EXECUTIVE AGENT MAGAZINE - INLAND EMPIRE MAY 2021

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AGENT MAGAZINE

Ag e n t

Curtis Schneider

E x e c u t i v e

EXECUTIVE M a g a z i n e . I n l a n d

E m p i r e

E d i t i o n . M a y, 2 0 2 1

Brett Reichel NMLS #210215 Sales Manager

3281 E Guasti Rd Ste 550 Ontario, CA 91761

(909) 912-7839 office (503) 784-0482 cell

breichel@loandepot.com www.loandepot.com/breichel

Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act CRMLA 4131040.

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Cover Story Curtis Schneider Executive Agent of the Month At an elevation of 6,000 feet and nestled in a pine-sheltered valley in the San Gabriel Mountains, the town of Wrightwood is just the right place for anyone who loves mountain living.

25 Featured Professionals

08 Eddie Rea loanDepot® 4

Executive Agent Magazine

14 Vincent Guerrera A List Estates

Content Positive Perception: Why You Should Filter the Way You See the World -Shawn Anchorg Like a Pro -Steve Cook

May, 2021

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PRESIDENT & CEO EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

Fred Arrias Wanna Sell More?

Polish That Sales Presentation!

-Linda Brakealla Pro -Steve Cook

VICE PRESIDENT GRAPHIC DESIGN Garon Arrias

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EDITOR Trudy Vanderhoff PROFESSIONAL PROFILES H.K. Wilson

Pit-Stop Of Success: The MidYear Review -Bob Corcoran Like a Pro -Steve Cook

48 Change Begins With Choice -Jim Rohn Like a Pro -Steve Cook

12 Make Greatness Your Goal!

-Chris Widenering Like a Pro -Steve Cook

22 Integrity & Character -Zig Ziglaratating Like a Pro -Steve Cook

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Herbert Clark Charlene Gates John Harris Chris Richards Ronald Taylor Crystal Widen PHOTOGRAPHY iPhotography Studio Michelle Fairless Photography EXECUTIVE AGENT MAGAZINE PO Box 73384 San Clemente, CA 92673 Ph: (949) 297-8323 Fax: (949) 266-8757 Fred@ExecutiveAgentMagazine.com www.ExecutiveAgentMagazine.com © Copyright 2020 Executive Agent Magazine. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Although every precaution is taken to ensure accuracy of published materials, Executive Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors.

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Executive Agent Magazine

Positive Perception: Why You Should Filter the Way You See the World

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n one of psychology’s best-known experiments, volunteers watch a video of two basketball teams—one wearing white shirts, one wearing black shirts—passing around a basketball. As they watch, the volunteers have to count the number of times the white team passes the ball. About 25 seconds into the video, a person in a gorilla suit walks straight through the action for five seconds.

Afterward, the viewers write down the number of passes and answer a series of additional questions, such as, Did you notice anything unusual in the video?

When psychologists tried this out on 200 people, 46 percent of them completely missed the gorilla. When the researchers later told them about it, many of them refused to believe they’d missed something so obvious and demanded to see the video again.

Why did so many of them fail to see it the first time around? Because they were so focused on counting passes, their neural filters had simply dumped the gorilla sighting right into the spam folder. This experiment highlights what researchers call inattentional blindness, our frequent inability to see what is often right in front of us if we’re not focusing directly on it. In essence, we tend to miss what we’re not looking for.

This selective perception is also why, when we are looking for something, we see it everywhere. You’ve probably experienced this a million times. You hear a song once, and suddenly it seems like it’s always on the radio. You buy a new style of shoe, then everyone is wearing them. Of course, nothing has actually changed in these scenarios—except your focus.

Try this little experiment. Close your eyes and think of the color red. Now open your eyes and look around the room. Is red popping out everywhere? Assuming elves didn’t repaint your furniture while your eyes were closed, your change in perception is due only to your change in focus.

Instead of creating a cognitive pattern that looks for negatives and blocks success, we need to focus on training our brains to scan the world for opportunities and fresh ideas. When our brains constantly scan for and focus on the positive, we profit from three of the most important tools available to us: happiness, gratitude and optimism.

Shawn Achor is a Harvard-trained researcher and best-selling author of The Happiness Advantage and Before Happiness. Get a daily dose of happy at Shawn’s Facebook page.

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Eddie Rea Loan Consultant Written by H. K. Wilson

was internally focused on planning and operations. I felt detached from the end user. I wanted something where I could earn a good living working directly with people in my community.” But a friend convinced Eddie that his warm personality and talent with numbers would make him an ideal mortgage loan consultant. “My first loan was an FHA 203k renovation loan. I decided to learn all the guidelines and become an expert at it. It went beautifully, and from there, I kept building on my knowledge base.”

Eddie now brings nearly a decade of experience to his practice at loanDepot, where he says the “secret sauce is the people. loanDepot is as modern a lender as you can get in terms of interaction and making it easy on the client, especially in digital format. Communication is huge for me. I can be at ease because I know what’s going on with my loan files, and then customers and agents can be at ease because I can give them definitive answers.”

