THE BEST OF ARE A A
Fall of 2021
A MY KO N G 2021 AREAA PRESIDENT
F A L L
2 0 2 1
Volume 1I1, Issue 1II
A R E A A N AT I O N A L S TA F F Hope Atuel, Executive Director E l o i s a B o r d a d o r, Membership Assistant Jordan Fan, Content Specialist Jazz Miranda, Web and Visual Designer Carrie Shen, Events Manager Va n e s s a S h i e l d s , Deputy Director Jessica Yip, Chapter and Membership Manager is a publication of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA), a national nonprofit trade organization dedicated to increasing sustainable homeownership in the Asian American community. For more information visit: areaa.org ©2021 by the Asian Real Estate Association of America. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed by individual authors are not necessarily the opinions held by AREAA. Office: Asian Real Estate Association of America 2535 Kettner Blvd. San Diego, California 92101 619.795.7873 Phone contact@areaa.org Previous issues available online at: areaa.org For additional web-based content, please visit: areaa.org
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FROM THE
Director
Despite the overwhelming increase in hate crimes and discrimination, we see our members and chapters respond in kindness, compassion and love.
As human beings, we face many transitions in our lives – births, deaths, changes to our vocation, the start and end of relationships, relocation to another city or even country for that matter. Transitions can be exciting and fun. I remember my transition back to San Diego almost 10 years ago that was a coming home of all sorts – coming home to the community I serve and literally coming home to San Diego after living in Chicago for nearly two decades. Admittedly, the transition to my new calling at that time as AREAA’s Executive Director, transition to a new home and city was stressful but all that was overshadowed with the joyful anticipation of being back to America’s finest city, closer to family and of course, being part of the AREAA family.
For our members, transitions have just strengthened resiliency that has been a hallmark of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. Despite the overwhelming increase in hate crimes and discrimination against us prompted by COVID-19, we see our members and chapters respond in kindness, compassion and love. In Oakland, our members not only provided food to those who have been displaced from their jobs but provided food and essential gear for healthcare workers in the city. Earlier this year, our chapters in Texas and the AREAA Foundation provided micro grants to families who have experienced financial hardship from the unexpected wintry weather in the south. The altruism can be seen across our chapters coast to coast.
As this publication is being printed, our country, and the entire world is in the cusp of transition brought about by the pandemic that has now lasted for over 18 months. We see more and more people being vaccinated but juxtaposed to that fact is the unexpected increase of infection rates from new strains of variants of COVID-19. While we’ve seen the world slowly ease from restrictions – life and the world has changed post pandemic.
In this issue, we highlight members and leaders who remain successful despite these transitions. We will hear of their stories with the hopes that it can inspire you and make you think that whatever changes you may be facing, you’re not alone.
Whether we like it or not, these seasons of changes in our lives shape our character and I am quite sure we know more about ourselves and the people around us as we get through this pandemic.
HOPE ATUEL
AREAA Executiv e Director
CONTENTS
17 03
22
Letter From The Director Read from Hope Atuel, AREAA Executive Director, as she previews the Fall A|R|E issue and discusses how AREAA and our stellar members have thrived despite a challenging year.
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Learn about the wide variety of perks that come with joining AREAA, including access to educational opportunities, professional networks, and great discounts at local businesses.
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The 2021 AREAA A-list Top Originators
Leaders’ Q & A Sit down with AREAA President, Amy Kong and 2021 President-elect, Tim Hur, to learn about their passion for serving the AAPI community, their vision for the future, and their path to becoming a successful leader.
Advocating for AREAA Q & A AREAA National Policy Committee Chair interviews Chrissi Johnson of Rocket Mortgage on important strategies for making a memorable and effective impact when advocating for changes in public policy.
Meet AREAA’s Top Originators for 2021, featuring the nation’s top mortgage lenders and originators.
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AREAA Membership Benefits
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AREAA’s Three-Point Plan AREAA plans to tackle the unique barriers to AAPI homeownership by focusing on these three points: Fair Housing, Language Access, and an Alternative Scoring Model.
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Best of AREAA View the winners of our annual Best of AREAA competition as we highlight some of our top chapters from across the country.
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NEW SECTION: A-List Highlights In this issue, you’ll see five profiles featuring A-List winners that represent the AREAA community and our stories. Turn the page to learn what drives these individuals to success and how they stay motivated to stay on top.
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A-List Highlights: West Region Meet three of the top professionals who helped families find homes in one of the toughest housing markets.
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A focus on three high performing members who serve as role models and leaders within their region.
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38
In Memoriam - Charlie Suh
39
2021 Executive Committee
14
Charlie Suh memorial post.
National Sponsors Thank you to the generous support of our national sponsors who partner with AREAA to make homeownership a reality for AAPI families.
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A-List Highlights: South Region Highlights three market leaders and trusted advisors from the fastest growing region for AAPI homeownership.
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View the current AREAA leadership team.
41
The 2021 AREAA A-List Top Producers Meet AREAA’s Top Producers for 2021, featuring the nation’s top individual and team real estate agents and brokers.
Founder’s Update AREAA’s founders reflect on the growth and success achieved in our 17-year history. Read as we highlight and recognize the members who have made AREAA what it is today.
A-List Highlights: Midwest Region
The Retreat Learn more about this first-time luxury event, which featured high profile panels, museum tours, an award-winning chef’s tasting, and more.
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A-List Highlights: Northeast Region In the most established region, these three professionals led the way in the real estate market.
A-List Highlights: Hawaii Region Learn more about three Hawaiians who have dedicated their professional lives to helping their communities grow.
A-LIST HIGHLIGHTS WEST REGION Khue Dang Greater Seattle
Member of the Greater Seattle Chapter. Mortgage Loan Officer at PNC. A-List 2020 #12 Top Mortgage Originator Sides 2020, #13 Top Originator Volume. Passionate about helping first-time home buyers gain a roof over their heads. 20+ years in the mortgage business. Recipient of various awards: Union Bank’s President’s Club, PNC Leader’s Council, PNC Leader’s Club 2019 & 2020, Five Start Mortgage Professional, AREAA A-List 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and most recently, PNC’s Mortgage Loan Officer of the Year 2020. Vietnamese-speaking, CoPresident of non-profit Greater Seattle Vietnam Association; Vietnam War refugee, credits her success to her father and mother’s work ethic.
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Crystal Ansay
Wesley Uyema
Central Valley
LA Coastal
Member of the Central Valley Chapter, current Chapter Secretary, was President, Vice President, Advisor, and Membership Director. CA native, born and raised in Clovis, second-generation Realtor, womanbusiness owner (and broker) of Real Living Diamond Realtors. AREAA 2020 #50 Top Producer Individual Sides. Dabbled in band percussion in high school. Started out in real estate with a background in Elementary Education with a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. Premier Service award recipient.
Member of the LA Coastal Chapter since 2013, current Board Member and was previous Affiliates Chair. Over 16-year Mortgage Consultant at Union Bank handling Banking, Loans, Credit Analysis, Mortgage Lending, and Loan Origination. AREAA 2020 #24 Top Originator Individual Sides, #12 Top Originator Individual Volume.
