WELCOME 2014!!  So much has changed since my last blog post back on Jan 2012.  This year, I will focus more on the subject of Entrepreneurship. Hope to see you hear and as always, I welcome all responses to all my blogs.  Lets have a great year!!  ----  Erwin "WIN" Sigua

Greatness Comes From Within!!

GREATNESS

Greatness comes from the heart where passion roams free

It is when the heart feels weak,

is when Greatness comes to peak.

Greatness Challenges you,

to have that energy to pushes through.

Greatness has no image, legs, nor arms

But does have WILL,

that produces your inner charm.

We can only assume Greatness is a friend not foe

When we need him, he does show.

What I leave to you now is but a message

Be-friend Greatness, as he is a part of your life's passage.

      ---- Erwin Sigua

An Island We Are Not.... 5 Ways To Keep Most Of Your Income!!

There seems to be a consensus with most of my friends and peers that money seems to run out faster these days.  Cost Of Living, if given legs, have run so far ahead that it seems impossible to catch.  Given the state of the US economy; rampant unemployment, uncontrolled inflation, increased tax audits, and trillions (about to be 14 trillion) owed by our national debt, its no wonder we as a nation are having a hard time cracking the money riddle.  Here are 5 suggestions on ways to keep more money in your pocket not just for the short term.

1. Pay Yourself First. 

I'm sure many of you have heard this before.  Take out a portion of your income after being paid and save it in an untouchable (and I mean untouchable!!...  No buts.. Untouchable!) bank account.  Now many would say, "Well, I just barely make enough money to cover all my expenses"  Trust me, we as humans are very adaptable creatures.  If we are given $10,000.00 we find ways to spend all that.  At the same token, if we are given $3,000.00 we find ways to spend all that also.  Start out even just a dollar; the purpose is to build the "Habit" of stashing away for a rainy day.

2.  Keep Life Simple, You can afford to be extravagant if excess money is there anyway.

Heard of "Living Like the Joneses?"  Or, Heard the phrase "If he can do it, So can I."  The context of these statements are not at all negative depending on the situation.  However, If these statements are placed where one competes (mostly materially), then this can be a problem.  As the economy continues to provide massive uncertainty, it may be wise to hold back on things not of immediate value.  Just remember, your situation is unique with others, so your needs and necessities should not be compared with others as well.

3. Invest in yourself.

Have enough income and cash to invest?  Buy a good valued condo to rent and receive cash flow.  Have a great business idea? Invest on the Time and Education in knowing what it takes to succeed in that business.  Want to earn more income at work?  Show value by doing extraordinary things compared to your job description.  The point of this is for you to spend time, energy, and money investing for your future. 

4. Learn more about taxes.

Taxes is the single most expense, if not mastered, will create a huge hole in your financial future.  Trust me, I know.  Find a good accountant that can help you with your financial planning.  Know their background, years of service, and people they have worked with in the past.  Know the deductions and tax loopholes that may reduce the amount of taxes (legally) you may have to pay.   

5. Find Great Services and Deals!

Yes they do exist!  Government agencies (although funds are starting to be limited), businesses, grocery stores, and online deals have greatly helped millions of Americans with alternative options.  Instead of buying things at full face value, be resourceful in finding similar products for a whole lot less. Spend the time, to save the money.  Online coupon-model businesses such as Groupon and Living Social, a hot business nowadays, have helped millions to save on purchases.  check it out, I have. 

As the economy continues to recover, expect a few things to happen.  Expect taxation, higher education fees, higher business fees, higher penalty fees, higher government and state fees, and higher cost of food and shelter.  It is now more imperative to be financially ready to cope at all these expenses to continue a comfortable lifestyle.  Being a multiple service and product Business Owner, Realtor, and Insurance Agent, I know what is going on out there.  My clients and I have long talks regarding what is currently occurring in their lives and mine.  If you are having financial challenges, don't fret, your not alone.  Things will get better in the future as long as you decide to make it better.

My suggestions?  Trust in yourself, save for a rainy day, pay yourself first, invest (if possible), work smarter, reduce liabilities, be a company asset, produce more (sales), and watch out for taxes.  I guarantee, you will save more income than you spend in the up coming future.

2011.. THE START OF THE "SALESMAN" DECADE!!

There is a saying "If you need to earn more.. "Make more Sales." This is more true now than in any previous times.

With rising unemployment and inflation, double dip housing recessions, bankruptcies and foreclosures throughout the United States, there maybe no better time than to take control of your own financial destiny. As a Real Estate and Insurance Agent, I see many of my clients and customers call my office to reduce insurance coverage limits or sell homes that they no longer can afford. Many lost their jobs, while others experience reduced salaries. Browsing the Internet (As I Often Do), Our US Government are having a harder time whether we should increase taxes or cut government programs. There is also talk of increasing our National Debt Limits. Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner has told Congress that without an increase in the $14.3 trillion debt limit by Aug. 2, 2011 the government will be forced into its first-ever default, with potentially catastrophic results for the economy.

So, What to do now? How did we got here? How do we solve our National "Debt" Problem? How did the US became from the #1 creditor in the world 30 years ago, to the #1 Debtor to a tune of roughly 14.3 trillion dollars. Lets not talk about medicare, medicaid, social security, and Government bailout banks and Too-Big-Too-Fail Corporations, than we would be in debt by over 100 Trillion Dollars!!! Guess what, I have already a hard time figuring out what 100 millions would look like, imagine 100 Trillion?

At this point, I don't believe any of our elected official can solve this problem other than Taxing more Americans and borrowing more unfunded money (hence raising the debt limits) and passing the payment along to future generation. Not our US President, Senators, Congress, and other elected officials can solve this problem at this point. So, if our elected officials will be more of a financial burden than a solution to most hard-working Americans to keep our government from providing services, we have only ourselves to find the solution to this ever growing personal and national debt crisis. So what is the solution? Let's take a look at some obvious answers:

GET A JOB!

The rise of unemployment means securing a Job is a priority. However, as the US goes through its post Great Recession dilemma, A job is never a guarantee. A job can definitely bridge the financial gap but may not cover all living expenses. Furthermore, government "needs" such as taxes, inflation, social security, 401k and medicare takes a bite of your earned income before you see one red cent. What's left? Not as much as you were promised to make.

GO BACK TO SCHOOL!

I've often wondered about this. I see so many people going back to colleges to earn a bachelors or online degree due to a lack of employment in the job market. While I personally believe that going back to school is ok, I do worry about a few things on this. One, many students graduating are facing a tough time finding employment. Two, many Retro-Schoolers (those going back to school) usually ask for government assistance for school loans. After graduation, Retro-Schoolers face a still challenged job market with a newly minted student loan. Not everyone falls in this category for sure, but for those who do, this scenario is a definite bummer. But I do believe in anything you do, you must take risk to succeed. So, going back to school may or maybe not a good move, but at least you learn from whatever result it may be.

