.net | w w w .VAR EP. n e t | 951-444-7363 VAREP IS A 501.C.3 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION AND YOUR CONTRIBUTION IS TAX DEDUCTIBLE. USA HOMEOWNERSHIP DBA VETERANS ASSOCIATION OF REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS TAX ID: 45-2458485

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Embracing Adversity For Achievement

uccess in life depends upon being strong, people with clear goals and indomitable spirits. Unfortunately, most of us are not born that way. We grow that way. And that growth can either come from us entering willfully into situations that will cause us to grow, like subscribing to Made for Success, or from the way we react when circumstances come upon us without our consent. The latter is what we call adversity. Most of us spend our lives trying to avoid adversity, and I guess that is just as well. We should not pursue adversity, but when she arrives, we should welcome her as a foe who, though our interaction with her, will make us into better people. Every contact we have with adversity gives us again the opportunity to grow personally and professionally and to forge our character into one that will achieve much later on. With that in mind, here are some thoughts on adversity, and how it can help you to succeed in every area of your life and achieve your dreams. Adversity brings out our resources. Horace said “Adversity reveals genius, prosperity conceals it.” When everything is going well, we coast. There is not a lot of stress, and we do not have to draw too much on the resources that reside within us. But when adversity comes we begin to draw upon each and every resource that we have in order to conquer the circumstances at hand. Adversity then, keeps us sharp. It keeps us using our personal muscle, if you will. That is a good thing because we grow through the use of our resources. Adversity brings us together with others. Sure a team can have their problems with each other, but when they on the court, when they experience the adversity of facing another obstacle, they pull together. One for all and all for one, as they say. The next time you experience adversity of some kind, keep your eyes open for how it can bring you together with your family, your co-workers or your team. Then when you are through it, you will find a bond that was created that was not there before.

Adversity makes us better people with stronger characters. Never underestimate the power of adversity to shape us inwardly. How will courage, discipline and perseverance ever flourish if we are never tested? After adversity, we come out stronger people and able then to use our character and influence in an even greater way to lead those around us and to improve their lives as well as our own. Adversity makes life interesting. John Amatt said, “Without adversity, without change, life is boring.” How true. Have you noticed that while we are in the middle of adversity we only long to get out of it, but we then spend a lifetime recounting it to anyone who will listen? This is because it spices life up a little. Imagine how boring life would be if everything always went well, when there was never a mountain to be climbed. Here are some questions for you to reflect upon before I close: Q. If you are in the middle of some adversity right now, what resources are you drawing on? Who are you drawing closer to and working with? What part of your character is being tested, and built up? What can you do to view this adversity as one who will be better for it on the other side? Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit – Napoleon Hill Chris Widener is the President of Made For Success. He teaches leaders how to become Extraordinary Leaders. Chris’ speaking and consulting services have challenged the best to become optimists, to pursue excellence relentlessly, and to dream big dreams. Copyright© 2007, Chris Widener. All rights reserved. For information about Chris’ speaking and consulting services, contact the FrogPond at 800.704. FROG(3764) or email susie@FrogPond.com; http://www. FrogPond.com.

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Our bone marrow transplant reunion is now standing room only. Each year, City of Hope invites bone marrow transplant recipients and their families to attend the “Celebration of Life” event. It’s a joyous time during which survivors of blood cancers such as lymphoma, leukemia and myeloma embrace their health, their life and each other. It began more than 35 years ago when City of Hope created what is now one of the largest and most successful bone marrow transplant programs in the world. In fact, we’ve completed over 11,000 transplants and, according to national reports, our outcomes are among the best in the nation. The goal of curing cancer isn’t just something we work at. It’s what we live for. If you have cancer, make us your first call. Or ask your doctor for a referral. We accept most insurance. 800-826-HOPE

COH-0726_BMT_Hem_fp_4c_ExecAgt.indd 1

WE LIVE TO CURE CANCER. Science saving lives. cityofhope.org/bmt

11/25/13 6:02 PM

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Cover and Feature story profiles Building wealth and visibility for real estate professionals and businesses alike Executive Agent Magazine, builds visibility for real estate professionals and associated businesses through original and thought provoking feature stories. Each issue showcases extraordinary real estate professionals who are breaking new ground and accomplishing exceptional goals in the local real estate industry. For more information please contact:

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