A- L I S T H I G H L I G H TS M I D W E S T R E G I O N Liz Goodchild Greater Chicago
Vice President of Greater Chicago Chapter. 30+ year Real Estate veteran, English and Tagalog speaking Team Leader at Berkshire Hathaway Starck Real Estate. A-List 2020 #10 Top Producer Team Sides. Host of radio show “Good to Know Liz,” airs every Saturday at AM1160 Hope for Life. Recipient of Chicago Association of Realtor’s Top Producer Award since 2004. Specializes in Residential and Commercial Real estate: buying, selling and investing, expert in distressed properties for Asset Managers (Bank Foreclosures) and the Corporate Relocation Industry. Faculty Adjunct at the Lake Forest Graduate School of Management between 1995-2011, teaching Financial Accounting and Sales Management. Chief Finance Officer, Chicago Magazine 19952003. Trainer at the Housing Urban Development (HUD).
Michael Park
Lina Shah
Twin Cities
Greater Chicago
Twin Cities Chapter, 20 years in the Banking Industry with the past 11 years as Home Mortgage Consultant. #10 Top Originator Individual Sides and #27 Top Originator Individual Volume. Began his finance career with HSBC. Joined Wells Fargo in 2010. Michael’s contemporaries have said that he “focuses on serving client needs and improving team performance. His team remains focused in good times and difficult and demonstrates true leadership at all times.” From Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Luxury Real Estate Broker from Oak Brook, Illinois. Joined Coldwell Banker in 2008 as a Global Luxury Property Specialist. #30 Top Producer Individual Sides & #29 Top Producer Individual Volume. Ranked Top 1% agents in National Realty Trust (NRT) 2021. International President’s Premiere awardee Coldwell Banker Residential. Crain’s Business Chicago Crain’s Most Notable Real Estate Brokers 2021. Chicago Magazine’s Top 100 Real Estate Agents. Named #1 Agent Oak Brook, Coldwell Bankert NRT. Member of NAR, Illinois Association of Realtors, Coldwell Banker Charitable Foundation, Oak Brook Chamber of Commerce.
2021 TOP PRODUCERS
The Asian Real Estate Association of America's annual “A-List" is a reflection of the organization’s diverse and talented membership. The list recognizes top producers serving Asian American homeowners and communities. The award program is open to all active AREAA members. Based on 2020 production, the 2021 "A-List" is comprised of the top 50 applicants in each of the two categories: SALES VOLUME and TRANSACTION SIDES.
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS
BY 2020 INDIVIDUAL VOLUME
BY 2020 INDIVIDUAL SIDES
1
217
DANIELLE MOY
CO M PAS S
@ PRO PERT I ES
SF Peninsula
Greater Chicago
$185,967,050
2
96
TERE FOSTER
TERE FOSTER
CO M PAS S
CO M PAS S
Greater Seattle
Greater Seattle
3
$165,566,200
3
86
TRACY ALLEN
RANDY HATADA
CO L DW EL L BA N K ER
X PA N D R E A LT Y
R E A LT Y
Las Vegas
Aloha FA L L 2 0 2 1
1
PHIL CHEN
2
8
$200,281,700
4
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS
BY 2020 INDIVIDUAL VOLUME
BY 2020 INDIVIDUAL SIDES
M OYA SKI LL M AN
4
CHRI STIN E D O
CO M PA S S
K EL L ER W I L L I A M S R E A LT Y
Greater Seattle
Boston
$121,820,264
5
M E I LI N G
85
5
DEREK K A M M
8 B LO C KS R E A L ES TAT E
CO L DW E L L BA N K ER R E A LT Y
SF Peninsula
Aloha
$92,154,200
6
T INA CH EU N G
83
T6
TI NA CH EU N G
E X P R E A LT Y
E X P R E A LT Y
DC Metro
DC Metro
$76,647,603
7
J E N GON G
81
T6
LI SA LO PEZ
CO L DW E L L BA N K E R
HOME ALLIANCE REALTY
CA Orange County
Northern New Jersey
$72,757,768
8
ZA R Z AN GAN EH
81
8
JUDY CU ON G
LUXE ESTATES & LIFESTYLES
P O RT F O L I O R E
Las Vegas
Greater Sacramento
$69,608,672
9
Y VONNE SUM M ERFI ELD
78
9
SUSAN K LIESEN
RE/MAX KAUAI LIVING
R E/M A X C EN T ER
Aloha
Atlanta Metro
$66,678,004
10
H E R M A N CHAN
76
10
YVONN E SUM M ERFI ELD
GOLDEN GATE SOTHEBY'
R E/M A X K AUA I L I V I N G
Greater East Bay
Aloha
$66,299,320
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c o n t i n u e d
2021 TOP PRODUCERS
RANK
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS BY 2020 INDIVIDUAL VOLUME
NAME
COMPANY
LOCATION
11
Derek Kamm
Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
$58,247,181
12
Janice Lee
Coldwell Banker Realty
SF Peninsula
$55,511,675
13
Danielle Moy
@properties
Greater Chicago
$54,465,192
14
Randy Char
Char Luxury Real Estate
Las Vegas
$52,508,541
15
Kenneth Er
Compass
Greater East Bay
$52,020,974
16
Matt McCormick
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Ventura County
$50,005,485
17
Christine Do
Keller Williams Realty
Boston
$45,143,188
18
Lily Do
Compass
Greater East Bay
$43,432,456 $40,805,125
19
Spencer Hsu
eXp Realty
Silicon Valley
20
Mike Bui
EQ1
Silicon Valley
$40,177,776
21
John Messina
Daniel Gale Sotheby's International Realty
New York East
$40,090,000
22
Diane O. Ito
Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
$37,308,835
23
Judy Cuong
PortfolioRE
Greater Sacramento
$36,448,715
24
Carlos Alleyne
RE/MAX Advantage Plus
Greater Miami
$35,743,814
25
Anne Oliver
Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
$34,850,000
26
Douglas Shanefield
Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
$34,736,830
Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
$34,660,280
27
Beth Chang
28
Smitha Ramchandani Christie's International Real Estate Northern New Jersey
Northern New Jersey
$32,640,767
29
Lina Shah
Coldwell Banker Residential
Greater Chicago
$31,295,028
30
LuAnn Shikasho
eXp Realty
Greater Sacramento
$31,086,232
2021 TOP PRODUCERS
RANK
10
VOLUME
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS BY 2020 INDIVIDUAL SIDES
NAME
COMPANY
LOCATION
SIDES
10
Mei Ling
8 Blocks Real Estate
SF Peninsula
67
T12
Tim Hur
Point Honors and Associates, Realtors
Atlanta Metro
64
T12
Helen Nguyen
Point Honors and Associates, Realtors
Atlanta Metro
64
14
Smitha Ramchandani
Christie's International Real Estate Northern New Jersey
Northern New Jersey
63
15
Jen Gong
Coldwell Banker
CA Orange County
62
16
LuAnn Shikasho
eXp Realty
Greater Sacramento
61 59
17
Phil Chen
Compass
SF Peninsula
18
Moya Skillman
Compass
Greater Seattle
59
19
Bonnie Lai
RE/MAX Unlimited
Boston
