EXECUTIVE AGENT MAGAZINE ORANGE COUNTY - NOVEMBER 2021 by Executive Agent Magazine

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Executive Agent of the Month M a g a z i n e . O r a n g e

Sarah Lukasiewicz

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Cover Story Sarah Lukasiewicz Executive Agent of the Month Realtor® Sarah Lukasiewicz always knew she wanted to spend her career helping people. Early on, she thought her calling may be found in psychology or the law, but she discovered it instead in real estate.

25 Featured Professionals

08 Danny Siguenza Coldwell Banker Realty 4 Executive Agent Magazine

14 Mike King Better Homes and Gardens

Content

November, 2021

EXECUTIVE

You Have to See Your Happiness to Believe It -Shawn Achor

AG E N T M AG AZ I N E

PRESIDENT & CEO EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

Fred Arrias Values-Based Selling: What It Really Takes To Influence Human Behavior -Anne Bachrachro -Steve Cook

VICE PRESIDENT GRAPHIC DESIGN Garon Arrias

EDITOR Trudy Vanderhoff PROFESSIONAL PROFILES H.K. Wilson

How to Think Your Way to a Better Life -Tony Jearyke a Pro -Steve Cook

12 4 Ways to Plan Your Happiness -Patty Onderkoe a Pro -Steve Cook

06 Happiness Is Not in the Getting, Happiness Is in the Becoming -Jim RohnLike a Pro -Steve Cook

16 Little Things -Zig Ziglaratating Like a Pro -Steve Cook

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Herbert Clark Charlene Gates John Harris Chris Richards Ronald Taylor Crystal Widen PHOTOGRAPHY iPhotography Studio Ian Wiant 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 2021 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.

Executive Agent Magazine 5

4 Ways to Plan Your

HAPPINESS

Executive Agent Magazine

e put money in our 401(k)s. We take calcium supplements. We exercise. We hope these precautions will protect us as we age. But as we safeguard our money, bones and blood pressure, we forget to safeguard the one thing that can make a difference in the quality of our lives as we get older: our happiness. Decades of positive psychology research has shown high levels of subjective well-being (the combination of overall life satisfaction and in-the-moment positive feelings) can translate into better physical health and a longer life. In a 2011 report from the International Association of Applied Psychology, Edward Diener, Ph.D., a psychology professor emeritus at the University of Illinois, analyzed over 160 relevant studies and found that while positive feelings did not improve outcomes for people with certain diseases such as cancer, the evidence that happiness leads to better health is “clear and compelling.” Here’s how to start planning for your happy future: 1. Create meaning. “Well-being is a state that occurs when we consistently— and to the best of our abilities—align our day-to-day actions with our values and goals,” says Beth Vagle, a certified life and ADHD coach in Denver. “As we get older, this alignment is even more crucial to our well-being. We need to feel that our lives are meaningful. And rather than search for meaning, we need to actively create it.” How do you create meaning? Take time to reflect on your values and then find activities that honor those values, Vagle says. If you love learning, for example, make a list of regular habits that would fulfill this value, such as reading before bed or visiting local museums.

The values and goals you identify in yourself will likely be broad—“I want to make art” or “I enjoy nature”—and that’s OK. But for them to be useful, you need to dig deeper. “Humans aren’t very good at following through with action on abstract ideas such as, ‘I want to help people,’” Vagle says. “So get specific. Which people? Help them do what? Where can you do it? That might turn into something like, ‘I want to help kids learn to read.’” From there, you can research literacy programs and get started. 3. Prevent regret. A key question to ask ourselves when planning for happiness as we get older, Vagle says, is “What regrets don’t I want to have?” Write them down. Pick the one or two that feel most pressing. If you don’t want to regret not spending enough time with your children or grandchildren, for example, devise tangible steps you can take, such as playing cards with them every night or planning a special trip together. 4. Be a work in progress. “People who see themselves as works in progress are often the happiest as they age,” Vagle says. “These people always seek ways to be a better version of themselves than they were yesterday. That effort is satisfying in itself, but it also has a ripple effect on those around them.” If you’re working on being a better listener, say, it’s likely your friendships or marriage will improve, creating what positive psychologists call an upward spiral of happiness. -Patty Onderko

Executive Agent Magazine

EXECUTIVE AG E N T M AG AZ I N E

Written by H. K. Wilson

Danny Siguenza I

n her article entitled “10 Traits of a (Genuine) People Person: Do You Have Them?”, clinical psychologist Karen Nimmo stated that being a true people person involves far more than simply being gregarious or popular. She listed deeper traits like caring about other people, asking good questions, and the ability to see the world from other perspectives among her top 10.

Anyone who meets Realtor® Danny Siguenza is likely to brand him a people person right away. And not just of the superficial variety. Danny is the guy who always answers his phone and is always ready with a smile or a helping hand. He’s the guy who is part of the Worship Team at his local church and enjoys teaching kids to play music. A Los Angeles native, Danny graduated from the University of California, Riverside with a degree in economics and marketing. He was always enchanted by real estate, but he opted to start his career trading securities instead. With his uncompromising work ethic, Danny rose quickly at his company, earning a promotion and a transfer to New York City. Danny says he loved living and working in the city. “It was pretty much the same as LA in terms of being a melting pot of different people from different backgrounds. I love that about both places. But the environment there was so much more fast-paced. Everyone has big dreams, big aspirations. No matter what industry they’re in, everyone is Executive Agent Magazine

working hard and doing something big.” It wasn’t long, however, before this people person grew tired of a career spent sitting behind a computer. His thoughts turned back to his SoCal roots and his early interest in real estate. As a Realtor® at Coldwell Banker Realty in Newport Beach, Danny has discovered his passion in an industry where his gift for connecting with people, his financial expertise and his determination to help his clients to achieve their goals combine to create an extraordinary real estate experience.

