What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Throughout my early professional years, I worked for the finest names in Luxury: Prada, Valentino and Gucci. As I look back, I think that was such an important foundation for me and my business today. I learned how to speak to strangers and most of all, how to listen. Listening is the most important tool you can learn; people say more than they realize. Use discretion with high-profile clients. Follow-up, follow-up, follow-up.
Learn how to measure your goals in order to make sure you achieve them.
Where did you grow up?
Born and raised in Miami.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
An actor. I loved Hollywood; everything from Silver Screen to Harry Potter.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Don’t underestimate the importance of having a boat, or any sea vessel in this city. Once you have one it’s your passport to therapy. Once I’m out on the water and the sea breezes hit, all my stress just melts away.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Stanley Kubrick, one of the greatest directors to have lived.
Where is South Florida’s best-kept secret?
It’s actually no secret at all: the quality of life lived and enjoyed here in South Florida comes second to none.
What do you love most about the industry?
It’s a remarkable industry. You have the opportunity to really change your clients’ lives. There are fewer rewards bigger than helping your client double, triple and many times even quadruple their investments because you guided them right. That is what keeps me motivated every single day of my life in this business.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
The most difficult aspect of real estate can be finding balance. When you love what you do, the job is no longer a job; it becomes your passion. However, like any passion, there are only 24 hours in a day and it’s easy to be consumed and put time away for yourself and your family.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Cold-calling and good ole knocking on doors. It works, no questions about it. But, what also works, and actually works better, is your own sphere of influence. Your friends, your neighbors, and anyone you’ve met along the way.
Each one of my transactions as I was starting out in real estate came directly from the people who knew me. Without those, my career wouldn’t have taken off. They were the first ones to trust me enough to give me an opportunity and your sphere will definitely be the first to trust you the same, always!
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
French Electronica. Chill tracks. Easy listening.
What’s your favorite meal in South Florida?
Money Bags at Novikov. Branzino at Mandolin. Black Truffle Tagliatelle at Mr. C Coconut Grove. Beef Wellington + Lobster Thermador at The Surf Club.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in South Florida?
Miami has evolved tremendously design-wise in recent years and this has truly developed international attention and respect. I believe that we have managed to become a highlight city for starchitects to showcase their creativity! If I had to pick a favorite, it would be a toss-up between Grove at Grand Bay by Bjarke Ingels and of course 1000 Museum by Zaha Hadid.
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
I took a client out to lunch to congratulate her on the sale of her home. We’re having the best meal; she orders a bottle of wine, one of her favorites, and the food seems better than ever. We’re on the third glass when the valet confesses to dropping her car keys in the storm drain. You can imagine where the story goes from there. I’ve been traumatized ever since!
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
Prior to my career in real estate, I lived in China for a while. I was young, did it out of an impulse, and it ended up being the most important experience of my twenties. I loved every second of it.
What’s your favorite vacation spot and why?
Two hours by boat and you’re a world away in paradise. I’m talking about the Bahamas, of course. Bimini if you’re looking for fun. Cat Cay if you’re looking to truly disconnect! There’s always Palma, or Capri, or Mykonos, but lately, Realtors don’t get much free time for long vacations!
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
“Be kind, be humble, but know your worth.”
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
@miamihousehunters
@tradedmiami
@miamiherald
@archdigest
@thenextmiami
@compass
@lifestyle_production_group