E

ddie Rea, loan consultant at loanDepot, is dedicated to matching people with exactly the right loan.

Doing so means being a good listener and getting to the heart of what matters most to his clients. “One of my favorite quotes is from Pulp Fiction: ‘In conversation, do you listen or wait to talk?’ There’s a point where you feel like you’re really understanding what a borrower’s situation is. When you have that interaction where somebody listens and understands what you’re going through — that’s when you really connect. It’s a big part of my job,” Eddie says.

Growing up in Southern California, Eddie loved everything that involved 2 wheels in the dirt. He raced motocross through High School and then discovered Mountain bikes in the mid 80s. Success in his sport led to his first career working in the outdoor sports industry.

He advanced to an executive role, and his work took him to destinations around the globe. But when the economy crashed in the late 2000s, Eddie had the opportunity to reinvent himself as a professional. “When I was laid off, I did some soul searching and even considered opening a bicycle shop. Everything I’d done for years in the industry

With limited home inventory due to the pandemic, loanDepot’s renovation loans expand options for potential buyers. “The biggest driver now is inventory,” Eddie says.

“We have folks who are ready to buy, and a renovation loan is an opportunity to create something magical.

Imagine being able to renovate and buy all in one loan and not charging up your credit cards. With rates where they are now, it makes a lot of sense.”

Delivering a Higher Standard of Service Eddie is a resident of the community of Wrightwood, an enclave of nearly 5,000 people in the San Gabriel Mountains. He is well informed about the area’s nuances and can help homebuyers and agents overcome the challenges that may arise during a transaction. “Wrightwood is a charming community where all the homes are unique.

Since the pandemic, these outlying communities are in greater demand as primary residences. The Inland Empire is more affordable than a lot of areas, and the fiber optics in Wrightwood make it possible for people to work from home amongst the pines and 4 distinct seasons. It’s a small community, and I’ve established myself as someone who is professional, personable and has knowledge of the area, which is huge here, since we have flood zones, homes that are located across the county line in LA county, nuances of FHA loans due to the San Adreas Fault, etc so it’s important to work with someone who has that specific knowledge and is already thinking ahead and planning for success. At loanDepot we have a broad enough product base for one-stop shopping, which is great for a community like Wrightwood.”

Still a cycling enthusiast, Eddie helped start the Victor Valley Composite High School MTB Team. “Any high or middle school student can participate at no charge because of the volunteers and community sponsorship. It’s pretty phenomenal teaching the kids and seeing them progress.

Two have gone to college with cycling scholarships, and another girl who was with us for a year-and-a-half became a junior world champion. It’s one of the most rewarding

things I’ve ever done.” Most important is that we are introducing the kids to a life long, healthy habit.

In a small community where everyone knows their neighbors, maintaining a stellar professional reputation is especially important. After the close of a transaction, Eddie says he wants people to remember him for three things: he listened; he was honest; and he put them into the right loan. “A lot of my business comes from referrals and return clients. I treat people with respect, give them good quality information and make myself available. If they can’t proceed immediately, I like to leave them with a roadmap to buy a home in the future. I hold myself to a higher standard, but I like that challenge. I think it makes me a better lender and person in general.”

Eddie Rea, Loan Consultant loanDepot® 3281 E Guasti Rd., #550 Ontario, CA 91761 Tel: 760-987-1781 Email: eddierea@loanDepot.com www.loandepot.com/loan-officers/eddierea NMLS: # 645910

Rates, terms, and availability of programs are subject to change without notice. loanDepot.com, LLC NMLS ID 174457. Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act CRMLA 4131040.

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Change Begins With Choice

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ny day we wish; we can discipline ourselves to change it all. Any day we wish; we can open the book that will open our mind to new knowledge.

Any day we wish; we can start a new activity. Any day we wish; we can start the process of life change. We can do it immediately, or next week, or next month, or next year.

We cannot allow our errors in judgment, repeated every day, to lead us down the wrong path. We must keep coming back to those basics that make the biggest difference in how our life works out. And then we must make the very choices that will bring life, happiness and joy into our daily lives.

We can also do nothing. We can pretend rather than perform. And if the idea of having to change ourselves makes us uncomfortable, we can remain as we are. We can choose rest over labor, entertainment over education, delusion over truth, and doubt over confidence. The choices are ours to make. But while we curse the effect, we continue to nourish the cause. As Shakespeare uniquely observed, “The fault is not in the stars, but in ourselves.”

We created our circumstances by our past choices.

And if I may be so bold to offer my last piece of advice for someone seeking and needing to make changes in their life - If you don’t like how things are, change it! You’re not a tree. You have the ability to totally transform every area in your life - and it all begins with your very own power of choice.

We have both the ability and the responsibility to make better choices beginning today. Those who are in search of the good life do not need more answers or more time to think things over to reach better conclusions. They need the truth. They need the whole truth. And they need nothing but the truth.