Newport Beach After interviewing with many firms, Danny says he chose Coldwell Banker Realty for its professional, but collegial, environment. “Everyone is super nice and collaborative, which is exactly what I was looking for. This can be a dog-eat-dog industry, and I didn’t want that in my broker. I wanted a team environment. Plus, Coldwell Banker Newport Beach is the number one Coldwell Banker brokerage in the nation.” Danny is right at home among the industry’s top producers and has built a thriving real estate practice representing both buyers and sellers. His sophisticated understanding of financial markets also makes him an excellent choice for real estate investors. People choose Danny for his reliable and transparent communication and his willingness to go above and beyond on behalf of his clients. “The biggest complaints you hear about agents is a lack of communication,” he says. “My goal is to make sure there is never anything missing or lacking.” In a market where inventory is limited, Danny doesn’t leave his buyers’ fate to chance. He goes into neighborhoods and knocks on doors until he finds available homes in the areas where they want to live. Further, working with Coldwell Banker Realty’s biggest brokerage means that Danny has access to resources that many agents don’t. “We have so many people here, and we share information about what is on the market, what will be on the market soon and properties that are not on the MLS. There is so much opportunity to find my client what they’re looking for that an agent at a smaller firm might not have.”

Outside of real estate, Danny is busy training for his first triathlon, and he recently took up golf. In winter, he loves skiing and snowboarding. “I spend the rest of my time with my girlfriend and my family — my parents and my brother. I have a niece who is turning 5 that I also love spending time with.” When asked what is the highlight of his real estate career so far, Danny answered: “Meeting so many different and great people at different stages of their lives. Some are starting a family and looking for their first home. Others are ready to downsize. Whatever they need, I want people to know that I’m here to serve them, and my biggest concern is doing what’s best for them.” Danny Siguenza Coldwell Banker Realty 840 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 100 Newport Beach, CA 92660 Tel: 626.476.4051 Email: Danny.siguenza@cbrealty.com Web: https://www.coldwellbankerhomes.com/ca/newport-beach/agent/danny-siguenza/aid_239591/ DRE # 02136736

After working in the financial sector, Danny knows how to work under pressure and handle high-stakes transactions. His friendly nature puts people at ease while his expertise inspires confidence. “In real estate, a lot of the times it’s somebody’s biggest purchase. It’s important to me that clients are comfortable and trust me.” Executive Agent Magazine

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12 Executive Agent Magazine

How to Think Your Way to a Better Life

want to share with you a very simple mindset hack that you can use right now to change direction in your life.

What you’re about to read is simple. That’s why it works.

So, if you’re willing to cast aside overcomplicated solutions and instead go straight for results, then keep reading.

How is this possible? The answer is simple: When the captain of the sailboat knows precisely where he wants to go, those mighty and dangerous winds become tools in his hands for moving him to his destination. Paint Your Perfect Picture Most people cannot answer this question: “What does your perfect day look like?” In other words, they are in a sailboat without a plan. Life is like the mighty wind. Powerful, sometimes dangerous and even unpredictable. The people who have a specific plan are able to harness life and use it to propel them toward their goals. Those who cannot become victim to its push and pull. Plan Your Destination Strategically It takes more than just desire to plan a boating trip. You need maps, knowledge of the water, familiarity with your sailboat and (if you can get it) an experienced captain. The surefire way to sink a ship is to set sail without any of those things. Sounds crazy right? It is, and yet many who pursue success do exactly that. They make a plan but refuse to use the roadmaps and blueprints available to them. They have no knowledge or experience that they can rely on, and they often refuse to call on the help of more experienced individuals and mentors. You can counteract this, if you’re smart and use your head. Learn to be strategic about your plan.

The Inherent Dangers of Success If you’ve ever been on a sailboat in the middle of the ocean, then you’ve realized just how small and insignificant a bunch of wood and canvas is against the mighty winds of the ocean.

Are you ready to set sail on your success adventure? Tony Jeary is an author, executive coach and presentation strategist. Jeary has published more than three dozen books about making presentations and strategic effectiveness. He coaches the world’s top executives from companies.

And yet it’s not only possible but commonplace to leave the shore in a sailboat and return unharmed.

