Please introduce yourself.
My name is Leyla Jimenez, a real estate agent in Illinois, a notary, and a licensed general contractor. I consider myself an eager student to learn new technology and processes to provide the most efficient and exceptional customer care. I understand that Buying and Selling is one of the biggest financial and emotional transactions to be involved in. My goal is to provide an experience as seamless as possible. Whether you are looking to buy a perfect home, find an investment project that makes sense, or sell for top dollar, I am here to help! I consider RE/MAX Loyalty as my family. With this company, I have been able to grow exponentially and earned my highest award yet in 2021 – The Platinum Award. My Team and I closed 65 transactions with a volume of more than $15 Million. We focus on the Chicagoland area and surrounding suburbs but have done business all over Illinois.
How did you get started in the real estate business?
I began my real estate career back in 2014. Real estate is dear to my heart. I want to do more for my community: to help those who at one point thought homeownership was impossible; to be a voice as I wish I would have been for my mother. Raised by a single mother, I witnessed her go from renting to owning to being homeless. That’s precisely why I chose to be a consultant and not a salesperson to my clients and community. It’s essential that I set realistic expectations with all my clients and guide them with my heart, as I would have liked for my mother.
What are some hot markets for real estate that you are excited about?
I am excited to help other young investors build wealth and focus on building their own real estate portfolios.
How do you source your real estate deals?
Dealing heavily with investors has allowed me to build connections with wholesalers, out-of-state sellers, and other sources. I also have access to the MLS and am certified to sell bank-owned homes, including auction sales.
What are some checks and balances you’ve put in place to protect your real estate transactions?
In the past, I attempted to wear all hats and control all aspects of all my businesses. I quickly learned the best way to grow and leverage my businesses was to hire. I now have a transaction coordinator who handles all my real estate deals, a personal assistant, and a buyer’s agent who deals with all showings and negotiations. I’ve also set up systems and processes for every step of my deals to avoid costly mistakes.
What is one piece of advice you would give someone starting their real estate career?
Consistency is key! I know it sounds cliche but it’s true. Take it from me. I wasted several thousands of dollars looking for a magic tool that would just pour leads to me. If you focus on only a few lead sources and become proficient in them, your conversion rate will be a lot greater.
What is one software you use for your business and recommend to others?
My CRM, Chime. It allows me to keep track of my database, integrates all my lead sources, contains a landing page, and scores leads which allows me to determine who needs nurturing.
What is your superpower in life?
My superpower in life is my commitment to seeing others grow. I will push you as hard as I can until you realize what you are capable of achieving. I will give my time and energy to see you succeed. I host monthly homeownership seminars and people always want to know how to become investors. I provide a simple 5-step guide and follow up accordingly. In 2021, I helped my high school friend purchase her first Fix & Flip. I introduced her to a lender and helped her apply for a business entity. A few months later she was able to complete the process and close on her first investment. A very proud moment for both of us.
What is a failure you’ve had in life that set you up for eventual success?
I used to want to control everything. I felt my clients would only trust me. Being a one-woman team, I burned myself out and almost gave up on my dream career. Hitting rock bottom and picking myself up made me realize that I have control over my limiting beliefs. Today, I can say I’ve overcome most of them and I know I can design my own future.
What is one book that has influenced your life the most? Why?
‘The Miracle Morning’ by Hal Elrod has been life-changing to me. It is a book I always recommend and have read over 3 times. There is so much to learn and to implement. It taught me the importance of Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, and Scribing (Journaling). Even doing each for 5 minutes a day can make a huge difference. We have the power to live our best lives.