HOW TO SEE THE BEAUTY

The idea of seeing beauty has been embedded in human nature since the beginning of creation. In the Bible, we read that the woman “saw that the tree was good for food and a delight to the eyes” (Genesis 3:6). This early moment reveals an innate human ability to recognize beauty.

Interestingly, while beauty is present throughout Scripture, its opposite—”ugly”—is never mentioned. The word “ugly” did not even exist in biblical times. It entered the English language in the 13th century, borrowed from Scandinavian roots, where it originally meant “fearful.” This historical shift suggests that the concept of ugliness was introduced later, shaped by fear rather than truth.

Just as we are born with the senses of smell and touch, we are all born with the capacity to perceive beauty. We use phrases like “beautiful music,” “beautiful nature,” or even “a beautiful act,” recognizing that beauty is not limited to appearance—it is an experience that touches the heart and soul.

So why do some people seem unable to perceive beauty, and instead focus on what is broken, unpleasant, or fearful? It is said, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” But perhaps beauty also lives in the heart—and a fearful heart may block the view. When fear, pain, or disconnection take hold, it can become difficult to see the beauty that surrounds us.

The Bible contains at least 20 different Greek and Hebrew words that are translated into English as “beauty” or “beautiful.” This rich vocabulary shows how important and multifaceted the idea of beauty is in sacred texts.

Let us choose to focus on beauty and open our hearts to it. Even the fallen leaves on the ground—dried, crumpled, and seemingly discarded—can reveal extraordinary beauty to those willing to see. Nature reminds us that beauty is not perfection; it is presence, as you can see in three colorful images “woven” into the text flow of this story.

If you like have permanent presence of the beauty in your home, please go to Amazon, type Manny Kagan and order my beautiful book Reflections. Thank you in advance.

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HOW TO BUY REAL ESTATE WITH LOW DOWN PAYMENT

Last week, I shared some insights on how to purchase a home with no down payment. While several programs are available to help make this possible, not everyone qualifies.

I’m currently working with clients who are purchasing a home they plan to live in. We explored a number of 100% financing options, but unfortunately, none of them worked in this case. Here’s why:

Credit Score Requirements: Most zero-down programs require a minimum credit score of 680. In this case, the clients had  score 679 —just below the threshold.

Income Limits: Some programs set a maximum income limit to qualify, which the clients exceeded.

Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratios: Other options were disqualified due to strict qualifying ratios.

Loan Limits: There are also maximum loan limits set by agencies like Fannie Mae and FHA. In the area where the property is located, the loan limit is $685,000, which further narrowed the options.

The Solution: An Old-Fashioned FHA Loan

In the end, the most practical and accessible solution was an FHA loan. FHA loans require only a 3.5% down payment, offer competitive interest rates (in this case around 6% to 6.25%), and can include lender credits or seller contributions to cover closing costs.

Now, they are just negotiating the final sales price with the seller.

If you’re considering buying a home and are unsure how much you need for a down payment—or if you qualify for any low or no-down-payment programs—let’s talk. Every situation is unique, and there may be more options than you think.

Have questions? Call me anytime: (415) 225-7920 Let’s find the right loan for you! I promise to help! Meanwhile, click on this link watch and listen to my brief remarks on the subject and beyond.

Manny Kagan,
President,
Pacific Bay Financial Corporation
Your professional mortgage broker since 1983

NMLS #205637
DRE #00874630

 

 

WANT A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP?

On Thursday at 6 PM, our labradoodle Max took us for a walk to Ocean Beach in San Francisco. It was windy, and the ocean looked wild and restless. Not many people were around—just a few dogs, some fishermen, a handful of kids and runners, and a few birds to keep us company. The sky and sea were both shades of gray, and strangely beautiful. I managed to snap a few nice photos with my iPhone; three of them are featured here.

We wrapped up our walk in about 40 minutes, but the fresh ocean air was enough to leave us feeling calm and ready for bed. Theoretically, we could do this every day—get outside, breathe in the salty air, and enjoy nature. But of course, life happens. Evening routines get busy, and our priorities shift.

Luckily, my wife and I have found a simple tool that helps us sleep well—even when we can’t get to the beach.

So, what’s this magic sleep aid?

It’s not a supplement or a gadget. It’s a book. Yes, a book. It’s called Reflections: The Healing Images, and it’s designed to help guide you into deep, restful sleep. It only costs $19.97 on Amazon and can take as little as five minutes to work—no matter how stressful your day has been.

You might be skeptical. That’s fine. Just search my name on Amazon click on “Reflections” and read the reviews. Many people have shared how it’s helped them to relax and feel more rested the next day. Once you get the book, take a few minutes to try the relaxation techniques—and then let me know what you think. I’d love to hear your feedback.

In the meantime, enjoy a few of the photos from our beach walk. And remember: sleep is not a luxury—it’s part of living well. So, share what works, and care for yourself and others!

