Lismarys Ruiz, a Cuban-born entrepreneur, has been selling homes in Florida for the past six years. Having studied and prepared diligently, she now works for a broker but hopes to soon branch out on her own. Despite her current employment, she is clear about where her profits are directed. "I work for myself," she asserts. When asked what it takes to start a business independently, she confidently replies, "Starting a business is just a decision away because that's what we came here to do."
Ruiz recalls that her early days in the United States were challenging, even admitting that there was a moment when she wondered, "Wow, how do I navigate this situation?" It was a matter of making the decision and choosing the path that has led her to own a home in Port St. Lucie, Florida, far from Hialeah, a popular destination for many Cubans. She prefers the peace and cleanliness of her chosen locale.
"If you want to succeed in life and set your mind to it, you will achieve it. Whatever you are capable of doing, you can do," Ruiz affirms, highlighting that this is possible because "we are in a land of great opportunities," referencing the United States.
From Cuba to Real Estate Success in the U.S.
In Cuba, Lismarys Ruiz was involved in buying and reselling products. Upon arriving in Miami, she realized that to fulfill her dreams, she needed to educate herself. And so she did. Now, well-versed in the real estate business, she understands that she is not just selling a house to a family; she is helping them achieve their dreams, often selling them their first home. She begins by interviewing clients to get a precise idea of what they are looking for. From that initial meeting, she can often foresee whether the transaction will result in a sale, despite the current high interest rates and the imbalance between supply and demand driving prices up.
As a realtor, Lismarys Ruiz has gained popularity on social media and understands exactly what Cuban clients seek: good quality, affordability, and enough space to set up a home office to generate extra income to help pay for the home. However, she emphasizes that the beginning stages are difficult. She recounts that when she first became independent from her family, she consulted a realtor about entering the business. He told her it was complicated, especially because of the language barrier. But she was undeterred. "People won't always tell you what you want to hear, but it's about pushing forward."
Questions about Starting a Business in the U.S. for Cuban Immigrants
To provide more insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by Cuban immigrants starting businesses in the U.S., we have compiled some frequently asked questions and their answers.
What are the initial steps for Cuban immigrants to start a business in the U.S.?
The initial steps include obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, understanding the market, and securing funding. Education and preparation, as demonstrated by Lismarys Ruiz, are also crucial.
How important is language proficiency in starting a business in the U.S.?
Language proficiency is very important as it can be a significant barrier. Entrepreneurs like Ruiz have overcome this by learning English and using it to navigate their business environments effectively.
What challenges do Cuban immigrants face when entering the real estate market in the U.S.?
Challenges include high competition, fluctuating interest rates, and the need to understand local market conditions and regulations. Overcoming language barriers and cultural differences can also be significant challenges.