Jim Rohn knows the secrets of success - in business and in life. He has devoted his life to a study of the fundamentals of human behavior and personal motivation that affect professional performance. He can awaken the unlimited power of achievement within you! Reproduced with permission from the Jim Rohn Weekly E-zine. © 2008 Jim Rohn International. All rights reserved. For information contact FrogPond at 800.704.FROG(3764) or email susie@FrogPond.com; http://www.FrogPond.com.

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EXECUTIVE AG E N T M AG AZ I N E

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Written by H. K. Wilson

Vincent Guerrera The A-List Real Estate Experience

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hen you’re making one of the biggest financial investments of your lifetime, you want to work with the best — an A-lister. Vincent Guerrera, broker/associate at boutique A List Estates in Rancho Cucamonga, brings nearly two decades of experience in real estate sales, investment and management to every transaction. A native of the area, Vincent began working in corporate sales while earning his degree in computer science from California State University, Fullerton. “In college, I realized I liked sales more than sitting behind a computer,” he recalls. “It changed my path. When I graduated, I went right into real estate. I loved it, and I’ve stayed with it.”

Applying his tireless work ethic and natural gift for connecting with people, Vincent achieved Rookie of the Year during his first year in the industry. His expertise in technology has always given his clients an edge, as he knows how to leverage tech to create exceptional results

with beautiful images and well-placed advertising across social media channels.

Vincent is committed to providing the highest level of professional service to his clients and building relationships for the longterm. He describes his real estate practice as “client focused. Customer service is high on my list because I want to earn repeat business. I get a lot of referrals, and that is how I’ve grown my business over the years. I like to build strong relationships, and it’s always about doing what’s morally right. I treat every client like family, and if I take your listing, I’m going to sell it like it’s my home. I will get top dollar and fight for every penny, whether negotiating repairs or getting the highest sales price. I just sold a property where the last closed price was $580,000. I sold it for $700,000, with the buyer paying $80,000 over appraised value. That’s how you get your best referrals.”

Vincent’s many five-star client reviews reveal exactly why the referrals keep coming. A delighted seller said: “Vince is an exceptional agent! He did an outstanding job with selling our condo in Irvine. He was recommended to us by family, so we already knew we were getting a great person on our side, and he surpassed our expectations. From the very first meeting, Vince made us feel comfortable.

We felt reassured he was committed to the project and had our best interest in mind. He is personable, trustworthy and was there every step of the way going the extra mile. He was a strong negotiator and kept the process moving along. I could not have done this without him. I understand the importance of having a great agent, and we are so pleased to have had Vince represent us in our sale experience. We trusted him, and it paid off. If you’re looking for a Realtor®, we recommend Vince Guerrera.”

Vincent’s people-centered, ethical approach to real estate has made him successful no matter what market trends are doing. He thrived in real estate sales during the down cycle of the late 2000s, and he has personally succeeded as a real estate entrepreneur. “I sold bank owned homes for Freddie Mac during the down market, selling over 100 homes per year with one other agent. It gave me great insight into how the banks work. I also do my own investments. I purchase, repair and flip, and I maintain rental properties. I own homes in several states.

As a result, I understand all those aspects of real estate.

I mostly work with residential homeowners, but being a landlord allows me to help people find great investment properties as well.”

One of the things Vincent values most about his real estate career is the flexibility it allows him to be a family

man. He and his fiancé, Kristi, each have a daughter, and making time for their girls is a top priority in life. Vincent is a PTA dad who dedicates significant time and resources to his daughter’s school, whether he is tutoring students or sponsoring events. His Winter Wonderlands of years past have been nothing short of magical, with real snow, a camel and reindeer! Another fun fact about Vincent: he is a twin. “We are fraternal, but we look identical. Leo also does real estate on the side and helps me out sometimes. I think growing up with a twin created competition that also contributes to my sales success.”

At A List Estates, Vincent enjoys the freedom to tailor each client’s experience to fit their needs and preferences.

He gives each client the personal attention they deserve, preferring to review and explain documents page by page, rather than sending them out via email for e-signature. His clients also benefit with the trusted relationships he has developed with vendors who can save them money and make their transactions run smoothly. “I want people to know that I will always work hard for them and treat their transaction like it is my own.”

Vincent Guerrera, Broker Associate A List Estates 8780 19th St. Suite 221 Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91701 Tel: 909.322.2724 Email: youragentvince@gmail.com DRE # 01436337

Wanna Sell More? Polish That Sales Presentation!

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ales people ( in general ) hate to prepare presentations. They say: “I don’t want to sound canned!” “How can I do a standard presentation? The customers are all different!”

While all of that is very true, it is also true that the top 20% of all salespeople (the ones who are making 80% of all the sales!) USE prepared presentations! They know a secret the average salesperson doesn’t know. You can’t perfect an ad lib!

