FROM LEFT: Suzanne Perkins; Suzanne Perkins' listing on Padaro Lane in Carpinteria
Suzanne Perkins
Sotheby’s International Realty, Santa Barbara
How did you come to establish your business in the Santa Barbara area?
I got into real estate in 1991 when there was no business whatsoever. Agents weren’t handling high-end rentals, so I made myself available to those who wanted to rent instead of buy.
What is special about the Santa Barbara area from a real estate standpoint?
The geography and proximity to the ocean. Behind our mountain ranges, about a mile from the ocean, is all national forest—more than a million acres. There’s no place to expand.
What makes Santa Barbara particularly attractive to residents of Los Angeles who are looking for a second home or getaway?
It’s just close enough to LA—basically an hour and 20 minutes or so.One of the reasons LA people love it here is it’s not congested.
You have received many awards for being a top professional in your field. What is your secret to succeeding in an intensely competitive business?
I think my secret—and it’s not a secret—is attention to detail. I’m available to my clients basically 24/7. I’m meticulous and committed to providing for my clients.
Sotheby’s International Realty, 1106 Coast Village Road, Santa Barbara; suzanneperkins.com
FROM LEFT: Olivia Hsu Decker's listing on El Camino Del Mar in San Francisco; Olivia Hsu Decker
Olivia Hsu Decker
Decker Bullock, San Francisco Bay Area
How did you get involved in real estate?
I’ve been interested in beautiful homes since I was a child. I used to peek into gates to see the big mansions behind them.
What are the most important lessons you’ve learned over the years about achieving success as a broker?
I’ve been marketing and selling luxury homes since 1979, and the most important thing I’ve learned is we are in the “people” business, not just the “real estate” business.
Do you get a lot of interest from Angelenos who come to you seeking to buy a second home in and around the San Francisco area?
Yes, in fact, I’ve had the pleasure of working with several very famous Angelenos. I sold Sharon Stone her San Francisco home when she was married to the editor of the San Francisco Chronicle.
What features do Angelenos seek when looking for a second home in the Bay Area?
A Bay view is the most important feature, plus all the bells and whistles such as a luxurious master suite, gourmet kitchen, wine cellar and good-size garage.
If you had to list the advantages of life in the San Francisco area, what would you include?
San Francisco is a beautiful, sophisticated, cultured and artistic city, and it’s very small—like a large village. To me, San Francisco is the ultimate quick weekend getaway from LA.
Decker Bullock, 100 Tiburon Blvd., Mill Valley; deckerbullocksir.com
