Meet Jose, a Real Estate Agent in Miami Florida

Jose is an enthusiastic and dependable real-estate broker in the southern region of Florida. His top priority is customer service, adeptly and skillfully guiding clients through the process of purchasing or selling a property. In his words: "My ultimate goal is the client's complete satisfaction. To accomplish that, I carefully listen to their needs and desires for their new property and tirelessly search the market to find their ideal home at the best price." Jose is committed to his clients and will give a high level of dedication and support until the transaction is completed.

He is currently working with the builders of Aria on the Bay, a 53-story building located in South Beach across from the breathtaking Biscayne Bay with unobstructed water views.

1. What do you enjoy about working as a realtor in Miami, Florida?

Working from the sunshine state, it's a true joy to wake up and seeing the sun shining, and the warmth of the weather brings families from across the globe. As a real-estate broker, you have the tools and resources to help clients achieve their goals. Whether you are purchasing your first home or an investment property, it's one of the biggest investments most Americans make in their lives. This is very fulfilling to see clients have a true sense of security, and trust in your ability to deliver results is key. Working with all the different cultures from Canada to Asia and South America is always an added bonus because you grow through diversity of cultures and beliefs.

2. When you think about the condos in the new Aria on the Bay building, what are some details that make these homes extra special?

There are various properties that are in the pre-construction phase in Miami, but Aria oy the Bay is a true gem that stands out from the rest, and the reason is its LOCATION. The condo sits in the downtown area of Miami that is off the main strip or Biscayne Blvd and is located on North Bay Shore Drive which is an parallel street to Biscayne. The property is within a 2-mile radius of 95 Interstate, so you don't have to cross the hustle and bustle traffic of downtown.

3. I noticed that Aria on the Bay has condos available in many different sizes, offering from 1000 to 6000 square feet of space--plus over 21,00 square feet of amenities. Are you seeing a lot of interest in this building so far?

The building has many different sizes to fit everyone's budget: the studio and the smaller units that are 815 sqft are selling in the mid 400's. If a client would like a more spacious unit and more bedrooms in the condo, the 3-4 bedrooms are priced from 1.5 Million to 2 Million depending on the floor and the view. The association fees are very reasonable, and they start at .75 cents a sqft There is a tremendous amount of interest in this building, and investors are pouring hundreds of thousands of dollars into escrow accounts in many different brokerage firms across the city.

4. What are some of your favorite things about the building in terms of its design and amenities?

All of the 21,000 finishing touches are going to be spectacular, with European touches throughout the property. The building will have high ceilings, Italian kitchens, a gym, a spa, a children's play room, a business conference center, tennis courts, a volleyball court, and an outdoor fire pit with seating for all of your family. The building also has its own beauty salon located inside the complex, so you don’t even have to hop in the car for a quick trim or blow dry for work or any special event. Aria oy the Bay is is the place to be and be seen here in South Florida.

5. Where in Miami is Aria on the Bay located, and why do you think this particular area is a desirable one, especially for buyers in search of luxury condo living?

Aria by the Bay over looks a beautiful park and the blue waters of Biscayne Bay: this is its true unique quality, and I say this because if you were to purchase a property over looking Central Park in NYC/Manhattan, you would be paying several thousand per sqft along with higher association fees, not to mention the frigid winters of New York. The city protects the park, so the property owners are guaranteed unobstructed views of the water. With the units' creators Melo Group in conjunction with world famous Arquitectonica International Corporation, led by Bernardo Fort-Brescia and Faia, the condo is going to be a huge hit when it's finished in 2018. The building has its own private elevators for its clients and home owners. Arquitectonica has been building master pieces since 1977 and has been exhibiting his work from across the globe.

Thanks, Jose!

Meet Terry Gangaram, Founder of Drexel Mortgage Corporation

With 30+ years of real estate experience, Terry Gangaram founded Drexel Mortgage in 1995 to help Americans nationwide make their American Dream a reality. Starting with residential mortgages, Terry has helped thousands of homeowners buy their first house, investment properties, and commercial real estate to grow their business. Terry's team at Drexel is committed to finding you the financing you want for the home you want.

Learn more by visiting the websites for Drexel Residential Lending and Drexel Commercial Lending.

1. What made you decide to focus your career on working in the home mortgage field?

I wanted to help people become homeowners. Just like the American dream, I wanted to own a home rather than renting, and that's when I wanted to help others do the same. With decades of experience pursuing my entrepreneurial passion providing loans to clients, I built the Drexel Mortgage brand to become one of New York City's top mortgage providers.

2. What are some of the differences for consumers when it comes to working with a local agency like Drexel Mortgage rather than a large national company?

Drexel Mortgage offers great advantages with a hands-on approach to real estate. We're not quick to say no right away with a lot of red tape. For example, when it comes to credit, Drexel Mortgage works with the individual to repair their credit so they become creditworthy to become homeowners. We dispute charges, challenge charge-offs, and help fix delinquincies by advising clients how to prepare their credit for homeownership. Traditional lenders tend to cherry-pick who they want to work with, ignoring many borrowers who are only a few simple steps away from their own homes. We advise clients on a personal level to tailor-fit every loan for each borrower's needs. For example, we advise borrowers to have a co-signer, or have a family member assist them with the loan process to make the loan process comfortable and easy-going.

3. In addition to helping people who want to purchase a new home, what services do you provide for refinancing and debt consolidation?

Once people become a homeowner, they call Drexel Mortgage to utilize the equity in their home to purchase investment properties, consolidate their high interest credit card payments into one low monthly mortgage payment, or pay off bills. Refinancing has many benefits, and Drexel makes it easy for customers to refinance to renovate their homes, fix their credit, and even to finance major purchases.

4. Are there any common questions you get or misconceptions you regularly see regarding home mortgages and personal finance?

Being in the mortgage industry for decades, I've seen a lot of recurring mysteries and common questions. For example, people assume the mortgage process is a mystery that takes a long time. At Drexel, I make it easy for homebuyers to understand that buying a home is an exciting and simple process. Drexel understands buying real estate; mortgages can look like a daunting endeavor--after all, it's probably one of the biggest purchases a person will ever make. But the reality is, at Drexel Mortgage we take the time to assure you're comfortable with achieving your goals.

Another real estate misconception is that you need a lot of income with a huge down payment to own a home. With Drexel Mortgage, we put these popular myths to rest very quickly. I'm often asked what kind of houses are clients qualified for. Clients commonly think they need a high 700 credit score with 20% down just to qualify for a mortgage. Those days are long over, and today's real estate market understands that there are clients from all over the credit/income spectrum who can qualify for a home. At Drexel Mortgage, with flexibility to tailor loans based on the individual's needs we can provide loans to clients with a 600 credit score, with 3.5% down payment.