We all have perfected certain little pieces of our presentations; good illustrations, funny or touching stories.

What if your whole presentation was that good? How much would you be selling this month?

Start to develop a system today: Gather all your promotional pieces, brochures, trade articles and statistics in one file. Keep a pile of index cards with you and every time you have a good idea, remember a good story or think of a new way of explaining the features and benefits of your product, write it down! One idea per card.

When you have dumped your brain on the cards, arrange them logically and you are on your way to a dynamite prepared presentation that will give you consistently wonderful results!

The next step is to actually say it out loud into a tape recorder and then listen to it. Would you buy your product if you heard that presentation? What else needs to be included? Read ads, listen to the info-mercials (they are MASTERS at selling!) Keep refining and polishing that presentation till you are happy and proud of it and it does the job!

When you are finally comfortable with your presentation, (which DOES change every time but the elements are always the same) you will be free to concentrate on the prospect and turn him into a client! Remember: Powerful Presentations Produce Powerful Results!

Linda Brakeall is the author of Unlocking The Secrets of Successful Women in Business, and has trained 36,000 people in 27 states in sales, marketing, presentations, and communications since 1992. She has authored 99 magazine articles on sales, marketing, selecting salespeople, managing sales teams and communications.

You can find out more about Linda and what she can do for you at http://www.lindabrakeall.com.

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Executive Agent Magazine 17

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Integrity & Character “If standard of living is your major objective, quality of life almost never improves, but if quality of life is your number one objective, your standard of living almost always improves.”

“With integrity you have nothing to fear, since you have nothing to hide. With integrity you will do the right thing, so you will have no guilt. With fear and guilt removed you are free to be and do your best.”

“If people like you they’ll listen to you, but if they trust you they’ll do business with you.”

“When I discipline myself to eat properly, live morally, exercise regularly, grow mentally and spiritually, and not put any drugs or alcohol in my body, I have given myself the freedom to be at my best, perform at my best, and reap all the rewards that go along with it.”

“Ability can take you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there.”

“The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to his or her commitment to excellence, regardless of his or her chosen field of endeavor.”

“Keep your thinking right and your business will be right.”

“When a company or an individual compromises one time, whether it’s on price or principle, the next compromise is right around the corner.”

“What you do off the job is the determining factor in how far you will go on the job.”

“You build a successful career, regardless of your field of endeavor, by the dozens of little things you do on and off the job.”

“When we do more than we are paid to do, eventually we will be paid more for what we do.”

“What comes out of your mouth is determined by what goes into your mind.”

“You can get everything money will buy without a lick of character, but you can’t get any of the things money won’t buy —happiness, joy, peace of mind, winning relationships, etc., without character.”

Zig Ziglar is a beloved author and America’s motivator. He is the author of 25 books and offers training and consulting to organizations all across the globe. To learn more about Zig and his business visit his website at www.ziglar.com.

“When you exercise your freedom to express yourself at the lowest level, you ultimately condemn yourself to live at that level.”

Executive Agent Magazine 19

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M ake Greatness Your Goal!

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f greatness is your goal, whether in your business life, your personal relationships or your own personal growth, here are some guidelines to get you on your way. Greatness is possible! You can achieve the goals you set for yourself and you can make a difference in your own life and those who live and work around you! Set greatness as your goal! Here’s how: Identify greatness for yourself. While there are some basic generalities that most people would consider great, there are broader definitions of greatness, ones that each individual sets for him or herself. For example, most people would consider Mother Theresa great while only some would consider Donald Trump great. Helping humanity is a broad generality while building a real estate fortune isn’t. So what you need to first do is ask, “What does greatness look like for this company, organization, family or for myself?” From there you can develop values and a mission statement etc. But if you don’t first identify it, you’ll never reach it.

Maximize targeted end results. As Covey says, “begin with the end in mind.” What end results do you want. Be specific. Come up with all of them. Maximize them. Leave no stone uncovered. Set out for yourself all of the goals or end results you must hit in order to reach greatness. Write them down, memorize them and distribute them broadly (if doing this for a group). Maximize your targeted end results!

Make distinction your endeavor. What is the endeavor of the great? Usually it is to distinguish themselves from the average. They seek to rise above the rest by the quality of their product or service. Everything goes toward the goal of making themselves distinct from the run of the mill. That is their mission. And in doing so, they make themselves great!

Map your effort thoroughly. The three most important words in real estate are “location, location, location.” In reaching a goal, the three most important words are “plan, plan, plan.” Okay, “execute” and “persevere” work too, but go with me here! Too many people wish they would achieve something but never write down a plan for getting there. When I want to go on a long trip I don’t just wish to get there. I plan on how to get there. I get a map, I figure out distances, times etc. Map out your goal thoroughly.

This will help you achieve greatness.

