"From Broke to Baller: Thanks, System?"

The café smelled of fresh coffee and warm pastries. Jin's hands were steady as he adjusted his posture, facing the agent across the small table. He had practiced for this moment, preparing for the negotiation like he would prepare for an exam. His mind was clear, and his goal was simple: secure the property at the best possible price, factoring in the repairs and his budget.

The agent, a man named Mr. Luis, sat with his cup of coffee in front of him. He had a calm, measured demeanor, one that Jin had come to respect over their brief interactions. But now, they were about to enter the realm of business, and it would require more than pleasantries.

"I've reviewed the property," Jin began, keeping his voice steady. "It's in a prime location, and I'm interested. But before we go forward, I'd like to discuss the price. I understand it's been reduced, but there are still costs for repairs and improvements."

Mr. Luis nodded thoughtfully, his fingers tapping the edge of his cup. "I appreciate your transparency, Jin. The property needs work, yes, but the location is everything. You won't find another property so close to campus at this price. I'm sure you're aware of that."

Jin nodded. "I'm aware. But the repairs aren't small. The plumbing alone will require a complete overhaul, and the flooring needs to be replaced. I've done my research on the cost of renovations, and I want to be sure the price reflects those expenses."

Mr. Luis leaned back in his chair, studying Jin. "You've done your homework. That's rare for someone your age."

"I'm not here to waste anyone's time," Jin replied. "I'm serious about this purchase, and I want to ensure we're both on the same page about the price."

The agent paused, considering Jin's words. "I can respect that. So, what are you proposing?"

Jin had anticipated this moment. He pulled out his notebook and slid it across the table to Mr. Luis. Inside, he had outlined his calculations—the estimated costs for repairs, the projected value of the property post-renovation, and the amount he was willing to pay based on those figures. He had already factored in his savings and the loan he was prepared to take out. It wasn't a lowball offer, but it was fair.

"I'm proposing ₱1.5 million," Jin said, keeping his tone firm but respectful. "Considering the repairs needed, I believe that's a fair price."

Mr. Luis studied the numbers on the page, his brow furrowing slightly. Jin could tell he wasn't thrilled with the offer, but he remained calm. The negotiation had only just begun.

"₱1.5 million is lower than my asking price," Mr. Luis said. "But I see where you're coming from. I'll take this back to the owner and see if we can meet somewhere in the middle."

Jin nodded, keeping his expression neutral. "I appreciate that. I'm open to discussing the details further, but my offer stands for now. I need to ensure that my investment will pay off in the long run."

The agent sighed, but there was a slight smile on his lips. "You're a sharp one, Jin. I'll speak with the owner and let you know."

They exchanged pleasantries before Jin left the café, his mind already racing through the next steps. He knew the negotiation wasn't over, but he had made his position clear. The ball was now in the agent's court.

---

Later that evening, Jin sat at his desk in his room, his laptop open in front of him. He had just finished another round of trading. His balance was steadily growing, but he kept his focus on his larger goal: the property.

His phone buzzed, interrupting his thoughts. It was a message from Mika.

> Mika R.:

"Jin, we're all going out to celebrate the end of midterms tonight. Are you joining us?"

Jin glanced at his schedule. He had just finished a batch of homework, and while he wanted to focus on his investment plans, his friends had been there for him through everything. It had been a while since they'd all hung out, and maybe a little break was what he needed.

> Jin C.:

"Sure, I'll come. I could use a break."

---

That evening, Jin met up with Yssa, Mika, and Calix at a local café, the kind of place with dim lighting and cozy booths. They had ordered food and drinks, and the laughter filled the air as they caught up. It was moments like these that reminded Jin of the importance of balance. He couldn't let his ambitions consume him entirely. His friends were a reminder that life was about more than just goals and achievements—it was about the connections he made along the way.

"So, Jin," Calix began, his tone teasing, "how's your secret investment going? You haven't mentioned it in a while."

Jin smiled, taking a sip of his drink. "It's going well. Still working on finalizing the deal."

Yssa raised an eyebrow. "Finalizing a deal already? You really are moving fast."

Jin shrugged. "I've been saving for this for a while. It's not as crazy as it sounds."

Mika grinned. "Crazy or not, I admire your determination. You're always so focused, Jin. It's like you've got everything figured out."

Jin chuckled. "Not everything. I still need to get this deal done."

They spent the rest of the evening talking and laughing, the weight of the world seeming to lift for a while. Jin didn't realize how much he needed moments like this—just being with his friends, enjoying the simplicity of their company.

---

The next day, Jin received an email from Mr. Luis.

> Mr. Luis:

"Hello Jin, after discussing with the owner, we've decided to lower the price to ₱1.6 million. We believe this is a fair compromise considering your concerns about repairs. If you're still interested, we can arrange for you to sign the agreement."

Jin's heart skipped a beat. He had done it. The negotiation had worked, and now the property was within reach.

He quickly typed a reply.

> Jin C.:

"Thank you for working with me. I'm still interested, and I'll come by to finalize the details soon."

He sat back in his chair, the weight of the moment settling on him. This was a milestone. He wasn't just a student anymore. He was a young investor, building his future one step at a time.

---

As the days passed, Jin prepared to sign the papers. He met with a lawyer to review the terms of the agreement and made sure everything was in order. The process was more complicated than he had anticipated, but he was determined to follow through. His system had guided him this far, and now it was up to him to take the final steps.

When the day arrived, Jin stood outside the real estate office, ready to sign the papers that would officially make the property his. His heart raced, but this time, it was with excitement—not fear.

End of Chapter 28