Ali Lamadrid, Regional Sales Manager with Cervera Real Estate.
What was your first job in the realty industry? I started as an on-site sales person at the IconBrickell Condominium in 2009.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in Miami. I was born and raised here :).
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I listen to podcasts and music. When I have time I love to travel; I’m a huge fan of the mountains, and I particularly love to get away to ski and/or hike.
Growing up, what did you want to be? A teacher.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Margaret Thatcher. I would love to hear her insights and anecdotes about working with different world leaders and how she thinks those leaders have affected the current political and socioeconomic landscape of Eurasia.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? I love to hang out on the beach on Sundays. Unfortunately, you would never be able to figure this out by looking at me as I’m very pale and and have to stay under an umbrella.
What do you love most about the industry? How dynamic it is.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? Product knowledge, attention to detail, and being aware of what is changing in the neighborhoods I work in and the city overall.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Adjusting my style of communication when working with different personality types to make sure I can accomplish what I need to get the job done.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? Industry events, but also (quite often) through past clients, friends and acquaintances.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? I would say what makes me proudest is every time I get a call or message from an agent saying some advice I gave them helped them get a deal done. Every small victory accrues over time towards being ultimately successful.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? I am currently reading “I Am Malala.” This book was written by a girl who was shot by the Taliban for pursuing her right to education. She survived, and is only 18 years old. I really value the perspective gained about how difficult is is for women to be able to get an education in the Middle East. It’s truly disheartening, but it’s important to be aware of what is happening.
What is your favorite restaurant? Probably Bombay Darbay in the Grove, even though I don’t go often enough.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Miami? Grove at Grand Bay. The twisting towers look amazing in the landscape.
What kind of car do you drive? A Mercedes
Smartphone or paper? Smartphone
What is your favorite city after Miami? Aspen
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Study your market, give honest advice and add value through knowledge.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? eKey-supra, for utilitarian reasons :).
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? It’s embarrassing to admit, but I don’t use Twitter!