Executive Agent Magazine 13

EXECUTIVE AG E N T M AG AZ I N E

Written by H. K. Wilson

or all of the hardships and challenges brought by the pandemic, there are people who have managed to find a silver lining. They say that recent events have brought them closer to home, closer to family and closer to community. That has certainly been the case for Mike King. In addition to being a Realtor® at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Champions, Mike is also a professional musician, creative professional, entrepreneur and pilot, and a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. When Mike entered real estate more than a decade ago, he brought this extraordinary range of skills and experience to his practice. When the pandemic grounded Mike from flying and the Executive Agent Magazine

local gym closed, he found a new rhythm. He got more disciplined about his eating habits, got in the best shape of his life and spent more time with his family. Thursdays became his night to cook, and it often involved making authentic Italian sauces and other comforting recipes that require an unhurried hand. Mike had more time to think about his approach to business, too. He has owned and operated a marketing agency in conjunction with his real estate practice for the past six years, and his ability to capture beautiful photos and videos and to strategically position them in print and digital media has boosted the results he creates for clients. He’s been effective at marketing his own brand as well.

But seeing the effect that COVID was having on real estate, businesses and families in his community, Mike saw a new opportunity — an opportunity to create greater connection among people. He poured all of his skills into creating a community newsletter, a publication just for people in his hometown of Norco, a rural spot also known as “Horsetown USA.” In it’s inaugural issue, The Hitching Post proclaimed its mission: “To showcase the local businesses that treat us like family, our extraordinary neighbors and friends that bring joy to our lives, as well as local events and not so distant destinations that make this city special.” With its old-timey, cowboy vibes and small town appeal, The Hitching Post is a forum for local businesses to showcase their brands, to tell their stories and offer discounts to their neighbors. It is also a bulletin board for local happenings and a place to share family recipes. Its most recent edition honored a local hero, Lance Corporal Kareem Nikoui, one of the 13 U.S. service people killed in the suicide bombing in Kabul on August 26, 2021. In the emerging post-pandemic environment, many businesses need an extra boost, and many people need to feel a greater sense of connection with their neighbors. “Giving back for nothing has been so much fun,” Mike says. “The owner of the donut shop down the street knows my kids by name. We’ve been going there for years, and he always takes good care of us. He almost lost his business because of COVID, and a lot of businesses I’ve met are in the same boat.” Mike designed a new logo for Blue Ribbon Donuts to run with their ad in The Hitching Post. Mike is mailing copies of the newsletter to his own client base, as well as circulating it to over 30 local businesses. He hopes that it will be an opportunity for small businesses to remind their neighbors that they’re still in business and to buy local.

broker license. He continues to provide best-in-class service to his clients, offering them comprehensive real estate representation seasoned with integrity. Through his strategic alignment with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, Mike can offer his clients added value through programs like the company’s seller protection plan and expanded marketing package. “I am representing one of the people’s most prized possessions that represents what they’ve worked for their whole lives. Everything they value is in that home. I am sincere about protecting those values for the people I serve.” When asked what he loves most about real estate, Mike said, “What I love about real estate is the personal relationships that have grown over the years. My neighbors have become family, and gratitude is my biggest thing right now. Networking has become about community, and helping one another is definitely what makes this my favorite job so far.” Mike King Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Champions 19322 Jesse Lane Riverside, CA 92508 Tel: 951.905.1469 Email: mking@listsellhomes.com Web: www.listsellhomes.com DRE # 01889061

Mike may have been closer to home in these past months, but he has not been idle. In addition to founding The Hitching Post, he has been studying for his real estate Executive Agent Magazine

Happiness Is Not in the Getting, Happiness Is in the Becoming

eorge Leonard, in his book Mastery, talks about “enjoying the plateau.” This is an important point. So often, we find ourselves racing to get ahead, thinking so much about our next achievement that we can’t appreciate the time in between. We find ourselves losing our motivation. Happiness is not in the getting; happiness is in the becoming. Happiness is a universal quest. Happiness is a joy that comes as a result of positive activity. It has a wide variety of meanings, a wide variety of interpretations. Happiness is both the joy of discovery and the joy of knowing. It’s the result of an awareness of the full range of life. It’s opening yourself to experiences, sounds, harmonies, dreams and goals. It’s the joy that comes from designing a life that practices the fine art of living well. Happiness is being able to explore all that life offers. Happiness is quite often found in having options—options of doing what you want to, instead of doing what you have to. The option of living where you want to, instead of living where you have to. The option of looking like you want to, instead of settling for what you have to look like.

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Happiness is receiving and sharing, reaping and bestowing. Happiness is found in taking the time to enjoy what you’ve accomplished: enjoying the plateau, giving yourself credit when credit is due, patting yourself on the back for a job well done. Happiness is the here and now. Happiness isn’t the end result; happiness is part of the journey. There’s an old saying that goes, “The road to heaven, is heaven.” The happiness that you’re searching for in the future must be found today. The success you’re after in the future will only be found by working on it today. Motivation is generated when there is a balance between the need for active achievement and the satisfaction in taking the time to acknowledge what you’ve already achieved.

Take the time to reflect while you’re enjoying your plateau. And while you’re reflecting back on your past accomplishments, think about something else. Think about the potential within you that’s still untapped. Consider the following questions during your time of reflection. What could I have achieved in the past, had I been more diligent? Could I have been more disciplined? Worked smarter instead of harder? Said no more often to social functions and community commitments? What could I have achieved in the past, had I tried things a little different? Only you can answer this question. It’s very personal. While you’re reflecting and enjoying your plateau, all I’m asking is that you dig a little deeper and see if you can’t be just a bit more effective next time. Work a little smarter instead of a little harder.