BECOME A SALESMAN!

Sales are everywhere. If you look at the current offering at craigslist.org and monster.com for a job, you will find many offerings on a sales career. Why is this? The short and sweet answer to this is

"Employers are looking for better results for their bottom line."

As long as the US economy continue to show lack of stability, employers are being more result-oriented when deciding to keep a person employed. The truth of the matter is,

"The more you show you can bring money to the table, the more likely an employer will keep you."

Employers are no longer looking for someone to fill a position, they are now looking for the "BEST" person to fill any position. As you know, whether you work for a big corporation or a small local business, everything is generated by sales. Other than being a Doctor, Engineer, or a Specialty Career, many will need some form of sales skills to get a job or be considered in any important career positions. The new motto of employers on this tough economy now stands,

"Ask Not What The Company Can Do For You, But What You Can Do For The Company."

BE AN ENTREPRENEUR

This maybe the hardest option of all. Being an Entrepreneur takes reasonable time, training, experience, guts, and skill to pull off. It takes years and years of practice, while no such financial guarantee is ever promised. However, without Entrepreneur-minded individuals, we may not have the financial backbone of what this country represent; Small Business. Small Business Entrepreneurs provide jobs, careers, salaries, and hourly pay for most of our job seekers.

So, Why is 2011 The Start of the "Salesman" Decade? Answer is "Opportunities."
Increasing job market uncertainties, high employer debts, and high national unemployment provides great Opportunities for gut wrenching, salesman. The opportunities are there for great salesman to prove to employing companies that they are the right man or woman for the job. The value of bringing positive revenue to the company is what all companies are looking for.



Ultimately, If we decide to change, re-educate, learn sales, and become Entrepreneurs, we may have a shot at turning things around for the sake of our country and our future generations. Ultimately, it may be up to us to take care of ourselves, grow our own business, and provide financial opportunities for others.  This I believe is why "2011 IS THE START OF THE SALESMAN DECADE."

Erwin Sigua
Author, Entrepreneur, Salesman 

Should You Be Involved In Direct Selling (aka Network Marketing)?

                                           

Have you ever been invited to a gathering, typically on a Saturday, and be presented on a product that is suppose to make you financially free?  Or, have you been talked to by a friend to attend someone's home and be presented on a product to buy and be a member on?

If you have, welcome to the world of Direct Selling. 

Direct Selling, also known as Network Marketing, is a business system that ask an individual to join, sell, promote, and build a network around a particular product (i.e. multivitamins, cosmetics, electronics, grocery goods, etc.) for a profit. Direct Sellers are trained by the company and/or person that recruited them to recruit other like-minded individuals that may able to promote the company's product(s) as well.  The Goal is to have the newly minted direct seller may one day have recruited enough individuals to sell the product and enough consumers to buy the product.  Residual income, profit margins, Individual titles (i.e. Ruby, Platinum, Diamond, Elite), vacation trips, and bonuses are then promised as rewards and compensation for volume sales and recruited members. 

The Question Is "Should You Be Involved In Direct Selling?" 

Answer: ?????

There are a myriad of reasons why people feel they should join and not join the Direct Selling Business.  As a Real Estate and Insurance business owner, I've been approached by a few Direct Selling members over the years that sell products from vitamins to video phones.  I've attended hour long presentations on mornings, evenings, weekday, and weekends.  I've signed up as an Independent Business Owner or been called a distributor.  While being a part of the Direct Selling Model, I still have my "Traditional" Business on my regular work hours.      

So, what Did I found about the Direct Selling Business?

Here are 5 Key discoveries about Direct Selling.

1. "Members, Distibutors, or IBO's are people like you and me"

They are workers, Business owners, professionals, employers, employees, and family members who like to dream of one day becoming financially free.  They have work, they take their kids to school, they go to parties, they are your neighbor.

2. "Direct Sellers have a passion to help other people"

The Direct selling model have a system of beliefs that if you help another person get better at their business, the more money you make.  The more you make someone successful, the more successful you become.

3. "Rich People, leaders, and Authors Believe in Direct Selling."

Ask Billionaire Warren Buffett, Billionaire Donald Trump, Multi-Millionaire Robert Kiyosaki (Rich Dad Poor Dad), President Bill Clinton, Millionaire Author T. Harv Eker  (Secret Of The Millionaire Mind), Millionaire Author John Maxwell (21 Irrefutable laws of Leadership, And Millionaire Author Jeffrey Gitomer (Little Gold Book of YES!Attitude). 

4. "Direct Selling teaches Business Skills."

Starting a business doesn't come cheap.  Imagine learning, experiencing, and even teaching business skills at a fraction of the cost of starting a "Traditional" business.  From first hand experience, I've spend thousands and thousands of dollars starting and operating my Real Estate, Property Management, and Insurance business.  It cost me thousands of dollars building my previous 4 entrepreneurial businesses as well.  Imagine, for less than $500.00, you can experience having your own business.  Gaining Business Skills doesn't have to be expensive, and Direct Selling provides that opportunity.

5.  "Direct Selling Teaches Personal Growth"

Trust me, you will not find a more enthusiastic group than Direct Sellers.  The meetings provide enthusiasm, they talk about fulfillment of dreams, and the positive attitude is electrifying.  They talk as if you are already a success personally, spiritually, mentally, and financially. 

Can anyone and everyone be successful in Direct Selling? 

Answer: No but "should"

Just like in any business, profession, and job, not everyone becomes successful.  In general, success comes by the way how "You" decide to be a success. The passion to succeed in any particular field is not determined by the industry your in, but the passion you bring to the industry.  Low passion and low energy brings poor success while High Passion, High Energy, and High commitment to anything provides positive engaging results. 

Should "You" Be In The Direct Selling Industry?

Answer:

1. If "You" would like to learn, experience, and improve your business skills maybe you should.  

2. If "You" would like to meet and help othe people succeed in a business venture, maybe you should.

3. If "You" would like to attain residual income (earning money while you sleep) maybe you should.

4. If "You" would like to start your own business for less than $500.00 maybe you should.

5. If "You" would like to have a shot to be financially free in the future maybe you should.

6. If "You" would like to save money on going to a psychiatrist fixing low self-esteem maybe you should.

7. If "You" Dont mind hearing the word "NO" from people who don't care on what you sell, maybe you should.

8. Lastly, If "You" want to control your own destiny in the future maybe you should. 

Final Thought: "You may Succeed, You May Fail, but by experiencing, you will always Win!!"

Where Is Residential Real Estate Headed In 2012 in Nevada?

