Through sheer grit and unyielding faith, Erah Eva-Dee has transformed her dreams into reality. As a Century 21 Realtor in California, she has built a thriving career in the competitive U.S. real estate market, illustrating her commitment and hard work.
Erah’s early years in the Philippines were marked by financial challenges and personal struggles. Born in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, she faced the reality of being adopted due to her parents’ health issues. Despite these hardships, Erah found solace and strength in her faith and community.
“Growing up, I had a lot of pain, sacrifices & struggles. ‘Ang sabi nga ng lola ko, pang MMK daw ang buhay ko,’” she recalls with The Global Filipino Magazine.
Her active engagement in church activities provided her with a sense of purpose and belonging, which fueled her aspirations.
Determined to succeed, Erah pursued a degree in Elementary Education at Bukidnon State University, supported by a scholarship from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). She graduated in 2004 and began her career as an English teacher at Brainshire Science School in Paranaque, Manila. Erah later joined the Department of Education, securing a permanent position at Apelo Cruz Elementary School in Pasay City. Concurrently, she worked as a Financial Advisor in Makati City and pursued graduate studies in Educational Management at the City University of Pasay.
However, Erah felt a calling for something more fulfilling. After a period of introspection and prayer, she decided to leave her permanent teaching position to explore new opportunities. This decision led her to the real estate industry, where she found her true passion.
“On the first day of our class, one of my classmates told me, ‘Alam mo bagay ka sa Real Estate,’” Erah shares.
A leap of faith: Transition to real estate
Erah’s entry into the real estate sector was swift and successful. She joined Megaworld Resort Estates Inc. as a Property Specialist, where she quickly made her mark.
“In my first few months as a Property Specialist, I got some recognitions and perks as one of the Top Producers,” she proudly states.
Her projects included high-profile properties in Twin Lakes, Tagaytay, and New Coast Boracay, where she closed significant deals and built lasting relationships with her clients.
Embracing the American dream
Driven by a childhood dream to live and work in the United States, Erah moved to California in 2017. She studied Real Estate Management at Allied Business School in Davis, California, and earned her real estate license.
“Ever since I was in Grade 5, I dreamed of coming to America. I always prayed and envisioned myself working successfully in my Dream Country,” Erah recalls.
Her dedication and hard work paid off as she established herself as a Century 21 Realtor in the complex and diverse U.S. real estate market.
Erah’s mission extends beyond personal success. She is committed to helping her fellow Filipinos achieve their American Dream of homeownership.
“My mission is to help more Kababayans achieve their American Dream, elevate my family’s status in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, and serve as an inspiration to persevere and pursue the dreams that God planted in our hearts,” she explains.
Erah finds fulfillment in guiding her clients through the homeownership journey and negotiating the best deals for them.
“I feel a sense of fulfillment and gratitude every time I hand over the keys to my new homeowner clients,” she says.
Challenges and triumphs
Erah acknowledges the challenges of working in a foreign land but remains undeterred.
“Being a Filipina realtor in a complex & diverse real estate industry in a foreign land is challenging and nerve-wracking,” she admits.
Despite these obstacles, her dedication, love, and passion for her work have helped her succeed. Erah’s journey is also marked by her commitment to giving back to her community and supporting her family in the Philippines.
Looking ahead, Erah aims to continue helping families achieve their homeownership dreams and inspire more Filipinos to excel globally. She plans to build a Dream Team, Erah Eva & Associates, to expand her impact.
Her advice to fellow Filipinos abroad is heartfelt: “I hope and pray that there will be more Filipinos that will be inspired to keep dreaming big, never lose hope, and continue chasing their big dreams. Mabuhay tayong mga Global Filipinos.”
This article has been published in Volume 5, Issue 1 of The Global Filipino Magazine. If you have a unique life story or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com. If you’re interested in obtaining a print copy of the magazine, please contact Mr. JP Cosico at +971 54 482 0661.
