CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The conference room at Mallberry Suites Business Hotel turned into a learning hub Friday afternoon as first‑time real estate aspirants took their seats for a free orientation led by Filipino Homes.

Unlike regular seminars, the seminar was more about doing than just listening passively. Participants were engaged in the process of learning how to deal with objections raised by buyers, searching for properties online, and outlining their plans for the first 30 days as real estate agents. The seminar started at 1:00 PM and lasted until late afternoon, with Filipino Homes founder, and CEO Anthony Gerard O. Leuterio personally walking the group through each step.

No resume, no experience required

Organizers kept the door open to anyone with at least 72 college units—no real estate background needed. Among those present were fresh graduates, career shifters, and sales staff looking for extra income. “The only thing we ask is willingness to learn,” Leuterio told the room early in the program.

The training covered three practical areas: how to find potential buyers and renters, how to present properties using digital tools, and how to close a deal without feeling pushy. Attendees also received access to a personal agent website and a flexible work‑from‑home setup—benefits that Filipino Homes extends to all new recruits.

Why CDO is a focal point

Cagayan de Oro has seen a steady rise in housing demand, driven by new township developments and an influx of investors from other regions. Filipino Homes has been active in the city over the past weeks, including a product knowledge session with Taft Properties and a separate recruitment drive for Filipino Home's Team Tycoons. This Friday's orientation added another batch of trained agents to the network’s local roster.

Leuterio, who was named 2024 International Realtor of the Year, did not dwell on past achievements. Instead, he spent the session answering real‑time questions from the floor: How soon can I earn? What if I have no contacts? Can I do this part‑time? His answers were direct and backed by examples from agents who started exactly where the attendees were.

What happens next

Newly oriented agents will begin field assignments within the week, supported by a team leader and access to the company’s national property database. The network is aiming to open more branches across Mindanao, and CDO is expected to serve as a launchpad for surrounding provinces.

For the dozens who filled the Mallberry Suites function room, Friday marked the first step toward a career they had only watched from the outside.