Lifestyle

The Twists and Turns in the Life of an Entrepreneur – John Shen

Published

8 months ago

February 7, 2023

Business is tricky, but there are numerous examples of success to make it a reasonable risk for many entrepreneurs. Most people know the other side of the business equation comprising the failures and challenges. Perhaps this is what is holding them back. The most important aspect of its success is the owner’s philosophy, dedication, professionalism, and work ethic. Handling and overcoming challenges effectively are among the most difficult things for entrepreneurs.

Most firms fail not because the owner made bad judgments but because they made no decisions at all or luck was not on their side. Entrepreneurship demands a unique collection of talents, including salesmanship, people management, financial acumen, and emotional intelligence.

Entrepreneurs are vital in market economies because they function as the country’s economic development wheels. They create new employment by developing new goods and services, resulting in an increase in economic growth. Talking about entrepreneurs takes us to John Shen, who restarted his journey after previous colossal failure as an entrepreneur in 2009 when he established the American Lending Center (ALC). Being an entrepreneur, John Shen faced and overcame several challenges during his life that brought him the experience of his working career.

Entrepreneurship Led John Shen to Establish Three Real Estate Companies in Orlando, Florida

Residing and working in Philadelphia, John took his family on vacation to Disneyworld in Orlando, FL. On one occasion, he heard of several investors purchasing vacation homes to rent out to visitors on a short-term basis. Shen decided to take a chance and buy a home to rent as an investment. The entrepreneur advertised his rental property on many websites to improve occupancy. He ultimately found a partner to help him launch a side business. This property management firm cleaned and maintained rental residences. People around Shen’s community started asking him about his investment. He began teaching many of them how to buy rental houses. Some of his neighbors also went to Florida with him to acquire a home through Shen’s property management firm.

The success of these companies inspired John to reconsider his life aims and ambitions. In addition to his full-time work in Philadelphia, he entered the real estate sector. He took the Florida real estate exam and obtained a license before joining a real estate firm.

In 2003, Florida saw significant real estate growth, and Shen’s firm thrived. He received his real estate broker’s license in 2004. He began going to major American cities such as New York, Washington, DC, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, and others to frequently conduct Florida real estate investing seminars for hundreds of people in hotel ballrooms.

John concluded in 2004 that he could no longer live a double life by working two jobs. He quit his full-time job and relocated to Florida with his family. He received a mortgage broker license and established his own office for his three businesses: real estate agent, mortgage broker, and property management firm.

His company prospered during 2005 and 2006 when US banks began lowering mortgage loan income requirements and issuing no-doc loans with low rates. The Florida real estate market was the most modern in the country. John’s reputation as a formidable buyer’s agent grew. However, in 2006, banks began to witness foreclosures across Florida. The cheap mortgage rates were expiring, and hundreds of homeowners could not pay their mortgages and were forced to leave their homes.

In early 2007, Shen’s real estate agent and mortgage broker companies vanished, and his property management firm had fallen to near-zero profit. With the fall of the real estate market, the entrepreneur lost all of his sources of income. In 2008, he shuttered his Orlando office and laid off his employees.

John was in significant debt and had to short-sell some of his properties. He traveled to Hawaii in 2008 to try to sell a few remaining properties he owned. His attempts were unsuccessful since he was unable to find any buyers. Depressed and deprived, John decided to commit suicide by leaping out of the 16^th-story window of the Honolulu hotel room. However, just as John was about to open the window and leap, he collided with his laptop. John discovered an email in his spam folder when the screen came back up. He decided to read it. His life was saved by the email. John escaped the burden of failure by returning to Florida and starting over.

Giving up implies accepting that things will never improve, which is just not the case. Life is full of ups and downs, and John Shen has been on that roller coaster but chooses to live the life he wants instead of ending it.

Lifestyle

Hardwood Floors Refinishing: Top Care Tips for a Lasting Shine

Published

2 days ago

September 27, 2023

Michelle Langton

Revamping your hardwood floors requires both a time and financial investment, yet the returns are evident in the enhanced aesthetics and functionality of your residential or commercial area. However, the longevity and durability of these newly refinished floors are contingent upon proper maintenance. This detailed guide is designed to offer expert guidance on how to preserve the quality and look of your newly refinished hardwood floors. We’ll cover a variety of subjects, from the science of wood aging and types of wood that need more frequent treatment, to top tips for floor upkeep. Your investment in hardwood floor refinishing need not be short-lived; with the correct care, it can be a long-term enhancement to your property.

