The Journey of Cristina Tello-Trillo: From Monopoly to Economics

In the ever-evolving landscape of personal finance, stories of individuals who navigate their financial journeys with insight and determination stand out. One such story is that of Cristina Tello-Trillo, a senior economist at the U.S. Census Bureau, whose path to success was ignited by a childhood game of Monopoly. This article delves into her experiences, financial strategies, and the lessons she imparts on managing money effectively.

A Passion for Economics Born from Play

Cristina Tello-Trillo’s fascination with economics began not in a classroom, but around a board game. Growing up in Peru, she spent countless hours playing Monopoly, captivated by the concepts of property investment and financial strategy. "I love how you can invest in properties, you earn money, you have to save money to wait for the best property," she recalls. This early interest blossomed into a serious academic pursuit as she enrolled at Pontificia Universidad Catolica of Peru, where she met her husband, Sebastian, who shared her passion for economics.

Building a Career in Economics

Today, Tello-Trillo is a respected senior economist, focusing her research on critical issues such as income inequality and the financial challenges faced by marginalized groups. After completing her undergraduate degree, she pursued a Ph.D. at Yale University, understanding that a higher education would unlock greater opportunities in her field. Her work at the Census Bureau allows her to engage with topics that resonate deeply with her, providing her with a fulfilling work-life balance.

The Real Estate Investment Journey

While Tello-Trillo’s career in economics flourished, her interest in real estate investment simmered in the background. After moving to the U.S. at 23, she initially lacked the financial resources to invest. However, her determination grew as she consumed knowledge through YouTube channels and podcasts dedicated to real estate. In 2018, she and Sebastian purchased their first property in Washington, D.C., marking the beginning of their journey as real estate investors.

The pandemic temporarily stalled their plans, but in 2022, they bought a primary home in Bethesda and began renting out their D.C. apartment. By 2024, Tello-Trillo took a bold step, purchasing three additional rental properties in Rochester, New York, on her own. "This was just kind of my baby," she explains, emphasizing her commitment to managing these investments independently.

Financial Management and Spending Habits

Tello-Trillo’s upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of financial discipline. Her parents, both economists, emphasized frugality and the importance of financial independence. They cut off financial support when she turned 19, a lesson that shaped her approach to money management. Today, she views money as a reward for hard work, spending it only on things she truly values.

Her family’s budget reflects a balanced approach to spending and saving. With a combined income of $268,000 in 2023, they allocate funds across various categories, including housing, savings, child care, and discretionary spending. Food is their largest expense, and while Tello-Trillo enjoys cooking, she admits to occasionally splurging on takeout, particularly for her favorite Latin American dishes.

The Importance of Diversification

With a robust investment portfolio, Tello-Trillo understands the significance of diversification. "I think it’s good to diversify, so if one part of the economy is going down, you have your money in another part that might be going up," she explains. Currently, she has around $412,000 in savings and investments, alongside her growing real estate portfolio.

A Lifelong Commitment to Work and Education

Despite her financial success, Tello-Trillo has no plans to retire early. "I love to work. I love to do research," she states emphatically. Her passion for economics and commitment to her career drive her to continue contributing to her field. As she raises her son, Leo, she is instilling in him the values of hard work and financial responsibility, ensuring he understands the importance of earning his own way in the world.

Giving Back to the Community

Looking ahead, Tello-Trillo harbors a long-term goal of giving back to her roots in Latin America. She dreams of building charter schools, emphasizing her belief that education is key to success and happiness. "I believe education is key for success, and education is key for happiness and key for being healthy," she asserts.

Conclusion

Cristina Tello-Trillo’s journey from a childhood Monopoly game to a successful career in economics and real estate investment is a testament to the power of passion, education, and financial discipline. Her story serves as an inspiration for those navigating their own financial paths, highlighting the importance of hard work, strategic investing, and the desire to give back to the community. As she continues to build her legacy, Tello-Trillo exemplifies how one can blend personal ambition with a commitment to societal betterment.