Preserving Beauty Through Real Estate

Architectural preservation isn’t just about saving buildings—it’s about protecting stories and craftsmanship that define our communities. In a market driven by development and speed, knowing how to keep a property’s character intact gives homeowners both cultural and financial rewards.

Real estate professionals guide clients through that balance every day, helping them preserve history while building wealth.

In the recent episode of the REalizations Podcast, I spoke with Lorraine Getz, a veteran Compass agent in Hollywood, whose passion for historic architecture shows how preservation and profitability can thrive together.

The Mills Act: A Financial Path to Preservation

Lorraine shared her deep knowledge of the Mills Act, a California program that encourages the preservation of historic and architecturally significant properties.

Created in the 1970s after the Hotel Del Coronado faced demolition, the act rewards owners with substantial property-tax reductions—sometimes as much as 70 percent.

For homeowners, this means lower costs and a strong incentive to restore, not replace.

Why it matters:

• Protects the cultural fabric of communities

• Reduces long-term ownership costs

• Elevates property values through architectural distinction

Lorraine put it perfectly:

“It’s really important for the future to have these historical buildings, from Victorian to Mid-Century Modern.”

Real Estate Beyond the Glamour

Selling homes in Hollywood often conjures images of fame and luxury. But Lorraine reminded me that real estate here is grounded in trust and confidentiality.

She represents everyone from first-time buyers to high-profile clients, often relying on non-disclosure agreements to safeguard privacy. In markets where reputation travels fast, protecting a client’s identity isn’t optional—it’s essential.

“Some of my clients have to buy through proxies because they don’t want anyone to know where they live,” she explained.

It’s a reminder that being a great agent means balancing discretion with diligence.

The Challenge of Balance

Both Lorraine and I share the same relentless drive. Long hours, endless calls, weekend showings—it’s all part of serving clients well. Yet success in this business comes with personal cost.

She works from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., often without assistance. We talked candidly about how hard it is to find equilibrium when clients expect availability at all hours. 

Her honesty stood out: “It’s very challenging to have work-life balance as an agent. You want to be available for your clients all the time.”

That dedication is admirable—but so is learning when to rest. True professionalism means maintaining energy for the long game.

Understanding Value Beyond the Algorithm

One of Lorraine’s most insightful topics came from her newsletter, “Zillow Says.”

We both laughed about clients who rely on algorithmic valuations as gospel.

“Zillow and Redfin don’t know if your house has a million-dollar chandelier or a cracked foundation,” she said.

She’s right. Technology is a tool, not a truth. Real estate decisions require context—something no algorithm can replace. Her advice: always pair data with on-the-ground expertise to make informed, confident choices.

Pricing Reality in California

We also discussed one of the quirks of California real estate: deliberate underpricing. Homes listed at $899,000 often end up selling near $2 million. Lorraine explained that this is a marketing tactic, not a reflection of market value.

What buyers should remember:

• List price doesn’t equal final price.

• Competitive offers often drive substantial jumps.

• Having an experienced agent is crucial to interpret true worth.

Knowledge is power—and agents like Lorraine empower their clients with facts, not guesswork.

Life Outside the Office

Behind Lorraine’s professionalism is a vibrant personal life. She’s celebrating twenty years of marriage, enjoys fine dining, and plans to see the Northern Lights in Norway.

Her husband works with Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, and together they share a love of food, travel, and culture. She’s also a devoted mother and future rescue-dog advocate—a reminder that joy fuels success.

When I launched this podcast, I wanted every episode to be meaningful. Collaborating with a professional podcast network helped me focus on conversations that matter—like this one—where expertise meets passion.

Curious to hear the full story behind this conversation with Lorraine Getz?

Listen to the complete episode of the REalizations Podcast for every insight and inspiring moment.

Tune in to the REalizations Podcast and Find Your Purpose

My conversation with Lorraine Getz reminded me why passion fuels everything we do in real estate. She proves that success isn’t only about sales—it’s about preserving beauty, protecting value, and showing up with integrity every single day.

In a business built on trust and transformation, purpose is what keeps us grounded. Every story we share, every home we protect, and every client we guide moves us closer to something greater: creating a lasting impact that outlives the transaction.

Apply as a Guest on the REalizations Podcast

Are you a high-performing real estate agent with a story worth sharing? Apply to be a guest on the REalizations Podcast! It’s a great way to inspire others, highlight your expertise, and show how purpose and passion can shape a successful career in real estate.