5. For people considering buying or selling a home in the Richmond Hill neighborhood of New York where your office is located, do you have any locally-specific advice?

New York City, where Drexel Mortgage is located, is one of the most sought after real estate markets in the country. New Yorkers are fast-paced, high-speed people who want it all yesterday. If you're buying a home in NYC, save yourself some time by getting pre-qualified first. Providing a Pre-Qualification is a free service we offer. We look at the income, assets, and credit of the individual to let them know what purchase price their income can support. Sometimes we can offer a pre-approval letter, to save some time for the realtors as well. With a pre-approval letter, the realtors, homebuyers, and appraisers can make fast, intelligent decisions to buy a home and start the loan.

Feel free to call me directly with any questions at (718) 441-1515, terry@drexelmortgage.com, www.terrygangaram.com.

Thanks, Terry!

Meet Mark Coppens, Sarasota Florida Realtor

Mark Coppens is a real estate agent based in Sarasota, Florida who specializes in helping people buy and sell coastal properties. He and Jamie Murdick are known as The SRQ Duo, and they offer all-inclusive residential real estate services to those interested in buying, leasing, or selling in the Sarasota area.

1. How did you first become interested in a career in real estate?

After college I spent some time in the U.S. Army as an Infantry Officer. Among others, the Army afforded me an opportunity to get an MBA, which introduced me to the world of marketing and advertising. I fell in love with negotiating deals and launching sales campaigns around the world. After serving my nation, I became very successful in closing transactions for several Fortune 500 companies at the executive level. During that time, I had bought and sold many personal properties, and for the most part, was extremely disappointed with real estate agents. Let's face it--most agents are lazy. It's true. There's a reason why real estate agents are respected less than lawyers and car salesmen, according to surveys. Generally, agents will do the minimal amount of effort in order to get a sale or close a deal. They say that 10% of licensed agents close 90% of all transactions. So I saw an opportunity. I'm an outgoing type "A" personality, with an education in marketing & advertising, and proven track record of negotiating successful high dollar / high stress contracts. If I could take my unique background, add the advantage of looks and charm, and put in 110% effort--I could really crush it. Plus, I love design and homes. I really do. I'm an HGTV addict.

2. You are half of your agent team, The SRQ Duo. Would you tell us about your other half?

My partner and fiancé Jamie Murdick is an Emmy® Award winning graduate of the Walter E. Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University. Jamie brings our team expertise on modern multimedia combined with years of experience in advertising, marketing, and sales. Like me, Jamie worked in corporate America and has led successful campaigns globally. She is a connoisseur of elegance, style, and sophistication--which lend to her success in luxury real estate, and complements my design skills. She distracts you with her stunning looks while expertly negotiating for her clients with cunning determination. When you choose The SRQ Duo as your agents, you will get the services of us both, each having strengths in differing yet complementary areas. Jamie and I are engaged to be married next April, in 2017, at the Ca D'Zan Mansion on the grounds of the Ringling Museum in Sarasota.

3. What are some of the qualities that draw people to the Sarasota area?

Sarasota (airport code SRQ) is one of the most desired year-round resort communities in the world. A perfect blend of world-renowned beaches, arts and entertainment, championship golf, award-winning dining, and beautiful weather; Sarasota Real Estate is comparable to destinations like Scottsdale, Palm Springs, and Miami all in one. Properties are in high demand, with the neighborhoods of Longboat Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key, Downtown, West of Trail, and Bird Key among some of the most desirable in the nation.

Situated on the sparkling blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota's beauty was noted by John Ringling, of the famed Ringling Circus. Mr. Ringling brought cultural influences and visitors from around the world, and in doing so, left his permanent mark on the composition of the city.  

With professional theatres, ballet, opera, and an orchestra, the city boasts more refined entertainment choices than most large-scale metropolitan areas. Boutique shopping downtown, in Saint Armand's Circle, and on Siesta Key provides unique finds for the most avid of consumers.

The area boasts some of the nation's best golf courses, with challenging options at a range of prices. If you're into other sports, SRQ is within an hour of professional soccer, hockey, football, and baseball--with two spring training facilities within a fifteen-minute drive. The marina and beach complexes provide ample watersports, fishing, and boating opportunities, with international yachting on par with our neighbors on the east coast of the state. The weather favors outdoor activities year-round. From running and biking the Legacy Trail, to crew at the world-class rowing complex at Benderson Park, Sarasota offers numerous choices for even the bravest of adventurers. We love Sarasota!

4. In keeping your agency team smaller and more tightly focused than many others, what unique benefits do you offer your clients?

Our brokerage, Merrick Damon Real Estate, is a top rated boutique real estate agency in the southeastern United States. Because we're agents with a regional boutique firm, we can focus on a select number of clients, offering personalized full-service that is responsive and focused. Quite simply, we out-hustle the large and slow nationwide firms and deliver superior results. Unlike bigger firms, you will not have to deal with field agents, assistants, transaction coordinators, closing agents or other parties in between. The SRQ Duo will be your sole point of contact throughout the entire process to help you buy or sell homes in Sarasota, Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, Bird Key, Lakewood Ranch and West of Trail.

5. What else would you like our readers to know about your agency and the services you provide?

Jamie and I met in Abu Dhabi, and had our first dinner in London and our first date in Dubai. We literally travel the world in order to connect with buyers and investors of our clients' properties. From Hong Kong to Paris, and Ottawa to Rio De Janeiro, The SRQ Duo goes above and beyond to sell our listed properties.

We also represent buyers and annual renters. We will meet with you in person, or over the phone for long distance clients, and do an in-depth analysis of your wants and needs. Based on your detailed criteria, we will canvas multiple sources of listed and unlisted properties to narrow your search down to a manageable number of homes. These homes will be presented to you for consideration and potential showing. We understand that your time is very valuable, and will only show properties that you want to see. Once you have found the new home and lifestyle that you've dreamed of, we will begin the difficult task of negotiating the best price.  

Jamie and I take pride in our work and in getting our clients the best deal--as a buyer or seller. We are extremely responsive, pay great attention to details, and understand that buying or selling a home, particularly a luxury home, should be a low-stress, enjoyable occasion. We treat our clients with great respect & care, and pledge that our service will be the best real estate experience you've ever had.

If you're thinking of buying or selling a home or condo in the Sarasota or Lakewood Ranch areas on Florida, please contact Jamie & Mark "The SRQ Duo":

Jamie & Mark Coppens
The SRQ Duo | Merrick Damon Real Estate
Phone: (941) 444-0436
info@thesrqduo.com
http://www.thesrqduo.com

Thanks, Mark!

