Without knowing it, I was led to my true passion and the life I was meant to live. As I continued building and growing in every way, I realized the most powerful gift any of us can give.
I walked into the office, not quite sure what to expect. At that moment, I had no way of knowing I just discovered my lifelong passion for real estate.
Before walking into that office, I had never thought of real estate. Right out of high school, I enlisted in the Army. After four and a half years in the military, I rejoined civilian life when my oldest daughter was 7 months old. Though I still love the military, my daughter, Amanda, became my number one priority.
Through the years, I worked in a variety of fields from technology to childhood development. However, family has been the thread through it all. I started taking care of mine at 12 years old after my eldest brother left for the Air Force. Between the eight of us siblings, it fell to me to keep things running. I became the person for others to rely on.
I moved to Big Bear on a whim but recognized soon after it was fate. The beauty here is unlike anywhere else, and in this place, I was led to my husband, Robert, and my youngest daughter, Addyson. She was the best blessing I never expected. After surviving cancer several years earlier, I was told I would never have more children. Addyson proved everyone wrong.
In 2003, everything came together when I was led to real estate. I agreed to step in as an assistant at a real estate office for someone I knew. I loved it from the start and have been in real estate ever since.
Every day of my life, I put my faith in a higher power. After entering recovery in 1994, it gave me a new purpose and focus for who I could be. People put their faith in all different powers; for me, that power is God. I know He wanted me to be in real estate, to be in Big Bear, and to have my family. I also know that He loves me no matter what. Through thick and thin, whenever in doubt, I pray it out.
My recovery also started me on a lifelong journey of self-improvement. I could finally start to grasp the bigger picture, and I remain an open book today. What you see is what you get with me. I do not mind sharing my story because if it can touch one person and help them, then it is worth it. Since joining decades ago, I have remained very involved in the recovery community, and I sponsor many others in the program. Community is the most important factor for me, understanding that none of us are alone. We all need support sometimes, and I continue to build more daily.
At some point, I realized we are not what we do but rather who we are. A good person is a good person no matter where they come from. I always try to be transparent and friendly
because you never know who someone is or where they are in life unless you ask.
Through everything in my life, especially real estate and motherhood, I learned time is the most precious gift we can give somebody. Whether it is with my daughters, grandchildren, clients, or those I sponsor, I keep that in mind as best I can.
Whenever I am not working, I enjoy crafting, walking, hiking, gardening, and spending time with my children and grandchildren. What I love most about being a REALTOR® are the people I meet.
I have a philosophy that if I provide good quality, personalized customer service, then the commissions come. That means doing a good job all the way around honestly, loyally, ethically, and efficiently. I have a goal to be a better person tomorrow than I was today, and if I can help some people along the way, all the better. My business runs the same way I run my life – on dedication, faith and a Higher Power.
I encourage my clients to ask me any questions whatsoever, and if I do not know the answer, I will find it. Working at your pace, we will unlock the best solution for you and make sure you feel confident in your decision. With me as your REALTOR®, there is no pressure. I give my clients all the time they need because this is not about one transaction; we are building a lifelong relationship here. Once the transaction is closed, I will continue serving your success as your lifelong REALTOR®.
Sincerely,
Annette Contreras
REALTOR®
Direct (909) 744-2735
BigBear@RealEstateAnnette.com
www.RealEstateAnnette.com