Regularly take time for regeneration. Achieving greatness

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is hard! You will care more, work harder, and take more lumps and setbacks than the rest. So you will need to take time to regenerate so you can fight again another day. Your body needs rest. Your mind needs rest. Your emotions need rest. Your spirit needs rest. I firmly believe that a person who rests well can do more in less time than the one works without setting aside time for regeneration. You may be able to reach goals without rest, but somewhere along the line, you will fall harder and longer if you aren’t regularly regenerating yourself.

So take your vacation time this year!

Have a strict evaluation process. Every plan and goal needs an evaluation tool. And it should be a strict evaluation process. This is how you objectively decide whether or not you are proceeding toward your goal.

If you have the right evaluation tool and you look six months into it and you aren’t hitting the goals, perhaps you need to change the goal or the way you are going after it. The evaluation process is not to be underestimated in its importance!

Take somebody else with you. True greatness is not individual. The one who becomes great spreads the reward of greatness around. Incorporate many people into the plan and let them eat of the fruit of success. I live in an area that has literally thousands of millionaires created by a company that had a vision of greatness. And while yes, they experience the reward, the rewards then go out many levels through the whole community, from businesses that support our community to non-profit groups, churches, and schools. True greatness blesses those many levels away.

Learn to party! Party? Yes! What good is greatness if you can’t enjoy it? And not just the final destination but also the entire journey. Be sure to stop along the way and relish in your movement. Celebrate small and large victories. This keeps the sprit high and the big mo rolling!

Spend the money, buy the food and blow up the balloons – it’s time to celebrate!

Chris Widener is the President of Made For Success. He teaches leaders how to become Extraordinary Leaders.

Chris’ speaking and consulting services have challenged the best to become optimists, to pursue excellence relentlessly, and to dream big dreams. Copyright© 2007, Chris Widener. All rights reserved. For information about Chris’ speaking and consulting services, contact the FrogPond at 800.704.FROG(3764) or email susie@ FrogPond.com; http://www.FrogPond.com.

Executive Agent Magazine 23

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Curtis Schneider

Curtis Schneider “Loving the High Country Life” Written by H. K. Wilson - Photography by Ian Wiant

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t an elevation of 6,000 feet and nestled in a pinesheltered valley in the San Gabriel Mountains, the town of Wrightwood is just the right place for anyone who loves mountain living. With four distinct seasons and few days of extreme weather, Realtor® Curtis Schneider calls Wrightwood the “starter mountains,” conveniently accessible from the 15 Freeway and more navigable year-round than Big Bear or Mammoth.

A NorCal native and long-time resident of the community, Curtis knows most of its 4,800 inhabitants, whether through his former vocation as a neighborhood bartender, as a local Little League coach or because he has helped them buy or sell a home. He loves the region, its history and the unique lifestyle it offers to those who wish to live there full-time or choose it as their place to get away.

Reputation is particularly important in a small town, and that’s why Curtis chose to work with the area’s

premier independent brokerage, High Country Realty.

Owned by locals Richard “Rick” Jones and his wife Cathy, Curtis says he enjoys working with people who are known for both their integrity and expertise. He strives to build on that reputation by offering exceptional service elevated by technology tools that enhance the buying and selling experience. “My goal has been to take representation to the next level here in Wrightwood, with social media marketing and professional still and drone photography. I’m always learning something new in real estate, whether it’s marketing and how to better present listings or finding tools that make things easier for buyers. This industry is continuously changing, and you have to adapt with it.”

Curtis says it’s a special privilege to work in partnership with his wife, Alicia, whose support has been integral to his success in real estate. “We work well together, and the husband/wife dynamic really plays well in a small town.”

Curtis describes himself as a full service Realtor® who will do whatever it takes to make a transaction go smoothly for his clients. “If I have to get my truck and haul some items

out of a house, I’ll head on over and get it done,” he says.

He’s also the kind of guy who stands by his word; you can always rely on Curtis to follow up and follow through.

High country living comes with some unique features and challenges, and Curtis understands them all. He is able to steer his clients to the right properties and around obstacles that could otherwise impede a transaction. “It’s not the sexiest thing to talk about, but we have septic systems here. We also have flood zones and a special subterranean termite in Wrightwood. Fires have not been an issue in the area, but fire insurance can be difficult to find if you don’t know where to go. Since we’re an unincorporated area, we have no city tax, which helps to offset the higher insurance cost. These are the kinds of things that can take buyers by surprise and that I can troubleshoot for them. Sometimes, 30-day escrows are tough up here. For instance, if the buyer is going FHA, they’ll need a geo survey. Sometimes, it’s just a bump in the road, other times, it can be a deal breaker. I can set realistic expectations and walk them through the process.”

Curtis has cultivated relationships with a whole team of specialists he can count on to help him get the job done, from tradespeople to real estate professionals. His circle includes Eddie Rea, an area resident and loan consultant at loanDepot. “Working with a trusted set of local professionals ensures that things go the way they should,” Curtis says.

Clients appreciate working with a professional who knows the area and is vigilant about advocating for their best interests. A recent buyer said: “Curtis was very helpful in finding the house in Wrightwood that worked for me.

