Sakura Spotlight Series: Andy Zamora
It’s not often you meet people as genuine as Andy Zamora, who have made it their business in life to educate and help people. Dealing with finances is no easy task and helping others to manage theirs properly is truly the job of an angel (at least we think so). Sakura Marketing is so happy to introduce you to such a wonderful human and someone we are honored to call our friend.
- Tell us a little bit about your business and what you do.
I am a mortgage broker and I specialize in getting people approved financing that will get them into a place they can call home. I also help homeowners refinance their current mortgages which will either lower their interest rate, monthly payment, reduce the life of the loan, cash out to pay off debt, or access money for home improvement – to name a few.
Finally, I guide investors who want to employ their money for financial gain by researching for the best financing products available and calculating for a logical return on their investment.
What made you aspire to be an entrepreneur?
The idea of having a fixated income, moderate pay increase, and the awareness of knowing that no one who ever created something massive, ever did it by being a W2 earner. This information was substantial enough for me to commit to entrepreneurship and build enough courage to take that leap of faith.
What is the one thing you wish you had known before starting your own business?
The one thing I wish I knew before starting my own business was that not all relationships created in this space are genuine. Experience has taught me to identify those who may be in proximity strictly for convenience and financial gain. On the other hand, it has also taught me the skill of pinpointing relationships that one should truly value. In the world of business, we always want to conserve genuine relationships with those who will stick around to support you throughout the constant ups and downs this crazy world consists of.
What has been the most successful avenue for building and growing your brand/business (social media, ads, word of mouth, referrals, etc.)?
Social media by far has been the most effective stage for me to display what I do for a living and the type of person that I am. I really do consider myself an extremely genuine and transparent individual and this platform allows for me to show everyone who I am not only in business, but outside of business as well. This exposure to an audience of thousands of followers on my page alone, has kept my business consistently growing.
What are the aspects of your business that you enjoy the most?
The aspect of my business that is extremely rewarding is helping families accomplish home ownership, particularly when it is their first time owning a home. However, another very special feeling never felt before was that of being in a position to hire people, create a team, a culture, and environment that I can call my own. It is a surreal feeling taking someone out of a place where they feel underpaid, undervalued and under appreciated and changing that completely by bringing them into our work family.
What do you love doing in your free time to refuel and have fun?
Family time is something I cherish dearly. Not long ago, I packed my bags and moved to Southern California where I have no family members which makes spending time with my loved ones significantly special. I am also a fierce competitor and I love to ignite that side of me while playing soccer any chance I get. Along with sports and family time, another big hobby is traveling. About every two months I book a flight (preferably somewhere near the beach) where I can decompress, gather energy, and plan my next big moves.