3 Minutes on a Park Bench with Luke Jones of WSR Brokerage

We emailed Patch partner Luke Jones of WSR Brokerage and he recommended three great books everyone should read.

Patch: What do you take into consideration when helping a client decide is buying or leasing is right for them?

Luke Jones: If the client hasn't got the downpayment, isn't pre-qualified for a loan and doesn't have the time to invest in the buying process, then we'd encourage them to stick with leasing until they're good and ready. We can get them on the path to home ownership, but we'll know pretty quick if they're really ready to take the next step.

Patch: If you had to recommend three books, what would they be and why?

Luke Jones: "Money: Master the Game" by Tony Robbins is an awesome book about planning for financial well being. A must read. "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer is an extraordinary book about mountaineering that is analogous for all the challenges we face in life. And Khalil Gibran's "The Prophet" is a wonderfully simple and yet profound book that inspires anyone who reads it.

Patch: What’s the best thing about selling homes in your area?

Luke Jones: Bell Canyon is a truly unique and wonderful, family oriented community and so whether we're finding a first home for a new family or helping an expanding family, like our wonderful clients with a gorgeous home at 38 Appaloosa Lane, grow into a larger home or, indeed, helping empty-nesters downsize, we love working hand-in-hand with our clients to fulfill their goals, realize their dreams and enrich their lives. From the first moment we meet to the day we hand them the keys, we feel like part of their family. And if we do our job, we would hope to have our clients be part of our brokerage family for years to come.

Patch: What’s the strangest thing that’s ever happened to you when showing a house?

Luke Jones: Nothing ever seems strange anymore. We've seen it all! Probably the most rewarding and strange experience was when one of our buyer clients looking for their first home in Bell Canyon went into active labor the very second we showed them the house they eventually bought. That was an emotional day for sure!

Patch: How’s the market in town these days?

Luke Jones: Right now I would say Calabasas, Hidden Hills and our favorite area of Bell Canyon are going through a very dynamic and hot seller's market. But with predominantly residential areas such as these, we're very much at the mercy of consumer confidence on the high street, employment and interest rates. It ebbs and flows and we're probably reaching the peak of the current cycle. But whether it's a seller's market now or a buyer's market tomorrow it's always busy and always fulfilling. Never a dull moment!

Patch: What is your favorite part about working in the real estate industry?

Luke Jones: I have three, equally favorite things about working in this business: Handing over the keys to a first time buyer, helping them get a foot on the housing ladder and watching the huge smiles on the faces of little kids when they see their new big house for the first time!

Patch: What sets one real estate broker apart from another? And how are you unique?

Luke Jones: This business is not rocket science. It's about clear communication, moving fast, being nimble and always having a smile. We're all unique in our own way, but being approachable and polite with a can-do attitude is very disarming and effective.

Patch: What’s your advice to someone who’s looking to buy a new home right now?

Luke Jones: Unless you're an all cash buyer, get pre-qualified and make sure you work with an agent who you trust and enjoy hanging out with. Buying a home is an intense process and you've got to find the fun in it!

Patch: What advice would you give to someone trying to sell his or her house?

Luke Jones: It takes a village, so surround yourself with experts, do a ton of research and listen when the market speaks. If you have realistic expectations and understand the fundamentals, selling will be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Patch: How can readers contact you?

Luke Jones: You can find us at www.wsrbrokerage.com or call me on 310-576-1446. Alternatively, come by one of our open houses at 38 Appaloosa Lane in beautiful Bell Canyon. But move fast. This house will sell fast!