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: With rents as high as they are, liquidity and affordability tends not to be a factor for deciding if someone can make monthly rent costs or home owner costs. But if the client doesn't have the down payment, 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 someone 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: It's such a dynamic real estate market with something for everyone: first time homes, commercial opportunities, development plays. L.A. real estate is so diverse, exciting and fluid and there's never a dull moment.

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!

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

Luke Jones: It's very fast paced with the confluence of foreign capital pouring in, a lack of inventory and low interest rates creating a very frothy market. Chasing down deals and competing with all cash buyers is a fun challenge.

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

Luke Jones: Handing over the keys to a first-time buyer is such an amazing privilege and honor.

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 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 at 310-576-1446. We're here for you!