The thought of a virtual brokerage would never have crossed Anita Cruz’s mind. Then the pandemic hit, and working from home became the new normal. During that time, Anita was approached to explore opportunities with eXp Realty.
“They (eXp) were continuing to grow while so many others were struggling,” she said. “It was clear to see they had a model that would work in any market. And that was a company I wanted to join.”
Anita came on board in July 2021, and now serves as Designated Managing Broker for the Greater Los Angeles area. That November, at her very first EXPCON, Anita was able to meet in person the team she’d been working with virtually for months.
“We already knew we had a great team of professionals, and finally being able to meet in person was truly amazing,” Anita said. “I recall the broker team sitting in a restaurant one afternoon after a general session, thinking we were going to have a quick bite to eat. We were collaborating, planning and setting goals for the upcoming year. Next thing we know, three hours had flown by!”
To continue solidifying their tight-knit, team bond, Anita and her team also have a weekly Google Meet call.
“We can see each other’s faces and expressions, and keep that connection,” she said. “I have worked out of a brick-and-mortar office all of my career and never imagined that I would love working from home. It also makes the in-person events that much more special. We look forward to getting out to meet our agents in person.”
Learn More About Anita Cruz:
Years in real estate: Since 1998; a broker since 2004
Leadership positions held:
- Designated Managing Broker for eXp Realty of Greater Los Angeles (2022 – present)
- Managing Broker for eXp Realty of California (2021 – present)
- Designated Broker / Productivity Coach – Keller Williams (2015 – 2021)
- Director of Operations – The Pugh Group at Keller Williams (2015 – 2019)
- Operations Manager – RE/MAX (2014 – 2015)
- Broker / Owner – Cal Realty (2004 – 2014)
Accolades, accomplishments & awards:
- California eXp Realty State Team of the Year 2022
- California Association of Realtors Certified Forms Trainer
What makes eXp special to you?
“My team. The California broker team is so talented and truly the best part of my job. The collaboration between the brokers and our wonderful support staff is unlike any company I have worked for in the past. I truly feel like we are a family who genuinely cares about one another, and we work hard to make sure our awesome California agents are supported. Then they can go out and do what they do best and sell homes.”
What kind of collaboration have you experienced at eXp?
“Collaboration has been the biggest part of my journey here at eXp, from collaborating with the broker team, to being able to reach out to executive leadership too. It has definitely exceeded my expectations.”
Best tip to share with agents:
“When in doubt… reach out. Your broker team is ready and available to help, even with the questions you think are small or trivial. Reach out, we are here to help!”
10 Fun Things About Anita Cruz
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
On the beach in Hawaii, watching the sunset, or a fun day at Disney with my family.
Who is the person you most admire?
My mother. She always believes in me even when she doesn’t agree with me. She has always been my biggest fan and supporter.
One thing you can’t live without?
My Disneyland Annual Pass
One trait that has led to your success?
Taking each failure or hardship as a lesson so I can learn, grow and improve.
What celebrity would play you in a movie or TV show?
Dolly Parton
Pet peeve?
The notorious “always late to everything” person
Little known fact about yourself?
I have never seen snow fall from the sky (I’m a forever SoCal girl, lol)
Song you never tire of?
“Hopelessly Devoted to You,” by Olivia Newton-John
Favorite meal?
Tacos
Your epitaph will say:
I don’t remember this being on my bucket list.
__________
Interested in jump-starting your real estate career? Learn how eXp Realty puts agents first.