                                        

As the year 2011 keeps chugging along, there are definite signs out there that the Real Estate market are slowly picking up steam. National news has been indicating the last few weeks that Real Estate sales have been increasing but home values (generally) have been falling.  There are a few markets that this is not the case such as San Diego, San Francisco, South Dakota, and even some part of Florida where home values have steadied or slowly increasing.

Nevada, the state I currently reside in, are still seeing the grunt of the post recession Real Estate Bubble.  The State still leads in the number of Foreclosure filing for the month of April.  Due to the high volume of Bank owned homes and shadow inventories, prices are still remarkably low compared to any other times in recent history.  The fact that it takes more money to build a new construction home than to pick one up currently for sale is crazy. So, if anyone out there looking to buy a home, there could be no other better time than NOW!

So, where is the Real Estate Market in Nevada headed in 2012?  Will the price go down, or go up? Is this the best time to be investing in Real Estate?  Are the opportunities still there to succeed in becoming a Real Estate agent? 

These are the questions I frequently hear being a Real Estate Broker here in Reno, Nevada.  Many people are very curious on what opportunities the Real Estate market offers.  Well, here are my short list of answers I usually give to those who ask.

1. Where is the Real Estate Market in Nevada headed in 2012?
Answer:  Hard to predict. 

The one certainty of the current Real Estate market is that it is very uncertain.  About a year ago, I saw a huge spike of short sale homes entering the market relative to homes being offered as foreclosure.  Now, I see as much foreclosure homes as short sale homes entering the market in Reno, NV.  I do expect that more foreclosure homes will enter the market within the next 12 months. home selling will be faster next year than this year due to the shorter transaction time to close foreclosure homes compared with short sale homes.  I believe more Real Estate Investors will enter the market in hope of grabbing great deals.  Buyers will see lower priced homes by 2012 (compared to this year), and more sellers will default on their home loan payments for a variety of reason (i.e. Strategic Default, loss of job, Divorce, etc). 

2.  Will the price go down or up in 2012? 
Answer: Price will still go down in 2012.

The after affect of the Great Recession is massive.  I believe that the great recession is actually a modern day Great Depression.  Just like the Great Depression of the late 20's and 30's, our Great Recession is a generational occurrence.  Millions of home foreclosures, Billions of lost home values, and Trillions of lost paper assets (wall street) due to bank bailouts, could cause an extended delay of home prices inching back up in Nevada.  However, one thing is for certain; what comes down must come back up.  So expect home prices to go up, just not right away.

3. Is this the best time to be investing in Real Estate?
Answer:  Depends on what you mean on the word "Invest." 

For speculators (home equity watchers)  and flippers, probably not.  For Cash Flow investors, more likely "Yes."  Prices are so low in Nevada that in renters are actually starting to pay more in rent than do homeowners pay in mortgages for the same house.  Cash Flow Investors are receiving rent money much higher than the the mortgage they pay on the loan.  When the price was sky rocketing in 2004-2007, more speculators and flippers were entering the market. Cash flow investors were out during those times.  Now, its the other way around.

4. Are the opportunities still there to succeed in becoming a Real Estate agent? 
Answer: Yes! 

With the rising REO (Real Estate Owned) foreclosure homes entering the market, the price of homes being so low, and the down payment assistance that the government gives to the housing market, this is definitely a great time to be in Real Estate.  What I have learned being in Real Estate for over a decade, the Real Estate Market is a "Market."  Opportunities are out there if you search hard enough.

What Now??

Patience.  Residential Real Estate in Nevada are currently going through a very massive change of  event. Renters are becoming buyers, Sellers are becoming renters, and Investors are becoming landlords. The Real Estate world we have known back 5 years ago no longer exist. A new world has been created through all of this.

However, Residential Real Estate of 2012 do have one certainty; that it is definitely very uncertain.

Erwin Sigua, Broker/Owner Entrepreneur Real Estate 2011
Author, Trainer, Real Estate Sales coach
 

The Secret to "YOUR" Success Is..........

THE SECRET TO "YOUR" SUCCESS IS.......

"A POSITIVE ATTITUDE"

There is definitely no other greater determinant on how you will succeed in your family, job, career, and profession than having a Positive Attitude.  Positive Attitude is the foundation on how you should embrace life.  It should be the feeling you get as soon as you wake up in the morning.  It should be the feeling you get when you drive to work.  It should be the feeling you have when you talk to your customers. Definitely the feeling your in when you talk with your boss. 

A Positive (feeling) Attitude, therefore, is the foundation for your everyday success.  

Now, does Positive Attitude occurs naturally?  NO!! 

Believe it or not, Positive Attitude requires a lot of mental, conscious work in order for it to happen. Here are a few examples on what I mean on this. 

1. As you drive by looking for a gas station, you see the price of a gallon of gas is at $4.40 for regular unleaded. what is your reaction?

2. Your child just received a "D" on his test exam, what do you say?

3. Your Best Friend is telling you about a "juicy" gossip about another close friend what do you do?

4. Your Boss decides to put you under performance evaluation, how do you act?

Now in any of these examples you decide to think, act, or respond "Negatively" Don't worry, most do.  As people we are conditioned to withdraw from a bad situation.  We are also conditioned to listen to negative things rather than positive ones.  Do you watch or listen to the News?  Guess what, local and international news headlines are mostly negative ones. Imagine a local and International News headline starting off with a fireman saving a kitten stuck on a tree. hmmm.. Or a local school child winning the spelling Bee.  hmmm.. again.  Not so much of an attention catcher is it?

Since a Positive Attitude require mental work, follow a few of these suggestion:

1.  "Stop blaming others for your situation." Remember, a victim never prosper.   I have not met a successful victim in all my years.  The Economy, the boss doesn't pay well, the wife or husband hates what I do, etc.  Get my drift? 

2.  "Be a solution provider, not a solution taker."  If you teach your mind to solve problems  that others deem as unsolvable, you will receive success quicker than most people.

3. "Think first, Before giving suggestions or advise."  The truth of the matter is, not everyone will welcome an advice.  Listen and only give advice when asked for.

4. "Avoid Negative People." You know who they are.  These are the people who put an emotional gas to your emotional negative inner fire.  These people are dream killers, relationship killers, and emotional drainers.  Stay away at all cost.

5. "Understand that your choices has always been yours."  You have the power to change your situation.  The only one stopping you is "YOU."

6. "Attend Seminars, Read Books, Listen to Cd's on Positive Attitude."   There are so many "Guru's" on positive thinking.  What comes to Mind is Dale Carnegie, Napoleon Hill, Zig Ziglar, John Maxwell, Earl Nightingale, Henry Ford.  Know who you want to follow and start reading.

7. "Check your language thoughts." 

