Meet Blaze Contreras | Real Estate Maven, Serial-preneur

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

Hi Blaze, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk, by definition, is a situation involving exposure to danger. I’ve never really seen business as dangerous; rather, I see it as a door to endless possibilities. Danger can certainly be one of those possibilities, depending on the nature of the business. When I reflect on risk and how it has played a role in my life and career, I recognize it as an integral piece of the puzzle.

I’ve always been audacious—some might say ballsy—but that boldness is what it takes to succeed. I’ve had to believe in the invisible and pursue goals that I couldn’t always see manifesting in reality. In my mind, I could envision the outcomes, but they didn’t come to fruition without years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. To me, risk equals sacrifice.

Every business decision I’ve made has involved taking risks, and each of those decisions has impacted my personal life in both positive and negative ways. This is the risk we take. It’s a dance between ambition and caution, where each leap of faith carries its own uncertainties. Yet, it’s in those uncertainties where true growth occurs. Embracing risk is not about being reckless; it’s about being calculated. It involves weighing potential rewards against possible setbacks and deciding to move forward anyway.

There have been challenging moments that seemed insurmountable, times when I had to make decisions that jeopardized my financial stability or pivot my business strategy because the market shifted unexpectedly. Those moments taught me valuable lessons about resilience and adaptability. It’s easy to become paralyzed by the fear of what could go wrong, but I’ve found that focusing on the opportunities ahead is far more empowering.

Risk also fosters innovation. In a competitive landscape, taking chances can lead to breakthroughs that set you apart. I’ve experimented with unconventional marketing strategies, embraced new technologies, and explored untapped markets, all because I was willing to step outside my comfort zone. Some ventures paid off handsomely, while others taught me what not to do in the future.

Ultimately, the key is balance. While I encourage myself and my team to take bold steps, I also remind them to prepare for the unexpected. Having contingency plans in place is essential; it’s about being proactive rather than reactive. When risks are taken, a safety net is crucial.

In conclusion, risk is not merely a part of business; it is the very essence of it. It serves as a reminder that without taking chances, we may never discover our true potential. I continue to embrace the unknown, knowing that with every risk I take, I am carving my path and building something extraordinary. The journey may be fraught with challenges, but the rewards—both personal and professional—are worth every step along the way.

What should our readers know about your business?
From a very young age, I felt an undeniable pull toward entrepreneurship, a fire ignited within me that could not be extinguished. While my peers were content with the conventional path, I was restless, yearning to carve out my own destiny. This longing for independence and creativity often made me the worst employee at every job I held, as I struggled to conform to the confines of traditional roles. I didn’t want to sit in a cubicle and follow someone else’s script; I wanted to define and blaze my own trail.

My journey began in 2006 as a Mortgage Loan Officer for Citi Mortgage, where I quickly became a high producer. However, the exhilarating rise was abruptly halted by the real estate and economic market crash of 2008. Instead of allowing this setback to define me, I dove headfirst into wealth management and private banking, pivoting my focus to new opportunities. As the real estate market began to recover, I seized the moment to expand my horizons further, moving into leasing and marketing, then property management, and eventually getting licensed on the real estate side to start my own team.

My entrepreneurial spirit took me beyond the borders of Colorado to Mexico, where I built a real estate team in partnership with my U.S. and Mexico broker partners at Coldwell Banker. With Team OpenHaus in Colorado and Casa Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco, I am now dedicated to helping others invest in their futures just as I have. I also embarked on a passion project called SOL VERSALLES in Jalisco, a modern cocktail and beauty bar that embodies my love for creativity and community.

Now, having just turned 40, I reflect on a life that has unfolded in a flash. Yet, the journey has not been a solitary one. My romantic partner is also my business partner, and together, we are a dynamic duo—an unstoppable force in the world of entrepreneurship. Was it easy? No. Would I do it all again? Maybe. But what I can say for certain is that we are knee-deep in this exhilarating adventure, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Today, I find myself co-running two thriving businesses while solely managing OpenHaus Colorado, and I am on the cusp of venturing into the nonprofit sector, launching a nonprofit in Colorado later this fall. Life has never been more satisfying, and I am grateful for every twist and turn that has brought me to this point. Each challenge has shaped me, and every triumph has fueled my passion to continue making a difference. Here’s to the journey ahead and the doors yet to be opened!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Get ready for an unforgettable week in Puerto Vallarta with my best friend! We’re diving headfirst into a vibrant mix of sunshine, adventure, and mouthwatering cuisine that this beautiful coastal paradise has to offer.

