Introduction:
Hi! We’re Claire and Sam O’Connor - sisters and the real estate duo behind O’Connor Estates. We have a decade of combined experience in the luxury real estate market, and we’re excited to join forces and find dream homes for our clients! As sisters, best friends, and colleagues, we offer a family-oriented approach when it comes to all things real estate.
Backgrounds:
While we have very different professional backgrounds and work experiences, our strengths complement each other in the best way possible. Claire has a background in philanthropy and has worked with the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, working with children with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. Much of her responsibilities included negotiating contracts on behalf of the United States government with foreign dignitaries, which lends to her strong negotiation skills in real estate today. Her experience also cemented the ideas of home, belonging, and community, and she approaches real estate with gratitude, generosity, and tenacity.
Prior to joining forces with her sister, Sam worked in broadcast journalism as the primetime evening anchor in her hometown of Bend, Oregon. Much like real estate, Sam worked unconventional hours, interviewed countless people, and never missed a deadline. The skill set she acquired from being a successful journalist seamlessly transitions to her real estate career - from being a great sales person to disarming people and making them feel comfortable. Together we bring joy, knowledge, and level-headedness to every real estate transaction, guiding our clients through the entire process from start to finish.
Why we love the Westside:
The Westside of Los Angeles is one of the most beautiful locations in California and we are both fortunate enough to call this area of the world home. Claire is in the Palisades and it’s the picture perfect place to raise her young family. The Palisades village is a charming and idyllic downtown shopping district with some of the best eateries and curated boutiques. Sam’s heart belongs to Santa Monica and she loves being able to take her rescue dogs to the beach almost every day. The weather, access to nature, (and overpriced coffee!) is what we love about the Westside, but we love discovering hidden gems and beautiful architecture throughout Los Angeles.
Our favorite homes on the market:
While the L.A. real estate market is constantly changing, there are several incredible homes on the market that we have our eyes on.
Via Donte - This magnificent home in Marina Del Rey was designed, renovated, and styled by our good friends, Jonathon Buford and Jesse Rudolph of Ome Dezin. It’s truly a spectacular property and captures the essence of upscale living. We love the home’s contemporary glamor mixed with Spanish details and ornate elements.
1401 N Doheny Drive - What’s not to love about this incredible home near Sunset Boulevard? It is a beautifully renovated property that still maintains its historical 1930s charm and character. The home features a large private lot with a pool and a guesthouse, and is the definition of exquisite living.
Rockingham Ave - If we had to envision a dream home, this would be it! Originally designed by famed California architect John Byers in 1928, and later reimagined by renowned architect/designer Thomas Callaway, the home is a huge flat lot in a magical neighborhood in Brentwood. The property features some amazing treasures like its own chapel, and blends Spanish Colonial and Mission Revival styles.
Tips for Buying a Home in 2024:
Should you buy a home in 2024? If you’re willing to refinance, the answer is yes. Inventory is low and interest rates are high, but as soon as the interest rate drops, the competition for homes will increase and you’ll likely end up overspending or in a bidding war. Here are some tips we have to get your dream home this year:
- Don’t be a tire kicker - you want the listing agent to sell you the house and not second guess themselves.
- Get your ducks in a row. You will need proof of funds if you’re making an all-cash offer or letter of preapproval from a mortgage lender before you make an offer on a house.
- Learn to negotiate. Your agent will be your best advocate, but make sure you understand what you are looking for and what you are not willing to compromise on.