• Is the Glass half-full or half empty? 
• "I'm Glad the price of Gas is only $4.40 not $6.40."
• "I'm Happy My Boss challenges me on a performance evaluation, Now I can show him how great of an employee I'm really am!"

8. "Thank and Count your God-Given Blessings Each Day."  YES! Spiritual strength provide humbleness to all the positive gifts we receive. 

So, there you go. Follow some of these advice and you are on your way to reeling in a positive attitude mindset.  With enough practice, you will see the world in a totally different way. Problems that used to bother you will no longer do.  You will be more aware of negative talks and chatters; thus giving yourself a choice to leave the negative environment.  You will also see a difference on how your co-workers and bosses treat you.  Many will be amazed in your transformation; thus attracting more positive oriented friends while scaring away the negative ones. Start positive thinking now and create a whole new world for yourself and for your success. 

Always Remember,  "What You Think, You Become."--- Erwin Sigua Trainer, Speaker, Entrepreneur.

Secret Of The Rich... Revealed!!

Lets start with a non-fiction story.

There is a man who walks his 2 dogs twice a day; once in the morning and once in the afternoon. This man seems to be an ordinary man in his early 60's with a home not too far from where I used to live. As I drive off to work in the morning, I would see him walk his dog and waive at me with a friendly smile. He lives in a decent size home and drives a not-so-expensive vehicle.  I've always wondered what he did for a living.  The emphasis is on "did" because I assume he is already retired. It took me about a year before I learned more about him.  About 3 years from living in the same street with him, he decided to hire me to sell one of his income (rental) property.  At this point, I got to know him much, much better.  I learned that he works from home as a trader of stocks and bonds.  I learned that he buys and sells stocks in hundreds of thousands of shares. I can't tell you guys more on his techniques (It is a secret), but my neighbor who walks his dogs twice a day is actually a multi-multi-millionaire.  From then on, I've enjoyed the conversations we had with regards to stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.  I've also enjoyed the life lessons he has shared with me on how he was able to accumulate great wealth. 

When I was in college studying Business and Psychology, I have always wondered how the rich become wealthy.  Do the rich really have any secret on how they accumulate wealth?   Is there a magic bullet where once you pull the trigger you will see instant result?  are often the questions that formulate in my mind.  

During the past 11 years, I've met many other millionaires like my neighbor because of Real Estate.  Some millionaire homes that I actually sold are valued at a million or more.  Because of selling millionaire homes, I was able to achieve the prestigious Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist designation in Real Estate.  I also became a member of the Millionaire Guild in Luxury Marketing.  I became the youngest Broker in the whole of Nevada, Las Vegas and Reno, ( I was 30) when I achieve this milestone.  There were also only 26 in the whole Nevada who received the Million Dollar Guild designation, and I was one of them. 

  What made my case a little different is that I own my own real estate company. No big franchises were backing me up to help sell my services.  Many times when I was marketing luxury homes, the owner would say "Never heard of your Company."  But through sheer will and salesmanship, I was able to convince some of them to give me a shot.  It was during these times that I learned a lot on how my clients accumulate great wealth.  They shared with me some of the secrets that made them become who they are today.  Although I would need to write a book to tell each and every lessons I learned from them, I decided to just share a few important tidbits on creating wealth (So you buy the book once it is released ;-).   Lets move on to 5 Secrets of the Rich.



Secret Of The Rich #1 :

THE RICH "OWNS" THEIR OWN BUSINESS

Duh!! Some of you might say.  Well, hear me out on this.  Are there not successful business owners? answer is YES.  Are there not so rich business owners, still the anwer is "YES."  So, what make millionaire business owners, well, Millionaires?  The answer is Passion to be #1 for their Business!!  Millionaire business owners that I've met have a system of positive, forming habits that they created to make their business grow.  They tinker with it, change it, and even reconstruct their system of doing business until it provide the results they have been looking for.  Even when they are already successful, they keep on working at their business system.  Some have called  this business system as "leverage." I've not talked to a millionaire that wasn't passionate to be the best on the Business that he/she is doing. 

Secret of the Rich #2:

THE RICH ARE NOT AFRAID TO TALK ABOUT "MONEY"

 

What I mean on this is the rich talk alot about their company, their business acquisitions, their investments, their network and net worth, and their vacations.  We are not talking about salaries, hourly pay, savings, and commissions.  To them, those talks are reserved for the middle-class and the not-so-middle class. To the Rich, Money is a subject as openly discussed as how everyone else would talk about the news or the weather.  If you talk to the Rich about news and current events, their mind will shut down and find another person they can talk to.  This is an over generalization on my part, but I hope you get my drift.

Secret of the Rich #3:

THE RICH BELIEVES IN PASSIVE INCOME

What is Passive Income to the Rich?  It is Income earned while they sleep, play golf, go on vacation, or eat dinner at an expensive restaurant.  Most middle class, and not-so-middle class people earn by working for a job, salary, or commission.  The Rich learned to earn by way of dividends, Cash Flow, Residuals, and Profits.  Did you see the difference?  The language of the rich is as different as their language of income.  The Rich clients that I served believed that working for a job, salary, or commission pay will never make anyone rich.  By the way, our Farmers Insurance Agency and my Moringa Health Network business provides money and teaching into the passive income territory.  If you are interested in joining me or  knowing more about earning business passive income, you may contact my office anytime or visit me at http://www.psychologyofselling.biz/.

Secret of the Rich  #4: 

THE SELF, NOT THE PRODUCT, MAKES THEM RICH.

A Rich person does not necessarily become rich because of a product they serve; they become rich because they "ARE THE PRODUCT" that get served.   Still confuse?  The rich are rich today because they have invested valuable time and energy in making themselves the ultimate product.  The rich people I met and become friends with are positive, enthusiastic, and has a student mentality to know how they can improve themselves. They read books, attend seminars, and talk with other rich people.  They don't stop because they are rich, but rather they keep going because they are rich.  The success of the product or service they deliver become successful because they find their perspective of themselves as successful. 

Secret of the Rich #5:  

THE RICH FAIL MORE TIMES THAN THE AVERAGE PERSON, BUT THEY COME BACK EVEN RICHER. 

Believe it or not, many rich person I've talked to lost a good portion of their wealth at one point, but they bounced back stronger.  As the saying goes, "The Bigger They Are, The Harder They Fall" does imply to the rich. However, that saying is incomplete.  The Rich has the saying "The Bigger They Are, The Harder They Fall, But We Rich Guys Become Even Richer After" best describe them more.  You see, the rich hate the word "Comfortable."  To them, this word kills the need to be Rich.  So, they take risk more than the middle-class person, fail, learn, then become more rich.  While others see the negative side of them losing wealth, they see themselves as going through the changes to create more wealth.

