Being a real estate agent can be like owning a restaurant: Lots of juggling to keep the customers happy and fed. It’s no wonder then that Corina Aguilar hit the ground running since joining eXp Realty in 2022, already brokering eight deals for $2.09 million and several others are pending.
The El Salvador native, who graduated with flying colors from a top high school in Houston, became a restaurant owner at age 19. Now, she and her husband, Jiaxin Lin, own three Chinese restaurants – all in three different states: Virginia, Texas and soon, one in Arkansas. Adding to the couple’s busy lives, they have two young children, ages 2 and 7.
From Restaurants to Real Estate
But, Corina’s restaurant days are over and her real estate days are in where she is licensed with eXp Realty in Virginia and Maryland.
“He knows I am evolving more outside of the restaurant business. With real estate, there is no limit,” said Corina. “As much as I like restaurants, there was no freedom. Now I only show up twice a month to do payroll.”
Corina’s other superpower is her mentor, Luis Villatoro, who has become a business partner with Corina.
“We live parallel lives. We both do real estate, we both own restaurants, we are from the same city in El Salvador and our mother’s names are the same. His wife is Hispanic and my husband is Chinese. We are all so close to each other and have great chemistry.”
Hard Work and Drive Are Hardwired Into Corina
Corina said leaving her homeland of El Salvador at age 7 remains a somewhat surreal experience.
“I was so little. I felt like I went on a field trip and just never went back,’’ she said.
Her plans to go to college were superseded by her family’s financial needs.
“When I was 15, my mom had a brain tumor. It pushed me out to work and I needed to help with paying the bills. I became the head of the household with my stepdad. Instead of going to college, I decided to go to work six or seven days a week. It was how I met my husband. I never went to college. Once you start making money, you don’t want to go,’’ she said.
Learn More About Corina Aguilar:
Years in real estate: Since September 2022
Gross sales and transactions in 2022: $2.09 million on 8 transactions since starting in 2022
Brokerage history:
- eXp Realty (Oct. 2022-current)
Main territory: Montgomery County, Prince George County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County in Maryland. Alexandria, Virginia, Arlington, Virginia
Main focus: Single-family homes, investment properties, first-time buyers, relocation.
Why did you join eXp?
“I did a lot of research to see which one was the best brokerage for my needs and most of all I wouldn’t regret and leave since I wanted to learn and grow there and I made the best decision. I love eXp, they help so much, they have classes for you to attend in “the World” instead of having to go to an office. The brokers are such amazing and kind people. My mentor (Luis) turned out to be my business partner now, I feel I was meant to be here.
What makes eXp special to you?
“The fact I can reach anyone in eXp – brokers, staff, and agents – all by just logging in to the World instead of having to drive to places. I am much more productive and use all that time to be out with clients.”
What is one thing about eXp that surprised you?
“The community and support from everyone.”
Best tip to share with other agents:
“Can’t ever fail if you don’t give up. Can’t ever win if you haven’t tried it all. No seriously, try it.”
10 Fun Things About Corina Aguilar
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Freedom, family time without interruptions
Who is the person you most admire?
Myself
One thing you can’t live without?
Coffee
One trait that has led to your success?
I tried it all. I didn’t just use one strategy. I did it all to see what gave me the best results.
What celebrity would play you in a movie or TV show?
Anne Hathaway in “The Devil Wears Prada”
Pet peeve?
People who think cheaper is better. People who want to discount your services knowing that’s how we feed our family. Knowledge is not at a discount.
Little known fact about yourself?
I graduated from the top high school in Houston at only 15-years old. I opened my first restaurant at only 19 years old and now own two restaurants and one more coming soon July 2023.
Song you never tire of?
None
Favorite meal?
Ramen Noodles
Your epitaph will say:
Loved and laughed the hardest
__________
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