58
20
Danny Leung
Century 21 Redwood Realty
DC Metro
57
21
Janice Lee
Coldwell Banker Realty
SF Peninsula
52
22
Randy Char
Char Luxury Real Estate
Las Vegas
51
23
Chrissy Rodriguez
JohnHart Real Estate
North LA
50
24
Herman Chan
Golden Gate Sotheby's
Greater East Bay
49
T25
Kenneth Er
Compass
Greater East Bay
44
T25
Li Huong Lanz
Better Homes and Gardens Realty
Portland
44
T27
Job Hammond
Dash Realty
Austin
43
T27
Darla Togo
Real Living Diamond Realtors
Central Valley
43
T27
Ruth Manzano Javier Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
43
30
Lina Shah
Greater Chicago
41
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Coldwell Banker Realty
2021 TOP PRODUCERS
RANK
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS BY 2020 INDIVIDUAL VOLUME
NAME
COMPANY
LOCATION
31
Linda Lee
Keller Williams San Diego Metro
San Diego
VOLUME $29,505,800
32
Steven Minchen
Compass
SF Peninsula
$29,244,380
33
Bonnie Lai
RE/MAX Unlimited
Boston
$28,945,532
34
Chrissy Rodriguez
JohnHart Real Estate
North LA
$27,003,700
35
Angela Wong
Coldwell Banker
Greater Los Angeles
$26,398,126
36
Ruth Manzano
Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
$25,366,842
37
Alice Schroeder
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices CA Properties
CA Orange County
$25,326,050
38
Diane Polland
Coldwell Banker Realty
New York East
$24,651,550
39
Susan Kliesen
RE/MAX Center
Atlanta Metro
$24,068,983
40
Peter Au
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
CA Orange County
$23,935,002
41
John Peterson
Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
$22,876,599
42
Martin Ho
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Northwest Real Estate
Greater Seattle
$22,383,725
T43
Tim Hur
Point Honors and Associates, Realtors
Atlanta Metro
$21,443,194
T43
Helen Nguyen
Point Honors and Associates, Realtors
Atlanta Metro
$21,443,194
45
Eric Yamamoto
Refined Real Estate Hawaii LLC
Aloha
$20,961,164
46
Ann Chang
Sequoia Real Estate
SF Peninsula
$20,199,000
47
Paul Trakarn
Luxe Christie's International Real Estate
Portland
$20,013,000
48
Colette Nishimura
Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
$19,854,760
49
Li Huong Lanz
Better Homes and Gardens Realty
Portland
$19,688,799
50
Randy Hatada
Xpand Realty
Las Vegas
$19,604,694
2021 TOP PRODUCERS
RANK
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS BY 2020 INDIVIDUAL SIDES
NAME
COMPANY
LOCATION
Paul Trakarn
Luxe Christie's International Real Estate
Portland
40
T32
Tracy Allen
Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
39
T32
Jack Wang
RLAH Real Estate
DC Metro
39
T32
Zar Zanganeh
Luxe Estates & Lifestyles
Las Vegas
39
31
SIDES
T32
Donna Davids
Coldwell Banker Realty
Boston
39
T36
Raquel Lavender
Keller Williams Realty
Atlanta Metro
37
T36
Colette Nishimura
Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
37
T38
Dana Hall-Bradley
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Fine Living
Greater Orlando
36
T38
Matt McCormick
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Ventura County
36
T40
Kazuko Boylan
Boylan Real Estate Group Inc.
New York Manhattan
35
T40
Linda Lee
Keller Williams San Diego Metro
San Diego
35
T40
Tony Ngo
Real Estate Performance Group
Portland
35
T40
Christie Xie
Keller Williams Realty
Boston
35
T44
May Huang
Portfolio Real Estate
Greater Sacramento
34
T44
Jamie Tian
Rodeo Realty
Greater Los Angeles
34
T44
Eric Yamamoto
Refined Real Estate Hawaii LLC
Aloha
34
Lori Goto
Realty Austin
Austin
33
T48
Patrick Lum
Coldwell Banker Realty
Aloha
32
T48
Spencer Hsu
eXp Realty
Silicon Valley
32
Crystal Ansay
Real Living Diamond Realtors
Central Valley
31
47
50
2021 TOP PRODUCERS
The Top Producers by Team category recognizes the top brokerages and firms within AREAA’s memberships. The collective leadership and team efforts of this elite list represent some of the top leading real estate firms in the country. View the winners of the top two Team categories, determined by Team Volume and Team Sides.
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS
BY 2020 TEAM VOLUME
BY 2020 TEAM SIDES
1
$914,695,197
1
4158
MICHAEL REPK A
LONG DOAN
D EL EO N R E A LT Y
R E A LT Y G RO U P
Silicon Valley
Twin Cities
2
$646,137,007
2
567
LONG DOAN
C A LV I N GON G
R E A LT Y G RO U P
PI N N AC L E R E A L ES TAT E
Twin Cities
G RO U P
Tri-County
3
12
FA L L 2 0 2 1
$377,733,462
3
485
C A LV I N GON G
JOHNNY ROJAS
R PI N N AC L E R E A L ES TAT E
C EN T U RY 21 J R G O L D
G RO U P
T E A M R E A LT Y
Tri-County
Central New Jersey
2021 TOP PRODUCERS
RANK
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS BY 2020 TEAM VOLUME
NAME
COMPANY
LOCATION
4
Johnny Rojas
Century 21 Jr Gold Team Realty
Central New Jersey
$136,367,256
5
Kenny Truong
eXp Realty
Greater East Bay
$126,959,078
6
Brett Dickinson
Pacific Sotheby's International Realty
San Diego
$121,911,591
7
Samantha Tov
PortfolioRE
Greater Sacramento
$111,140,212
8
Donnie Pingaro
Side
Greater Miami
$77,267,422
9
Mindy Luong
HPT Realty
CA Orange County
$72,055,155
10
Tadashi Kondo
Movoto Real Estate
LA Coastal
$68,772,879
2021 TOP PRODUCERS
RANK
VOLUME
TOP SALES PROFESSIONALS BY 2020 TEAM SIDES
NAME
COMPANY
LOCATION
SIDES
4
Samantha Tov
PortfolioRE
Greater Sacramento
263
5
Michael Repka
DeLeon Realty
Silicon Valley
226
6
Mindy Luong
HPT Realty
CA Orange County
190
7
Kenny Truong
eXp Realty
Greater East Bay
188
T8
Donnie Pingaro
Side
Greater Miami
185
T8
Brandy Nelson
Windermere homes & Estates
Inland Empire
185
10
Elizabeth Goodchild Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Starck Real Estate
Greater Chicago
159
A-LIST HIGHLIGHTS SOUTH REGION Dana Hall-Bradley Greater Orlando
Member of Greater Orlando Chapter, AREAA member since 2014. A-Lister in 2017, 2019, in 2020 #38 Top Producers Individual Sides. In the Real Estate business since 1997, opened the first Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate franchise – Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Fine Living - in Central Florida in 2014. Authored “Works Hard Plays Harder…And You Can Too!” Specializes in Luxury Real Estate and Listings. Enjoys the outdoors with family and friends.
