Meet The Locals: Arianna Zavala

The United States of America is a nation of Immigrants who have rightfully aspired to lives of freedom and happiness. The immigration of diverse peoples from all over the world has resulted in a blend of cultures and traditions that makes the United States unique. Our interview with Arianna Zavala is yet another illustration of how immigrants add to the fabric of our communities.

[This interview can be found on page 11 of our 2017 Otter Tail Lakes Country Relocation Guide]

Where do you live?

I live on Crystal Lake on the outskirts of Pelican. I’ve lived there for a little over two years with my husband and our two dogs.

Where you are you from?

I am not originally from the area. My family and I emigrated from Guanajuato, Mexico in 1994, and I have been here in the Pelican Rapids area for 22/23+ years.

What influenced the move?

My father – We had some relatives in the area, so when we moved, we were amongst the first families of Hispanic origin to reside in the area.

What is your occupation?

I am a Realtor at Coldwell Banker, and have been in this profession for over 9 years.

What influenced you to want to pursue a career in this field?

My Mother wanted to move to different homes every 2 years all within the Pelican Rapids area. I was very involved in the purchasing process as an elementary school child translating many of the transaction details and principles between my parents and the realtors during the purchases of their homes. I pursued this right after high school when I was 18 going on 19. (I actually work with many of those realtors and brokers now.) It feels very natural, so I believe this is a profession I will continue to pursue.

What do you enjoy about being a Realtor in Otter Tail County? 

I absolutely love helping families find the perfect home and the sellers make the change they desire in order to move on with their life. Finding the perfect match is always a struggle, but I love it. I get even more excited than them.

Have you been a Realtor with Coldwell Banker since the beginning of your career? 

No, I originally started working at another realty company out of town and was there for about a year, but found that the drive to and from became too much. I then worked at a realty company located right in Pelican Rapids, but I found that I was more limited in my reach than I liked. Those were both really good companies, but I found switching to Coldwell Banker was the best move I could have ever made.

Can you elaborate? 

I noticed right away that the leads and clientele base came more naturally. We are a franchise company which broadens what is available for our clients and because is a brand that a lot of people know – it’s known worldwide. It’s even in Mexico.

Where I was in the beginning does not compare to where I am now because it has to be built over time, however, I believe I found my “nitche” by being able to serve the Latino community in the area since the very beginning of my career, which I love. I consider myself fluent in Spanish, and yes, it does help my business. During the sales process, I do not only try to find a family a home, but I also go with them to the bank to ensure that they fully understand what a mortgage is and everything else that goes with it.

Why did you choose to pursue this career in Pelican Rapids?

This is my home. I’ve been here for so long, we came here when I was 6 years old, so this is all I know. I love the small community feel, everybody is so friendly and it has been that way since I can remember.

Is there anything specific that draws your clientele to Otter Tail County? 

We’ve got the lakes living not only in pelican, but in the surrounding communities, and people like to take advantage of the outdoor amenities.  We also have educational resources and jobs, but if you want to go to a big city, it’s not that far of a drive.

What do you love living in Otter Tail County?

My husband and I love entertaining out at our home for friends and family. We love to take people out on our boat [on Crystal Lake] and spend time relaxing. We also enjoy hiking in Maplewood State Park.

What are your future goals or aspirations as a Realtor in Pelican Rapids?

My goal is to obtain my brokers license before I turn 30. I will stick around and continue as a realtor for Coldwell Banker in Pelican Rapids, but I believe it wouldn’t hurt for me to get this. There will be more responsibility and continuing education I will have to do every year, but I just have to keep on pushing myself.