Introducing Gabe K, Langley BC Realtor

Gabe Kadoranian is a real estate professional based in Langley, BC in Canada. He also serves Surrey BC, Cloverdale, White Rock, Delta, and Abbotsford. I've seen a lot of websites for real estate businesses, and his is one of the best as it is informative, offers lots of excellent pictures to let you see what properties are available, and gives you opportunities to gather more information for free (such as a free valuation to see what your house is worth on the current market). Check out his site at http://gabek.ca/.

Another nice feature of his site is that he has detailed sections for buyers and for sellers, and it's easy to contact him for more information and/or to get answers to any questions you might have about buying or selling a home in Langley.

A lot of people are looking to live in Langely because it's a great, quiet place for families and is ideal for commuting to Vancouver. You can find a wide variety of houses and condos, including both existing homes and new construction. The area has a strong economy and lots of shopping and amenities; plus it's a beautiful places with hundreds of acres of parks.

Gabe K has been working in real estate since 2009 and spent many years in the corporate field before that. He left his corporate career for real estate because he wanted the opportunity to work more directly with people and to give outstanding customer services to his clients. "When I discovered a career in real estate," he said, "I never looked back."

He puts a lot of emphasis on communication and building relationships. He invites potential clients to contact him any time and is always glad to sit down for a coffee and a chat about his favorite subject, real estate--or more accurately, the real estate goals of his clients.

Meet H&H Homes of Fayetteville, NC

H&H Homes is a builder of new homes based in Fayetteville, North Carolina. They have built homes in Pinehurst, Goldboro, Fayetteville, Raleigh, Charlotte, and Camp Lejeune. They focus on livability and sustainability in the communities they help create.

1. How did you become interested in building homes?

In 1991, Ralph acted on a lifelong passion to build new homes in Fayetteville by forming H&H Homes with his wife, Linda. Ralph Huff has an extensive banking background, and he also has a majority ownership in real estate brokerage Coldwell Banker Advantage. With his contacts in banking, decided to build new homes in some of the military towns around North Carolina. Today, H&H Homes has 60 employees and has built and sold over 4000 new homes in the Fayetteville and Jacksonville NC markets.

2. Are you seeing a lot of construction of new homes in Fayetteville?

Absolutely. Fayetteville is our largest market. We've built our company on the sales of quality new homes to military personnel and families whose careers include the federal government. Fayetteville, with its proximity to Fort Bragg, continues to be a major source of sales for H&H Homes.

3. What makes Fayetteville such a popular place to live among cities in North Carolina?

I think it's the combination of a solid employment center in terms of the local base, but also, a great many cultural, retail and entertainment options that are really picking up in the area. Plus, you've got a ton of outdoor recreational activities in the region. Fayetteville has really become so much more well-rounded over the past few years.

4. For people who are on the fence and considering buying a new home or an existing home, do you have any advice when it comes to making that decision?

I think you have to weigh the advantage between a new vs used home. New homes offer extensive warranties and protections that you're just not going to get with a used home. Furthermore, newer homes are more energy efficient, and it's quite amazing how much you can save per year when your home helps you cut those utility bills each month. Lastly, you have so many personalization options with a new home. You can truly detail your home so it's exactly the way you want it.

5. What else would you like people to know about H&H Homes?

We really take our company's slogan, "Crafted for Life," quite seriously. Every decision we make at the company level has to do with crafting a home that will truly stand the test of time. It will weather the elements and solidly stand for generations to come. We know that many of our buyers want to live in their home forever, and maybe even pass it along to future generations. We've built our reputation on designing and building a product that can live up to those expectations.

Feel free to visit our website and learn more about the new homes in Fayetteville we build and how our company truly stands behind each and every one of them.

Thanks!

Meet Angela Lee, Founder of Millennial Housing & Lifestyle

Angela Lee is the founder of Millennial Housing & Lifestyle. She is a millennial and an NYC transplant with 12 years of experience in real estate and mortgage banking. She's held senior positions in sales, talent management, communications, and marketing for various private and public institutions. She was recently elected to lead the largest AAPI real estate trade organization in 2017--and honored as the first millennial, Korean American, female leader of a nationwide real estate trade organization.

Learn more about her at www.itsmeangela.com.

1. How would you describe Millennial Housing & Lifestyle?

The decision to launch this platform is due to my passion about educating the millennial generation in terms of housing and lifestyle so we can have a positive impact for the generations to come. Whether or not one believes homeownership is still out of reach, we will talk about challenges together. The blog platform has exclusive interviews with experts, as well as lifestyle tips and tricks--plus informative content designed to help make the next big decision a smart one. I am on a mission to make real estate relevant to a lifestyle, not just some responsibility to dread.

2. What are your focus areas, and how do you differentiate yourself from your competitors?

So here I am in real estate, doing something that will impact millions of people all over America. Hosting this important discussion concerning the millennial generation and real estate is at the very core of our personal lives, our regional and national economies, and our futures.

Most blogs dealing with real estate are self-serving. They bend over backward to sell products and services. But this blog is different. I'm here for one reason: to start and nurture a rich conversation. The participants will be millennials and interested others who want to make an important contribution to the real estate industry.

3. How is the real estate market impacting how millennials see and do things for their future?

The soaring cost of education, massive student loan debt, the difficult job market, and the rapid rise in the cost of living in major population centers has hit millennials square in the jaw. We have a challenge like no other generation has faced in decades. One of the first areas we millennials must reform is real estate. In an age when it's very difficult to buy a home before age 40, it will be our task to find ways to disrupt, innovate, and improve.

4. What are some things that most people don't know about your job, and what are some of the biggest challenges you've encountered personally?

The blogging business is not an easy task. In order to create and curate quality content, I have to spend countless hours brainstorming and speaking to my sphere of influence. It is hard work and a full-time gig, and much of it isn't glamorous. Just like any other business investment, it's important not to lose sight of end goals.

I recently ended a 13-year career as an upper level executive in the financial industry. I can't lie: the money was very good. But here in New York City, it takes a lot of cash just to live. I woke up one morning realizing I was about to turn 33 and owed on mortgage debts, student loans, and credit cards for a grand total of $1.5 million of debt. I was clearly going to be working until my dying day simply running in place to keep the payments on schedule. But the big realization that made me quit my career was that I wasn't making a difference in the world. Focusing on everything that's working instead of dwelling on negativity has helped create a balance in my personal life.

5. What tips would you give to a millennial who is looking to start a business in today market?

I would say don't rush into anything, and get a professional mentor (you should find one if you don't have one already.) You're going to need a whole lot of skills you probably don't have right now because of your age. Technical skills are great assets, but interpersonal skills will get you far in life, especially in business. My second bit of advice is don't ever burn bridges because you never know where and how your paths will cross again. We all run in circles--it's a small world out there. It is a golden rule in life.

6. Finally, what are you most excited about at the moment, and do you have any other thoughts to share?

My biggest project at the moment is the official launch of my new blog--Millennial Housing & Lifestyle.

