MICHAEL SALAS: AN EYE FOR DISTINCTION

What does photography have to do with selling real estate?  A lot, if you ask me.  I've spent more than 27 years working as a photographer for many of the national publications that America loves, touring the world shooting pictures for Time, Life, Forbes, Fortune, Money and People magazines.  During that time, I developed a love for architecture and an eye for detail.  I believe real estate is a natural progression-because as a freelance photographer, you learn to create a marketing plan, listen to clients and satisfy their needs. 

I now work out of the Keller Williams Realty Newport Beach office specializing in the sales of million-dollar homes on the Pacific Ocean. I'm proud to have accomplished many goals during my 15 years in real estate, including earning the title "REALTOR of Distinction."  Here are a few:

•   Designated International Marketing Specialist

•   Named a member of our office Agent Leadership Council

•   Received a Certificate in Negotiations from the Straus Center for Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine University,  Malibu,  California

I also have a B.A. in Communications from California State University, Fullerton, where I learned skills I use today.  I believe clients look to me for marketing, negotiating and protection when it comes to selling and buying their property.  That's why I believe I owe it to my clients to know as much as possible about homes from the inside out. So in addition to my formal education, I have completed classes in finish carpentry, masonry and cabinet making. I used what I learned to build my own dream home near the Back Bay.

I'm not all work and no play, though. I'm a California native and grew up loving the ocean, so you'll often find me sailing, scuba diving or surfing when I'm not selling upscale waterfront homes -- or making my own wine! I have a 25-year-old daughter, Rachael-who also loves life on the Pacific!