“What will happen to me if I go back home to the Philippines?”
This question often stirs the thoughts of most overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), especially when they finally decide to settle down back in the Philippines.
An inspiring story of a former OFW who made the decision to venture into real estate entrepreneurship, and in the end, discovered that he could still provide a better life for his family without having to work away from home.
Harold Elma is now a Sales Associate in Green Circle Realty (GCR), one of the country’s top real estate marketing firms which helps more families own affordable, quality homes. He and his wife and Kathleen Elma, now a sales manager, are among Green Circle Realty’s (GCR) top-earning couples today.
After signing up with GCR four years ago, Harold and Kathleen quickly rose the ranks and secured a spot in the company’s roster of consistent sales performers, enjoying the perks of being in the world of real estate selling.
Harold’s story is one that echoes those of his compatriots working overseas. Harold began working as a barista in Dubai. Back then, his only dream was to support and provide a home for his growing family.
That dream –and more — came true. He was able to invest his hard-earned money and bought his ideal home in Lancaster New City in Cavite after years of working as an OFW. More blessings poured in and Harold found himself signing up as one of GCR’s real estate sales entrepreneurs. They are homeowners-turned-real estate advisors like Harold. Some of them begun as real estate agents before finally being able to move into their new homes in Lancaster.
In an interview, Harold described the move as a huge leap from his previous jobs as an OFW, a time when he was in a constant battle with homesickness and physical exhaustion. Upon going full-time with GCR, Harold decided to learn more about the business through the training activities and learning opportunities provided by the GCR Management.
“It was challenging at first since I did not have a background in sales bago ako maging sales agent. That’s why I had to learn more about the project we are selling. GCR’s free training is a big factor bakit di ako nahirapan mag-shift into real estate selling,” he said.
Real estate selling made Harold realize that every OFW has the opportunity to have a financially rewarding career without leaving his family to work abroad.
To Harold, it is a purpose-driven profession, a career that allows him to help other people who want to use their hard-earned money in providing a decent home for their families.
“Speaking as a former OFW who decided to buy our own home few years back, you will not regret your decision to invest if you chose the right home for you and your family. Lalo na kung makikita mo na tumataas yung market value ng property na binili nyo saka very secured and ideal para sa mga anak nyo yung lugar kung saan kayo nakatira,” he said.
Grateful for the opportunities that were given to him and his family, Harold strives to always be on top. He hopes to receive more awards both from GCR and its developer-partner, Property Company of Friends, Inc. (ProFriends). He asserts that his awards do not only speak of his personal accomplishments but of his vision to help more families own affordable, quality homes.
Harold added that he is lucky to have his wife as his business partner for it makes his job more enjoyable and fulfilling. Their teamwork and better understanding of each other’s strengths and personalities also allow them to be more effective in their individual tasks such as in dealing with clients and their concerns. Being partners also help them overcome the different distractions and challenges in real estate selling through mutual support and efforts.
Because of this, Harold and his family continue to enjoy the perks and rewards of working with their GCR family such as the luxury of travelling abroad with their daughter and having the time for regular family getaways. After putting part of their earnings on several investments, Harold shares that they are also saving up for their daughter’s future to ensure that she gets the best education and all the good things that life has to offer.
“Life changing is how I would describe my experience with GCR. From being a former barista, nalaman ko na posible palang maabot namin ‘yung pangarap naming mag-asawa para sa mga anak namin, without having to work away from home kasi mahirap talaga.
“Sa GCR na-e-experience namin makapag-travel abroad for free and ma-recognize yung achievements namin plus cash incentives. Our sales commissions are enough para magkaroon kami ng savings and to invest in our own properties as well,” he shared.
Green Circle Realty is a commendable force in the real estate industry with over a decade of experience under its belt. It is currently the leading real estate sales network In Lancaster New City (Cavite), the flagship housing project of ProFriends which is now 51% owned by GT Capital the parent company of Metrobank, Toyota, Axa Insurance & Federal Land.