Tips for Ensuring Durability in Your Newly Refinished Floors

After you have spent money on hardwood floor refinishing, maintaining their condition becomes a top priority. Here are strategies to prolong the lifespan and appearance of your updated flooring.

1. Regular Cleaning

A clean floor is a happy floor. Use a microfiber mop or cloth to pick up dust, dirt, and grime daily if possible. For a deeper clean, opt for cleaning products specifically designed for hardwood floors. Make sure to read the labels and opt for pH-neutral cleaners that are free from abrasives or harsh chemicals. Weekly or bi-weekly, consider a gentle vacuuming with a hardwood-friendly vacuum cleaner to remove debris that may have settled between the wood planks.

2. Use Protective Pads

One of the most effective ways to prevent scratches and dents on your hardwood floors is to place felt pads under the legs of furniture. This simple step can go a long way in preserving the smooth finish of your floor. You should also replace these pads every few months, as they can wear down or accumulate grime, reducing their effectiveness.

3. Control Humidity

Fluctuating indoor humidity levels can wreak havoc on hardwood floors. Excessive moisture can cause the wood to swell, leading to issues like cupping or buckling, while too little moisture can cause wood to shrink, leading to gaps between planks. Invest in a quality hygrometer to measure your home’s humidity level, and aim to keep it between 30% and 50%. Use a humidifier during dry months and a dehumidifier during humid months to maintain optimal conditions.

4. Proper Spill Management

Accidents are inevitable, but the way you handle them can make all the difference. Whether it’s water, juice, or wine, if you spill liquid on your hardwood floor, wipe it up immediately with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid using paper towels as they can disintegrate and get stuck in the crevices of the wood. Also, never let liquids sit on the wood, as they can seep in and cause staining or warping.

5. No Shoes Policy

Implement a ‘no shoes’ policy to preserve your floors. Shoes can bring in dirt, gravel, and other harmful debris from outside. If a full-blown ‘no shoes’ policy isn’t realistic for your household, at least insist on no high heels or sports cleats, which can cause dents and scratches. You might also consider placing a high-quality doormat at entrances to trap dirt before it gets to your floor.

6. Regular Inspections

Every three to six months, set aside time to inspect your hardwood floors meticulously. Use natural light or a bright lamp to look for scratches, dents, or areas where the finish might be wearing off. If you catch these issues early, you may be able to address them with a simple touch-up rather than a full refinishing job.

7. Refresher Coats

Although your newly refinished floors look amazing now, they won’t stay that way forever without some upkeep. Consider applying a ‘refresher’ coat of finish every two to three years. This isn’t as invasive or time-consuming as a full refinishing project. Instead, it’s more like a topcoat that adds an extra layer of protection, keeping your floors looking vibrant and shiny.

8. Scheduled Expert Cleaning

A yearly cleaning session by professionals can dramatically enhance the condition of your hardwood floors. Specialized machinery and products are used to eliminate tough dirt, renew the wood’s natural shine, and smooth out minor imperfections. This process not only rejuvenates your flooring but also prolongs its lifespan, maintaining its fresh appearance for an extended time.

Advantages of Consistent Upkeep

Routine care for your restored hardwood floors does more than maintain their visual appeal; it also prolongs their durability, augmenting the long-term value of your property. Floors that are regularly cared for can endure for many years, negating the need for frequent, costly refinishing. In addition, a structured care regimen lessens the likelihood that small defects will escalate into serious issues, thus promoting a cleaner and more healthful living area. In summary, regular maintenance serves as a long-term financial benefit and a means of sustaining your home’s elegance.

When To Seek Professional Help

If you notice persistent issues like deep scratches, stubborn stains, or any form of water damage, it’s best to seek professional help. Specialists in hardwood floors refinishing can assess the situation and provide targeted solutions. Companies like 1DayRefinishing offer an extensive range of services that can effectively address these problems. Notably, the company specializes in a one-day turnaround, making them a convenient option for those in need of quick yet high-quality refinishing solutions.

Finding Trustworthy Services for Floor Refinishing

If you’re in a location with scarce local options, consider exploring 1 DAY Refinishing. Their seasoned experts offer complete solutions for maintaining and refinishing hardwood floors, helping to keep them pristine for the long haul.

Final Thoughts

The decision to invest in refinishing your hardwood floors is a significant commitment to enhancing your home’s aesthetics and overall value. By diligently following proper maintenance routines, your refinished floors can continue to elevate your home’s ambience. Every effort, from regular cleaning, to hiring professionals, adds to the resilience and visual allure of your hardwood floors. Stick to these essential care guidelines, and your floors will maintain their lustre for an extended period.