What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
I have been in the financial banking industry since 2006. I previously worked as a internal affairs auditor for the city of Nogales, Sonora in Mexico.

Where did you grow up?
Nogales, Sonora, Mexico

Growing up, what did you want to be?
A lawyer

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Painting

If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Nikola Tesla. I would like to ask him questions regarding his work and his desire to help people — but what if electricity could be free and spread across the world wirelessly like he envisioned? That would be a very interesting conversation.

What is Phoenix’s best-kept secret?
I think the food — Phoenix has some of the most multicultural cuisine in the country and it needs to be highlighted and recognized at a national or international level.

What do you love most about the industry?
The people I get to help with their personal financial goals and their dream of home ownership.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
As a loan officer with a background in law and banking, with experience in Mexico and the U.S. It allows me to have a different perspective when it comes to structuring a deal to help our clients accomplish their home ownership goals.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Saying “not ready yet” when people don’t qualify for their loan.

What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Networking has always been the way I generate leads, and worth of mouth. There’s nothing better than a warm transfer or recommendation based on providing good service and a great experience working with me.

What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
“The Slight Edge” by Jeff Olson

What’s your favorite meal in Phoenix?
Roasted red pepper cream enchiladas at Barrio Queen

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Phoenix?
The Burton Barr Central Library

What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
I sent a pre-qual for three different clients for the same property on the same day.

What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
I like sports and high energy activities.

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
The Florida Keys. I had one of the most exciting vacations there and did all kinds of activities in the water. I even purchased a real treasure silver coin to add to my coin collection.

What is your favorite city after Phoenix?
Miami, Florida

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Be relentless and never give up.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
Canva

Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Patrick Bet-David and Candace Owens

What are your social media handles?
Instagram: @yourmortgagestar
Facebook: Your Mortgage Star Christian Hernandez