When faced with the expectation that I would fail, I proved everyone wrong through diligent preparation and hard work. Along the way, I realized actions speak louder than words.
“Why would you quit your job? You’ll never do as good as this!”
When I left my career in management to go into real estate full-time, many people believed I would fail. It was a scary prospect to go into a field that did not provide a reliable income, but I learned long before then that my only limitations were the ones I set myself.
When I was 11 years old, I came to the United States with my family from a small town in Mexico. As the oldest of six siblings and with no English, it fell to me to enroll all of us in school. It was a lot to navigate, but I was used to the responsibility and would not have it any other way. I love my family and would do anything for them.
As the only Hispanic family in our town, I was quickly met with limited expectations of what I could accomplish. Rather than listen, I worked harder than ever to prove them wrong. I became a star athlete in soccer through school and was even selected to travel Europe playing on an elite team.
I started working while still in high school. I didn’t have the luxury of choosing what I wanted to spend my life doing because I needed to help support my family immediately. With limited options, I took a job at a local warehouse. It was not long before I ended up in management, where I worked for many years before deciding to leave it behind for real estate.
I began as a loan officer in 1991, and for a little while I did real estate alongside my full-time job before jumping all in. Once I did, I immediately proved wrong all those who said I would fail. This was possible because with everything I do, I get prepared.
I do not do anything halfway, and in real estate, I have become an expert in my field over the decades. I did loans for 5 years before becoming an agent in 1996. Through my time in this industry, one thing I’ve noticed that makes or breaks a deal is the amount of preparation. That is why I have spent the last 25 years teaching a first-time homebuyer seminar for local nonprofits – all I want to do is help others get fully prepared for their biggest purchase.
When the recession hit, I adapted. I became an expert in short sales and loan modifications. While helping 60 families save their homes, I talked on radio, TV and online about how to survive. I strongly believe what you put out there comes back to you, so I give back every chance I can, from my involvement in local organizations to the 12+ years I spent coaching my children’s soccer teams.
All those years ago when I first broke outside expectations as a teenager, I realized that actions speak louder than words. That is why I do not waste time. I help those who need it, provide for my family and parents (because I can never repay them for all they have done for me) and truly enjoy each day. I do not live with regrets. Honestly, I am genuinely happy to be alive, and everything else is just bonus.
Whenever I am not working, I enjoy playing soccer and watching movies. My favorite part of being a REALTOR® is putting things together for my clients so they can move forward living their best lives.
Wherever you are on your real estate journey, I am here to give you options. There are many roads to help you achieve what you want, and I will explain them all. Over my decades in the industry, I have learned the ins and outs of residential real estate and how to navigate any kind of market or circumstance to achieve the best possible results. For me, nothing is impossible. I feel so passionately about sharing my knowledge and expertise that I have taught countless classes over the years and continue to give back every chance I get. I am fluent in Spanish and English, comfortable using whichever is easiest for you. I am not your regular REALTOR® – I am like your REALTOR® on steroids. Preparation is key, and I do my research to ensure that you can make the best decision possible. While working together, I will protect you at every turn and treat you like family. I will always be here for you to help you succeed in real estate and life.
Sincerely,
Martin Cueva,
REALTOR® | Certified Short-Sale Specialist