Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Malu Lopez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Malu, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
I developed my confidence and self-esteem largely due to the strong family unit I was raised in. Growing up, my parents created an environment where I felt safe and supported. They encouraged my sister and I to try new things and gave us a sense of responsibility from an early age. This approach not only helped me build resilience but also instilled a belief in my own abilities.
My dad, in particular, was very direct and supportive, providing honest feedback while always backing our decisions. This balance of encouragement and honest critique taught me to trust in myself and my decisions, knowing that I had a safety net to fall back on. I believe that having such a secure and open environment as a young girl was crucial in developing my confidence. It allowed me to take risks and learn from my mistakes without fear of judgment, which has been instrumental in shaping my self-esteem.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I was born and raised in Colombia and came to the US at 17 to study abroad for a year, aiming to learn English. What was meant to be a short stay turned into a new chapter of my life. The initial years were tough, being away from my family and navigating life alone in a new country. After working in healthcare and the service industry for several years, I faced a crossroads. As I was about to become a mother, I wanted a career that offered more flexibility and control over my time.
It was during this pivotal moment that my husband took me to a first-time homebuyer seminar, which became a turning point for me. What seemed like an unattainable dream suddenly felt achievable. We bought our first home in New Jersey in 2018, and I fell in love with the process. Inspired, I sought guidance from the realtor who had helped us with our purchase. Her support was invaluable, leading me to my first brokerage and real estate team.
This experience was transformative. My mentor, a top real estate agent, taught me the ropes and ignited my passion for real estate. I thrive on helping people navigate one of the most significant investments of their lives, making their experience memorable and positive. I see myself as a matchmaker for properties! After my second year, I expanded into investing in properties both here in New Jersey and back in Colombia. This journey has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to continue growing in this field. I’m now an independent successful agent looking to build a real estate team. I also started to create a podcast for Spanish speaking buyers & sellers, offering knowledge, guidance and inspiration.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, I believe that three key qualities have been most impactful: resilience, adaptability, and networking.
Resilience was essential when I moved to the US at 17, facing the challenges of adapting to a new culture and building a life away from my family. Overcoming these initial hurdles and staying motivated despite setbacks taught me the importance of perseverance. Embracing a mindset of continuous learning and practicing self-care can also help maintain mental and emotional strength.
Adaptability played a crucial role as I transitioned from the healthcare and service industries to real estate. The ability to embrace change and quickly learn the nuances of a new field was vital. To cultivate adaptability, remain open to new experiences and proactive about acquiring new skills. Being flexible and willing to pivot when necessary will help you navigate changes effectively.
Lastly, networking and mentorship have been instrumental in my career. Building connections and finding a mentor provided valuable insights and support as I entered the real estate field. For those starting out, investing time in building relationships within your industry is crucial. Attend networking events, seek out mentors who can offer guidance, and engage genuinely with others. These relationships can open doors and offer invaluable support as you advance in your career.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
Throughout my journey, my husband and my family have been the most instrumental in helping me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills and qualities needed for success. My husband has been my biggest supporter and fan. As I embarked on a new career in real estate while also becoming a mom, there were moments of doubt and uncertainty. During these times, his unwavering support and encouragement were crucial. He actually referred me my first couple of clients from his job. I sold my first properties to his colleague and friends.
Together with my family, they rallied around me, providing not only emotional support but also practical help, which allowed me to focus fully on my career. Their belief in me and their constant reassurance helped me navigate this transition and embrace the challenges with confidence. Thanks to their support, I was able to commit wholeheartedly to my real estate career, knowing that I had a strong foundation of encouragement and assistance. Their role in my journey has been invaluable, and their support has been a key factor in my ability to succeed and grow professionally.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.MaluLopezRealEstate.com
- Instagram: MaluLopezRealEstate

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