 

Andrew Carnegie, the legendary steel baron, offered many lessons on success and efficiency. One of the most powerful came from his approach to focus. Carnegie believed in writing down a list of 20 tasks and then dedicating full energy to the single most important one—until it was done. That clarity of purpose was a key to his effectiveness.

As a photographer, I’ve learned that the cornerstone of a beautiful image is also focus—literally. A photographer must choose exactly what to focus on to create an impactful shot. That discipline of focus has extended into other areas of my life.

For example, when I eat, I no longer read the newspaper or scroll through my phone. I eat mindfully, fully engaged in the moment. The same goes for my work. On any given day, I may have 10 or more client files open. But I tackle them one at a time, focusing deeply until I have a complete picture of what needs to be done and how to get there.

If you have questions or would like to discuss focus in your life or business, feel free to call me directly: (415) 225-7920

Meanwhile, click here to watch my short video I’ve recorded to support this story.

Focus on one thing only – to succeed and begin living a better life!

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What Success Has in Common
with a Good Night’s Sleep

By now, many of you know about my new book, Reflections. The Healing Images™, and how it can help you achieve deep relaxation. If you missed last week’s post, I encourage you to check it out.

Since I started using Reflections as part of my nightly meditation, my sleep has improved dramatically. I usually wake up just once during the night, and I’m able to fall back asleep right away. Those consistent eight hours of rest help me function at my best the next day—focused, calm, and productive.

Here’s the simple routine I follow every evening:

My Steps for Relaxation and Success

1. After lying down in bed, I check the time and open Reflections to a new page.
2. I read the short text and take a good look at the image on the page.
3. Closing my eyes, I hold that image in my mind.
4. I begin my breathing exercise:
   • Inhale through the nose for a count of five.
   • Hold for three.
   • Exhale slowly through closed lips for a count of seven.
5. As I breathe, I repeat my personal mantra affirmations. I focus on positive intentions, such as:
   • “My intention now is to have excellent health. Thank you.”
   • “My intention now is to have a good night’s sleep. Thank you.”
   • And always—adding a small smile to my lips.
6. I continue by repeating: “I am success, I am wealth.”—six times. (Notice: I say success, not successful.)
7. While repeating this, I count silently from one to ten, using my fingers to keep track. By the time I reach ten, I find myself in a calm meditative state.
8. I stay in this peaceful space for a few moments, then count back from one to ten to gently return.

For me, this entire process takes just five to seven minutes. I do this while lying in bed, though you can certainly practice it while sitting in a chair. Almost every night, as soon as I close my eyes again, I drift off into restful sleep.

The Connection Between Sleep and Success

Success means different things to different people. But one thing is universal: success comes to those who develop habits that keep them focused on what truly matters. Prioritizing your health, relaxation, and mindset are powerful habits that lead to lasting results.

If you’re looking to improve your well-being, I invite you to try Reflections. The Healing Images™. Start your own nightly practice, experience the difference, and when you notice the results, please share your experience by leaving a review.

And as a little insight—before becoming The Healing Images™, the three images featured in this story were simply roses.

Because when we share, we care.

Heard of 100% Financing Loans?

Here’s a simple breakdown of how they work:

These programs often combine a first mortgage with a small second loan, and one great option is the FHA loan:

✅ First mortgage: 96.5% LTV

✅ Second loan: 3.5% to cover the down payment

✅ Easy to qualify

✅ No income restrictions

✅ No 1st-time homebuyer restrictions

✅ Credit (FICO) scores starting at 600

✅ One underwriting process for both loans

✅ No investor approval needed

✅ Debt-to-income ratio up to 50%

If you’ve got steady income, this could be your path to homeownership — with no down payment needed!

Click here to see my short video titled: “Talking Business with a Smile”

Call or email me if you want to learn if you qualify!

(415) 225-7920; mannykagan@comcast.net

Manny Kagan,
President,
Pacific Bay Financial Corporation
Your professional mortgage broker since 1983

NMLS #205637
DRE #00874630

HOW TO FEEL YOUNGER?

Notice that I didn’t write how to look younger. That’s because there are countless topical treatments and even surgical procedures that can alter our appearance. But looking younger doesn’t necessarily mean feeling younger. According to my birthdate, I am 78 years young. Yet, when I “fish for compliments” (as my wife affectionately puts it), most people guess my age to be somewhere between 65 and 68. One reason for that, I believe, is my energy level—I act and live as if I were much younger. So how do I do it?

One of my favorite things to do while driving or walking is listening to podcasts. Recently, I tuned into a conversation between Mel Robbins and Dr. Eric Topol, author of the bestselling book Super Agers. Dr. Topol identifies three essential pillars for preventing many health issues and ensuring a joyful retirement: Exercise, Nutrition, and Deep Sleep—ideally around eight hours per night.

I try to incorporate each of these pillars into my daily routine. My mornings usually begin with about 45 minutes of stretching exercises. Then there’s a walk with Max, our cheerful labradoodle. As for diet, I’ve shared my daily menu with many of you in the past.