He has tremendous knowledge regarding the town history and the growing housing market. As a Realtor®, his expertise during the purchasing and closing process created an organized and easy experience for me. Would highly recommend him.”

Another stated: “Highly recommend Curtis! He made the process easy and was very helpful and patient. We were first-time buyers, and he made things easy to understand, and we were very comfortable with him from the beginning. He was always easy to get in contact with and very willing to help with everything! Likely the best Realtor® we could have found!”

Although Curtis’s 13-year-old son has moved on from Little League, Curtis continues to support the team, as well as adult softball. He is a member of the local Lion’s Club and enjoys participating in community service projects. Curtis also loves the outdoors and is an avid

gardener. “What brought me here in the first place is how beautiful it is. It reminds me of Northern California.

Being able to live and work here is super special.”

If you’re seeking a Realtor® who works one-on-one with his clients and has the expertise to guide them through the nuances of high country life, Curtis is the agent for you. “I don’t work with a transaction coordinator. When it comes to handling 100 percent of the deal, that’s me. From the time you sign the listing agreement, we’re going to do everything together. I like to say I give people big city service with a small town feel.”

Curtis Schneider Country Life Realty 6050 Park Drive, PO Box 2820 Wrightwood, CA 92397 Tel: 760.662.9417 – 760.249.5000 Email: curt6577@yahoo.com Web: www.CountryLifeRealty.com DRE # 02007191

33800 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, Ca. 90265 Offered At: $44,500,000 | MLS#:21-706706 Beds: 4 | Baths: 5 | 1.9 Acres

Chris Cortazzo DRE # 01190363 COMPASS Tel: 310.457.3995 chris@chriscortazzo.com https://chriscortazzo.com

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Forever Views RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIFORNIA A retreat from the outside world! Outstanding BRAND-NEW construction in prestigious Rancho Santa Fe Covenant.

Warm Contemporary, clean and minimal Japanese-Zen meets California Casual, SINGLE story (not one step) with unobstructed FOREVER VIEWS, quiet, sophisticated open concept floorplan with sought-after modern finishes.

Disappearing pocket doors for seamless indoor/outdoor living with so many destinations to relax and entertain! Extraordinary, 5 bedroom suites main house (approx. 8,450 sqft) + detached guest house (approx. 800 sqft) with full kitchenette.

Beautifully landscaped courtyard framed with walls of windows & multiple doors, custom built water fountain, mediation garden and so much more! www.18080ViaDeFortuna.com.

Offered at: $12,500,000

Sonja Huter

DRE # 01384572

Luxury Home Specialist Top 5% Berkshire Hathaway HS Network Berkshire Hathaway HS California Properties

Tel: 619.246.2606 sonja@sonjahuter.com www.sonjahuter.com

Executive Agent Magazine 35

Bluff-Top Estate 322 W Avenida Gaviota, San Clemente, California Capturing whitewater ocean views from nearly every vantage point, this expansive bluff-top estate offers unparalleled privacy & state-of-the-art construction in one of San Clementes most coveted locations. Built in 2008 on a 27k sq ft lot, the ICF-constructed James Glover masterpiece blends Spanish revival architecture (complete with Santa Barbara smooth plaster and 100% mud roof!) with ultra-modern functionality. The great room & chefs kitchen transition through a collapsible 16 Albertini doors to a generous sunset view deck. Custom features includewalnut woodwork, teak Albertini windows & exterior doors and Yucatan limestone flooring. A floating spiral staircase leads to 2 ensuite bedrooms, game room, custom raw-wood bar & outdoor shower downstairs. Upstairs a penthouse master, office/ flex space, library, 2 ensuite bedrooms & an 800 sq ft bonus room which offers potential for separate living quarters with a private entrance and deck. Whether youre hosting lavish events, relaxing on the roof deck or blufftop fire pit, or playing games on your private peninsula shaped yard, there are dozens of settings to take in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. $8,450,000

Bree Hughes DRE # 01440050

Douglas Elliman Real Estate 28202 Cabot Road, Suite 510 Laguna Niguel, Ca. 92677 Tel: 949.556.2094 Bree.Hughes@elliman.com https://breehughesteam.com Executive Agent Magazine 37

Twin Oak Ranch 2667 Via De Los Ranchos, Los Olivos, CA 93427 Welcome to Twin Oak Ranch, an extraordinarily private and secluded ranch just minutes to Los Olivos, nestled within a grassy valley abundant with wildlife. The Italian Villa is timeless and blends seamlessly with Santa Ynez Valley’s natural landscape, totaling 249 acres of sanctuary. No expense was spared with the residence, natural stone from Turkey, reclaimed hardwood and handmade furniture imported from Columbia, a half ton front door, and an Italian plum tree highlight just a few of the unique features of this compound. The property also includes a horseman’s barn with training facilities and an upstairs apartment looking down into the foaling stalls. Twin Oak provides ultimate seclusion within arm’s reach of wineries, fine restaurants, a farmer’s market, great schools, shopping, airports, and a lively equestrian community. Plan a low key family picnic on the gorgeous grounds or entertain on a grand scale at the residence, Twin Oak has it all.