Remember, leaders are not born. They are made. Becoming an entrepreneur/CEO is not as hard as it looks. It is the hard work that you need to put in; that is a big deal. Be sure to dream big and focus on what you want out of your actions. Immerse yourself in building your own empire.

Thanks, Angela!

Meet Carolyn Young, Real Estate REMAX Realtor Loudoun Virginia

1. How did you first get into buying and selling houses?

I am a life-long resident of the Northern Virginia area, and I have always loved architecture and the idea of a home versus a house. Twenty years ago, Loudoun County was just starting to really grow, and I decided at the time that real estate was something that I would love to do--I was right! Within six months, I quit my full-time job and have never looked back!

2. What are some of the most often overlooked parts by home owners when selling their home?

Putting a home on the market is all in the details--it's very important, if a seller wants to get top dollar, to allow the buyer to feel comfortable about the home, and by that I mean that the home has been historically well-maintained, and not just staged for one day's showing. For example, caulking, air filters, water filters, ceiling stains, gutters--it all should be buttoned up. Trust me, buyers look at these things.

3. How has the housing market changed in Loudoun County over the past few years?

Loudoun County, like many markets, has been on a roller coaster over the last ten years--rapid rise, rapid fall, flat, and now steady growth. The last five years have been phenomenal in terms of growth--if you moved out-of-state during this time, and moved back, you would be hard pressed to even recognize some areas. There is growth everywhere.

4. What makes a house a good investment?

All things being equal: location. The changing tide will raise and lower all the boats equally; in real estate, however, a home in a good location will fall more slowly and recover more quickly than other homes. Overall, good location stabilizes a home's value over the long term.

5. For anyone reading this who wants to get into investing in properties and fixing them up to resell, what's your advice?

Be prepared to compete with others who have the same idea; know how much materials and labor cost, and choose your properties wisely. Be willing to walk away from the wrong house at the "right" price. And have a good agent on your side, preferably one who owns investment property.

To learn more about some of the properties we have listed with Carolyn Young Real Estate, please visit our Loudoun Virginia Homes for Sale website, and we'll be in touch right away.

Thanks, Carolyn!

Meet Mayer Dahan of Prime Five Homes and Dahan Properties

Young entrepreneur Mayer Dahan is CEO of Prime Five Homes and Dahan Properties, full service real estate development companies that specialize in building modern, sustainable homes in Los Angeles. He is also the founder of The Dream Builders Project, an action based charity. The DBP hosts charitable events to fund and raise awareness for several of Los Angeles' key social issues, including child abuse and neglect, education, homelessness, and severe illness and disease.

1. How did you first become interested in sustainable building practices?

I first became interested in sustainable building practices and building eco-friendly, modern homes when I started thinking about wanting a home of my own. When you are buying a home, you want quality materials, sturdy infrastructure, and reliable and sustainable design. I realized how much LA is lacking this type of housing and decided to make it my mission to provide and educate people about the importance of building this way. At Prime Five Homes, we pride ourselves on utilizing only sustainable construction, solar energy, eco-friendly materials, and smart home technology. As the green building code becomes stricter and more apparent in the residential market, we strive to exceed these standards and make our houses even better and more beautiful.

2. In what ways do you find that being an L.A. native influences your work?

I was born and raised in LA, so this city is my home. Making LA the best that it can be is my passion, and my worldwide travels have taught me that we do live in a great city, but there are things we can improve on, such as housing and sustainability. Seeing and exploring various architectural innovations and design styles around the world is what inspires me to continue building modern homes and educating Angelinos on the future of building and housing.

3. When it comes to the homes you've built through Prime Five Homes, do you have any favorites overall?

432 S. Citrus is most definitely my favorite so far. Not only is the look of home modern, beautiful, and distinct, but the design and architecture is what I am incredibly proud of. The open floor plan completely blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor environments, establishing a style of living that some can only dream of.

Although it was one of our more challenging builds because we wanted to create an aesthetic that would stand out from the competition while still maintaining a modern and eco-friendly design, the final product was well worth the challenge. The big, luxurious windows allow so much natural light to filter into the home's interior and the refurbished wood that adorns the ceiling of the upstairs balcony, as well as the kitchen cabinetry is are why I love 432 S. Citrus so much.

A current project that we are working on right now on, N. Curson Ave, will be incomparable to anything I've ever done before. Stay tuned! It will be well worth it!

4. What inspired you to start The Dream Builders Project?

After the death of a close friend from unfortunate circumstances in 2013, I realized how important it is to offer a helping hand to those in need. I didn't just want to help on a small scale. In her name, I wanted to make a real impact on our community, and for this reason, I founded The DBP. Replicating Prime Five Homes' philosophy of making LA a better place, the goal of The DBP is to give back to the community with a focus on homelessness, child abuse and neglect, education, and human trafficking. In its history, The DBP has hosted over 12 Charity Flash Mobs, two Charity Galas, and one orphanage remodeling, and supplied more than 600 school children with school supplies.

5. For people who are reading this and nurturing their own entrepreneurial dream, what's your advice for getting started--or taking their dream to the next level?

You don't need to know everything in order to get started: you just need a good idea, passion, and a whole lot of drive! And don't be afraid to take risks. Just believe in yourself and dream big!

Thanks, Mayer!

Meet Don McClain of EZ House Buyers

Based in Houston, Texas, Don McClain of EZ House Buyers provides a way to sell your house fast.

1. Who can benefit from EZ House Buyers?

EZ House Buyers provides an alternative to the traditional sales channels of hiring a realtor, cleaning up the property, doing open houses and showings, negotiating a contract, inspections, long closings, costly repairs, etc. We assist property owners by providing them with a quick solution and a fair price. We buy properties "as is, where is", and we pay the closing costs. In short, we provide a valuable alternative to property owners who want to sell quickly.

2. What is the average closing time for these transactions?

All we need is to get title work done and make sure there are no outstanding liens on the property that are not being paid. We have closed deals in as little as two days. Sometimes we need the seller's assistance in tracking down missing heirs. Other than that, we can close very quickly--sometimes much faster than the seller was aware that we could.

3. What are the most common reasons for selling a property through EZ House Buyers?

There are many reasons that a property owner would want to sell quickly. Some of the most common are: loss of job, pending foreclosure, illness, divorce, costly repairs, investment property that needs to be sold, death in the family that results in a situation where heirs would rather have the cash than the property. There are many reasons, and EZ House Buyers custom tailors a solution for each seller.

4. What is fair market value price for these properties?

We typically pay more than anyone else in the market. The amount depends on the property type and location, and if it is rural or urban property. We run comparables on the property and typically can pay up to 65% for rural properties and up to 75% for urban properties.

