I started my professional career as an administrative professional, working as an Executive Assistant to Presidents and owners of companies. After taking a job with an internet incubator, I went from having millions of dollars in stock options to no job in a 12-month period. That job loss turned into an amazing opportunity for me to jump into real estate. My experience as an Historic Preservation Commissioner allowed me to create a niche for myself selling older, historic and vintage homes. It worked, and I became the #1 agent in every office I’ve worked after year one. After 20 years in real estate, I still love it, and find every transaction different than the one before.
Part of my success is due to the fact that I consistently support organizations in my community. Whether it’s youth programs, animal rescue, immigration resources or charitable organizations, I use part of every commission to make contributions throughout Monrovia.
1. Q: What community do you represent for The Faces Of?
Monrovia
2. Q: Please tell us about your family.
My husband, David, and I met at an 8-week smoking cessation program over 40 years ago. We started dating after graduating, and got married in 1985. We bought our first home in Monrovia in 1987 and in 1989 we purchased the house we live in now. We have no children, by choice, but we have had many feline companions throughout our relationship. Currently, we have an orange polydactyl multiple-toed cat named Catcher because his paws look like he’s wearing a Catcher’s Mitt. We are huge Dodger fans and watch them play every game during baseball season.
3. Q: From where do most of your clients originate?
Most of my clients now come from referrals, repeat business, or just from name recognition in Monrovia. I’ve been around 20 years, so my name is pretty well recognized.
4. Q: What is something unique about your community?
The unique thing about Monrovia is out hometown feel and our historic and vintage homes.
5. Q: What are 2-3 of your top 10 favorite movies?
My favorites are: The Shining, Moonlight and Shawshank Redemption
6. Q: Who is your favorite college sports team?
I have two! Having grown up in Florida, I’m a big Gators fan. I’m also a fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers because it’s my husband’s team!
7. Q: What attracted you to The Faces Of project?
I’ve always wanted to do something to feature the great people in our small town. This project caught my attention, and I dove right in. We have such wonderful people who make up all aspects of this community, so being part of the Faces Of project allows me to get to know them along with the readers!
8. Q: Who is the most famous person you have met?
President Jimmy & Rosalyne Carter! They are the kindest humanitarians in the world. I’ve been privileged to work on the building of Habitat for Humanity homes alongside the Carters, and as members of The Carter Center, we were honored to spend four days with them during a Carter Center Weekend.
9. Q: For our partners in real estate: Have you ever shown a house you believe to be haunted?
Yes! Two! The first one is right here in Monrovia. It’s a Victorian that I listed and sold twice. Every time I did an open house, something odd would happen, such as strange noises, doors being opened when I knew they were closed, and just a feeling of someone or something sharing space with me. The other was a murder/suicide house I listed in Glendora. It felt very strange being there. I had a friend come a burn sage to get rid of the bad juju.
10. Q: What are two things or characteristics that you have that have made you successful in your career?
I think my honesty and ethics are obvious, and sellers and buyers trust me with such a huge transaction. I also think my sense of humor makes people feel more comfortable with me. We might as well enjoy the time we spend together!
11. Q: What makes you happy?
My Dad taught me to think positively, so I try to do that in life. I’m basically a happy person, but what makes me happiest is being with family. I also love to travel and enjoy experiencing new places.
12. Q: What is the most beautiful place you have been in this world?
I’d have to say the most beautiful place in the world I’ve seen is right here in California. Yosemite National Park is awe inspiring. When you stand in Yosemite Valley and look at the spectacular surroundings, it really lifts your spirits. The most beautiful place outside of California would have to be Tahiti. The crystal clear waters, the sea life, and the scenery is astounding.
13. Q: What are 2-3 of your favorite books?
My favorite books are: The Stand by Stephen King; The Red Tent by Anita Diamant; and The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
14. Q: What else should people know about you?
My first job was decorating Christmas trees at Sears and K-Mart. My passion is music, reading, and my new hobby of painting kindness rocks. I taught disco dancing in the 70s and have been to over 80 rock concerts, which would explain why I have constant ringing in my ears.
15. Q: Who is your favorite pro sports team?
I’m a Diehard Dodgers fan and “bleed blue!” My favorite football team is the Miami Dolphins
16. Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My parents always inspired me to be better. Beyond that, I have so many people in my life who inspire me all the time.
17. Q: What advice do you want to leave behind?
Do what you love and you will succeed. Always lead with a smile. Be nice to everyone, from the janitor to the CEO! Pet animals and smell flowers. Be true to yourself and love yourself just the way you are.
18. Q: If a movie were made about your life, who would you want to play you?
I think probably Kathy Bates or Melissa McCarthy, depending on if it’s a drama or a comedy!
19. Q: The Faces Of has many partners in the US, in Australia, and in Canada. There are a wide variety of us. Some have been in business for a long time. If you wanted to ask a question, or even a few questions, to this group of people, what would you want to know?
I’d love to know how to prepare an exit strategy for retirement.
20. Q: If one of our partners has a referral they can send to you for your market, what is the best way to connect with you?
My cell phone is 626-487-0820. I text and take calls. I also respond quickly to emails at donna.baker@elliman.com