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Carlos Alleyne Greater Miami
A native of Barbados. Early years of financial planning and wealth management planning consultancy on Wall Street. Luxury Estate Agent with RE/MAX Advantage Plus. Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS), A Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CHLMS) and a Member of the Million Dollar Guild. A-List 2020 #24 Top Producers Individual Volume. Avid golfer, world-traveler, and is active in charities such as Habitat for Humanity, Place of Hope, Stand Among Friends and Children's Miracle Network.
Christopher Reshetar Charlotte Metro
Charlotte Metro member. Branch Manager and Senior Loan Office at Hometown Lenders, Inc. Over 20 years experience in the mortgage industry. Specializes in debt consolidations and down payment assistance for first time buyers. Host of Reshair Radio on ESPN 730. A-List 2020 #13 Top Originator Individual Sides. Received 2020 Forbes Magazine Top 100 Loan Officer/Market Leader Award. Mortgage Magazine’s Top 1% Originator in America 2014, 2015.
A-LIST HIGHLIGHTS NORTHEAST REGION Bonnie Lai Boston
Fulfilled roles in AREAA Boston Chapter as Vice President, Treasurer, Board of Director. Also, in AREAA National Committee as Event Planning Chair and Vice Chair of Communication. Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and an Associate Broker from REMAX Unlimited in Brookline. AREAA A-List 2019, and 2020 #19 Top Producer Individual Sides and #34 Top Producer Individual Volume. Has also held roles as a Senior Hedge Fund Administrator, AIS Private Equity Fund Administrator, and a middle school band director. Was Board Member at the Women Council of Realtors Greater Boston in 2020. Speaks English, Cantonese and Mandarin.
Smitha Ramchandani
Jack Wang
Northern New Jersey
DC Metro
North New Jersey Chapter Industry Chair. AREAA A-Lister #14 Top Producer Individual Sides & #28 Top Producer Individual Volume. Top 0.5% New Jersey agent with $505+ million in home sales, 25 years of experience. Licensed in New Jersey, New York and in the San Diego/La Jolla California states. Specializes in luxury homes, relocation, international buyers, residential real estate investing. Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS), Director of International Partnerships of Christie’s International Real Estate Northern New Jersey. Graduated MBA from R.A. Podar College of Commerce & Economics, Mumbai. Fluent in five Indian languages.
Grew up visiting construction sites with his father who was a contractor. Speaks English, Mandarin and Cantonese. Licensed in D.C., Maryland and Virginia since 2009. 10 years in the industry, featured in the Washingtonian and Bethesda Magazines, won multiple Real Living Elite awards, and is a 5-star rated agent on Redfin, Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com. A-List #33 Top Producer Individual Sides. Jack has earned the Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR) and Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) realtor’s designation. Lives in Montgomery County with his wife and two young sons. Avid local sports team fan and enjoys playing basketball.
A-LIST HIGHLIGHTS HAWAII REGION Patrick Kauanoe Lum Aloha
#48 Top Producer Individual Sides. Grew up surfing in Hawaii, Kamehameha Schools & University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) alumni. Professional career began at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Purchased his first home in Las Vegas. Recipient Coldwell Banker President’s Circle award. Patrick was awarded for doubling his sales production, among 450+ of his peers, after successfully helping nearly 70 families buy and sell, in his first few years of practice. Patrick and his wife Wendy enjoy hiking, eating, traveling, listening to live music, and relaxing at the beach and Elks Club in Waikiki. Speaks English and Spanish.
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Eric Yamamoto Aloha
Born and raised in Oahu. Lives in Ewa Gentry, Hawaii. Co-Owner and Principal Broker at Refined Real Estate Hawaii, LLC. Started Real Estate career in 2016. AREAA A-List 2020 #44 Top Producer Individual Sides & #45 Top Producers Individual Volume. Recently featured in Pacific Business News Who’s Who in Real Estate. 2020 and 2021 Honolulu Magazine Best in Real Estate. Top producing agent at Coldwell Banker Realty 2016-2021: Top 2% of 92,000 agents, Pacific Business News 2020 40 under 40 Honoree, Top Producer and Salesperson: Units - Honolulu Office, International President's Elite.
Kimberly Kawachi Aloha
Born and raised in Maui. Loan Consultant for Loan Depot. 16 years in the mortgage industry. #21 Top Originator Individual Sides & #22 Top Originator Individual Volume. Enjoys spend time outdoors with her husband and our two beautiful, quickly-growing boys. Spending weekends with family and friends. Both of her sons play in baseball and soccer organizations.
Isn't the best time to continue building your legacy right now? Owning a home isn’t just about finances — it’s about building a future. Our Community Homeownership Commitment1 can help new homebuyers with: • Down payment help up to $10,000 or 3% of the purchase price, whichever is less. Product availability and income restrictions apply.2 • Closing cost help up to $7,500 as a lender credit.3 • Down payments as low as 3% down. Income limits apply.4 Learn more: bankofamerica.com/homeowner
3. Additional information about the America’s Home Grant program: The America’s Home Grant program is a lender credit. Program funds can only be used for nonrecurring closing costs including title insurance, recording fees, and in certain situations, discount points may be used to lower the interest rate. The grant cannot be applied toward down payment, prepaid items or recurring costs, such as property taxes and insurance. Borrowers cannot receive program funds as cash back. 4. Maximum income and loan amount limits apply. Fixed-rate mortgages (no cash out refinances), primary residences only. Certain property types are ineligible. Maximum loan-to-value (“LTV”) is 97%, and maximum combined LTV is 105%. For LTV >95%, any secondary financing must be from an approved Community Second Program. Homebuyer education may be required. Other restrictions apply. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. ©2021 Bank of America Corporation. America's Home Grant, Bank of America Community Homeownership Commitment, Bank of America and the Bank of America logo are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. MAP3698121 | AD-08-21-0149 | 08/2021
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You are invited to apply. Your receipt of this material does not mean you have been prequalified or preapproved for any product or service we offer. This is not a commitment to lend; you must submit additional information for review and approval. 1. Down Payment program and America’s Home Grant program: Qualified borrowers must meet eligibility requirements such as being owner-occupants and purchasing a home within a certain geographical area. Maximum income and loan amount limits apply. Minimum combined loan-to-value must be greater than or equal to 80%. The home loan must fund with Bank of America. Bank of America may change or discontinue the Bank of America Down Payment Grant program or America’s Home Grant program or any portion of either without notice. Not available with all loan products, please ask for details. 2. Additional information about the Down Payment program: Down Payment program is currently limited to two specific mortgage products. Program funds can be applied toward down payment only. Borrowers cannot receive program funds as cash back in excess of earnest money deposits. Down Payment Grant program may be considered taxable income, a 1099-MISC will be issued, consult with your tax advisor. May be combined with other offers. The Bank of America Down Payment Grant program may only be applied once to an eligible mortgage/ property, regardless of the number of applicants. Homebuyer education is required.
As measured by residential transaction sides.
