We had the good fortune of connecting with Allisandra Ward and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Allisandra, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process was simply to have more time for my daughter and stop trading time for money. I was looking for more longevity and to have control over my earning potential. In my previous position as an underwriter, I pretty much capped out. I clocked into work, reviewed documents and I wanted to be more hands on as far as helping people with a financial goal. I also didn’t like the idea that I am at a corporation’s disposal due to budget cuts.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a Mortgage Loan Officer. I decided to come into the role post COVID 19. As we know the market has fluctuated over the years and that within itself is not easy along with being new at the role. It has been a journey, and with marketing and creating content to inform people about the options available to them has made a difference. I think the biggest challenge is getting a complete stranger to believe that they are closer to homeownership than they think, because talking about finances is a touchy subject. I think the biggest challenge is people don’t know programs, such as down payment assistance is available. They think they have to have all the money in the world or know everything when that is just a myth. I want people to know that light is at the end of the tunnel, remain positive, and find some people willing enough to do life with you.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am a huge fan of Ethiopian dishes and heritage and I love the show Insecure (Upset the season ended but shoutout to Issa). Like anywhere I visit I will more than likely stop at an Ethiopian restaurant. Anyway, because of Issa I know of the spot Merkato. Merkato is a must, even if you order it through Door Dash. I’m huge on art and tapping into the mind of artists so my friend would definitely have to visit LACMA. I still get emails and updates from them even when Im remote. But honestly I’m not huge on planning an adventure. Let’s just step outside and who knows where it will take us, rather a rooftop vibe, good food, or a hike. Its good to be present and let life flow in these moments.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Well, first recognition goes to family and friends for supporting me rather it was through listening to me talk or assisting me monetarily or with shelter during the rough patches of my career. I have also found it beneficial to connect with other entrepreneurs and real estate groups because they just get it. I am apart of a group therapy session that focuses on “Money Mindset” which has helped substantially. There is also a book called “Don’t Sweat the small stuff… and it’s all small stuff” written by Richard Carlson that I enjoyed reading. I actually found this book at my grandmother’s during a rough patch.

Website: https://cdmloanofficers.com/allisandra-ward?fbclid=PAAaYHDZ4DOf_B2pUp_Q8VzEVhtoMetNv8fC79xr9vq0ZAshy8b25Va6OftnE

Instagram: https://instagram.com/allie.ward.show?utm_source=qr&igshid=MzNlNGNkZWQ4Mg==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091538977941

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