As a Santa Barbara native who grew up in Montecito, Fred has intimate knowledge of the area and insights into the particular advantages of each neighborhood. He is a valuable source of information for clients who are being introduced to the community. With a degree in art history from Williams College and an emphasis in architectural studies, Fred has gravitated to the unique and historical designs of real estate found in the prestigious beachfront and foothill locales of Montecito, Santa Barbara, and Carpinteria. If one is seeking the best of properties in any of these areas, Fred possesses the requisite skills and integrity of service necessary for a successful search. Fred is an avid golfer, tennis player, and most recently has become a fixture on the local pickleball courts. He has an insatiable interest in visual and literary arts and enjoys Santa Barbara’s cultural offerings at every opportunity.
Brook Ashley has won such real estate distinctions as the Howard Gates Award honoring exceptional skill and tenacity from the Santa Barbara Association of Realtors. Her listings and high-profile sales achievements have been featured in The Wall Street Journal.
As a Luxury Sales specialist for over 33 years, Brook has closed an array of significant properties from a classic Montecito estate designed by George Washington Smith to the ultra-modern architectural home known as "The Glass Pavilion," and other sales across prices and neighborhoods in the Santa Barbara area.
She is also a book author and president of Dare Wright Media. Brook is a member of the board of the international animal welfare organization Born Free, and serves on the Regional Advisory Board of the Anti-Defamation League. She was president of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival as its reputation rose from local to international recognition, and has taught tae kwon do karate.
Brook grew up in New York City, graduating from The Brearley School. She attended George Washington University and Columbia University, and holds a BA in cultural anthropology.
Katinka offers a unique blend of international perspective and extensive experience in the real estate industry. With over two decades of dedicated service, Katinka's journey began in New York City, where she spent nine years refining her skills in Brooklyn's Park Slope neighborhood. Hailing from Germany and having deep roots on both the East and West Coasts, Katinka provides a distinctive viewpoint that she shares with her clients, offering a valuable approach to the local and national real estate market. Katinka excels in client relationships, with a reputation for active listening and maintaining an excellent community standing. Fluent in German and having a foundation in French, her European heritage allows her to connect with clients globally, ensuring all feel deeply understood and well cared for. 805.708.9616
KatinkaGoertz@bhhscal.com
DRE# 01871645
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING REAL ESTATE REPRESENTATION
EXPERIENCE: How much experience does the agent have? This is very important, as you will be dealing with contracts and situations that could affect you financially and legally.
SUCCESS: To be properly represented, it is advisable to select a full-time agent who has a proven track record. Ask if they’ve received any professional awards. This is important, because there is a lot at stake for you. Just as you’d want to choose a doctor who has vast experience in what you are being treated for, it is extremely important to select a full- time, successful real estate agent.
NEGOTIATION: Talk with the agent about appropriate negotiation strategies for your transaction.
BROKERAGE: Ask the agent about the brokerage they work with. Ask what kind of market share that brokerage has. Ask what advantages you will have by being represented by that brokerage. Research that brokerage to ensure they are with a reputable, successful, financially secure firm that will still be around if you ever need them.
REFERENCES: Ask for references from past clients.
RELATIONSHIPS: Does the agent have good working relationships with, and the respect of other agents, lenders, escrow and title people? Your transaction is likely to go more smoothly when relationships based on trust and experience are working for you.
ACCOUNTABILITY: Make sure you feel comfortable that the agent will take time for any questions you may have. Ask the agent how quickly your calls, texts or emails will get answered. It is important that the agent will take the time to clearly explain every aspect of the contract process and transaction to you. Ask the agent what happens to your transaction if the agent goes out of town or has some other unforeseen event. Ask what you can expect from the agent in terms of reporting and updates.
TECHNOLOGY: Whether you are high tech or old school, it is important that the agent is tech savvy.
INTEGRITY: Make sure you feel comfortable that the agent conducts him or herself with honesty and integrity.