RESIDENTIAL
LUXURY
COMMERCIAL
2 0 2 1 T O P O R I G I N AT O R S
TOP MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATORS
TOP MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATORS
BY 2020 VOLUME
BY 2020 UNITS FUNDED
1
1
873
SHASHANK SHEKHAR
U.S. BA N K
A RCU S L EN D I N G I N C
Silicon Valley
Silicon Valley
$364,491,571
2
603
SHASHANK SHEKHAR
LY S A C AT L I N
A RCU S L EN D I N G I N C
C A L I B ER H O M E LOA N S
Silicon Valley
Greater Seattle
3
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$371,240,047
JOANNA YU
2
18
The Top Originators category recognizes AREAA’s elite mortgage professionals. These AREAA members make up a leading group of individuals that produce both the highest total volume and number of units funded across the US mortgage industry. Based on 2020 production numbers, the top 30 applicants in the Total Volume and Total Units Funded categories make up these categories of leading mortgage and lending producers.
$331,080,000
3
551
LY S A CATLIN
N AT H A N SIBBET
C A L I B ER H O M E LOA N S
LOAN DEPOT
Greater Seattle
Greater Sacramento
TOP MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATORS 2 0 2 1 T O P O R I G I N AT O R S
RANK
BY 2020 VOLUME
NAME
COMPANY
LOCATION
VOLUME
4
Choe Hung
U.S. Bank
Greater Los Angeles
$248,607,681
5
Viral Vora
PNC Bank
Silicon Valley
$246,125,268
6
Karen Chiu
New American Funding
Greater Los Angeles
$222,452,539
7
Nirmalya Modak
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
Silicon Valley
$211,741,239
8
Nathan Sibbet
Loan Depot
Greater Sacramento
$211,355,347
9
Aileen Hom
Wells Fargo Private Mortgage
SF Peninsula
$209,559,400
10
Caroline Ke Liu
U.S. Bank
SF Peninsula
$191,758,610
11
Jasmine Cheng
U.S. Bank
SF Peninsula
$168,867,364
12
Wesley Uyema
Union Bank
LA Coastal
$165,712,497
13
Khue Dang
PNC
Greater Seattle
$158,864,207
14
James Chen
Citizens Bank
New York Manhattan
$146,130,570
15
Saeho Ki
Loan Depot
SF Peninsula
$134,203,217
16
Jennifer Yang
Wells Fargo
LA Coastal
$124,455,671
17
Winnie Ho
HSBC Bank
SF Peninsula
$85,044,795
18
Meinoh Kim
Loan Depot
Solano County
$82,296,002
19
Amy Lee
HSBC Bank
Tri-County
$80,810,210
20
Ming Hui (Maggie) Liu
HSBC Bank USA
Tri-County
$74,415,203
21
Larry Mejia
Union Bank
CA Orange County
$64,526,478
22
Kimberly Kawachi
Loan Depot
Aloha
$64,022,128
23
Peter Ryu
Guaranteed Rate
Greater Seattle
$61,851,505
24
Kelly Blair
HSBC bank
Tri-County
$58,463,000
25
Ha Le Dao
DHI Mortgage Company
Greater Sacramento
$55,329,924
26
Leman Woo
Loan Depot
SF Peninsula
$53,942,061
27
Michael Park
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
Twin Cities
$53,192,694
28
Esther Chow
HSBC Bank
Tri-County
$52,224,800
29
Ariana Buzzelli
HSBC
Greater Los Angeles
$52,215,210
30
Sumir Desai
Union Bank
CA Orange County
$49,889,287
TOP MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATORS 2 0 2 1 T O P O R I G I N AT O R S
RANK
20
BY 2020 UNITS FUNDED
NAME
COMPANY
LOCATION
SIDE
4
Karen Chiu
New American Funding
Greater Los Angeles
475
5
Joanna Yu
U.S. Bank
Silicon Valley
369
6
Choe Hung
U.S. Bank
Greater Los Angeles
345
7
James Chen
Citizens Bank
New York Manhattan
296
8
Viral Vora
PNC Bank
Silicon Valley
287
9
Caroline Ke Liu
U.S. Bank
SF Peninsula
243
10
Michael Park
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
Twin Cities
234
11
Jasmine Cheng
U.S. Bank
SF Peninsula
220
12
Khue Dang
PNC
Greater Seattle
214
13
Christopher (Chris)
Hometown Lenders
Charlotte Metro
211
14
Nirmalya Modak
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
Silicon Valley
203
15
Meinoh Kim
Loan Depot
Solano County
177
16
Sean Uyehara
Loan Depot
Las Vegas
173
17
Aileen Hom
Wells Fargo Private Mortgage
SF Peninsula
167
18
Jennifer Yang
Wells Fargo
LA Coastal
150
19
Jaad Nicholas
Ameris Bank
Atlanta Metro
149
20
Ha Le Dao
DHI Mortgage Company
Greater Sacramento
140
21
Kimberly Kawachi
Loan Depot
Aloha
134
22
Grace Byun
Union Home Mortgage
DC Metro
121
23
Amy Lee
HSBC Bank
Tri-County
119
24
Wesley Uyema
Union Bank
LA Coastal
110
25
Lynn Bohm Anderson
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
Twin Cities
106
26
Nicole Kim
Loan Depot
Greater Los Angeles
99
27
Peter Lee
US Home Lending Group
CA Orange County
96
T28
Mary Hou
Loan Depot
Greater Seattle
93
T28
Peter Ryu
Guaranteed Rate
Greater Seattle
93
30
Winnie Ho
HSBC Bank
SF Peninsula
90
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Join us in empowering the Asian American communities through housing. Visit areaafoundation.org to donate today.
Congratulations to our 2021 A-List Network Agents
Alice Schroeder
Top 50 Individuals by Volume Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
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Martin Ho
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Jack Wang
Top 50 Individuals by Side Real Living At Home (RLAH)
Proud Supporters of AREAA
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Q+A With Amy Kong & Tim Hur
Each year brings its own set of challenges, and this past year has had more than most. Fortunately, we have been blessed with exceptional leaders who rose to the occasion and helped us to continue on our path to growth and success. With many thanks, we say goodbye to Amy Kong, an inspirational leader who stood strong against a year of trials and tribulations as our president. Looking ahead, we are excited to welcome Tim Hur as our new president. We had the opportunity to sit down with both of these influential figures and discuss the opportunities that AREAA provides, the ways in which we look to grow, and what it means to be a great leader.
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Tim, what’s the first major leadership role you held and how has it prepared you for being President of AREAA?
Tim, the South has been a big focus point for AAPI Migration. What do you love about being from the South?
Tim: I don’t think that anything can prepare you to be President of AREAA. It is a massive undertaking, but I do think being a past president of a local chapter and being involved at a national level really has helped me understand the different parts of AREAA. It is such a big organization and we do so much that just being part of the organization for such a long time has really helped.
Tim: The South has been a very popular destination even beyond the AAPI community for migration. It was very interesting because I saw a lot of my friends leave Atlanta after college and they came back to have a family and establish roots. The great thing about the South is that we have our Southern Hospitality, we have great food, but I would say the cost of living is an incredible factor for being able to live well in the South. While Atlanta may be different from other cities, the sense of family and friends is like no other place. Atlanta has definitely risen as a capital of the South.
