Mortgage Mindset, Mortgage Trainings, Random Stuff


Harnessing the Power of Adversity: Turning Challenges Into Success Stories

John Jurkovich (The Broker Builder)
June 17, 2024

Success in real estate and mortgage brokering doesn’t come easy, and Corey Edwards knows this better than most. His story is not just about professional achievements but about overcoming significant personal challenges with grit and determination.

Starting Out and Facing Major Setbacks

Beginning his career in the late ’90s at Quicken Loans, Corey quickly moved from a loan officer assistant to one of their top bankers. However, life took a sharp turn at 17 when he was accidentally shot, leaving him paralyzed from the knees down. Doctors said he’d never walk again, but Corey had other ideas.

Growing up as an active teenager, deeply involved in sports and social activities, the sudden change in his physical abilities was a massive shock. He went from running around with friends to needing assistance for basic tasks. It was a dark period filled with doubt and frustration. But he didn’t let this setback define him.

Building Resilience

Recovery was as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Months spent in rehab, sharing a room with two quadriplegics, provided a profound perspective. Seeing their struggles, he decided to focus on what he could do, not what he couldn’t. Small steps turned into significant progress, with a routine that included intense physical therapy, often starting his day at 3:30 AM.

Gratitude played a crucial role in his recovery. While he had lost the use of his legs, he still had his arms and his mind. This shift in perspective helped him regain partial mobility, eventually walking with the aid of two canes.

The Mortgage Market Crash

By 2008, Corey was professionally thriving, but the mortgage crisis hit hard. He went through a divorce, lost his home, and had to file for bankruptcy. It was a challenging period, but giving up was not an option. Moving to Florida, he joined Keller Williams and started over. Through sheer hard work, he became one of their top agents.

This period tested his resilience like never before. The financial crash not only affected his career but also his personal life. Starting over in a new state, he faced the daunting task of rebuilding his life from scratch. Yet, he approached this challenge with the same determination he had shown in his recovery, leveraging his network, honing his skills, and gradually rebuilding his career.

 

 

The Grind and Hard Work

Success in real estate came from relentless effort. Countless hours were spent prospecting and building relationships. By 2016, he was among the top five real estate agents in the country, selling nearly 170 homes in a year. The secret? Relentless hard work and always putting clients first.

His straightforward approach to real estate emphasized the power of relationships and the importance of trust. Known for his dedication, he often worked long hours and went the extra mile for his clients. This commitment paid off as his reputation grew, leading to more referrals and repeat business.

Lessons in Perseverance

Corey’s journey is a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about talent or luck. It’s about showing up every day, working hard, and not letting setbacks stop you. From a hospital bed to the top of his field, his story proves that with the right mindset, you can achieve amazing things.

One of the key lessons from his journey is the importance of mindset. He faced numerous obstacles, but his positive outlook and determination helped him overcome them. Corey’s story teaches us that it’s not the challenges that define us, but how we respond to them. His resilience and perseverance are inspiring, showing that with hard work and determination, we can overcome even the toughest obstacles.

Looking Ahead

Today, Corey is still active in real estate and also stepping into motivational speaking. His book, “29 Years Later,” shares his story and the lessons he’s learned. His journey is about more than overcoming adversity; it’s about finding purpose and helping others do the same.

Venturing into motivational speaking is a natural extension of his journey. He aims to inspire others to overcome their own challenges and pursue their dreams. His talks are filled with practical advice and personal anecdotes, making them relatable and impactful. Corey’s message is clear: no matter what life throws at you, with the right mindset and determination, you can achieve great things.

The life of Corey Edwards stands as a testament to resilience and hard work. His story shows that with determination, we can overcome even the toughest challenges and come out stronger on the other side. Whether in real estate or in life, his journey is a powerful reminder that success is within reach for those who are willing to work for it.

Connect with Corey Edwards:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreyedwards1/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corey.m.edwards/?next=%2F&hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/corey.edwards.9216

Get Corey’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/29-Years-Later-Corey-Edwards/dp/B0BPG85463

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John Jurkovich (The Broker Builder)

My name is John Jurkovich aka "The Mortgage Broker Builder". I've been building mortgage companies and running sales teams for the last 3+ Decades. I recently decided it was time to take my knowledge and experience to the world of Bankers And Brokers so we can grow the future of the mini broker!

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