Ena Espino Pereda is a sales executive with Fortune International Realty.
What was your first job in the realty industry? My first job was working at EWM as a general real estate agent.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in Coral Gables, and graduated from the University of Miami.
What is your favorite free-time activity? Tennis is probably my favorite free-time activity that lets me do some exercise and have fun.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I love going to the movies. It really allows me to enter another world.
Growing up, what did you want to be? An artist; I love to paint.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Vincent van Gogh, because I love his artwork.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? The beach.
What do you love most about the industry? Real estate is a great industry to be in because you are always helping people – helping people find a home, helping them find a great way to invest their money in something real. It is very validating.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I think everyone tries their best to help their buyers and sellers, and I am no different. I try to be as knowledgeable as possible with the market, understand clients’ needs and get them the best possible deal.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Not being able to get someone what they want. It is important for agents to know the market as the buyers, and to be realistic with their goals.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? Meeting clients can happen anywhere and everywhere, one just needs to be prepared.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? Other than my son, the sales that my partner, Catalina Martinez, and I accomplished at Icon Brickell was something most did not think would happen. We launched the project in 2005 with immediate success, and resold the building two times after. Not only is it one of the greatest buildings in Miami, but the success story behind the building gives it a soul that most buildings do not have.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? The Butler.
What is your favorite restaurant? My favorite restaurant is Vialetto in Coral Gables. I am addicted to the pear ravioli.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Miami? An oldie, but a goodie: the Freedom Tower.
What kind of car do you drive? BMW 5.
Smartphone or paper? Smartphone.
What is your favorite city after Miami? Paris.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Be persistent.
What’s your favorite Real Estate iPhone/Android app? Realtor.com
What are your favorite accounts to follow on Twitter? I really just follow friends and family, but am going to start posting all the new information of the new project I am launching, SLS LUX.