We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Borrego and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Melissa, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
Before I proceed with my all time favorite quote, I would like to share why it means so much to me. When I first started my career it was a challenge for me as I’m sure it was for many others who started out. Throughout my journey I experienced many individuals who insulted me, doubted me, and who were just flat out rude and disrespectful. Not many people took me serious cause either I looked too little or I didn’t have the experience. In this highly competitive and male-dominant field I had to learn how to stand up for myself and my work. I was not going to let anyone, regardless of age or status disrespect me. I took that energy and channeled it towards becoming successful and I started to excel. I realized the power I held and I embraced it. Standing in my power has led me to be the tenacious and persevering business women that I am today. So now when I ever come across any doubters or people who try to undermined me I remember the abilities that I hold and what I am capable of. With that being said I would like to tell the audience, YOU ARE FIERCE and if ANYONE tries to underestimate you, let them know…..”I’LL EAT YOUR LUNCH!” – Linda Marshall.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career in Real Estate has been extremely rewarding. I have gotten to work with such great individuals, some of which I built lasting relationships with. I have also had the fortune to gain loyal clientele. However, not everything in Real Estate is as glamorous or easy as it seems in famous shows that you watch on TV. There is so much more that goes into it. As mentioned before I did deal with my fair share of obstacles as a young woman in real estate. It was challenging at first to work in a cut throat field. I took whatever I could get just to gain knowledge and money and most times I came home feeling discouraged because I didn’t close a deal or get a listing. I knew that it wouldn’t be easy, I had to truly apply myself so I started reading more, becoming more knowledgeable, putting in longer hours, scheduling showings all day, making videos, and really putting myself out there. Especially with social media which really helped me to stay ahead of the curb. Doing so, I learned the biggest lessons which is to never give up or let anyone dim my light. Now I am at a point where thankfully, I can choose who to work with and if it is worth my time and energy to work with them. Don’t get my wrong…my doors are always open to helping someone looking to work with me as their home match-maker. It’s just certain things that I learned to balance out throughout my journey, to save my energy as well as everyone else’s. One thing I can say is, that I pride myself in making sure to build relationships first before anything. It has to be genuine and as transparent as possible when I first meet with a prospective client/business partner. I feel as though it is key to be transparent when working with anyone in general because there has to be a level of trust within one another. It has helped me so much along the way. Regardless of whether my clients are looking to buy, sell or lease I want to always make sure that they are genuinely happy…
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Houston undoubtedly has some of the most diverse cuisine in the world. We have amazing restaurants and such a variety that will appeal to anybody’s palate. If I had a friend visiting Houston I would definitely take them to several places that are on my top 6 list including Chama Gaucha, Ramen Tatsu-Ya , BB’s Tex-orleans , Kura revolving sushi bar, Connie’s and Tacos el Toro. We have a pretty diverse city so we could go anywhere and have a great time whilst experiencing what every different culture has to offer. Also, we have really nice lounge called “HER” that is perfect for a GNO! For those that are more interested in history I would take them to Museum of fine arts, contemporary arts museum, and the science museum. There are also the most beautiful gardens in Houston for all my nature loving friends, such as Mcgovern centennial gardens, Japanese Garden and J.M stroud rose garden. Perfect for connecting with nature and meditation.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout is dedicated to all of my loved ones who believe in me and have supported me through all my ups and downs: to my partner for all of the unconditional support. For always pushing me to be better. My brothers for the unconditional love and always having my back no matter what obstacle I’m facing. To all my clients who have referred me. Last but not least to all of the people who have taught me, knowingly and unknowingly. I am thankful for them all.
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Image Credits
-Jazmine lemons -Daniel Faust