Tim, you’ve said Amy’s risen the bar for AREAA, what do you think you will focus on during your term to raise the bar in your own way? Tim: I think that every President has definitely brought their own flavor to AREAA and I think Amy has done something that I personally could not have done in the past year. She raised the bar for AREAA’s image and the quality of work we do while keeping everything cohesive during a year of tremendous change. That’s something to be commended. For my term we will see how we can raise the bar, but I think we need to go back to the core basics of relationship building. Relationships are so pivotal, especially in our industry. Because we haven’t had that in-person opportunity over the year, we lost a lot of opportunities to build stronger relationships. Just like the idea of homecoming, I think that bringing it back home for our relationships and building upon the relationships we have is so important.
Amy & Tim - What have you learned most about AREAA during the COVID-19 pandemic? Amy: During the pandemic lock down, we truly demonstrated why we call AREAA family. Some of our AREAA members suffered from COVID or lost family members, friends and colleagues to COVID. Some suffered from depression due to financial hardship, isolation, or health issues and we even lost dear members that served as chapter leaders. While some members felt comfortable coming forward to share their needs, others needed to be reached out to in order to see how they
were doing. I was so amazed to see chapters doing such great work during the pandemic to raise funds, source masks and prepare food to donate to front-line workers. The level of care was so encouraging. Tim: I learned that we are resilient and that despite our challenges, we are still persevering through the year. If anything, we maintained our members, our sponsors, and we are still on track to grow. We were able to do everything we needed to do, even if it was in a different flavor. In fact we were able to accomplish more this past year than a typical year. If we can go through the COVID-19 pandemic we can definitely change the world.
What opportunities does AREAA have for potential leaders? Amy: Tremendous opportunities! If you are willing to step up as a leader, at AREAA the door is always open. One of the important pillars in AREAA is leadership, and we will never lose sight of that. There is leadership training provided and you can absolutely participate in both the local and National level. Leadership takes practice and our national leaders are always available to coach to make sure you are successful. You will find that our founders, chair emeritus, past national leaders are friendly and accessible. We would love to see more AAPI leaders arise from AREAA. As I always say: we are just a phone call away. Tim: AREAA has so many opportunities for anyone who wants to learn about or be in leadership. Giving back to the community is so important. Depending on what kind of leadership you want to be in, whether it be in policy or a non-profit or a for profit, AREAA has the opportunity to help our 24
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leaders grow. The relationships we’ve built at AREAA are incredible. We can make calls to the entertainment world, the political world and throughout the real estate industry. It’s only seven degrees of separation to make a connection happen and to create a new relationship.
What do you think is the most important quality in being a great leader? Amy: Great question! I guess a majority of the real estate professionals are leaders because we are the ones who take the lead to look for resources and hold the hand of our clients to complete what is needed to reach the finish line, which is closing the transaction. However, in a volunteer world here at AREAA, I see a great leader in a different way. A great leader needs to lay out a very clear goal to the volunteers that help run a chapter or a committee. A leader identifies the strengths and talents of others to place them in the right position to be successful. A great leader inspires them with the vision and purpose upfront, making sure everyone buys in to the same vision. A great leader is able to build trusting relationships so when work is delegated, the results create the best outcome possible. As volunteers, we are here to give, and treat each other with LOVE and RESPECT! Tim: This one is always a tough one because everyone has different leadership styles and skills. It’s important to ascertain what is going on by really listening to what others are saying, which is so critical when making those hard decisions. But the most important quality is finding a great mentor. I’ve been really blessed with having great mentors. They saw something in me that I couldn’t yet see more than ten years ago.
Amy, what project or event has made you the most proud during your Presidential term? Amy: In terms of events, I would say the Diversity and Fair Housing Summit. I loved that event because it truly hit on the core mission of AREAA. I am so hoping it will continue year after year! But even more importantly, something I am most proud of during my presidential term is to see so many young and new faces that are stepping up to continue the mission of AREAA. There are so many great people out there who have stepped out of their comfort zones to challenge themselves
while pushing AREAA’s name out. Their work motivates me to move forward and be fearless and stand up and speak out for our community.
Amy, what advice do you have for Tim as he enters the President’s role? Amy: Tim is someone that will continue the good work of AREAA. He is mature enough to handle all of the challenges that may arise. I know he will continue to focus on the mission of AREAA and he will make all the millennials very proud. Of course, I will continue to support his work.
Amy, what do you wish for a member joining AREAA today? Amy: As I mentioned before, AREAA is a big family. We welcome you! I hope the support and genuine friendship within this family will surprise you. If you feel like you want to be part of this mission which is to promote sustainable homeowners among the AAPI community then come join us. We welcome you with open arms. I wish you will walk with us and leave a beautiful footprint in each of the communities you serve.
AREAA MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS 26
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Your AREAA membership connects you with resources to continue developing your business, personal skills, and professional network, whether it’s through events, education or through your leadership roles within the organization. AREAA also puts forth great efforts every year to advocate for sustainable AAPI homeownership. You likely joined AREAA for one or all of these reasons, but in addition to being part of our mission, as an AREAA member, did you know you have access to TONS of discounts and other benefits? Take a look at even more reasons why AREAA membership benefits you!
20% discount on all Family Brands of 1-800-Flower purchases.
With their top online state- and boardapproved continuing education courses, you'll gain knowledge and skills to help you excel in your career and be an essential member of your team. McKissock’s online real estate education solutions will help you stay up-to-date on your requirements, improve real world skills and boost productivity and income! AREAA Members receive an exclusive discount of 30% off all CE memberships, packages or courses.
EC Purchasing saves you money every day, on the brands you trust most, a free member benefit for AREAA members!
Get the advantage and lock-in deals for you or your clients before they are gone. Thanks to the partnership between AREAA and Foreclosure.com, you will receive 25% off our monthly subscription fee.
La Belle Vie is a luxury gifting brand that suits any occasion; AREAA members receive a 15% discount on all items listed on the site through your membership dashboard.
Exclusive and preferred pricing. Savings include $20 to 55% off and free next day shipping.
Protect Now is giving AREAA members up to 20% off trainings and tools.
10% off on all purchases including retractable banner stands, backdrops, furniture, signage and other specialty displays.
AREAA Members receive an average of 26% lower rates than public booking sites!
$200 referral cash rewards program for individuals and $50 for chapters. Your client also receives FREE ADT security system, valued at $999.
Save an average of $550 on auto insurance annually.
Print virtually anywhere with exclusive discounts.
AREAA members receive a free Telecheck as well as $5 off per transaction.