So, here are just a few fundamental differences on what makes a Rich person wealthy.  Of course, each millionaire have different ways on how they accumulate wealth, but the fundamentals on these 5 things are pretty much universal.  So, If you decide to become "less Comfortable" in pursuit of becoming rich, don't worry.  The path you are taking will bring positive result as long as you decide it will be.  Just Remember the Rich-Old Saying, "The Bigger They Are, The Harder They Fall, But We Rich Guys Become Even Richer After."

P.S. If you are interested in learning and starting your own passive income business, I do offer 2 business opportunity through our Farmers Insurance Producer Program and our Moringa Health Network Business Opportunity.  Farmers Insurance Producer Program are good for the Reno/Sparks Nevada Market, while my Moringa Health Network is good worldwide. My Office can be reached at 775-786-7778.  You can also email me at erwinsigua@yahoo.com "By working together, we attain more for each others business."---- Erwin

Money Success or Failure? Which Road are you on?

"You Can Do Anything If You Believe It."  Now, isn't this the case for everyone? 

As an Entrepreneur who owns and manages multiple businesses, I better believe this statement is true.  As they say, Entrepreneurs are the eternal optimist, we believe that we can achieve anything. But what about the naysayers who believe that timing, the economy, the market, the job, or the family situation are the real determining factor on what the best we can do at the time being? Well, I say to this "BULL CRAP!!"

During my Moringa Health Network Seminar, I've asked candidates "If money was not a factor in your everyday decisions, how would you see your life turn out today?"  One of the candidates says he would probably be circling the globe visiting exotic locations. Another sees spending more time with his family on vacations, while another see herself as able to create a non-profit organization for disabled children as long as her needs are met.  After this question, I would ask them what they believe the dollar amount it would take for them to meet this  "Money-not-a-factor" question. Most would respond it would take at least $150,000.00 dollars to create this freedom. 

Now I know some of you may agree on this, while others will not.  Some of you may already be making more than this money figure and say this is not enough, or "Yes" it is enough.  But the point I am getting at during these sales training is why not reach for the stars and say One million, Two Million, 20 Million, or more? Why not "COMMIT" to "THINK BIG"? 

The consolation prize on this kind of thinking?  You may not reach the stars, but you may hit the moon on the way up!

You may say, "Nah it is impossible to make this much." Well, according to many millionaires it is very much possible. Millionaires believed it can be done, so it is done.  You may also say, "I don't know many people making this much in my career, profession, or job."  Then I would suggest to find a different career, profession, or job path to fulfill the dream you have set for yourself and not sell yourself short on what you decided to achieve for yourself.  You may say, "I am happy on what I do, and I enjoy going to work" If you are, good for you. This shows me that you probably have a great boss or employment career that will always be there for you.  Just make sure your Boss, or employment career will have as much of a commitment to you as well and will "NEVER" change the situation you are currently in.

I've raised this issue on my seminars to make people understand that you can be who or whatever you want to be if you believe in it.  If you are having problems paying the bills on time, not able to buy that nice car you have always wanted, the nice purse that matched your shoes, or take the kids to a Disney Cruise whenever you want, then the reason to do more is right in front of you.  I believe you need to take actions and don't settle to the current condition you are in.  Believe you can do it then take action on it. No excuses, justification, or complaints why it is not possible in the vey near future. 

In my Insurance Sales and Moringa health Network Seminars, I make people understand the value of financial "Self-Worth."  If you cost analyze yourself, would you consider yourself worth $50,000 (like what your job says), or do you cost yourself as "PRICELESS" (what your Mom always say =) ).  Your dreams, your needs, your wants are all a part of your "Self-Worth."  Don't sell yourself cheap. 

Now you may ask, "WHAT IF I FAIL?" My answer to this, failure and success are a part of any journey you take.  It is in learning of failure that we succeed. Failure makes you successful in the end. 

It is actually not as hard to figure this out.  The road to Success and Failure is actually the same path, but the difference is whether you decide to stop once you hit FAILURE Dr or keep moving to arrive at SUCCESS Blvd.

One of the success book I've read talked about a man attended a wealth seminar. Before the seminar, he saw one of the presenter and asked him a very important question.  He said, "How can you help me with my finances since I am currently earning $800,000.00 a year?" The presenter asked him "How long have you been earning this income?" The man said, "I've been earning this for at least 5 years now"  The presenter than said, "Great for you, now may I ask, what has been keeping you stuck at about $800,000.00 every year for at least 5 years and not earning more?"  With this question, the man had no answer.  He then went inside the auditorium excited to learn the answer. After the Wealth Seminar, he was so happy on what he learned that day.  He came to the wealth seminar because he felt he could always do more but needed a new direction to take.  In his opinion, he has a "Self-Worth" of not just $800,000.00, but in the Millions. From what I have read, the author of this book did say he accumulated more wealth afterwards. 

My message to you at this point; Everything always reveal itself in due time as long as you "Commit" to It, and "Think Big." Dream on what Success for you looks like, but follow through with action, purpose, and urgency.  You Are A Money Sucess, as long as you believe in it. You know what to do as long as you don't let "BULL CRAP!!" get in the way.   

Again, "You may not reach the stars, but you may hit the moon on the way up!!"

Do You Want To Be Rich!! Now What??

Easier Said than Done!

According to Forbes.Com, there are approximately 1,011 billionaires around the world this year. Most people will never have the chance to see themselves part of the multi-billion dollar crowd such as Bill Gates, Donald Trump, and Carlos Slim Helu (Richest Man In The World).   

Furthermore, this year the World's Billionaires have an average net worth of $3.5 billion, up $500 million in 12 months. Americans account for 40% of the world's billionaires, down from 45% a year ago. The U.S. commands 38% of the collective $3.6 trillion net worth of the world's richest, down from 44% a year ago.

Now, what does this actually say? Its clear that billionaires in the U.S. are quietly slipping while the rest of the world are slowly gaining grounds.  Now, I did not check if there are more millionaires in the U.S. this year than years prior, but I do hope that it is increasing not decreasing. 

So, do you plan to be financially rich?  Do you plan to have enough income before retirement that make you live the rest of your life free of money problems? 

Donald Trump considers Rich as a state of mind.  That as long as you see, feel, and believe yourself as being rich, you are rich.  Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad Poor Dad believes that if you have enough passive income paying for your cost of living, than you are financially free. Clearly, many millionaires and billionaires have different perspective of what the definition of the word "Rich" really is. 

So, How do we do this?  How do we become financially Independent and be considered Rich?

Well here are a few advices from Already Rich People...

1. Robert Kiyosaki: "The richest people in the world build networks; everyone else is trained to look for work."

2. Donald Trump: Start a business. "Think Big" when you do.

3. Warren Buffett: The world’s most successful investor once said that "The secret of becoming rich was to be greedy when others are fearful and very fearful when others are greedy."