If you take some time to thoughtfully answer question No. 1, you’ll probably have a clue as to what’s needed in the future. Do you need to work more diligently? Do you need to be more disciplined? Do you need to work smarter instead of harder? Do you need to say no more often? Do you need to manage your time better? That’s one of the keys to reflection. You can put down on paper what worked for you in the past and figure out ways to translate this information into action. You can design your future better if you can learn from your past. You can face your future with more excitement, more anticipation and more motivation when you design a future worth getting excited about. You can see your future and have it pull you forward. Just don’t forget to pat yourself on the back for what you have done so far. -Jim Rohn

How can I achieve more in the future?

Executive Agent Magazine 17

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You Have to See Your Happiness to Believe It

sychologists have long known that negative emotions narrow our thoughts and range of actions, which has served an important evolutionary purpose. In prehistoric times, if a saber-toothed tiger was running at you, fear and stress helped release chemicals that either prepared you to fight the tiger (which admittedly might not go very well) or flee from him (a contest you again might lose). Still, these were both better options than doing nothing and simply waiting to be attacked. So what evolutionary purpose would positive emotions have? Until recently, scientists were content to say that happiness merely makes us feel good, and end the inquiry there. Thankfully, the last 20 years have changed all that. Extensive research has found that happiness actually has a very important evolutionary purpose, something Barbara Fredrickson has termed the “Broaden and Build Theory.” Instead of narrowing our actions down to fight or flight as negative emotions do, positive ones broaden the amount of possibilities we process, making us more thoughtful, creative and open to new ideas. For instance, individuals who are “primed”—meaning scientists help evoke a certain mindset or emotion before doing an experiment—to feel either amusement or contentment can think of a larger and wider array of thoughts and ideas than individuals who have been primed to feel either anxiety or anger. And when positive emotions broaden our scope of cognition and behavior in this way, they not only make us more creative, they help us build more intellectual, social and physical resources we can rely upon in the future. Allow yourself to feel positive emotions by going outside of your comfort zone and trying new things. Recent research shows that this “broadening effect” is actually biological; that happiness gives us a real chemical edge on the competition. How? Positive emotions flood our brains with dopamine and serotonin, chemicals that not only make us feel good, but dial up the learning centers of our brains to higher levels. They help us organize new information, keep that information in the brain longer and retrieve it faster later on. And they enable us to make and sustain more neural connections, which allows us to think more quickly and creatively, become more skilled at complex analysis and problem solving, and see and invent new ways of doing things. We even quite literally see more of what’s around us when we’re feeling happy. A recent University of Toronto study found that our mood can actually change how our visual cortex—the part of the brain responsible for sight—processes information. In this experiment, people were primed for either positivity of negativity, then asked to look at a series of pictures. Those who were put in a negative mood didn’t process all the images in the pictures—missing substantial parts of the background—while those in a good mood saw everything. Eyetracking experiments have shown the same thing: Positive emotions actually expand our peripheral line of vision.

20 Executive Agent Magazine

Think of the edge all this gives us in the workplace. After all, who wouldn’t want to see out-of-the-box solutions, spot opportunities, and better see how to build upon the ideas of others? In today’s innovation-drive knowledge economy, business success in practically every job or profession hinges on being able to find creative and novel solutions to problems. For example, when researchers at Merck first began studying the effects of a drug called Finasteride, they were intent on finding a cure for benign prostatic hyperplasia, otherwise known as an enlarged prostrate. During checkups with the research subjects, though, they learned that many of the participants were experiencing a weird side effect: They were re-growing hair. Fortunately, the Merck researchers could see the billion-dollar product hiding in the unexpected side effect, and Propecia was born. The Happiness Advantage is why cutting-edge software companies have foosball tables in the employee lounge, why Yahoo! has an in-house massage parlor, and why Google engineers are encouraged to bring their dogs to work. These aren’t just PR gimmicks. Smart companies cultivate these kinds of working environment s because every time employees experience a small burst of happiness, they get primed for creativity and innovation. They see solutions they might otherwise have missed. Famed CEO Richard Branson has said that, “more than any other element, fun is the secret of Virgin’s success.” This isn’t just because fun is, well, fun. It’s because fun also leads to bottom-line results. 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.

Executive Agent Magazine 21

Values-Based Selling: What It Really Takes To Influence Human Behavior

he purpose of this article is to stimulate your thinking about what really influences human behavior and, if it’s not working, to get you to think beyond your current approach to building long-term business relationships. There are three ways to influence human behavior. The most common and least powerful way is by addressing needs. More, but not the most, powerful are wants. And, by far, the most effective way to influence human behavior is through core values. Values-Based Selling is the key to deliberately getting people emotionally involved and creating trust. Don’t confuse “values-based” selling with “value-added” marketing. I am not suggesting that you ignore needs; however, we no longer live in a needs-oriented society. Why are needs the least powerful way to influence human behavior? Needs are tied to “shoulds”. For instance, take statements like “I should save money”; “I should make more investments”; “I should make better decisions”; “I should get a financial plan”; or “I should have more discipline”. The key to guiding people toward smart choices is to get them to want to. Tangible wants are a step in the right direction. Tangible wants, such as early retirement, vacation homes, good schools for the kids, new car, estate protection, travel, and other goals are incentives to seek advice.

