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

Hi Vanessa, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
The biggest misconception about being a real estate agent is how much nuance there is in the business. Not only are we the biggest economic drivers and wealth makers within our communities but we are also tasked to deal with individuals on a personal and intimate level. Dealing with different individuals can seem to be the easiest task but moods and personalities are very different. Finding a way to navigate that while also making them feel safe during a very confusing and exciting time in their lives can be very difficult but in my experience the most rewarding.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am most excited about the interior design aspect that has entered into my life. It is a very fun experience to create spaces for people that they will love, enjoy and make memories in. The best part is that it was something that occured organically. I started by giving small ideas to friends once they began to move into their new spaces. My ideas evolved to room designs and then staging of the homes we list for sale.

Yes, it was easy because it came as second nature.

I feel like it is very important for people to know that there is nothing that can stand in your way if you want to accomplish a goal. In my five years in real estate I have never met anyone that has failed the real estate exam as much as I have. As a child i struggled in school because I have dyslexia and it was something that my teachers did not hide and made me feel worse about. That eventually made it harder for me to continue learning as I got older. There is something that I truly am and it shows in my business and work ethic and it is that I am very passionate. Once I am in, I am in and I work my ass off no matter what it takes to achieve what I or now what my clients need. Despite failing the exam multiple times today I am a top producing agent in my team, while still being a loving wife and mother to two beautiful kids. Ultimately, I know that life is hard but I also want to show everyone that our struggles can also be our strengths.

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.
Ok so I SURF so we would have to visit the amazing beach cities in the South Bay from Hermosa to Redondo YOU CAN NOT BEAT the cleanest and most exclusive beaches in the city and where I currently live, and spend some amazing California days, I love the Ocean. — a couple of my favorite places in Los Angeles is a hike in Rancho Palos Verdes, Lunch at Justin Quesos in West Hollywood, Dinner at Casa Sanchez with the best service and live marachi music all night long over some tequila shots and going out dancing salsa or Wednesday nights at Dub Club at the Echo.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Stephanie Gutierrez – StephSellsHomes Huge inspiration, the solo work she is done is phenomenal. I am inspired by her work ethic, drive and what an amazing mother she is.

Website: https://vanessa.sereneteam.com/

Instagram: mamabearrealtor_vaness

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