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NASE Member Profile: Family Man
NASE Member Gilbert X. Garcia owns Coronado Appraisal Services in Albuquerque, N.M. His Web site is www.coronadoappraisalsvc.com.
Tell us about Coronado Appraisal Services.
We analyze and value current market trends for residential, land and multi-family properties. I started the company in 2003. I’ve always been interested in real estate and learned that real estate has a strong and continuous income.
You’ve been an NASE Member for about five years. How has the association helped you?
The best benefit was the major health insurance coverage I was able to access through the NASE. It came in handy when I was diagnosed with cancer in 2006. It was a tremendous help. I’ve been a cancer survivor since 2007.
This is a family-owned business. Who else works at the company?
My beautiful fiancee, Nicole. A long-time close friend, Chris Oschwald, also works with us.
Niki runs the office. Chris is my active, full-time residential and multi-family real estate appraiser. My son, Santiago, who’s 16 months old, also comes to the office with us and makes us all manage around his time!
What’s the most effective way you’ve found to market your business?
With good old-fashioned, face-to-face handshakes.
What’s your favorite part of being self-employed?
First of all, being able to have my family at the office with me. I also like making my own hours, and the income potential is unlimited.
How has the slumping economy impacted your business?
We’ve had to make a lot of collection calls! On a serious note, we took proper procedures for the company in downsizing for a brief period until this slump passed. Of course, we also cut down office bills and expenses.
Today business is better than ever. The first quarter of 2009 was record breaking for my company. With solid performance and work ethics, we’ve proven to clients that we’ll be here for them to count on. Business looks pretty consistent for the future.
How do you wind down from work?
If I’m not out riding my Harley, I love to kick off my shoes and hang out with my family at home. My family loves boating, so our summers are spent at the lakes nearby.
What’s the best compliment you’ve received from a customer?
“Your work speaks for itself. You’re always there when we need you.”
Any business advice you can offer fellow NASE Members?
Never burn a bridge!