22 Executive Agent Magazine

But, in truth, even wants don’t have the emotional pull that values do. Values are intangible feelings. Intangible, pure, undiluted feelings like love, pride, security, freedom, making a difference, independence, accomplishment, self worth, and so forth are key factors in influencing behavior. Values illuminate people’s emotional motives so clearly, they must take action ... for their own reasons. Needs have the power to illuminate emotional motives as much as the penlight on your key ring, while wants work like your average flashlight. Values, however, illuminate emotional motives like a row of halogen high-beams on the front of a Mercedes on the Autobahn. Your prospects and clients are most likely to take action on your ideas when they feel a strong emotional connection to them. Your job is to illuminate their emotions so they fully understand the relationship between smart decisions and fulfilling their life values. Your job isn’t to be a traditional sales person and sell the “old school” way. Everyone has a unique “values hierarchy”. Just like fingerprints, no two values hierarchies are alike. When you stimulate a conversation with current and prospective clients about their values (what is truly important to them), they will become emotionally involved, you can touch on their ranking of values, understand them at a deeper level, and you can dramatically shorten the time it takes to gain their trust. Emotional involvement and trust are two critical elements in creating profitable client relationships.

Without realizing it, you project your own values when you promote yourself. How do you feel when people project their values on you? Do you like it? Are you anxious to do business with people who project their values on you? You can’t get people emotionally motivated when discussing your values. You do it by talking about their values. The first logical question to ask yourself is, “How do I get people to talk about what is important to them (their values)?” Then, ask yourself, “How do I use that information in a positive way? How does this create trust?” Listen for words and phrases like freedom, control, satisfaction, making a difference, independence, feel really good, pride, achievement, contribution, oneness with God, etc. These are indicators that you are on the right track, because they represent values. And values are emotional and they create positive emotional feelings in the person you are speaking with. The thing to remember is that when needs-oriented planning leaves your client flat, try focusing on your clients values instead. Needs simply don’t have the emotional punch to influence human behavior.

Remember, the least effective approach is to try to satisfy client needs. A better approach is to help clients get what they want and desire. The most effective sales professionals help clients fulfill their values in life. Differentiate yourself! Don’t be a traditional salesperson, become a Trusted Sales Professional. Anne M. Bachrach is President of A.M. Enterprises. Copyright© 1999, Anne M. Bachrach. All rights reserved. Anne has 16 years of experience training and coaching. Her main focus is training entrepreneurs and salespeople how to build high-trust relationships, on purpose (ValuesBased Selling™). The objective is to do more business in less time through maximizing people’s true potential, and ultimately leading them to an even better quality of life. For information on about Anne M. Bachrach, please contact The Frog Pond Group at 800-704-FROG (3764) or email susie@frogpondgroup.com;http://www.frogpondgroup.com.

Executive Agent Magazine 23

Know of a Realtor doing amazing things? NOMINATE them to be our next ®

Executive Agent of the Month

EXECUTIVE AGENT MAGAZINE

Sarah Lukasiewicz Executive Agent of the Month

Sarah Lukasiewicz Written by H. K. Wilson - Photography by Ian Wiant

ealtor® Sarah Lukasiewicz always knew she wanted to spend her career helping people. Early on, she thought her calling may be found in psychology or the law, but she discovered it instead in real estate.

fessional who is doing exactly what she set out to do. At eHomes in Newport Beach, she is fulfilling her purpose by guiding people through one of life’s biggest events, the purchase or sale of a home.

“The reason that I got into my dream career was to push the envelope on being able to help, inspire, influence and empower others. Not only for my clients, my network, but most importantly for my daughter. I want her to know that there is absolutely nothing that can or will stand in my way of not only setting goals as big as I can dream, but that I will achieve them as well, and that she, too, can dream of limitless heights to conquer her world!”

A single mother for many years, Sarah knows what it means to work hard for the things you want. She is smart, intuitive and tireless in her determination to help her clients find the home of their dreams or sell and move on to the next adventure that life has in store. “I set the bar high because I am hard working, extremely knowledgeable and committed. I am here to be their advocate, their voice. I help guide them through each and every step of the way. Together we overcome any challenge that may surface during the escrow process.”

These many years later, Sarah is an accomplished pro-

Executive Agent Magazine

Inspiring and Empowering Others Through Real Estate A #1 Zillow Requested Agent, Sarah has received numerous heartfelt reviews and notes of thanks from her community of clients. She earns people’s trust by being a good listener, paying attention to detail and following through on her promises. According to Sarah, her brand is defined by a reputation that “lasts throughout my clients’ entire real estate endeavors, to not only satisfy their needs, but to be referred to their friends and family.”

A recent buyer said: “Thank you, Sarah, for helping us successfully find and buy our first home in an extremely competitive market! Sarah toured so many homes with us and helped us find the perfect house. She helped make the offer process and escrow very seamless and she was very organized and helpful. We couldn’t have done it without you.”

Executive Agent Magazine

A seller with unique circumstances shared this: “I inherited a home from my great grandmother, and it was stated in the will that the home be sold. I was nervous because I didn’t know the first thing about selling a house. I went to see my favorite Realtor® at her office! A hero in a cape named Sarah Becerra greeted me, and I immediately felt at ease. She sat me down and went over all my options. I wasn’t just selling a house, I was selling over four generations’ worth of memories, and I knew I didn’t want to just sell it to anyone. Before I even said anything, Sarah had asked if I preferred to sell to a family over an ‘investor.’” She continued, “It only took about three weeks to sell the house. From putting it up for sale to getting an offer to me accepting the offer and heading into escrow! I highly recommend Sarah to anyone who is looking to buy or sell a home because 100% the client comes first, and that’s the way it should be!”