5. How is EZ House Buyers better than other realtors or home buyers for cash?

EZ House Buyers evaluates each situation carefully. We customize a solution for each property owner. If a seller needs to stay in the property for a time after closing, for example, we can do a lease-back to them. Also, we work with the property owners to help them clear title on properties that may have title issues. On each and every deal, we work to make sure everyone is pleased, and we work to get the property owners as much for their property as possible.

Thanks, Don!

Meet Charlie Bennett of Bennett Atherton Investments

Based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, Charlie Bennett is the CEO and a founding partner of Bennett Atherton Investments, a firm that buys, restores, and sells houses. He's a licensed realtor and active real estate investor with a passion for rehabbing old homes. As a lifelong resident of Tonka Bay, MN, Charlie is an expert on the small, yet complicated markets that make up the Lake Minnetonka area. Learn more at http://www.ba-invests.com.

1. How did you first get into buying and selling houses?

I was a used car salesman. It wasn't a career I was too enthusiastic about which was a real problem in my life as my Dad and both grandparents were all car dealers. There was a local eyesore property, and I drove by it every day. I had no money and no experience, but I was certain we could bring it back to life. My mother is a designer, and I had seen her do some pretty neat projects. I didn't have enough money to buy anything on my own, so I found a business partner, Richard Atherton. We bought our first property for $85,000 and sold it "for sale by owner" for $240,000. The rest is history.

2. What are some of the most important things to change and update when you sell a house?

If you're on a budget, start with THE INSIDE!!! It's where you live. It's what you see the most. I would rather have a rockstar interior and an average exterior than vice versa! Wouldn't you? The art of living is living in art :)

3. How has the housing market changed in Minnetonka, Minnesota over the past few years?

I focus exclusively on Tonka Bay, Shorewood, and Excelsior. It's a very small area geographically. Many houses are turning over for the first time in well over a decade. A properly priced home is moving quickly, so offers need to be quick and near full asking price.

4. What makes a house a good investment for you--or in other words, how do you choose which properties to buy?

I'm looking for properties within Minnetonka School district. We buy and remodel everything as if we're moving in. We want good bones (layout) with a good lot. Cosmetics don't matter in the slightest bit as we're remodeling 100% anyway. Unfinished square footage is a bonus!

5. For anyone reading this who wants to get into investing in properties and fixing them up to resell, what's your advice?

My advice is to consult experts. I'm part of a multi-person team. I'm the real estate / investment side, my designer designs, and my builder builds. Trying to wear all the hats is not a good idea.

Thanks, Charlie!

Meet Todd Miller, Realtor and Creator of the Homing In App

Todd Miller is a Las Vegas real estate broker. In 2009, he and his wife were the #1 team in the nation for real estate sales in the US, according to the Wall Street Journal. He is the creator of an app called Homing In, which gives people expert-sourced values of their homes. To use the app, a homeowner takes a couple pictures of their house and submits the photos with any relevant notes about the property; then, up to five real estate agents can respond with their opinion on the value of the house. Learn more at HomingInApp.com/.

1. What gave you the idea to create Homing In?

I came up with the idea to create Homing In after years of doing a few thousand Broker Price Opinions for banks during the foreclosure boom. The banks would use this information to price their homes before listing them. Often, they would ask multiple agents to do them and pick which one did the best job to give the listing to. I decided this tool should also be something that consumers have access to. So I created the Exactimate, which gives any home owner the same power a bank has: getting accurate values quickly from actual professionals.

2. How does the app come up with the "exactimate" for the value of a home--and how many real estate agents are currently sharing their expertise through the app?

Right now there are about 200 agents nationwide signed up. We've completed value requests in Boston, Las Vegas, San Jose, and Durham NC. Up to five agents can respond. The Exactimate is just the mathematically most likely number, so if three agents all come up with $250,000 for a house, that's going to be the Exactimate. Since they don't see each other's values, they are truly doing their work independently without bias.

3. Why aren't the guesstimates on other sites more accurate?

Online valuation tools like the Zillow Zestimate use lots of data, but sometimes that data is misleading. If a person buys a fixer upper, and then puts $50,000 into repairs, they may have added as much as $100,000 in value to a property. Zillow doesn't know that because the computer can't see the inside of the house and get that information from the consumer. It just knows it sold for X. An agent makes a qualitative decision and can accurately value it. The computers can't.

4. Why did you decide to give the app away for free?

I felt this was something people need to have. Consumers should just have more access to information, and agents should be able to share their knowledge quickly and in a meaningful way. The agent may end up listing the house for sale if they do a good job, and the consumer might just find a really good agent in the process.

5. For people who are looking to sell, do you have any favorite tips for increasing the value of their home before putting it on the market?

The best thing people can do it talk to their agent before they sell. Agents tend to know which things add value and which don't. It depends on the house, the features, and the condition of the inside of the house. The key is to only upgrade things that add more value than the cost of the upgrade. With Homing In, they can get those recommendations through the app.

Thanks, Todd!

Meet Tiffany Haynes, Virtual Assistant

Tiffany Haynes is a virtual assistant and owner of Virtual Business Solutions. She has worked as a real estate broker's assistant where she taught herself marketing development and graphic / print design, and she created an in-house aerial printing shop to facilitate clients with large land listings and commercial sites. Tiffany went on to work in corporate banking, where she excelled in everything from appraisal support to managing all high-risk issues within foreclosure finance, claims, and bookloss. Throughout her professional career, she has developed a wide network of trusted contacts and leverages their expertise to enhance projects, solidifying why she is the hottest virtual assistant in today's market!

Keep up with Tiffany on Facebook and Twitter.

1. How did you first become interested in setting up your own business as a virtual assistant?

I naturally helped entrepreneurs prior to being paid for it. I remember wondering why people that barely knew me would ask me to look at their resume and see if there were any tips I could offer. Friends and family members starting a new business would ask my opinion about crucial decisions. I think that what I do now has always been my calling even before I was even aware of it. I happened to stumble across a description of the industry reading a book in the library and could not rest! I knew from the moment I read the description that not only could I do it; I would be successful at it. I begin to do my research on how I could make that business work for me, and the rest is history!

2. You offer a diversity of services, including specific services for people in real estate. How did you decide what services to offer to clients?

I started off offering anything I knew how to do! So I have an extensive background in the real estate field, and I knew that support in that field is something that I wanted to offer. I have background in project management, so I knew that I wanted to offer strategic and management support. As time passed, I begin to call on experts about things that I was not a subject matter expert in and pull them into my projects, and from there my company has evolved to what it is today.

3. What are some of the challenges of working with people remotely, and what are some tools and techniques you use to communicate/share effectively with clients?

Sometimes when you have a presentation, you want to walk someone through it in person. But it is the technology age, so by utilizing software like GoToMeeting and LogMeIn, I am able to have a very close comparison to an-in person meeting when I meet with my clients.