Also, The power of compounding interest goes a long way.

4. Bill Gates, Founder Microsoft: "Start your own company and believe that it has the opportunity to change the world." He started Microsoft with the belief that the company would not stop until every home and office desk had a personal computer.

5.  Andrew Carnegie: "Aim for the highest."

6.  J. Paul Getty: "You must take risks, both with your own money or with borrowed money. Risk taking is essential to business growth." 

7. Steve Jobs, Founder of Apple: I was worth about over a million dollars when I was twenty-three and over ten million dollars when I was twenty-four, and over a hundred million dollars when I was twenty-five and it wasn't that important because I never did it for the money.”

As you can see, every single person on this list became Billionaires and Millionaires by operating their own business.  

Now is it too late?  No, I don't believe it is ever too late to start exploring the world of business. Just Ask Col. Sanders of Kentucky Fried Chicken.  He was in his 70's before someone took notice of his chicken recipe and then becoming a millionaire. I believe that each one of us have the ability, the courage, and the tenacity to confront our biggest fear of "Taking Risk" to follow our dreams of becoming wealthy.   Now what is the alternative, well, not to be rich or wealthy.  Nothing is wrong with that, I assume.  But, since we only have 1 Life to live, isn't it reasonable to go swing for the fence? Isn't it justifiable to agree with Donald Trump when he said "Think Big, since you are thinking anyway." 

Remember, "Your Future depends on what you do now."

Sponsored by Moringa Health Network.  To know more, on how to start your own business with us, contact Erwin Sigua at 775-786-7778. 

The Real Estate Market Will Crash.... Again!!

Now don't get me wrong, most people know me as a forever optimist.  Optimist to the point of waking up everyday singing and telling myself that the Real Estate market is bound to change.  In my opinion, 2008 was a correction, 2009 was a realization, and 2010 was suppose to be the year when things should bottom out and get better.   Here we are, 2011, and prices are still going south.  From the the look of it, we are still not out of the woods.  

There are many signs out there that points to the direction of another Real Estate Crash.  Here are a few:

1. Within the last 2 weeks, CNN has posted blogs of experts stating that we are about to see a double dip housing price correction within this year.  The average price of home are now comparable to 2009 when the price of home hit its all time low since the Real Estate buble burst.

2. MSN.com articles and blogs has predicted that there will be at least 1 million foreclosure that will occur this year.  This adds to the 1.3 million shadow inventory (homes about to be foreclosed) that is currently being held by the banks.  Real Estate experts predicted that it would take 3 to 5 years before the current toxic inventory be wiped away from the banks books.

3. Bank owned and REO homes are often priced 10% to 30% below market value.  With 50% of of the U.S. homes REO servicer  listed by banks such as Wells Fargo, Chase, and Bank Of America, home market value will continue to drop.  With a very large foreclosure inventory, their goal is to let go of homes as fast and efficient as they can (big goof-off are the Robo-signers they hired who foreclosed homes illegally). 

4. Sub Prime Mortgages are no longer the only reason people foreclose on homes; it is now because of lack of jobs, economy downturn, people believing home values are no longer there ( Strategic defaulter: the new in thing with people with good jobs), and divorce.  I've had far too many homes I listed last year with divorce and unemployment written all over therm.

Now where does all of this lead us.  Well, The Great Depression did not completely turn around until the 1950's.  Small Recessions in the 90's and early 2000's may have lasted only 2 or 3 quarters, but the impact lingered at least a couple of years.  There have been talks within the Real Estate profession that this may last 5 to 7 years. But the truth is, nobody really knows.  People were hoping for a "V" shaped recovery where we go down hard and bounce right back.  Others hope we have a more "U" shaped recover where we stay along the bottom for a while and then slowly recover.  The worst we can possibly go for is a "W" shaped Real Estate recovery.  This means we go down hard, go up, then go down hard again. 

I am not a prognosticator of Real Estate, but I do follow Real Estate trends rather carefully since this is one of the businesses I am currently invested in.  Now is the downturn good or bad? Well, It depends who you ask. Investors, buyers, apartment renters, and big developers may approve the downturn as a way to invest and make more money in the future in real estate. The cash flow that they can generate plus the low mortgage rates suites them just fine.  Now, sellers, positive equity owners, mortgage re-financiers, and home owners in general may not like what is going on. Losing value on homes means they are at risk to be "underwater" (loan greater than market value) in the near future.  If underwater homeowners decided to sell their home, their credit will get hit through a short sale. IRS sometimes step in to collect for deficiencies (only on deficiency states) on a short sale which leads homeowners to opt for bankruptcy if the home does not sell and nears foreclosure.  More on this subject on later article.  Such a vicious cycle we currently live in. 

In a nutshell, we may or may not experience another Real Estate Market Crash.  However, if the banking system and other government programs do not start helping current homeowners with their current mortgages, we may see a flood of foreclosure greater than what we have seen. But as I currently look around, the Dam is slowly breaking..

6 Good Reasons why you need to get paid everyday like the Rich!!

Have you ever questioned yourself why you need to live within your means?  Have most financial planner and institution talked about how you should live with the word "budget" in mind?   Are you being paid hourly or a salary that you receive every 2 weeks or monthly?  Than you are definitely not alone.

Most people in the U.S. work as an employee or as self-employed individual.  Whether government entities, huge corporations, private businesses, or the service sectors, we almost have to wait days, weeks, and months in order for us to get paid.  The word "Budget" thus become an important part of our vocabulary as we go through our everyday life.  Now imagine your world where you are receiving a check, bank credit, or cash money at the end of the day, everyday, that is equivalent to what you would normally receive with a paycheck at the end of 2 weeks.  Also imagine if this income everyday that you receive grows, and grows as time passes on.  Now you may ask youself, is this really possible?

I would say to you "Yes" this is possible, but it generally would not involve a person being an employee, salary, or self-employed.  Now there are exceptions such as rich salaried positions such as a CEO of a multi-million dollar company, or highly paid athletes such as Lebron James. You get my drift right?  Most middle-class Americans will probably not fall into this highly paid positions.  Getting back, how do we attain getting paid everyday like the rich does? 

By starting your own business.  

You may ask, What if I fail?  Isn't starting a business risky and expensive?  I would say to this it depends.  A start-up lawn cutting business require more time than money and you may get paid everyday on it.  You may start-up your own franchise business which requires royalties, initial buy-in, and monthly dues that tend to be quite expensive.  So, It does vary depending on the startup business you have your eye on. You may also join a direct business models such as MLM (Multi-Level Marketing) and receive business skills and guidance from members. This form of business require buy-in memberships with product to sell thereafter. Again, whatever you decide on, decide on something atleast.

Why do we need to start our own business?  I'll give you a few 5 good reasons.