Executive Agent Magazine

“Find a purpose to be a purpose!” Daily, Sarah lives by a quote from Realtor® Sarah Lukesiewicz: “Find a purpose to be a purpose!” It is with this ethos in mind that she gives back to her community through her support of organizations like Baja Love Outreach (https://www.bajaloveoutreach.com/about-us) and Be The Match (https://bethematch.org/). She enjoys giving a portion of each transaction to these worthy causes. “Both of these foundations are extremely important to me, as both represent challenges that my life has crossed paths with. I believe the children of this world should never feel the pain of what it’s like to struggle for what they need to become the best versions of themselves (Baja Love Outreach). And both of my grandfathers passed away from cancer (Be The Match). I am honored to say that my current mentor and the owner of eHomes, Elmer Morales,

has just conquered his very own battle with lymphoma — and won — to be able to say he is a cancer survivor! In the end, nobody remembers how many transactions you closed, but how you impacted people and what you gave back.” Sarah’s family is now made up of her daughter Staysha and her loving and supportive husband Joshua, who is also an industry professional. They are looking forward to expanding their family further with a new puppy. “My family is my rock, and they are my biggest supporters — my ‘why!’” Spend a few minutes getting to know Sarah, and you’ll quickly recognize her authenticity and care. For her, being a Realtor® is more than a job; it is a calling defined by trust, and she will stop at nothing to help you achieve your dreams.

Executive Agent Magazine

Sarah Lukasiewicz eHomes 4121 Westerly Place, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Tel: 714.482.8943 Email: SarahLukasiewicz@ehomesteam.com Web: sarah.ehomesteam.com #yourfavoriteREALTOR® DRE # 01981229 National Association of Realtors® California Association of Realtors® Orange County Association of Realtors® National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals®

Florence Mattar DRE #00777136 C. 310.927.2777 Estates@FlorenceMattar.com BeverlyHillsPalace.com

PRIME LOWER BEL AIR, FEW DOORS FROM THE FAMOUS BEL AIR HOTEL, GATED AND PRIVATE RESORT SETTING, OVER 2 ACRES, ADJACENT TO $100 MILLION PLUS ESTATES, READY TO BE REDONE. Offered at $28,000,000

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Private Estate On Billionaires Road Privately nestled on Billionaires Road on Beverly Hills most coveted desirable cul-de-sac North of Sunset Boulevard. Mid-century style, 3-story with approximately 5,600 sq. ft. on 20,364 sq. ft. Lot with 96 ft. frontage x 210 ft. depth, great open floor plan with 5 bedrooms, 6 baths, formal living, dining room, large open kitchen, family room, sunroom, laundry room, large basement bonus room perfect for child’s playroom, movie theater, or additional family room, large pool, child’s play gym, basketball court, putting green, beautiful landscaping, 2-car garage plus 2-carport, set behind gates offering privacy and security. Perfect celebrity hideout. Close to all of Beverly Hills finest restaurants, shopping and hotels. 968 N. Alpine Dr., Beverly Hills, CA. $15,995,000

Felix Pena

DRE # 01414250 HILTON & HYLAND Tel: 310.256.0770 felix@hiltonhyland.com

Rena Aminpour

DRE # 00993017 RODEO REALTY Tel: 310.877.7027 renaaminpour@sbcglobal.net

Executive Agent Magazine 35

Villa Blue Sea San Jose Corridor, Mexico Welcome to your personal oceanfront escape, Villa Blue Sea. This contemporary masterpiece features sweeping ocean views to be enjoyed all around. Just steps away from the Sea of Cortez you will enjoy the sounds of waves meeting the shore. Sitting on the sand this home was designed to offer seamless indoor/outdoor living. Whether you spend your time in the gorgeous infinity edge pool overlooking the water or enjoy a cocktail by the bar, your options to enjoy the ocean air are endless. It does not stop there, in through the massive pocket doors spanning the living space more comfort awaits. Relax in the large living space, enjoy a meal at the live edge dining table or cook up a gourmet feast in your professional grade kitchen.In the Master Suite, you are again met with sea views. The floor to ceiling glass doors capitalize on the amazing oceanfront location. The ample master ensuite offers his and hers facilities and built-in closets. Enjoy the uniquely round TV viewing room for watching a film or catching a game. Moving down the main corridor and into the awe-inspiring rotunda foyer with Torote tree, this grand entrance is sure to amaze. Off the foyer the are 3 additional bedrooms, each offering a private ensuite bathroom. Finally 2 Casita style bedrooms with shared bath complete the home. This opportunity should not be missed, with contemporary architecture, this beach front home is one of only a few properties offering this unique style in the Los Cabos Market. Your chance to own this amazing property in the exclusive and highly private community of Blue Sea is here. Perfectly situated in the middle of Cabo and San Jose it’s just a short trip either direction to take advantage of all the incredible benefits Los Cabos has to offer. 6 Bedrooms, 5 Bathrooms, 2 Half Bathrooms. Offered at $8,000,000

Gary Massa License: MXLIC-RAPIBCS-001 Ronival Real Estate Tel: 769.889.7701 g.massa@ronival.com gary.findmexicohouses.com 36 Executive Agent Magazine

The seductive natural beauty, laid-back vibe and world-class amenities have converged to turn Punta Mita into Mexico’s most coveted hideaway.

