Kevin Cruz’s journey from a young immigrant with nothing but $7 in his pocket to a real estate powerhouse is a story of resilience, grit, and the transformative power of determination. Born and raised in the Philippines, Kevin moved to the United States at the tender age of 13 under challenging circumstances. Initially expected to visit the U.S. with his family for only a month, he ended up staying, facing numerous obstacles: navigating a new culture, overcoming a language barrier, and surviving without documentation or resources. From his early days selling candies at nine, his life has been a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that would one day become his calling.
Life in America tested Kevin in unimaginable ways. Working countless jobs from ages 15 to 18, he was repeatedly fired due to his status, often living in fear of being deported. In 2008, his worst fear became a reality when he was detained for deportation, and shuttled between high-security facilities alongside serious offenders. Yet, fate threw him a lifeline: through his family’s resourcefulness, he was granted asylum, giving him two years to change his life’s trajectory. This period became a turning point, fueling his fierce drive to build a better future.
Kevin’s path to success was anything but linear. His venture into multi-level marketing and event production taught him the value of relentless hard work, sleepless nights, and the belief that one’s circumstances don’t dictate one's destiny. By the time he transitioned into real estate at 26, he had accumulated a wealth of life experience that set him apart. He took a leap, quitting his day job, and within his first year in real estate, he earned a staggering $150,000 in gross commission income, largely part-time. By his second year, he went full-time and brought in over $500,000, earning him the title of "30 under 30 Entrepreneur of the Year" at Better Homes.
In 2019, he co-founded his real estate firm with Side, starting with a modest team. His venture has grown exponentially, generating over $23 million in combined GCI and creating life-changing opportunities for his team. Kevin’s vision isn’t just about personal success and uplifting others, building teams, and creating a legacy. Today, he founded Kinetic Real Estate, which has since become a trusted partner helping over 1,200 families, with total sales volume exceeding $1 billion, a testament to his unwavering determination and ever-growing ambition.
Kevin’s message to those who may feel they’re on the edge of failure is clear: life doesn’t happen to you; it happens for you. Embrace failure, learn from every setback, and know your “why.” For Kevin, that “why” has always been about family, a foundation that fuels his perseverance and passion. He challenges others to own their stories, share their journeys, and use their vulnerabilities to inspire. As he says, “Authenticity is the best form of human connection.”
Today, Kevin Cruz stands as a living example that through resilience, faith, and hard work, even the most impossible dreams can become reality. His life’s journey is not just a success story but an invitation for others to believe in the power of their own.