1. Time: After a few short years growing your own business, you can buy your own time to spend with whatever you decide to spend it on.
2. Control:  Boss, Managers, Supervisors will be a thing of the past. Sorry, IRS is still on your back even as business owners. However, many tax benefits are enjoyed by the rich not seen by middle class americans.
3. Money: Getting paid everyday beats getting paid once a week, every 2 weeks, monthly, or even yearly.
4. Inflation: As Inflation keeps going up, prices of goods follow. With today's economy, salary hourly wages, and comissions keeps going down, thust inflation affects our dollar spending capacity.
5. No more "budget":  What!! is this real!! No sorry, the rich still do have a budget in mind. however, I would assume it looks much different from yours and mine.  Their budget possibly does not necessarily deal with the everyday "house budget" rather they deal with business operational, asset, liability budget.  So in essence, yeah!.. no more focus on "house budget."
6. Experience: Once you taste earning income everyday, you will never go back to your old job and career no matter what the setback you will experience with owning your own business. 

Again, being in business is not for everyone.  However, for those who does try to swim in this vast and competitive world, the payout in the long run is worth the risk. I believe not owning or controlling your own destiny is alot riskier than any business you may have a chance to develop for yourself.  So, try one out, your future may depend on it.

6 salesman "SECRETS" on selling anything...

                                                           Isn't This A Great First Impression!

With so many literature and personal opinions on how to sell for success, if you ask 10 salespeople they  probably will tell you 10 different things what has worked for them.  However, there are 6 irrefutable "secrets" that salesman would probably hold dear to on how they sell for success. 

Top 6 Countdown....

Number 6:  First Impression goes a long way!

Proper attire, proper store look, proper posture, a nice car are some (not all) key elements on how to sell anything. Imagine the product releases by Apple such as the Iphone and Ipad; doesn't the marketing advertisement, the store, the salesman, the atmophere, the excitement of each product release provide a key first impression on whether you will purchase what they offer the next time around?  With long lines on each product releases by Apple, I definitely believe many have fallen on the company's first impression.

Number 5:  "Product Over Price; No... PRICE over Product"

Now this may be a little controversial to some, but may not be for others.  Many salesman would like to believe that the service they render should validate the price they offer or the price offered by the company they work for.  But in reality, especially in this economy, most consumers are looking for a deal they can agree on or a deal their spouse can agree with.  A salesman's job is to bridge the gap between what the consumer wants and what his company needs. 

Number 4:  Option 1 is good, Option 2 is better, Option 3 is the best....

Most Salesman will not give you just 1 option when trying to sell you a product or service even though that is what you came in for to look at.  In most cases, a salesman's "secret" is to provide atleast 3 options to show you but no more than 5.  More than 5 options creates confusion.  What you will notice is that the option that he would steer you on is the option that may probably land him the most money.  Time is money; the less time a salesman work on a deal, the more money he can make. Again, not every salesman may do this, but please understand that salesman are there to work and try to earn the most money to bring home for himself, his family, and for his livelihood. 

Number 3:  A salesman will make sure you "Need" the product, not just "Want" it. 

A good salesman usually profile you by asking questions about your work, family, and activities.  Armed with that knowledge, a salesman would try to provide examples on how the product works or relate to the customers everyday life. 

Number 2 :  If you call a salesman's office about a product, he or she will make sure to have your personal contact information before you hang up.

Have you ever given your cell phone number, email address, or even your work number to a store and the salesman on the other end said they will check it and will get back to you on it?  This is one of the oldest trick in the book.  In any case, the salesman probably know the product you were looking for have been sold or they do not know what the status is of the product.  By asking your contact info, they can put you on their client list for other products they can offer you at that time.  They can even show their boss the accumulated contact info's they have to prove they have been working very hard for the company. 

Number 1:  A successful salesman #1 motto is "Honesty is the Best Policy"

Believe it or not, most successful salespeople have good hearts and honest on what they sell.  Now the term "successful" is what I am referring to here.  By my definition, these are the people that have stayed with the business for a number of years and have developed a good clientele. By being honest, referrals become easy to come by and product description doesn't change from one customer to another (promotes trust).  Now, is being Honest an actual "secret" or is it a trait?  The truth of the matter is, it is both.  If used wisely, the saying "Honesty is the Best Policy" maybe the greatest secret on selling anything.

More to come on the Psychology of Selling....

Strategic Default? Should You Do It?

I recently talked with a very good friend of mine who I listed a property almost 2 years ago. My friend and his wife are both top tier professionals who make a good living with great income.  Back then I remember how the wife was scared to lose her credit because the home will go through a short sale procedure. The husband urged his wife that this is a smart move financially they are planning to do. Right at their kitchen table I asked them for the reason of selling the property. Their response was that since the home has been underwater (loan greater than home value) for quite some time now, they would rather let it go now, save, rent, and then buy another home within the next few years. Sadly, they were my first Strategic Foreclosure clients.  Since then, many more individuals passed through my company with the thought of letting their home go now and buy another home later at a much lower price. 

My Question is, if you are a homeowner, should you do it too?

Now of course, everyone has different situations that will undoubtedly provide a different response to this question.  But as a Real Estate agent, let me shed some light on what I have seen to those who chose or not choose to do so. 

The Definitely-make-financial-sense-to-do-so indviduals:
I've had a few people that sold homes with me that fit this category.  Many of them are underwater by atleast $100,000 dollars of negative (this is Nevada you know!) equity and in their financial sense it is just plain smart to let go of something with no value.  The questions comes to being, "Why would I keep paying the bank for $300,000 when my home is only worth $150,000."  It is definitely hard to argue with this reasoning especially when you consider that most mortgage payments actually double in value once every payment is calculated.  The $300,000 loan amount after 30-years of payment is actually closer to $600,000 with interest, taxes, and insurance. It sure is hard to argue thier logic if we are plainly talking dollars and cents. 

The I-Love-Our-home-and-too-much-memory-on-this home-individuals:
Now, I believe that most people who jumped in to buy their home typically did not do it for investment purposes. Most of my clients decided that it was time for them to achieve the American Dream of owning a home.  Families, friends, kids, and memories are put into play for years on the home that people bought.  For good or for bad, I do know quite a few people in this category.  Many are emotionally attached with their home plus the promise and obligation to keep paying a debt in their belief is the right thing to do.  The thought of not paying or the thought of a foreclosure under their name seems too stressful and outright embarassing.  And again, the thought of losing a home that their daughter and sons grew up in is too much to bare.   

Now as I have said earlier, different circumstances give different results in a family's decision to do strategic foreclosure. I may never convince one or the other individual for merits of their decisions.  But i do want to share with you this; Strategic Foreclosure is definitely rising.