©2020 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.

Punta Mita, has become one of Mexico’s most prestigious gated communities and resort destinations. It is the sensual breezes of the Pacific Ocean and a clear evening sky peppered with stars. It is Oceanside Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses and fiery sunsets. It is families, friends and colleagues gathering to share adventures.

As a property owner I would be delighted to introduce you to this magical place. Call me at 949-275-2775 to discuss real estate in Punta Mita and how you can try before you buy. You are one phone call away from finding your dream home.

Coleen Brennan Private Office Advisor +1 949-275-2775 coleen.brennan@evrealestate.com DRE # 01003247 S U R F · G O L F · T E N N I S · S W I M · F I S H · H I K E · R U N · B I K E · S PA · D I N E · R E L A X

Luxury Beach Living 5505 River Avenue, Newport Beach, CA Just steps from the sand, this newly constructed home offers luxury beach living with four bedrooms, three baths, on a premier corner location with a rare oversized first floor patio, decks on each level as well as a rooftop deck. This contemporary home features an open concept gourmet kitchen with Carrara marble counters and backsplash, 6-burner Wolfe range, built-in Wolfe microwave drawer, Sub-Zero refrigerator, an impressive kitchen island, and custom cabinets. The kitchen opens to the dining room, living room and a second story deck. The master suite is the perfect retreat with high ceilings, a private deck, and an incredible spa-like bath with custom stone work, dual sinks, soaking tub, walk-in shower, and two walk-in closets with California Closet built-ins. The master retreat occupies the entire third level which leads to the rooftop deck offering endless ocean view and amazing sunset views. There are three additional spacious bedrooms and two additional well-appointed baths boasting custom cabinets with stone-clad counters. Other amenities include: new wide plank light oak hardwood flooring, speaker system, Nest climate control for air conditioning and heating, custom window coverings, attached two-car garage plus a rare third parking space, outdoor fully enclosed shower, dual tankless water heaters, and much more. Enjoy beach living at its finest along with the amenities of the Echo 56 Community complete with private parking, landscaped walkways and access to the best beach and surf in Newport Beach - Echo Beach/56th Street. Price: $3,199,000 40 Executive Agent Magazine

Tori Rimlinger DRE # 01512376 COMPASS Tel: 949.378.6200 tori.rimlinger@compass.com https://www.compass.com/agents/tori-rimlinger Executive Agent Magazine 41

Trophy TrophyProperty Property

t is not you you find find an exterior environment that that is lush withwith natural forest beauty combined withwith fruitfruit trees,trees, vincavinca and wisteria dotted withwith magnificent t is often not often an exterior environment is lush natural forest beauty combined and wisteria dotted magnificent streams and and ponds and and unexpected spaces to just sit and enjoy. ThisThis is the Property you you havehave beenbeen waiting for. The stately custom Lodge has an streams ponds unexpected spaces to just sit and enjoy. is Dream the Dream Property waiting for. The stately custom Lodge has an English-Country feel feel and and impeccably builtbuilt by highly acclaimed RonRon Dolman. The The 2.8 acre grounds meander around to a to sixa horse stable barnbarn withwith English-Country impeccably by highly acclaimed Dolman. 2.8 acre grounds meander around six horse stable Tac Tac Room, FeedFeed Room, Birthing Barn, Corral, Tractor BarnBarn and and the adjacent 1.8 acre landland features a fenced riding arena withwith hitching posts, lights and and Room, Room, Birthing Barn, Corral, Tractor the adjacent 1.8 acre features a fenced riding arena hitching posts, lights sprinklers!! There are 4are gorgeous Bedroom Suites withwith a Separate Guest SuiteSuite that that has ahas private entrance. Gentleman’s Game Room withwith Bar.Bar. Formal sprinklers!! There 4 gorgeous Bedroom Suites a Separate Guest a private entrance. Gentleman’s Game Room Formal Dining Room. Open, airy airy Kitchen withwith all amenities. Massive highhigh beamed ceilings. 6 Fireplaces. 3+ Car Attached Garage. Privately Gated. Includes Dining Room. Open, Kitchen all amenities. Massive beamed ceilings. 6 Fireplaces. 3+ Car Attached Garage. Privately Gated. Includes $3,180,000. Sellers Dock Slip Slip and and the Vacant Land. Celebrity Status Property. TextText or Call Lynne B. Wilson for more information, 951-741-7117. $3,180,000. Sellers Dock the Vacant Land. Celebrity Status Property. or Call Lynne B. Wilson for more information, 951-741-7117.