TO LEARN ABOUT AREAA AND OUR MEMBER BENEFITS VISIT US AT AREAA.ORG/BENEFITS
ADVOCATING FOR AREAA Q & A with Chrissi Johnson of Rocket Mortgage
For the second year, AREAA’s Annual Policy Summit went virtual. As leadership continues to become a hallmark for AREAA, advocacy also continues to play a larger role. Our 2021 Policy Committee Chair Hanh Hua sits down with Chrissi Johnson of Rocket Mortgage to talk about what makes an effective strategy when meeting with lawmakers, whether through Zoom or in person. Hanh: What’s an important way to distinguish yourself during a meeting so you are memorable? Chrissi: It’s about finding that personal connection. The 2008 presidential campaign changed the game with the “tell your story” campaign. We realized that everybody has a story, and if you can find a way to make the policy point while using some personal anecdotes, you are able to personally connect and more likely to leave a lasting impression. Members of Congress and their offices deal with the full gamut of policy issues and leaning into our core issues of housing and real estate in their home districts can be powerful in setting you apart from all those other issues. Finding a way to make that connection to the things that matter to the specific member of Congress is how you make yourself memorable. Hanh: A lot of our members might not know the policy points well. In the AAPI community, a lot of us our immigrants and don’t understand how the government system is set up. What advice do you have for people who are scheduling for the first time? Chrissi: The best advice I can give is to be a team. Before you go into the meeting, identify what your goals are as a group and the roles of the people in the room, then commit to each other to help elevate voices of those who might be timid. This situation is very similar to meeting with a potential client. You are still trying to sell something. You are trying to sell a perspective. Hanh: Now that we’ve made it easy to schedule virtual meetings, how do we best run the meeting and what’s the best content? What have you seen as a successful format for meetings? Chrissi: Although you might have 30 minutes scheduled, aim to achieve what you can in 20 minutes because members will frequently get pulled from meetings unexpectedly for votes and other urgent issues. Make sure you have a clear path to state who you are, your issue, and why you are there today – then bring the data. For AREAA, recognizing the membership in each of their districts matters a lot, because membership means constituents, and constituents mean votes. That will show you a large group of the constituents they represent, which makes you even more relevant and therefore effective when you explain your issue to them. Hanh: Once you’ve done that ask, what’s the best way to conclude the meeting? Chrissi: Once you have a takeaway, commit to following up. Ask who they want you to send the information to. That’s how you remain relevant and memorable. I typically do this within the next hour if possible, but definitely by the end of the day. If they don’t respond, you can wait a few days before checking in to thank them and confirm they received it. That way, when something new and possibly more urgent does come up in the future, you’ve already done the groundwork and you have that email to follow up with. And then you’ve got the relationship! 28
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Hanh Hua AREAA National Policy Committee Chair
Chrissi Johnson
Vice President for Federal Policy and External Affairs at Quicken Loans Chrissi Johnson is the Vice President of Public Policy and External Affairs for Rocket Mortgage. In this role, she coordinates the position of Rocket Mortgage and the Rock Family of Companies on mission-critical public policy issues covering a broad spectrum of topics, including regulatory reform, housing finance, fintech innovation, data privacy, and access to housing and consumer protection. In this capacity, Chrissi leads all thirdparty stakeholder outreach efforts, including trade associations, consumer advocacy and civil rights groups, think tanks, market peers, and Washington, D.C., financial beat reporters. She also develops and executes strategic plans to advocate for these critical policy issues, including policymaker messaging, third-party coalitions, and other tactics.
2021 AREAA THREE-POINT PLAN In 2020, millions of AAPIs were potentially ready to buy homes, which would have resulted in an unprecedented upsurge in real estate transactions and tens of millions of dollars in potential loans. However, the continued housing shortages in the high cost areas they wish to buy in and the length of time it takes to save enough for a down payment continues to make the goal of homeownership that much more elusive for these buyers. There is no simple solution to this problem. Even when AAPIs have some of the highest median incomes of any group or apply with multiple borrowers-often 3 or more—it is simply not enough. Until AAPIs look at less expensive areas or more affordable housing is built, the housing shortage and the burden of large down payments will continue to be one of the largest hurdles for our community. The unique barriers to homeownership for our community loom large—language barriers, antiquated credit scoring models and underwriting standards that do not account for the self-employed, entrepreneurial AAPI buyer, as well as housing shortages in major markets—as we try to move the needle on the AAPI homeownership rate. This year’s 3-Point Policy Plan Focuses On:
FAIR HOUSING
POINT #1
Support HR 67 and S769 to ensure fair housing for all “Though AAPIs are the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. Population, the average homeownership rate continues to be lower than the national average.”
LANGUAGE ACCESS
POINT #2
Imperative Data Collection on Preferred Language Data Field “The addition of the PDLF represents a unique opportunity to increase language access for Limited English Proficiency Speakers—an opportunity that might not be seen again for many years.”
ALTERNATIVE SCORING MODEL
POINT #3
Reauthorize the FHA’s Alternative Credit Scoring Program with higher thresholds “Nearly 70% of AAPIs over the age of 18 are foreign born and many come from cultures that promote the value of “debt aversion,” an unwillingness to take on debt with a premium placed on paying for things outright.”
2021 best of areaa
rising star
Rising Star The Rising Star Award recognizes the AREAA chapter with the strongest growth in chapter strength and eminence in AREAA’s largest operations. For the second year in a row, AREAA is pleased to recognize Ventura County as the Rising Star for their continued growth, outstanding events, and unhindering commitment to serving the AAPI community in their region.
Membership Drive The AREAA Membership award is given to the local chapter who most effectively markets, communicates, and executes membership growth for the year. This chapter achieved incredible membership growth during the year of shelter in place and virtual events. AREAA is proud to award Houston in Best of AREAA’s Membership category.
Best Gala Each AREAA Chapter plans an installation event for their membership and local real estate community each year, where they also install their new board members. AREAA Galas are large events and require enormous effort and organization. This year, due to the pandemic, and difficulties gathering in person, we have recognized two chapters. For the best Virtual Installation, AREAA awards the Boston Chapter and for best In-Person Installation, the award goes to Dallas/Fort Worth.
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membership drive
HOUSTON
best gala
BOSTON
2021 best of areaa
community outreach
Community Outreach Outreach and philanthropy are core values to AREAA. This chapter is well-versed in this arena. Two years in a row, this chapter has done an incredible job at organizing their membership for Community Outreach events. Members come together and give back to their community through organized acts of service. This award recognizes the AREAA chapter with the greatest efforts in giving back to their community. AREAA is pleased to award Tri-County with the Community Outreach Award, again!
policy
Policy The annual AREAA Policy Summit is one of the most important events in our organization, and even though we could not make it to Capitol Hill this year, our members still joined us virtually in great numbers to educate themselves and work to make a difference. We want to recognize a chapter that did not let a pandemic slow down their political efforts to support AAPI homeownership. They held multiple events during this year to advocate for the AAPI Community, AREAA’s policy points, and directly helped influence local regulations. We are proud to award AREAA Greater Los Angeles with the Policy Award.
Social Media Champion Utilizing social media to communicate with membership is essential in keeping AREAA on the cutting edge. The Social Media Presence Award recognizes the chapter who most effectively utilizes all social media and digital marketing platforms to communicate with their membership. We are pleased to recognize AREAA LA Coastal as AREAA’s Best in Social Media. 32
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social media champion
2021 chapter of the year The AREAA Chapter of the Year is one of our organization’s most prestigious recognitions. To be recognized as Chapter of the Year, the winning chapter must demonstrate not only consistent excellence in ongoing engagement with AREAA National events and initiatives, but also demonstrate the outstanding operation of their own chapter in all aspects. Because of their chapter’s impressive participation with all AREAA events, individual excellence and dedication to their membership, we are proud to award AREAA San Francisco Peninsula as the 2021 Chapter of the Year! Congratulations to this outstanding chapter for winning this award and for hosting the 2021 AREAA National Convention!
