1. When clients come to you with an idea of what they want, how do you help them refine their criteria prior to finding a match?
For my new clients I ask a lot of questions so that I can hone in on what environment they are looking for in a home. Not only do they want a master bedroom suite, but I ask questions that gage what level of formality they want in their home, vs. comfort or family feel. By the end I will know what kind of architectural style they are suited for and which neighborhood would best fit their needs. I preview properties myself before bringing clients out to look at the homes. I also am a big fan of thinking outside the box. If I have a client that is set on Beverly Hills, but I find their dream property type on Sunset Blvd, I will show them the property. There might be something unique about the home that will surprise the buyer and excite them!
2. What is the most important thing you look for when purchasing a home for yourself?
Beyond looking for a bargain, the most important aspect of purchasing real estate for myself is finding the place that makes me happy and lifts my spirits. I am drawn to inspiring environments: ones that bring you close to the outdoors and beauty of the natural world. I like a home on a large lot: plenty of space to take in my surrounding. I currently have my eye out for new properties in my favorite areas.
3. If you had to choose one piece of advice for first-time home buyers, what would it be?
To let go of your fears and anxieties. Buying a home is not as difficult as you think it is. If you have a great real estate agent, they will patiently walk you through all the steps and make buying your own property a completely seamless process.
4. If you were not selling real estate, where would you be today?
If I weren’t selling real estate, I would be a developer for real estate properties. It is my favorite business in this world, and I can’t imagine not being involved in it somehow.
5. What would you say is your most proud accomplishment as a real estate agent so far?
My favorite accomplishment is recently listing a stunning property in the Santa Ynez Valley near Santa Barbara. The home must be seen to be believed: one of the most beautiful properties I have ever listed. The home’s interiors were decorated by the famed Michael Smith who also decorated the White House in 2008. The interiors are both welcoming, homey and impeccable at the same time. It is one of the premiere properties in Southern California and I am proud to be listing it.
Santa Ynez Wine Trail signature property features a gracious southern plantation on large acreage. This rural ranchland estate offers classic, timeless luxury and the best of rural ranch living just minutes from the charming towns of Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. Captivating and exquisite design concepts by renowned, creative genius, Michael Smith, are highlighted among the natural surroundings of native landscapes and oak-studded California hills. The architectural flavor of the improvements are fashioned after traditional southern style plantations, capturing the essence of days gone by, but with cutting edge sophistication. In this home you will be impressed by an immediate atmosphere of relaxed elegance and comfort, finished with impeccable taste and appointments for even the most discerning. This rare offering is located among renowned wineries and cattle ranches with the scenic backdrop of the incredible San Rafael Wilderness area of the expansive Los Padres National Forest. This ranch is truly one of the hidden gems of the Santa Barbara County temperate inland valley, Santa Ynez…an area of incomparable beauty and climate conditions. The nearly 10,000 sq. foot main plantation home features expansive verandas on both ground and second stories, spacious formal rooms for entertaining, grand family room area and massive chef’s kitchen fit for even the most particular gourmet. The home has 8 bedroom suites to accommodate many occupants and guests, including a stunning master suite, as well as a private guest cottage/complex with full gym and spa. The ranch and recreational facilities include an immense swimming pool offering incredible privacy, 250 acres of sheltered and gently rolling oaks with miles of trails, ponds, hiking and local recreational pursuits. This estate also operates as a working ranch functional for equestrians, aspiring cattle barons or vintners… or simply as the ultimate family compound retreat. Please call for further information.
