We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Forbes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My professional career actually began in law–I was formerly a practicing attorney. I received my J.D. from Loyola Marymount here in Southern California and worked at a litigation firm where I learned many of the principles I utilize selling real estate. As a lawyer, I was traveling for work frequently and was up for partner when my daughter was born. Following that milestone, I began looking for a career path that would give me more flexibility as a mother. That’s ultimately what inspired me to get my real estate license and start my own business.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’ve been in the business for nearly 30 years and it’s taken time, patience, and perseverance to build the team we have today. One of the most impactful things that has happened organically is bringing together team members who are former Division 1 and higher-level athletes. That shared background has really shaped the culture of our team. We operate almost like an elite sports team. Everybody works for the success of the group, supports one another, takes care of themselves, and encourages each other to do the same. We celebrate our wins together and help each other through challenges, both professionally and personally.

It’s taken me years of learning and growing to understand what it takes to build not just a successful business, but a healthy, balanced life. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that no one else will remind you to slow down and enjoy life outside of work—you have to take ownership of that yourself. While I absolutely love what I do, I’ve also realized how important it is to foster things outside of the business, something I’m finally prioritizing regularly.

What sets our brand apart is this balance of excellence and humanity. We hold ourselves to the highest standards for our clients while staying committed to each other’s well-being. That combination of discipline, care, and integrity is what makes our team, and the experience we deliver, truly different.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
One of the things I love the most about the South Bay is the beach and how easily accessible it is. I would definitely take them on a walk along The Strand at sunset. The views are amazing and it is the perfect time to enjoy the energy of the community.

Another thing that makes the South Bay so special is how walkable it is, especially in Manhattan and Hermosa Beach. From The Strand, you can head straight to some amazing restaurants along the main streets. For breakfast, my go to is Martha’s in Hermosa. For dinner, I love Love & Salt, or The Strand House if you want an ocean view. For drinks, Ercole’s is always a fun time for a game of pool, and the bar at Nick’s is another one of my favorites.

If we wanted to be active, we could drive to the foot of Palos Verdes and do some great hiking up in the Palos Verdes Peninsula. The trails offer incredible views and there are plenty of great spots nearby to grab lunch or dinner afterward.

Finally, I love how central the South Bay is. In just 45 minutes, you can see a play or musical at the Ahmanson Theatre, the Hollywood Pantages, or the Geffen Playhouse; enjoy concerts at local venues, and experience world-class sporting events.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The people I want to give credit to are our team members and our clients. They are truly the ones who keep me going. Our team’s involvement in non-profits has also been a huge source of purpose and inspiration. Each member has a passion project they are connected to and watching them dedicate themselves to those causes encourages all of us to give more of ourselves. Personally, I’ve found meaning in my volunteer work with the Divorce and Separation Support Group at American Martyrs, sponsoring individuals through Al-Anon, and supporting nonprofits such as NextStep Fitness and P.S. I Love You.

Website: https://laurenforbesgroup.com/

Instagram: @LaurenForbesGroup

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurensforbes/

Facebook: Lauren Forbes Group

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@laurenforbesgroup1665

Image Credits
Neue Focus, Interior Pro Images, Siri Berting, Paul Jonason

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