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A supportive community carries unlimited possiblities. With the support of families and communities we create brighter futures for all us. usbank.com/communitypossible
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FOUNDER'S UPDATE We want to express our gratitude to the entire AREAA community as we face this challenging time. Together, we continue to uphold the mission of AREAA – closing the homeownership gap for the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. It is amazing what we have accomplished despite the pandemic – homeownership rate reaching over 60% in 2020; partnership with US Census Bureau as we assist in educating our community of the importance of being counted; affecting change in Washington DC that manifested by recent underwriting changes that now allows for rent payment to be considered as creditworthiness. All these would not have been possible if our staff and leaders would not have pivoted with grace and experience needed to weather this pandemic. In 2020, we saw members and chapters continue their engagement virtually and stepped into community service when needed. Our entire membership has simply demonstrated the willingness to do whatever it takes to help each other – regardless of the hate that’s being spewed to our community.
Jim Park, John Wong, Allen Chiang and Allen Okamoto at the Retreat in Aspen.
As you read this issue, we are celebrating an inperson national convention in San Francisco. We are excited to see many of you in-person after limited in-person gatherings for nearly two years. We look ahead to the remainder of 2021 and all of 2022 with hope and anticipation that this pandemic will soon be over. In solidarity and courage, let’s continue in this season of transition to further AREAA’s mission of increasing homeownership for our community.
Fred Underwood, Director of Diversity & Inclusion at NAR retired this year. 36
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AREAA Houston Installation
Ivan Choi, Allen Okamoto and Christopher Lim
Rachel Chen, Founding President of AREAA Charlotte Metro
IN MEMORIAM
CHARLIE SUH He was selfless, energetic, personable but more importantly, passionate about the Asian American community he served. These adjectives echo consistently as family, loved ones, friends and colleagues paid tribute to Charlie Suh’s life on August 26. Unbeknownst to most including myself, Charlie battled with cancer for the last several years. Because of his sunny disposition, zest for life and his focus on others instead of himself, many did not realize that he struggled with this disease. In addition to raising a family and running a successful real estate brokerage that serves the Greater Los Angeles community, Charlie selflessly volunteered to be the founding president of the newly formed Greater Los Angeles Chapter of AREAA (AREAA GLA) in 2008. Because of his connections and passion for the community, especially to serving the burgeoning Korean-American community in downtown Los Angeles, AREAA GLA quickly became one of the largest and most successful chapters in AREAA history. It is because of Charlie’s continued involvement to AREAA GLA that leaders like current chapter president Christopher Lim found the inspiration to serve and volunteer for AREAA. Charlie was also a devoted man of God, and I am reminded of Paul’s letter to the church at Corinth as I reflect on Charlie’s rewarding life of service – “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal (2 Cor. 4:16-18).” I like to think these verses were part of Charlie’s mantra as he affixed this eyes on things that are unseen yet essential – selfless service to the community, love of family and friends, building relationships when it seems insurmountable at times. We will miss your smile Charlie but will find comfort with the assurance that you are now in eternal glory. – Hope Atuel
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"You loved unconditionally and definitely are loved by many. You left us too soon. Your big smile and kindness whenever I saw you at the AREAA events will forever stay in my heart. You will be missed greatly." – Carmen Chong “On Monday August 23, 2021 Mr. Charlie Suh went to heaven before sunrise. I was sad to learn about this later in the day. I first met Charlie in 2005 at a local 300-person real estate event in Koreatown, Los Angeles. I was nervous because I was scheduled to speak on stage to the attendees. They were almost all Korea-born, whose primary language was Korean, average age 40-60. In contrast, I was 30 years old, U.S.-born, with English as my primary language. Amidst a tough Realtor crowd who generally thought I was Filipino, Charlie made me feel right at home, treated me as his family, translated for me, and ensured that everyone understood I was Korean too. To anyone who dismissed me, Charlie would tell them about my parents’ accomplishments and family background. I found over time that he genuinely cared about people and community. Even as a family man with kids, he tirelessly served the Realtor community and his church. In 2008 he also found the time and energy to become the Founding Chapter President for the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA), Greater Los Angeles (GLA) Chapter. This Chapter has often and consistently been the largest, most active out of #AREAA’s 42 chapters across the U.S., Vancouver and Toronto. “– Ivan Choi
2 0 21 EXECU TI VE C OMMIT EE
Amy Kong 2021 National President
Tim Hur
Charles Swanberg
Dick Lee
2021 National
2021 Secretary
2021 Treasurer
Vice-President
Allen Okamoto
John Yen Wong
Jim Park
Dionne Cuello
Founding Chairman,
Founding Chairman &
Chairman Emeritus
AREAA Foundation Chair
AREAA Foundation,
Emeritus
Emeritus
Allen Chiang
Hope Atuel
AREAA Global Chairman
Executive Director
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The RETREAT was a first-time event for AREAA National, and took place in Aspen, Colorado from July 12-13. A limited amount of AREAA members gathered for the first time in person for a National event since the National Convention in Boston in October 2019. The program started with an evening reception hosted by Sotheby’s International Realty at the W Residences rooftop. Attendees made new acquaintances and celebrated old ones while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of Aspen during sunset. President Amy Kong welcomed all the attendees. The following morning, the program continued at the St. Regis while brunch was served. Dyllan Nguyen, Luxury Committee Chair congratulated the Luxury Committee and thanked the sponsors who helped make the event possible. Engel & Völkers sponsored a fireside chat with AREAA Chairman Emeritus and Melissa Temple with Engel & Völkers Aspen. The conversation focused on Aspen Real Estate and a recent survey Engel & Völkers conducted on the current mindsets of homeowners who are preparing to sell in the near future. HSBC sponsored a panel on the State of AAPI Luxury moderated by Herman Chan, past Luxury Committee Chair, with Kevin Brown of Sotheby’s International Realty in Manhattan, Jamie Tian of Rodeo Realty in Los Angeles and Jeff Needham of HSBC. Two exceptional cultural experiences took up the program including a tour of the Aspen Art Museum. The Aspen Art Museum is a noncollecting institution presenting the newest, most important evolutions in international contemporary art. The second experience offered was a Chef’s tasting at Betula. Betula is the latest collaboration between chef Laurent Cantineaux and architect and restaurateur Juan Carlos Perez Febres, co-owners of Bonito Saint Barthes, a restaurant in the French West Indies Island of St. Barth. Situated in the heart of Aspen, Betula occupies a second-floor space with a beautiful view of Ajax Mountain. The restaurant offers chef Laurent’s innovative French Pan-American cuisine, which combines French techniques with his experience cooking in the Americas for more than twenty years. A magazine release party concluded the RETREAT. The exclusive publication titled AGENT started as a whitepaper collaboration with Coldwell Banker’s annual Luxury Report. The AREAA Luxury Committee worked on providing lifestyle content including an interview with stars from the popular Netflix show Bling Empire.
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