Today we’d like to introduce you to Coco Vargas.
Hi Coco, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I purchased my first property in 2016. It was the launching point of my interest in real estate. I remember feeling incredibly proud to have bought a property in my 20s by myself. Fast forward, four years later, and I wanted something more than my corporate job. I was traveling almost every weekend, working long hours, and felt disenchanted by a job I once loved but was outgrowing. I wanted a career that had no ceiling and provided a new challenge, so shortly before the start of 2020, I joined my mom’s newly formed real estate team.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like any new job, the first year presented a lot of challenges. I naively went into the industry thinking it would be easier to jumpstart my business because “I knew so many people.” My previous job set me up with quite a few local relationships, and I cultivated a strong community. Little did I know that it would get really hard before it felt a little easier. On top of that, soon after starting my career, the city shut down. I debated going back into the corporate world for a more steady paycheck. I’m glad I didn’t.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a Realtor and, most importantly, an educator specializing in first-time home buyers. They’re my favorite kind of client, and I love the educational opportunity to teach others how to buy a home. As a first-generation American, I truly believe real estate is a powerful vehicle for building generational wealth. I’m honored to work on a team with my mom, who is also my boss. I’m most proud of the team we have cultivated, and what truly stands out is our commitment to give 100% to each of our clients. Many tech companies are trying to cut out the Realtor in the transaction, but I don’t think our jobs will ever get 100% replaced. Humans like working with other humans. When you involve a huge asset such as real estate and mix in emotion or a heavy event that requires a person to sell, such as a death or divorce, for example, people will always choose other people, someone they can trust. And that is our secret sauce – humanizing this experience.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Perfection is the enemy of progress. Showing up even when self-doubt creeps in.
Leaving a job I felt comfortable in and was good at and starting a business in something completely new has been humbling. As a recovering perfectionist, I’m hard on myself, especially when I am new to something. Over the past few years, the biggest lesson has been learning how to fail forward and having grace.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cocoandteam.kw.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellococomarie/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cocoandteamrealestate
Image Credits
Sarah Doliver (credit for the headshot and team photo)