As soon as we touch down, we’ll kick off our trip with a refreshing drink at my bar SOL VERSALLES, sipping on a classic margarita or a tropical piña colada while feeling the warm ocean breeze. After settling into our accommodations, we’ll explore the lively Malecón, where we’ll take in stunning ocean views and catch some street performances before indulging in a delicious dinner at one of my favorite beachfront restaurants near Muertos Beach. We can’t miss trying the fresh ceviche and tacos al pastor—just thinking about it makes my mouth water!

One of our first adventures will be a scenic boat tour around the bay on my favorite yacht . Picture us cruising the azure waters, soaking up the sun, and stopping at secluded beaches for some snorkeling. We’ll have the chance to catch our own dinner while fishing from the boat, and I can already imagine the thrill of reeling in a big catch!

Next up on our adventure itinerary is a hike to one of the stunning waterfalls just outside the city heading south of Conchas Chines. Imagine the thrill of trekking through lush jungle, the sound of cascading water guiding us to a refreshing swim beneath the falls. After our hike, we’ll reward ourselves with some local street food—perhaps some elote (grilled corn on the cob) topped with cheese and chili powder, or a savory torta.

We’ll also venture out to Sayulita, the bohemian surf town known for its laid-back vibe and vibrant colors. We’ll rent surfboards and hit the waves, laughing and cheering each other on as we attempt to ride the perfect wave. Afterward, we’ll grab lunch at a beachside taco stand, enjoying the freshest fish tacos with a side of guacamole while listening to the sounds of the ocean.

For a truly unique experience, we’ll drive across a breathtaking suspension bridge nestled in the forest, surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of nature. The thrill of crossing the bridge will be exhilarating, and the views will be Instagram-worthy!

As the sun sets, we’ll head back to Puerto Vallarta for a night out. We’ll find a lively bar with live music, where we can dance the night away and sip on some handcrafted cocktails. The nightlife here is electric, and we’ll soak up every moment of it.

To top off our culinary journey, we’ll seek out some of the best local eateries. From delicious breakfast burritos at a quaint café to fine dining with ocean views, we’ll savor every bite. We’ll make sure to indulge in traditional Mexican desserts like churros and flan, because no trip is complete without a little sweetness!

By the end of the week, we’ll return home with our hearts full of joy, our bellies full of incredible food, and a treasure trove of unforgettable memories. Puerto Vallarta, you’ve stolen our hearts, and we can’t wait to relive this adventure again!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shout Out to the Incredible OpenHaus Team ( Team OHC )

I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you, Team OHC. You are the integral pieces of the puzzle that create the amazing brand, partnership, and reputation we have built together at OpenHaus. Your unwavering efforts, support, and love not only elevate our organization but also inspire me to be the best mentor and leader I can possibly be.

Together, we have forged a bond that transcends the traditional workplace. This is far more than just a team; we are a family united in purpose and vision, and the alignment among us is nothing short of extraordinary. Each one of you contributes your unique talents and perspectives, and it is this beautiful diversity that strengthens our collective impact.

I am truly grateful for the ways in which you have all enriched my life. You have made me a better person, a better friend, a better boss, a better mentor, a better brother, and a better son. The growth I’ve experienced alongside you is immeasurable, and I cherish the journey we are on together.

Thank you for your dedication, your passion, and your belief in our shared mission. Let’s continue to uplift one another and reach for greatness together as we shape the future of OpenHaus. Here’s to each of you—let’s keep shining bright!

Website: http://blazecontreras.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mr.blazecontreras/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ablaze.contreras/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7eFl2Oy7LI

Other: https://www.openhauscolorado.com/