Sleep, however, used to be a challenge. Until recently, I would wake up two or three times each night to use the restroom, and it often took a while to fall back asleep. But two weeks ago, everything changed.

After publishing my new book, Reflections. The Healing Images™, I decided to use it for its intended purpose: to ease into a relaxed state before bedtime. The process is simple. About ten minutes before going to sleep, I enter a meditative state—a technique I described in last week’s post. By 10:15 PM, I’m in bed, and the moment I close my eyes, I fall asleep. I typically wake up just once during the night, and quickly drift back to sleep. By six in the morning, Max is ready to start our day.

These three pillars—exercise, nourishment, and quality sleep—are what help me feel younger than my years. If you haven’t already adopted similar habits, consider starting with the easiest and perhaps most transformative: a good night’s sleep. Restful sleep not only restores your body and mind, but also reduces stress and supports overall health.

If you’re curious about how Reflections might support your own journey toward well-being, I invite you to order a copy. Develop a simple nighttime habit, and let the healing begin. And if it helps, don’t keep it to yourself—share your experience with others.

The three images inside this story are from the book.

Wishing you a joyful and rejuvenating Fourth of July!

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HOW TO FINANCE
AN APARTMENT BUILDING (5+ UNITS)

Up until now, I’ve been sharing insights on financing 1–4-unit properties and condos. But when it comes to apartment buildings (5 units or more), the rules change—these loans fall under the domain of commercial banks.

Unlike residential loans, commercial loans are based on the rental income a building produces. Every bank uses its own formulas and has unique borrower/property requirements.

One lender we work closely with is East West Bank. Thanks to our special partnership, if they can’t fund a deal, they refer it to us—and we get it closed with another bank.

At a recent in-office presentation, Bonnie Huynh and Otto Tank introduced a unique program:

✔️ Fixed interest rate for 18 months

✔️ If market rates drop, the bank will adjust and lower your rate

✔️ Other important details include prepayment penalties and the 10% deposit rule (e.g., $1M loan = $100K deposit requirement)

Good news: We also work with lenders who don’t require that deposit.

️ For more insights, watch a 4-minute piece of the Easte West Bank presentation recorded recently at our Daly City office.

Have questions? Call me anytime: (415) 225-7920

Let’s find the right loan for your building! I promise to help!

Manny Kagan,
President,
Pacific Bay Financial Corporation
Your professional mortgage broker since 1983

NMLS #205637
DRE #00874630

 

WHERE DOES WISDOM COME FROM?

Some people say I’m a wise person. But what does that really mean—and where does wisdom come from?

A quick online search defines wisdom as “the ability to make sound judgments based on knowledge, experience, and understanding.” Socrates believed that wisdom begins with recognizing one’s own ignorance.

Jesus taught that wisdom is revealed through actions and deeds, not merely knowledge. In a spiritual sense, wisdom is often viewed as a divine gift—a deeper insight into life, purpose, and the sacred. That definition deeply resonates with how I experience the world and my connection to people around me. Perhaps this inner alignment is what inspired me to create my latest book, Reflections. The Healing Images™. It weaves together three essential elements: Wisdom, Beauty, and Relaxation.

For me, wisdom originates from the source—God’s message as recorded in the Torah (the Old Testament or the Hebrew Bible). The Torah is divided into fifty-four weekly portions, and each portion is further split into seven daily readings. For the past forty years, I’ve read from the Torah daily. Years ago, I even taught Torah in a Jewish high school. While I don’t claim to be an expert, I feel deeply connected to this source of timeless wisdom.

In Reflections, I’ve taken the liberty of writing a single-sentence reflection inspired by each weekly Torah portion. The second part of the book is devoted to beauty—expressed through the natural elegance of roses. The third part is about relaxation: learning to disconnect from the constant noise of our modern lives and make space for healing.

My intention in creating this book is to bring these three elements—wisdom, beauty, and relaxation—together in one place for your benefit, and for those you love and care about.

You can order the book on Amazon and begin writing your own reflections. The three images “woven” into this story are from the book I wrote.

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NIGHTLY INTENTIONS AND
HEALING REFLECTIONS

Every night before bed, I start my meditation by stating an intention. When I began this practice two weeks ago, my focus was simple: reduce the redness under my lip. My first affirmation was: “Why do I have this redness? Thank you, it can go.”

Then I remembered an important lesson—affirmations should be framed in positive terms, focused on the desired result. So, I shifted my intention to: “My face is clean. Thank you.”

And yes… it’s working. The redness is fading, and I know it will be gone soon. That small success encouraged me to add a new affirmation: “One million people experience less stress with the help of my book Reflections. The Healing Images™.” Because I truly created this book for you—I’m simply one of its many beneficiaries.

Whatever your intention may be, one of the greatest gifts of this practice is better sleep. And we all know how healing a restful night can be. You can watch the video where I share more about the process.

Sweet dreams and self-care, always!

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