Offered at $14,480,000 38 Executive Agent Magazine

Bob Hurwitz

Jake Hurwitz

DRE # 00526195

DRE # 01960423

Hurwitz James Company

Hurwitz James Company

Tel: 310.477.8865

Email: Bob@thehjc.com

Tel: 310.477.8865 Email: Jake@thehjc.com

Executive Agent Magazine 39

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Pelican Ridge Estate 5 Seahaven, Newport Coast, California Perfectly situated in the prestigious guard gated community of Pelican Ridge Estates, Newport Coast, awaits this pristine home sitting on a gated lot boasting nearly 14,250 Sq.Ft with a double entrance circular drive leading to this breathtaking Estate with ocean, city lights and magnificent mountain-top views from nearly every room. High ceilings with meticulously crafted crown molding, crystal chandeliers and stone floors are throughout this stunning 4 bedroom, 7 bathroom estate with 5,654 Sq.Ft. of living space and a 4 car attached garage.

Offered at $6,295,000

Lee Ann Canaday

DRE # 00560041

Broker/Realtor/Owner Canaday Group | RE/MAX Fine Homes Tel: 949.249.2424 LeeAnn@CanadayGroup.com CanadayGroup.com Executive Agent Magazine 41

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Architectural beauty LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA An extraordinary opportunity to own a premier property on the ocean side in North Laguna. White water and Catalina views, just moments to the sand at Crescent Bay! This architectural beauty features an upstairs open concept spacious great room with American Walnut floors and large wood sash windows with natural light looking out to beautiful expansive ocean views. The master suite also enjoys stunning, romantic sunsets; located on the same floor as the great room, large gourmet kitchen with high end appliances and oversized dining room. This is an entertainer’s home with a downstairs theatre room with electric shades and projection screen, plus two additional bedrooms with en-suite baths. Located at the end of a quiet cul-de sac on a flat lot this property’s special features include a sparkling salt water pool, spa, firepit, sauna, built-in barbecue area and outdoor shower perfect after a day at the beach. All bedrooms include custom built in’s and all bathrooms including steam showers. There is attention to every detail with a dumb waiter, central vac-system and an elevator! The downstairs areas opens up to a second family room, beautiful fireplace and the wet bar is the ideal with the pool and spa right thru the sliding doors for indoor outdoor living. Last, but not least this home has a roof top deck with 360 degree views of the coastline during the day and the city light views of hills of Laguna Beach at night! This is a spectacular home! Virtual Tour: 1565ViaMajorca.com Offered at $4,699,000

Shauna Covington DRE # 00991380 Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

949.412.8088 direct shauna@shaunacovington.com http://shaunacovington.com Executive Agent Magazine 43

Trophy Property 438 Bent St, Laguna Beach, California World class “Trophy Property” on a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of Laguna Village. A rare combination of many elements: Near new construction with all modern luxury features; Blue Pacific panoramic coastal views with year round Catalina sunsets; Functions as a Multi Generational Home with separate living areas and that delightful two minute stroll to the heart of Laguna Village, shops, restaurants, Pageant Of The Masters, galleries with all the energy and activities of Main Beach Laguna. Only the highest level of construction materials, designer finishes, and architectural considerations were used while creating this masterpiece. Neutral color palette throughout, gourmet state-of-the-art kitchen with oversized Italian porcelain island, walk-in pantry, technical beamed ceilings, and custom cabinetry. Huge sliding glass French doors create seamless indoor/ outdoor living environments with privacy hedges, 1000+ Square feet of multiple decks/patios where one can take in panoramic ocean and Village views from all levels. Practical features include a private elevator for maximum convenience, iron clad security gated entry, and a provision for 6 car parking for visitors, guests and entertaining.

Offered at $6,125,000 44 Executive Agent Magazine

Shaun Hurley

DRE # 00870450

Broker, MBA First Team Real Estate 32451 Golden Lantern Suite 210 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 Tel: 949.463.4663 shaunhurleyhomes@gmail.com shaunhwy1@aol.com www.ShaunHurleyHomes.com Executive Agent Magazine 45

46 Executive Agent Magazine

Craftsman Masterpiece SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA Situated on a walk street, steps from the beach and Shutters Hotel, this 3 bedroom Craftsman with 2 bedroom guest house is a rare offering. There are ocean views, gracious public rooms, a cook’s kitchen and wood floors. Spacious outdoor porches are augmented by professionally designed gardens surrounding the house. 12 Seaview Terrace, Santa Monica, CA 90401. Visit us at www.12SeaviewTerrace.com Offered at $6,950,000

Sue Kohl

DRE # 00560679

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties Tel: 310.720.3400 suekohl@gmail.com www.SueKohl.com Executive Agent Magazine 47

Pit-Stop of Success: The Mid-Year Review

I

cies between the estimated and actual figures and correct problems as needed. I typically ask clients to send us their profit and loss statements every month because they are such a good management device.