According to the Las Vegas Sun In Southern Nevada, The 2,591 sales of single-family homes in February were 3.3 percent higher than January and 8.4 percent higher than February 2010, the Greater Las Vegas Association of Realtors reported today. The median price of those homes was $128,000. While up 2.4 percent or $3,000 from January, the price fell 5.7 percent from February 2010.
That downward trend may not stop soon. The median price of new listings was $134,900 in February, up 1.4 percent from January but 10 percent below where it was in February 2010.


According to Reno Gazzette Journal, Washoe County reported 383 sales of existing single-family homes in February, up 6 percent from January and 13 percent from February 2010.

"February was the highest volume in unit sales for a month of February in the history of the MLS," RSAR president Sherrie Cartinella said in a statement.

Median sales price, however, continued its up-and-down trek toward bottom. Washoe County's median price for existing single-family homes was $161,000, up a percent from January but down 5 percent from February last year.

Of course the reason for these increase sales does not necessarily mean an increase in Strategic Foreclosure; but I definitely do feel it contributed to it.  2007 brought about the sub-prime mortgage mess that brought down the biggest banks and wall street institutions and almost totally crash the U.S. economy.  2011 is 5 years from 2007 that last saw the 5-year arm note. The problem I see in this is how would homeowners who have maturing 5-year arm note refinance with negative equity home values?  Most, if not all banks would probably not refinance homes with this situation in Nevada and anywhere else in the United States.  Guess what, many homes who took a 5-year Arm (again for Adjustable Rate Mortgages) will soon face increases in mortgage payments while looking at a bleak U.S. economy.  I know a few people who asked for extensions and have been denied by their loan servicing company.  A work-out for a loan modification was a choice, and many lost their credit score during the process.  With No credit score, an underwater home value, and an increase in mortgage payment, their choice now become to keep on paying, short sale, or do strategic foreclosure and save money until their home is taken by the bank.  A cycle of distress that no one should be in, in my opinion. 

In conclusion, I believe the reason why we still have a downward price trend in both northern and southern Nevada is because there are way too many bank owned forclosed homes entering the real estate market than those who are able to buy.  The shadow inventory (homes that are delinquent, in pre-foreclosure, auctioned, REO) are rapidly increasing which further decrease the price of homes when they are released.  And I bet 1,000.00 many of those homes were let go by teachers, businessmen, doctors, lawyers, retail store owners who decided that it is best to walk away now from the huge house debt and buy themselves the same type of home for a much lower price.

The scary thing is, if Strategic Foreclosure becomes a trend on why people walk away from their home, this could cause a second wave of financial disaster in the US.  Our leaders better find more ways to work with people in keeping their home to avoid a mass exodus of people opting for Strategic Foreclosure.  Lets not repeat the start of 2007. Only time will tell.

The Great Recession 2008-2009 and the present.... REVISED March 2011

The Number 1 Questions that I get asked regarding Real Estate and the Nevada economy in general is the question:
"When are we going to recover?"   Well, I usually say "Its hard to predict, but it may take a few more years." I don't just say this to give an opinion, I say this because of numerous statistical Nevada Data.

Nevada Unemployment... # 1 at 13.6% Nationally!!
Nevada Foreclosure... #1 Nationally!!
Nevada Federal Aid jobless Benefit... 500 Million and Rising!!
Nevada Banckruptcy... #1 Leading the nation in filing!!
Nevada Credit cards... #1 in Leading the nation in credit card deliquency according to Trans Union.
Nevada Divorce Rate... #1 in the Nation!!

Ohh boy.. Atleast where the state I live, we are #1 in something  =(

So many things have gone wrong with the Silver State (Nevada) in the last couple of years.  A few years back, we practically lead the nation in employment and source of increase wealth though Real estate.  Now, as you can see, things have mightily turned around.  1 in 4.5 person in Nevada are either going through Divorce, Banckruptcy, unemployment or foreclosure proceedings; this is the scariest statistics of all. Before, most the homes I list are due to people wanting to upgrade from their current homes.  Not anymore.
Just in Retrospect to Nevadans reading this blog, let me ask you a few questions:


 Are you currently behind in your mortgage payment?
Are you contemplating on short selling your home?
Are you considering Bankruptcy?
Are you fearing of being let go from your Job?
Are you fighting more with your spouses?
Are you having problem paying your credit card bills?


If you said "Yes" to any of these questions, you are not alone.  Just recently in the Reno Gazzette Journal Website, Nevada was voted "the most Stressed State" in the Union.  I have met many people who often blame themselves on why they are in their current lack of money situation.  I usually tell them that what they are going through are very common nowadays. People should not get embarassed if they file for bankruptcy or sell their homes because they could no longer afford the payments; it is just the sign of the times.  Also, Strategic foreclosure (homeowners letting go of properties because of the negative loan balance compared to the market price) are now rampant.  Now, this perspective is brought on because I am in the Real Estate business where the source of the downturn occured.  This perspective may not be shared by other fields of employment, however, as the Nevada statistics show, the perspective are more likely shared by other professions as well.

What is the solution?  Here are a 11 tid bits:

1. Well, TIME. As the old saying goes "what goes down, must come up."

2. The solutions is accepting the situation as what it is. Accept that money is a little bit more elusive than in previous years then work harder and smarter to catch it. Try not to pretend that things are going smoothly, accept the hardship and learn from it. 

3. Talk with your spouse and explain to them why things are not what it used to be and prepare them for the road ahead.

4. I want to say "save for a rainy day" but the fact of the matter is, It is pouring hard our there.  So to this, use your money wisely on the things you necessarily need, and forego on the things that does not contribute to your livelihood. 

5. Try not to think the grass is greener on the other side; the other side may not be that green to begin with.

6. Try not to think you are alone on this; you can talk with close friends and family for support.

7. Keep looking for opportunities; opportunities does not necessarily comes in a form of an hourly job but rather in opportunities that you feel you may excel at.

8.  Stay positive; when your feeling down and crappy  take deep breaths and go out and do something that may relax you until you can re-focus yourself again.

9.  Visit a church or your spiritual guidance counselor.  Trust me, it works.

10. Read motivational books and attend motivational seminars; knowing that there are groups of people who are also searching and wanting to be motivated can refresh and add fire to what you do best.

11. If you want people to be impressed, tell them about your accomplishments. If you want people to
understand, tell them about your mistakes and experiences.  Talk with people you want to connect with and share your failures and experiences with them.  More than likely, they will share theirs and create an emotional bond with you.  Trust me, this is a good thing. 


Well, there are definitely more ways how people can cope during time of stress and distress. But one thing to remember, that no matter how you cope with the situation, always remember the song "Smile" by Nat king Cole:

"Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though it's breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by

If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You'll see the sun come shining through for you"

 End