Today we’d like to introduce you to Yessenia Cruz.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
We’ve all heard stories about successful people switching careers in search of something new, fresh and exciting. However, I never thought of it happening to me. For eight years I had my very own cubicle, and chair and even had my own coffee mug on my office desk working in a seemingly easy 8-5 government job until suddenly I didn’t feel comfortable anymore. I felt like there was more to me, more to give and show the world. That’s when I took a part-time assistant job with one of the island’s most renowned real estate brokers at a local brokerage. I began to learn as much as I could in the real estate market and became extremely interested in becoming an agent myself.
After just a year of working there, I made a thrilling yet extremely terrifying career and life-changing decision. I quit my government job to focus solely on my real estate career. Shortly after my two-year anniversary as an assistant, I made yet another decision to leave the brokerage and join a new firm. For many, this seemed extremely risky, since this firm was new. For me, it just felt right. I felt at peace about it, put my faith in God, and fortunately had my family’s love and support. I really believed this would be the start of something grand.
As a result, after just one year with the firm, I achieved “top 25” status in a community of over 110 real estate agents on the island of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands! A career change takes time, dedication, and a whole lot of learning. But, take it from me: When you’ve found that new job and are working toward that new career—it’s 100% worth it if you have a passion for what you are doing and can find a firm that will fuel your fire!
Of course, it didn’t end there. God started to put a desire in my heart to get my Florida license. Florida was always my second home. My dad moved to Florida in 1989 and ever since, I would travel back and forth from St. Croix to Orlando. I began my real estate classes online in June 2017 without having the slightest idea that I would be moving in October of that year. The thought of starting all over again was another terrifying moment but I gave it my all and have been very successful. I just love the feeling you get when you help someone. Knowing that you have made a positive effect on their lives.
My desire is to build a bridge between the U.S. Virgin Islands and Florida. The U.S. Virgin Islands is my home, a place full of art and culture. More so, I have a soft spot for nature and recreation, we all know that’s one of the things that the U.S. Virgin Islands offers. As for Florida, that’s my second home, I understand the landscapes, and every nook and cranny in there, that’s why I just always feel a connection with both locations.
My long-term goal has been to establish myself as the go-to real estate expert in these two markets. I learned through my research that many Virgin Islanders relocate to Florida because it is the state nearest to the Island, so I feel like being a connection between the two locations for the sake of helping the Virgin Islanders is one of my callings! Yes!
Truly, the biggest coup of my career thus far has been having the good fortune of assisting many families with their dream of owning a home. Honestly, I have come to realize that Success means different things to different people, but for me, success means making an impact in the life of others. I know I’m successful in Real Estate when I feel trusted, and my opinion is valued. I have been recognized by both my sellers and buyers and I hear them express those feelings, these are the litmus test of my success in real estate.
Aside from real estate, I enjoy giving back to the community by holding women’s conferences to empower women to be transformed through forgiveness and healing. Helping people is my passion, and real estate allows me to do just that!
But do not forget that it all started with a conception that was followed by a plausible action of quitting every distraction that tended to oppose my dreams.
It’s crystal clear that, if you can conceive anything in life, then you can achieve it!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Obviously, every business or career has its own challenges and as such, the real estate business has its own glaring challenges. To be successful you have to work veritably hard to meet your goals and stand out, especially in a competitive sector like ours. There are numerous pros and cons when pursuing a career in real estate, but the pros generally stand out especially when this is truly what you love and are passionate about. With the frugality’s growth rate and the fierce competition within the industry, it’s an assiduity that attracts those with a clear vision for sustainable growth.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Real Estate Agent licensed in Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The fact that I am also a licensed mortgage loan originator may surprise many. For me, business is personal. For the benefit of my clients, I constantly strive to put myself in a position where I can learn more about the real estate buying process.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Being dependable, honest, and kindhearted were among the lessons I picked up early in my career. I occasionally had months where I had no sales. Even though I felt frustrated, I kept going because I knew I was there for a reason. Despite quite a few unpleasant and unethical actions from other agents, I never let my heart become hardened. I never let anyone alter who I was. I gave God permission to mend my heart and make good out of every unfortunate circumstance. Our industry can be brutal at times but I’ve learned to always treat people well.
Finding the ideal balance between life at home and at work is usually the biggest issue for women. Women are often expected to make compromises and sacrifices in this area, and it can be difficult for them to ensure that their decisions are correct on both fronts. For me, it was not simple, and I am still working on it. So, I stopped getting myself worked up, when I understood that multitasking is the nature of womanhood, we cannot avoid it at all. Then I strategized a means, by making adequate use of my To-do list /planner and it really helped me to get things done.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.yesseniasells.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yesseniacruzvi/
Image Credits
Kaley M L Photography
