SOL Sotheby’s International Realty
What was your first job in the realty industry?
I began in 1993 with Byrne-Rinehart & Co., a boutique firm specializing in residential property in Coral Gables and South Miami. After the company was bought out, I transitioned into the commercial side of the business, where I had some success with selling South Beach hotels. Since 2003, I have focused exclusively on high-end waterfront property in Miami and Miami Beach and haven’t looked back.
Who inspires you and why?
Family and friends defintely inspire me; they’re the joy in my life. My colleagues at SOL Sotheby’s inspire me for their ingenuity and passion. We feed off each other.
What is your favorite free-time activity?
Travel, whenever possible, allows one the ability to wipe the slate clean and experience life from a different perspective.
How did you learn the business?
By studying everything I could about real estate and allowing myself to be open to new ideas. Some of the best things I’ve learned, I learned after being in the business more than 10 years. Having a mentor certainly helps.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read?
“The Sky’s the Limit” by Steven Gaines; it’s a pretty informative and entertaining book about the history of high-end real estate and brokers in New York City — a must read.
What is your favorite restaurant?
Baleen in Coconut Grove for its unparalleled bayfront vistas and seafood; try the boulliabase,
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Miami?
This is a tough one. I have a soft spot for a particular bayfront home in Key Biscayne that was featured in the movie “Scarface” and the TV show “Miami Vice.” It’s the benchmark home for an architectural style that was very popular in the 1980s, which is now making a comeback.
What kind of car do you have?
A Bentley Arnage and a Mercedes SL 500
Blackberry, Palm or paper, and why?
The cursed Blackberry!
What is your favorite city after Miami?
New York, hands down; for the architecture, the theatre, the restaurants and the sheer energy of the place
What is your personal motto?
Work like you’re going to live forever, and play like your going to die tomorrow!