Cecilia Hinojosa

What was your first job in the realty industry? Buying and remodeling my own condo. That lead me to become a Realtor to really understand the load of legal paperwork involved when purchasing a property.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? Yoga and walking while viewing the amazing skyline Miami has developed through the years. KB Causeway and now Coconut Grove.

Where did you grow up? Buenos Aires, Argentina and Bolivia.

Growing up, what did you want to be? I always wanted to be an architect, and I am one.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be? Meryl Streep. I would love to ask how she managed to raise four stable and successful children; and how she managed to be the first actress to portray all the women of steel of this world without the noise of the world interrupting and affecting her home and stability?

Where is your favorite place to hang out? Love meeting with my friends discovering new restaurants and new flavors that evolve daily in Miami.

What do you love most about the industry? Love the opportunity to view magnificent architecture, meet successful minds, debate with aggressive sellers, learning the business of real estate has been a new experience. It is always a different day and a different client. Trying to keep sane with picky private clients, and trying to satisfy bitter and snobby clients; it’s almost like being a psychologist 24/7.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I have a worldly background. As an architect, I know how to see beyond the photographs. Much of my business results from referrals from previous satisfied clients who value my strong design skills, discretion and 24/7 full-service approach.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Seeking a primary or secondary home, or an investment property, and making it fit to your clients’ dreams and needs is a tough and stressful process. For both the client and the seller, keeping respect and being honorable throughout all this process is the duty of the agent. This is how I try to find the perfect property for a unique client. Keeping the client loyal, that is the key.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I work with Kristi House and Born Free Shelter, and attend art and design events. Try to be at openings but mostly it is a world of referrals.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? Buying in Brickell in the worst years, crossing barriers that where unthinkable, meeting people that always lift you to your highest level. Being a mother of two incredible women warriors who supported every move and turn in our lives. They are my foundation, they hold this structure of strength and success.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? The Intern..laughed at the generation gap we live in! Our time had no instant text, we had to wait a month to receive a letter from my parents in South America when in college. Long distance calls were limited to 3 minutes max; the costs were extraordinary. Really enjoyed Robert de Niro’s knowledge that comes with living life. Young people are in a fast-paced cyber era, with no time to live and remember where they come from.

What is your favorite restaurant? Joe’s Stone Crab. Who dosen’t love Joe’s?

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Miami? I have to say I live in one of the iconic buildings in Miami, Revuelta & Ugo Columbo’s Bristol Tower. It changed the Miami skyline 20-plus years ago, and still stands as the best luxury boutique building in Brickell. Although as an architect, I cant wait to see how Zaha Hadid 1000 Museum will change the skyline of Biscayne Bay.

What kind of car do you drive? Lexus hybrid – reliable car and energy conscious.

Smartphone or paper? Both. I like my smartphone, but paper has a nice feeling and seems more respectful when in a meeting.

What is your favorite city after Miami? Buenos Aires. Born there, left my heart there, love the old european architecture, Italian blend and Spanish taste sets the best design formula in architecture, clothing, food and art.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Friends are rarely your clients. Clients will come with time.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? I just got the iPhone 6S. Still test driving to see what magnificent changes are in store for the next 24 months.

Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? Dottie Herman and Howard Lorber – top agents from Douglas Elliman (just to see what they can teach me).

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