Today we’d like to introduce you to Josue Chiok.
Hi Josue, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Where to begin? I moved to Florida from Peru in 2003, I was 11, and it was quite the change. I had to adapt to a different culture and language, make new friends, and start a new life. But, of course, as an 11-year-old, it wasn’t as hard to get used to my new life as it was for my parents. Starting from zero, when they had their whole lives set in Peru, was very difficult for them, but it was a sacrifice they were willing to make for my brother and I. Therefore, everything that I’ve accomplished, I owe to them. Fast forwarding to 2011, I graduated from Dr. Phillips High School, and for the next 8 years, I didn’t know what to do with my life. I did some college in 2015, but I hated it. My life consisted of working jobs I didn’t like and exercising a few hobbies. But I had no vision, no real goals. However, in 2019 everything changed. I decided to make something out of my life. I wanted to make my parents proud and prove that their sacrifices weren’t for nothing. So I enrolled in the 2020 Spring term at Valencia college and started working towards a bachelor’s in Finance. While attending college, I also started educating myself in real estate. I started reading books, watching videos, and listening to podcasts―all about real estate. Robert Kiyosaki, Grant Cardone, and Brandon Turner from BiggerPockets became my idols. I started looking up to them and learning their ways. But the book that changed my life and was the turning point for me, and I think many entrepreneurs can say the same, was Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. It was then that I found out that real estate investing would be my ticket to a wealthy life. After a year of educating myself on the subject, I decided to get my real estate license. The two reasons I chose to do that are 1) it would help me build the capital I needed, and 2) it would open many doors for me as I’d be working very close with other investors. After passing my real estate exam and interviewing several brokerages, on September 1, 2022, I joined Keller Williams Realty at the Lakes. A week later, I made the bold move of quitting my 9 to 5 and becoming a full-time real estate agent. I have been with Keller Williams for over three months and couldn’t be happier with my decision. They provide me with all the tools, support, and education I need to succeed in this business. It’s been a rough patch as the market is shifting and buyers are becoming more resilient, and sellers still think we’re in a market where homes are selling themselves. However, I’m more focused on building the skills I need and a strong foundation for a successful business. I sometimes think of going back to the 9 to 5 for job security, but that won’t get me to where I want to be, and that’s financial freedom and leaving a legacy behind.
Would it have been a smooth road, and what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been a challenging road. As the market shifts, buyers are becoming more resilient, and sellers still think we’re in a market where offers above asking price are being made. But my job as a realtor is to educate them, teach them about the advantages of buying and selling in this market, and help them align their expectations with it. Staying motivated has been another struggle. Rejection and a slow business can take a toll on your motivation. However, I’ve learned that motivation goes hand in hand with discipline. A good motive will give you that initial burst of inspiration. And discipline will keep you on track and help you stay motivated.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My motto is “Real Estate Made Easy.” I entered the Real Estate world and partnered with Keller Williams Realty to deliver the absolute best real estate services possible and help people accomplish homeownership. My backgrounds in Hospitality and Finance give me a unique insight into how to improve upon a less-than-stellar experience with an agent, market properties, and find the best deals.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memories are definitely the Christmas and New Year’s parties back in Peru. All my family would get together—and there were dozens of us. We would eat, open gifts, light up fireworks, and stay up all night dancing and just having a great time. The parties never ended before 6am.
Contact Info:
- Website: josuechiok.kw.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/josuetherealtor
- Facebook: facebook.com/josue.chiok
Image Credits
David Hartigan