4. What are some common misconceptions you see about the costs, services, etc involved in hiring a virtual assistant?

Some people believe virtual assistants are too expensive. However, unlike temporary staff and employees, hiring virtual assistants does not incur traditional human resource expenses such as insurance, taxes, and vacation or sick leave. What's more, virtual assistants function independently, without the business owner having to provide an office, equipment, or relevant training. As for remuneration, virtual assistants are paid only in respect of the number of hours or projects for which the business owner requires their services. If you only need 15 hours of assistance a month, that is exactly what you pay for. In essence, you are removing the wasted costs of paying for idle time, which translates into 100 percent productivity!

5. If you were talking to someone who runs a small business--maybe even a solo project!--what advice would you offer in terms of how a virtual assistant could help their business grow?

Big business is successful for many reasons, but one of those reasons is because it has assigned departments and responsibilities: human resources, marketing, admin support, etc.

As a small business owner or entrepreneur, it is your job to be all these things, and if you are waking up and just reacting to deliverables instead of being proactive to the bigger picture, this can hinder your forward motion. Hiring a virtual assistant allows you to distribute tasks to ensure that you can handle all aspects of your endeavors and aspirations that are required to reach your maximum potential. If being tied up responding to calls and emails prevents you from marketing and/or training to learn new skills, you need to assign the calls and emails to someone else. You need a strategic mind to help with marketing; you need a trusted partner to research and find you the best training that is cost effective--this is where my company comes in and does it for a fraction of the cost of what most people think!

Thanks, Tiffany!

Meet Kereen Henry, Entrepreneur, Consultant, and CEO of The EntreMarketing Group

Kereen Henry is the CEO of The EntreMarketing Group, a company which focuses on helping women succeed in business. She has a true passion for helping women start new business ventures and make them successful. As a professional marketing consultant, Kereen has a true knack for helping business women build their brands.

1. What is the goal or purpose of The EntreMarketing Group?

The purpose of The EntreMarketing Group is to help women build successful businesses while balancing their lives. Many of us are mothers and wives. We work full time and still try to make extra income on the side. Juggling all of this is overwhelming, and that's where we come in. We will blog for you, update your website, post via social media--basically we provide all the services that are important but time-consuming. Our work helps women reach a broader audience and stay relevant, which in turn increases their return on investment.

2. How did your own success with real estate inspire you to start The EntreMarketing Group?

Real estate provided me the capital to be able to start The EntreMarketing Group without having to obtain a loan.

3. Why is web marketing so important, and what are some of the activities that are included in "web marketing"?

Web marketing is now more important than ever because statistics show that majority of consumers browse online before going to a store to buy anything. By being able to market and educate your audience online efficiently, you will be able to capitalize on these potential customers who browse before they shop. Some of the activities that are considered as "Web Marketing" are Social Media Marketing, Mobile Marketing, and Content Marketing.

4. How can a PR firm help individuals and businesses in ways that might be more powerful than someone doing their own PR?

Most women entering a business are already overwhelmed with the many facets of running a business, and a PR firm allows them the time to concentrate on internal operations while outsourcing marketing objectives to a company who has the know-how and connections to successfully reach their target market. The majority of corporations engage in this process of outsourcing their PR to a company that concentrates in this arena. We at The Entremarketing Group provide the resources of big business PR & marketing, for women starting a business.

5. As someone who started her own company, do you feel this puts you in a unique position in terms of being able to assist other women entrepreneurs to reach their goals?

Definitely, because not only was I a marketing major in college, but I have experienced my own success and failures. These experiences have given me the knowledge to assist other women starting a business.

Thanks, Kereen!

Introducing Singapore Property Review

If you ever feel curious about the variety of real estate properties available in Singapore, check out Singapore Property Review. The front page of the site contains links to detailed postings about new condo/apartment developments. The posts about each development are thorough in their descriptions and contain a nice selection of images to give you an idea about the design and location of each specific property.

The site could be a useful tool for someone looking for residential property in Singapore. But there's other information on the site as well which could be of interest for businesspeople as well as real estate investors. There's a menu across the top of the page which allows you to access a variety of other real estate related information, such as listings for commercial and industrial properties.

The property news page gives an overview of relevant news stories related to new developments, potential investments, and more. And if you are curious about when new construction will be underway, the new projects page contains a timeline with links to information about upcoming building work.

This is an interesting resource to browse if you're curious about real estate and Singapore. You'll find information on a range of projects and lots of links to keep you busy reading and learning more.

Meet Andrew, Entrepreneur and Author

When Andrew was 15, he started searching for a way to become wealthy. Now, he's 35 and ready to retire--yet he still has the itch to continue pursuing different business opportunities and write about them.

Learn about Andrew's business experiences on his website, http://www.mycashlifestyle.com/, and check out his PDF guide to making money by doing maintenance and cleanup for bank foreclosed properties.

1. What is an REO foreclosure?

REO (Real-Estate Owned) is what the property is called after a bank forecloses and is unable to sell the property at auction--usually because the mortgage on the property is higher than the market value of the property. They still have it on the books as an asset and will try to sell it in the future.

2. How did you first get the idea to start doing cleanup tasks at foreclosed properties?

It was an opportunity I heard about and thought it'd be easier to get started than some of the other ventures I was looking into.

3. What kind of legwork does someone need to do before they can approach a bank and start working in this field?

Much like setting up another business, it involves registering the name (or incorporating), getting liability insurance, and setting up a bank account to separate personal finances from business finances.

4. What are some of the specific job tasks that are needed for foreclosed properties?

Each house is different, but you can really think of it as anything any house might need: locks changed, grass cut, windows boarded, pool closed and boarded, and trash taken out, just to name a few.

5. Why did you decide to write your REO Guide?

When I started REO, I found a few forums and some people who would answer a question or two, but I was pretty lost because I had no idea how the industry worked or what to expect. I wrote my REO Guide so people could get an introduction to the basics and some resources for making that start easier. I also offer one on one consulting to those that need additional help getting started.

Thanks, Andrew!

Meet Alan Hutchinson, Website Programmer for Real Estate Agents

Based in Bournemouth in the UK, Alan Hutchinson is a website programmer who builds website applications to help real estate agents sell or rent their properties online.

1. How did you first become interested in programming?

I actually taught myself whilst a teenager. The initial interest though was sparked off by a teacher at my school who encouraged me to try and to create my own computer game. After that I progressed into building and programming websites, and now today I am very much focused on developing web applications for letting agents in my home town of Bournemouth.

2. What do you like most about working on websites?

For me it's the results. The Bournemouth letting agents and real estate agents that I work with have all seen great results in terms of web traffic and revenue due to the online systems that I have developed for them--and now that business is starting to go nationwide which is amazing for me.

