Maya Vander, a cast member on the popular Netflix show "Selling Sunset" since its premiere in 2019, announced on Instagram that she's opening her own real estate group in Miami.
See Also: Pubbelly Sushi Celebrates Pride Month With A Special Cocktail Fundraiser For LGBTQ+ Organization
"So excited to continue to share this new chapter. Miami we're taking over!" Vander wrote about her new group on an Instagram post.
"We are all working hard & pushing everyday. We love and respect our clients, which is SO important in order to be successful in real estate," she continued.
Vander recently sold a marquee penthouse at Mr. C Residences Coconut Grove, the latest project by fourth-generation Cipriani brothers Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani. The 3,500 square foot top floor penthouse has four bedrooms plus a den and overlooks Miami's skyline. The owners will have access to private full-service restaurants and a Bellini bar on-site, an in-home personal chef, a doorstep happy hour, and a rooftop pool lounge.
Why did you decide to start your own group? Will it serve the Miami area or also LA?
Maya Vander: My client load has notably increased and at the end of the day I am only one person. I believe that to be successful and productive, you need to have help. Whether it is an assistant, team, social media person, etc...I want to grow but slow. My team is only in Miami. I am licensed in California, but my focus is now Miami.
What is difference between the Miami and LA markets? Where are buyers more ambitious?
Maya Vander: When I first moved here, I came across second home buyers, vacation places. Now I see more of a full-time residence, so it became like LA in that sense. In LA, people typically buy for the next 7-10 years because the prices are high. I am noticing a greater similarity between the two cities.
Has the transition from LA been easy?
Maya Vander: So easy. We have met some great friends; work is thriving, and Miami offers so much. The lifestyle is even better than LA in my opinion.
Do you think Miami is seeing a bigger success in real estate than LA?
Maya Vander: LA will always be a great market because of the entertainment industry, it is usually more stable. With that being said, I do see more people who are relocating because they fed up with high taxes and the problems that the city has.
What do you think about the growth and expansion of the city?
Maya Vander: It is great! I love all the new developments in different areas. Downtown is already improving, while Coconut Grove and Coral Gables are experiencing retail and restaurant booms, attracting businesses and residential buyers.
As a real estate agent do you think the real estate boom is going to burst soon?
Maya Vander: Rate increases will eliminate some buyers but there are still many buyers who are offering cash. As long as limited supply stays, we will be in a solid market.
Was it difficult to find the right buyer for the Mr. C Penthouse? Did you take part in the staging process?
Maya Vander: My clients were looking for either single family home or a condo. They live in the grove and love it. They love the project, and the Penthouse unit offers exactly what they need in terms of Coconut Grove’s walkable location, space, service-driven amenities, lifestyle and convenience.
How did you feel when you finalized the penthouse sale?
Maya Vander: For me, every closed deal is important. I put my clients first whether it is a smaller deal or bigger. I am excited for them because I know how much they love Mr. C Residences.
How much did you sell the unit for? Did the buyers offer more money?
Maya Vander: Though I can’t offer pricing details, the Mr. C penthouses range around $7 million.
Will you be working with more units in the South Miami area?
Maya Vander: Somehow, I managed to close over 30 transactions in the last year despite my schedule of flying back and forth. Having my team has proved extremely helpful.
Any tips for buyers interested in the Miami market? How can they land an off-market deal?
Maya Vander: Off market is not always easy to find. I send out letters, cold call and contact agents since the inventory is still low. I would advise buyers to be ready and be strong with your offer. Get your proof of funds, pre-approval and know that this is a seller’s market so don’t let a deal go over the little things.
Tips on choosing the right agent.
Maya Vander: Make sure the agent listens to your needs and is willing to show you multiple properties, takes your feedback and negotiates for you.
What is your favorite Miami restaurant?
Maya Vander: There are so many, but Orno in the Gables, Mandolin in Design district, Costa Med Key Biscayne..
What is your favorite thing to do in Miami to have fun?
Maya Vander: I love going to the One Hotel. We take the kids there and spend the day at the pool or beach. The ocean here is much more enjoyable compared to California’s, which is always cold.
Tell us more about your new group.
Maya Vander: I have three girls on my Team. Galit, Carley and Amelia. They are all experienced, smart agents who understand that this business is not as easy as we see on Selling Sunset. My team is willing to put in the work.
For more information about The Maya Vander Group visit the website.
Photography by: Courtesy Luxehunters Productions