DRE# 01509039 DRE# 01509039

Call or Text: (951) 741-7117 Arrowhead Office: (909) 337-2080 Call or Text: (951) 741-7117• •Lake Lake Arrowhead Office: (909) 337-2080 Website: CottagestoCastles.net • Email: info@Lynneonthego.com • YouTube Video: http://lynnebwilson.com/watch/ Website: CottagestoCastles.net • Email: info@Lynneonthego.com • YouTube Video: http://lynnebwilson.com/watch/

One of a Kind Italian Lodge

ituated within Lake Arrowhead Mountain Resort with Lake Rights! This custom Residence enjoys a Full Regulation Lighted and Fenced Tennis Court! In addition to the Main House, there is an entirely separate Guest House which contains Living Room, Formal Dining Area, Kitchen, Large Studio or Office and beautiful Bedroom Suite with gorgeous Master Bathroom. Guest House also includes 2 Full Baths, Laundry Room and 4 Car Garage. There is an additional 4 Car Garage with Office separate from Main House. The exquisite Italian Lodge includes 4 Bedroom SUITES, large Gym with Bath and Sauna which could be a 5th Bedroom. Grand Foyer. Dramatic Living Room. Kitchen and Great Room combination is ideal for entertaining. True Formal Dining Room. Circular Breakfast Room. Chef’s Dream Kitchen! Separate Structure Tea House! Privately Gated. Seclusion! Room for Horses. State-of-the-Art Generator System within separate structure. Irrigation Well. Approx. 6,753 square feet of living space in the Main House. Fenced Land is approx. 2.6 Acres. This Paradise is perfect for the Celebrity or Executive who commands security and total seclusion. Text or Call Lynne B. Wilson for more information, 951-741-7117. $2,800,000.

Call or Text: (951) 741-7117

DRE# 01509039

• Lake Arrowhead Office: (909) 337-2080

Gracious Cape Cod with wood floors, custom cabinetry, four balconies, and wonderful ocean and mountain views. Quiet corner lot with two driveways, mature landscaping, lovely patios, decks, and grounds for entertaining. The living room has a deep bow window, library shelving, fireplace, and ocean views. The family room has a dramatic crocodile-tile fireplace, wet bar, French doors to an ocean-view garden patio for dining and lounging. The gorgeous kitchen has a large Caesarstone island with bar seating and an end-cap flat screen facing lounge area, top-quality appliances, a built-in desk, and a stunning Ann Sacks tile backsplash. The kitchen extends to an ocean-view dining area with three sets of French doors to a scenic balcony. Even the laundry/mudroom is impressive, with heavy-duty drawers, an extra deep sink, built-in drying racks, and a foot shower/dog bath. There is also an en-suite bedroom on the ground floor. The upstairs bedrooms include the ocean-view owner’s suite, with very high ceilings, sitting area, office, custom closet, private balcony, and a sensational bathroom with striking tile work and cabinetry. The top-floor bedrooms, with steep wood-plank ceilings, have an additional den/family room between them. With multizone air conditioning and built-in Sonos sound, this is a home of enormous comfort and exceptional quality wrapped in memorable views in all directions. Offered at: $2,885,000 44 Executive Agent Magazine

C ape Cod Ocean View 2962 Valmere Drive, Malibu, CA

Chris Cortazzo

Roman Jensen

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

DRE # 02040258 COMPASS Tel: 310.579.5469 roman@chriscortazzo.com https://romanjensen.com Executive Agent Magazine 45

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Mission Hills Private Estate 6 bedrooms plus office /study 5 full bathrooms, 2 half bathrooms. On almost 1 acre view lot in private gated setting. Vanishing edge pool, spa, office, living room, family/game room, dining room with custom hand painting, wood flooring, intricate moldings, custom fireplaces etc. Call for Pricing

Melissa Goldstein Tucci Broker/Realtor Broker #01380034 COLDWELL BANKER Direct: (619) 787-6852 Email: Sold@MelissaTucci.com www.MelissaTucci.com OFFICIAL REAL ESTATE AGENT OF THE SAN DIEGO PADRES

Executive Agent Magazine 47

Little Things

gentleman I know quite well had an interesting experience recently. His wife was recuperating at home from surgery and maintaining a light schedule. She could move about but getting up and down and bending were particularly painful. A couple of days after she came home from the hospital he was up early in the morning and went downstairs for a cup of coffee. His favorite cup was in the dishwasher and as he retrieved it he noticed that the dishwasher was full of clean dishes. Remembering that his wife was recuperating, he unloaded the dishwasher which only took about five minutes. After finishing his coffee he went back to the bedroom to get ready for work and left before his wife went to the kitchen. That evening when he returned home she gave him a big hug and thanked him profusely for what he had done. She said, “Honey, I cried when I realized I would not have to bend over all of those times and lift those dishes out.” He had made a simple gesture, but it spoke volumes to his wife. It indicated that he genuinely cared for her, her comfort and well-being. It was not monumental but isn’t it true that the “little things” make the big difference in life?

48 Executive Agent Magazine

Think about it. If your watch is slow by just four minutes, that’s not much - unless you’ve been warned that if you’re even one minute late ever again you will be fired. Then four minutes make a big difference. The message is simple but clear: Be sensitive to the needs of others and remember the “little things” in life because they make big differences. Take that approach to life and I’ll SEE YOU AT THE TOP! 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.

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 Tel: 949.297.8323 Fax: 949.266.8757 Email: FArrias45@gmail.com

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

COH-0726_BMT_Hem_fp_4c_ExecAgt.indd 1

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

11/25/13 6:02 PM

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