3. What sort of services do you provide to help real estate professionals with their websites?

I can build a letting agent's website from scratch, but the most valuable part is the property management aspect to it. It allows them to post properties to rent or sell online, where prospective tenants and customers can view and apply for a physical appointment to see the property. In the town I live in, Bournemouth, the real estate and letting agents market is really competitive, so I can give my clients a boost over the competition which is awesome.

4. How did you come to specialize in programming for websites focusing on selling or renting properties?

I have an aunt who knew I could program--and she was running a letting agents in Bournemouth. She was on a budget and needed to get her properties online, so I worked with her on the development, and it worked so well that I started re-badging the application and selling it on to other real estate and letting agents companies in the Bournemouth area.

5. If you could give advice to real estate agents regarding building a strong online presence, what would you say?

For me it's about the search engine rankings first and foremost because people need to find you! After that, you need your website to stand out from the crowd and let visitors view properties in an easy to understand way which presents the properties very well visually. Nowadays social media is becoming more important, too.

Thanks, Alan!

Meet Dr. Hicham Riba, Author and Sustainable Living Enthusiast

Dr. Hicham Riba is a practicing dentist in the United States who graduated from New York University in 1994, and from Tishreen University in Syria in 1989. He is currently an Assistant Professor in the King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Dr. Riba has also been a realtor in the state of Illinois since 2007 and is certified in real estate investments from various real estate institutions in the United States. He is an avid sustainable living enthusiast and author of Innovative Approaches to Sustainable Design: The Riba Green City Model.

1. How did you first become interested in sustainable design?

I've always had an interest in architecture and design. Of course when you have children, if you weren't before, you become much more concerned about the environment. I became hyper-aware of the environmental messes my children would be forced to deal with in the future, not to mention their children, my grandchildren--everyone's.

2. What inspired you to write Innovative Approaches to Sustainable Design: The Riba Green City Model?

It was the war in Syria. Amidst the heartbreaking daily reports of loss of life and devastating destruction, somehow green ideas began to sprout in my mind. These ideas multiplied by the day, and soon I simply could not shake the hope for a new, green, thriving Syria. In time, the opportunity to rebuild would present itself. We needed to be prepared. Instead of consumers, I sincerely believe each one of us possesses the ability to become a producer utilizing the best technology available and shedding our dependence on fossil fuels.

3. Would you tell us a little bit about your "green city model"?

It's a practical guide to creating a completely sustainable and agricultural city. I thoroughly explore all aspects of renewable energy and how we can apply them in every area from the individual housing units to the blocks, neighborhoods, communities, and throughout the entire city.

4. What are some things you do in your own life to be mindful of the environment and live in a more sustainable way?

I recycle, buy local whenever I can, blog, talk to my kids about the environment, and try my best to be a good example, because that is what they'll remember above all else.

5. How do you combine your work as a dentist with your interest in sustainable design?

In the workplace we are paperless. Everything is digital. The office design is also very agronomic, and we use green companies whenever we have the opportunity.

Thanks, Dr. Riba!

Meet Xenia, Entrepreneur and Speaker

Xenia is an entrepreneur, international speaker, author, and Life Expansion Consultant. She is a strong advocate on creating wealth through expanding your life to reach the unlimited personal power she believes resides in each individual.

Xenia has developed many successful businesses including an award-winning real estate agency, ALEXA Real Estate, the Life Expansion Institute, and several others. She believes that the key to financial success lies in generating multiple streams of income and creating your own global economy independent of governments, systems and market trends. Learn more about Xenia by visiting http://www.leadersandvisionaries.com.

1. How did you first get started as an entrepreneur?

My professional career began as a medical research scientist. After three years of research during my PhD years and a further three year research placement as a post doctoral research fellow in Canada specializing in the area of recombinant vaccine design, I began to explore more liberal options for my life where there was no predefined government standard to the amount of money that I could make.

Although I loved science and research and was a very successful and sought after scientist, I quickly realized that the entrepreneurs running the pharmaceutical companies who funded the research made infinitely more money than the scientists working on the research. There was no cap on the amounts of money that landed in their bank accounts, and they were in full control. Scientists, like other employees, not only had a capped income, but were at the effect of decisions made by research funding companies and relied heavily on funding resources that they had no control and no influence over. This was not the game I wanted to play in my life, I needed a bigger playing field and I needed to be at full cause in my own life.

Having started investing at around 19 years old, I already had millions in property assets in my early thirties, but after six years in a medical research laboratory, it was time for this rat to escape and create an income outside the box.

It is said that if you do not have a goal or a vision for your life, you will always work for someone who has. The way to financial independence is to get clear on what you want for your own life and to create your own vision.

For me the vision was to create an income that would not only replace my scientist income but also support some of my property assets and growth of my property portfolio. I had a break away from the research laboratory once my son was born, and while I was home and away from coordinating multiple research projects and events, I was able to focus my energy not only on my newborn son (who was less challenging then because he couldn't talk) but also towards developing business ideas that later evolved to my first business--an Adelaide based real estate agency. The agency was a natural progression using my skills and experience as a property investor, and I was able to carve out a niche market aimed at the needs of property investors and their portfolios.

The agency was developed on my laptop in the first couple of years before finally being launched as a real business. The challenge for me was that although I knew the service well and was comfortable in what I was offering, my background expertise was in medical research and not business. I had no idea how to sell my services and how to attract clients and grow my business. I booked into a government-funded small business course to learn some much-needed business skills. I quickly discovered, however, that these courses are designed to teach people how to be an employee and manage a business that was owned by someone else. They were not designed to teach someone how to be completely independent financially. That is because you cannot really teach entrepreneurship--it's an awakening and a mindset not a learnable skill.

One thing I did find more useful than a small business course was joining a network marketing or multi-level marketing company (MLM), and that was my first introduction to being an entrepreneur. Many MLM companies are independent and run by entrepreneurs with a huge vision; their sales and business growth strategies are applicable directly to the business which they apply and therefore can teach you some exceptional skills not available anywhere else. It's on the job training. I am part of an MLM team right now; however, I did not join the first MLM team for the sake of growing that business--I needed to learn the sales and marketing skills that had helped me to transition between being an academic to being an entrepreneur and business owner. I used those skills to help develop and grow my real estate agency.

2. Why are multiple streams of income so important--and what do you suggest to someone who has been relying on a single stream of income for many years and wants to start branching out?

Once upon a time, the world was slow. If our grandparents or great grandparents were business owners, they would spend 20 years developing one single business and the next 20 years running it before the kids would take over and run it. If they were not business owners, it was normal to spend 30 to 40 years working for a company with no personal or professional growth and then retire and be content with very little like a laboratory dog who has been conditioned to receiving painful electric shocks and has learned to be helpless because nothing he does can escape the pain anyway. Humans were heavy and burdened with so much unconsciousness that they were slow and emotionally damaged enough to expect low life spans and lower intelligence.

