Broker Q&A: Renee Grubb - Village Properties

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1412094849Renee Grubb, founder and co-owner of Village Properties, Santa Barbara County's largest independent real estate brokerage, shares how she got her start in the real estate industry and the path her career has taken.

How did you get your start in real estate? My husband and I did some fix and flip properties and became very familiar with contracts and the process of buying and selling in the 70's in Santa Monica, California. When we moved to Santa Barbara, I decided that a career in real estate would suit me. I began at a large company, worked hard and became a very good producer. I moved to a smaller independent company and after a few years there became the manager. This was during the 1990's recession. They ended up merging with another company and closed my office.

What path has your career taken? After the closure of my office I decided it best to open my own company. I asked a friend if he was interested and within six month Village Properties was in operation.

Why is your company successful? Village Properties has been successful because we have always put the agent first and our staff is there to help them become the best they can be. We also have always been involved in the community. We started our own nonprofit called "Village Properties Teacher's Fund" where we fund teachers with the supplies that she or he may need for their classroom that the district does not fund.

What are your favorite parts of your job? There are so many aspects of this business that I love. Helping our agents problem solve is a big part of what I do. One of my passions is marketing and coming up with new ideas to make us shine. We have a great staff that is there to implement as well as come up with ideas as well.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? I enjoy my grandchildren and spending time with them as often as possible. Going on hikes, especially in Mammoth, is a treat and I also love a good book.

For more information on Village Properties, please visit www.villagesite.com.