If you said B, congratulations. Now, how often should you check how you’re doing on the road of real estate -your business plan?

3. Track where your business is coming from. Take a few minutes to jot down exactly what parts of your marketing plan are working and which are not. Don’t hesitate to shift funds from a mediocre medium to one that’s working better for you.

know you Realtors® do a lot of driving so here’s a driver’s ed question for you: When you’re driving, how often should you check your rear-view mirror?

A. Once every three minutes. B. Once every five to seven seconds. C. Once every 10 minutes. D. Never. You should always watch the road in front of you.

If you just said, ‘What plan?’ keep reading. You have some work to do.

Believe it or not, 2021 is officially half over. This halfway mark is a great time to stop and check how you’re doing in your business. Stop and take a look in the proverbial real estate rearview mirror. After all, if you don’t know how far you’ve come, you don’t know how much farther you have to go.

Think of it as a strategic pit stop. And these pit stops are just as important as your end-of-the-year assessments.

Why? Because if you’re veering off track, it’s best to catch it early before you hit a tree or something worse.

But what do you do in a mid-year pit stop? I’ve shared a few tips that might help you make sure you’re still on the road to success for 2021.

1. Check your sales numbers. How are your sales figures looking compared to last year at this time? If they’re less, identify what’s happening to cause that trend. I have a sales tracker I like to use with my clients. Shoot me an e-mail at Article@CorcoranCoaching.com and I’ll send it to you free of charge.

2. Review your profit and loss statements. The profit and loss statement can be a valuable planning and a management tool because it can help you estimate expected monthly and yearly income (based on reasonable predictions of monthly sales, costs, and expenses). Record your estimates on one copy of the profit and loss statement. As actual numbers come in, record them on a second copy of the statement. Then compare the two pages to find discrepan-

48 Executive Agent Magazine

4. Commit to be more focused on dollar-productive activities. If you’re not making headway toward your goals, look at how much of your day is spent on what I call the four dollar-productive activities: listing, selling, negotiating and prospecting. If you’re spending time outside of these four tasks, you may not reach your 2021 goals. Adjust your schedule and get help so that you can concentrate on these items. Don’t rule out getting an assistant. It doesn’t have to be a huge expense. Hire a part-time assistant just to give it a test run. You might find, like many of my clients, that you’ll soon want a fulltime assistant.

Let me hear from you. Have you spent time with this question of what is success to you? Do you have a clear definition of success that feels right to you? Do you feel you’re making progress toward that definition? Please send any comments or questions you have to Article@ CorcoranCoaching.com or http://www.facebook.com/ CorcoranCoaching.

Bob Corcoran is a nationally recognized speaker who is founder and president of Corcoran Consulting Inc. (CorcoranCoaching.com), an international consulting and coaching company that specializes in performance coaching and the implementation of sound business systems into the broker’s or agent’s existing practice. © 2011, Bob Corcoran. All rights reserved. For more information about this article or author, contact Susie@FrogPond.com. For the most current local Housing Trends, go to http://www.

HousingTrendseNewsletter.com.

Executive Agent Magazine 49

Nomination Form Nominate a fellow REALTOR® to be featured in one of our feature stories; on the cover as Executive Agent of the Month, or as a special feature story. All candidates must be nominated by a real estate professional. The selection process includes a questionnaire, personal interview, reference check and final approval by the Advisory Council. Candidates are evaluated based upon professionalism, length of service and uniqueness of story, as well as industry and community involvement.

DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE

TO NOMINATE? I Nominate: Name____________________________________________________________________ Company________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________________________________ Email____________________________________________________________________ Submitted By: Name____________________________________________________________________ Company________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________________________________ Email____________________________________________________________________ Fax/Email nomination to: Executive Agent Magazine PO Box 73384 San Clemente, CA 92673 Fax: 949.266.8757 Email: Fred@ExecutiveAgentMagazine.com Tel: 949.297.8323

Our bone marrow transplant reunion is now standing room only.

Each year, City of Hope invites bone marrow transplant recipients and their families to attend the “Celebration of Life” event. It’s a joyous time during which survivors of blood cancers such as lymphoma, leukemia and myeloma embrace their health, their life and each other. It began more than 35 years ago when City of Hope created what is now one of the largest and most successful bone marrow transplant programs in the world. In fact, we’ve completed over 11,000 transplants and, according to national reports, our outcomes are among the best in the nation. The goal of curing cancer isn’t just something we work at. It’s what we live for.

If you have cancer, make us your first call. Or ask your doctor for a referral. We accept most insurance.

800-826-HOPE

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WE LIVE TO CURE CANCER. Science saving lives. cityofhope.org/bmt

11/25/13 6:02 PM

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