In modern times children are born at a higher consciousness than ever before; they are intelligent enough to challenge the electric shocks and the systems and fast enough to become independent without relying on it, and although we are only at the beginning of a more conscious race of people, the world definitely is faster.

A business today needs to be designed, developed and running within a year to be viable. The 40 year model is obsolete. The marketplace is a constant evolution and extinction of products and services that are transient and adapted to certain market trends, and the new entrepreneurs need to be fast enough and intelligent enough to adapt or face extinction.

Depending on one stream of income in a constantly evolving and fast economy is suicide. Even if that stream of income is reliable for now, all it takes is a small variation in the economic environment to render that stream unfit for the market conditions and push it towards extinction.

It is therefore important to have multiple streams of income and for entrepreneurs to fine tune and adapt multiple businesses or services to the market. The streams of income need to be complementary to each other so that they enhance your business and not take time away from each other. An example is adding a sales division to a property management company or offering financial services or another complimentary product to your existing clients.

For people who are employed, I would not ever recommend giving up a paid position unless you have no time to be employed because you are too busy making money somewhere else.

Success is created in your spare time.

Instead, give up watching television at night, reading newspapers and magazines, gossip sessions with friends, or going out and getting drunk. Use that time to develop yourself and start your own business in a niche area that you know a lot about. If you do not have a niche area yet, try a network marketing company; choose one with a great upline support and good sales and marketing training and get good at growing it. The skills will be transferable to any other business if you want later on, or the network marketing company can explode beyond your paid income in a very short time. Take the time to learn new skills and apply them directly to your new business and completely within your own spare time. Develop the habit of starting, and start now: this will be the beginning of adding multiple income streams.

3. What do you mean when you say that people need to create their own global economies?

Creating your own global economy means that you focus your time, energy, and resources on creating wealth within your circle of influence. Your time, energy, and resources are also directed at growing and expanding your circle of influence and your own personal and professional skills.

Most people, in contrast, focus their time and energy on things they are unable to influence or control: the government, their employer, or any other system they currently have no control over. They therefore waste time and energy blaming, criticizing, reacting, and making a fuss over something they dislike but do not have the skills to change. Most people are therefore unsuccessful in their own lives, and the more they stay unsuccessful, the less they are able to influence and change the things they don't like, and the more they spend time complaining about those things. Its a self-fulfilling prophesy.

Any endeavor to change the government has always resulted in frustration and wasted effort. Putting blame and focus on anything outside of yourself is not only taking away from your own personal power, it is also in many ways an excuse to hold onto being a victim.

Creating your own economy means focusing instead on bringing people to you and selling or enrolling people into your idea, product, or service. The internet and social media tools now allow us to have a huge global influence and surround ourselves with like-minded people that support what we are doing and what we have to offer.

Wealth is proportional to the value you can create for others. The more you focus on creating a greater and greater value and the more people you can create that value for, the greater will be your wealth. This combined with multiple streams of income, and you have your own mini global economy that grows as you grow and expand professionally and personally.

4. What is the Leaders and Visionaries conference?

The Leaders and Visionaries Conference is a full-day personal and professional training conference designed for business owners and entrepreneurs. Leaders are people who inspire others to be leaders, and visionaries are the two percent of the population who are consciously aware.

When a person is undergoing personal evolution, it's important to be surrounded by people that will validate and support your awareness and avoid the unconscious masses who can bring you down to their level to justify their own lower existence. The leaders and visionaries conference shows entrepreneurs how to live life through their higher self and not their conditioning, how to stay on track and not be derailed by the masses, and how to use their skills and personal gifts to become the flame that lights up the light of others. Inspired people go forth and help other people to become not only financially free, but leaders and visionaries in their own lives.

The Leaders and Visionaries conference is a free event, and we have an Australian tour coming up in May/June this year (2014) where I will be sharing my own visions for a more conscious existence. Free tickets are available at www.leadersandvisionaries.com.

5. Can readers see a sample of the material they'll find at your conference?

The video below is a three-hour recording from a previous Leaders and Visionaries conference.

Thanks, Xenia!

Introducing Eli Verschleiser, Investor and Philanthropist

Having participated through his companies in over six billion dollars worth of real estate transactions, Eli Verschleiser is a real estate professional who has an eye for successful commercial and residential projects, particularly on the east coast. He has been involved as an investor or adviser with such high-profile properties as Trump Tower in Philadelphia and 88 Leonard in the Tribeca neighborhood of New York.

With his wife Shani, he has also been very active in charitable work, with a particular emphasis on education, support, and mentorship of Jewish youth, through organizations such as Our Place, which counseling and rehabilitation services for troubled teens.

On the business side, he currently is president and treasurer of United Realty Partners. Learn more about Eli Verschleiser through this slideshare presentation.

Meet Brad Jung of CalabasasRealEstateAgents.com

Brad Jung is the marketing manager at CalabasasRealEstateAgents.com, a website designed to assist consumers looking for Calabasas real estate. With a background in real estate and technology applications, Brad is a vital component for CalabasasRealEstateAgents.com. With a degree in marketing and computer science, Brad was the perfect candidate to be the new marketing manager.

1. What inspired you to do marketing work within the real estate industry?

Both my parents were involved in real estate. Whereas most kids went to church, I grew up going to open houses on Sundays. I was never really pushed to join the family business, but it was always on the back of my mind. When I went to college, I majored in marketing and every time we had an assignment, I would always relate it to real estate marketing.

2. Based on your experience working with Calabasas Real Estate Agents, what do you find to be the features that make Calabasas a desirable place to live?

Calabasas is a beautiful place to live. Many actors and actresses live in Calabasas for its safety, beauty, and proximity to Los Angeles. The school system is also great and the school district has won many awards, which makes Calabasas a desirable place for families with children.

3. How would you describe the current real estate market in Calabasas?

The real estate market has been up and down, but we are seeing a light at the end of the proverbial tunnel. Prices are starting to rise and demand is definitely growing. We are experiencing an increase in traffic to our site and more people are looking to buy homes in Calabasas.

4. What does your background in marketing as well as computer science bring to your current position?

My background in computer science allows me to embrace new technology, something most real estate agents do not want to embrace. My marketing background gives me insight to best practices in digital and out of home marketing for real estate agents.

5. How can individual consumers utilize technology to help themselves on the path to either buying or selling a home?

Consumers can use the web to research real estate agents and evaluate which agent will most likely get the best deal for them. People used to rely on bus bench ads and home mailers, but more and more people are searching the web for real estate agents these days. This trend will continue and we anticipate smarter and more knowledgeable consumers.

Thanks, Brad!