How Clara Asimakopoulos Navigates Real Estate and Leadership

Clara Asimakopoulos, a seasoned real estate broker and community advocate in Murrieta, California, has carved a niche in the Temecula Valley real estate market with her deep commitment to community and her savvy understanding of market dynamics. Since obtaining her broker license in 2004, Clara has not only facilitated the dreams of countless homeowners but also set a precedent for success in a predominantly rural market area that was largely undeveloped when she began her career.

As Government Affairs Director (GAD) for the NAHREP Temecula Valley Chapter and NAHREP 10 Certified Trainer, Clara plays a key role in advocating for affordable homeownership for the working class. She developed strong relationships with local elected officials and represented NAHREP in city council meetings, where her work directly influenced housing discussions. Her dedication earned the chapter multiple recognitions, including the Advocacy Chapter of the Year Award in 2022. Fluent in Spanish, Clara continues to bridge cultural gaps, bringing a diverse clientele closer to their dream of homeownership.

Clara’s journey through the industry is marked by a strategic approach to real estate, leveraging her insight to serve a wide array of clients effectively. Her ability to consult on land acquisition and her fluency in navigating complex transactions have made her a valued consultant to landowners and a trusted agent among her peers.

How has your experience in rural real estate shaped your approach to property development and consultation?

Clara: The County, for the first time, allowed homeowners whose property was located within the county’s jurisdiction to go through a process to change their land-use. Being a landowner, I became very interested and went through the process that took several years, and in the end, I was successful. I decided to help other landowners do the same. I learned a lot and formed relationships with supervisors, planners, commissioners, and engineers. Today, I am working with 70 landowners in having their properties’ land-use changed. I am proud to say it goes before the Board of Supervisors at the end of October for final approval. The process began in 2012. It has taken us twelve years due to the Great Recession and Covid setbacks. Throughout the years, the landowners never gave up and today they are like family to me.

What Inspired you to take on the role of a consultant in land acquisition and what are some notable challenges you have faced in this niche?

Clara: When I first began my real estate career, I attended a class where the speaker encouraged us to find a niche in the market to set us apart from others. I owned vacant land in an area that at the time was very rural. It was miles away from shopping, freeways, and schools. An area with dirt roads, spotted ranches,?horse trails… The ranchers all knew each other. I began selling vacant land and ranches and learned about septic tanks, water wells, land conservation restrictions, land-use, etc. I dominated the entire area. My For Sale signs were everywhere! I strongly believe that because of my connection and knowledge of the area, I gained the trust of the landowners to carry out the land-use process mentioned in your first question.

As a NAHREP Government Affairs Director, what initiatives are you passionate about, and how do you believe they will impact the Hispanic Community?

Clara: I served as GAD for the Temecula Valley Chapter for three years. When asked by the board members if I would like to be the GAD, I had no idea what a GAD was, much less the role and responsibilities of such a title. I took the role seriously and followed the Road Map Booklet I was given at a boot camp. I needed to get out of my comfort zone and reach out to the elected officials and form relationships. I attended city council meetings and wherever elected officials went; I was there. They began to know me as NAHREP. The main initiative was Homeownership for the Working Class. I was asked to sit at the table to discuss affordable homeownership with the city mayor and to form a coalition. I am proud to say that as GAD, our Chapter was recognized for?the three years. The first year was a Covid year so the gala installation took place via zoom. The second year, we received the Grassroots award. And, in the third year, the Advocacy Chapter of the year of 2022.

Can you share a success story where your efforts directly helped a family or individual achieve their dream of homeownership?

Clara: The Valdez family comes to mind. When I met Jose and Silvia Valdez, they were both immigrants from Mexico who had only been in the United States a few years and only spoke Spanish. He had an ITIN and was working at an upholstery shop. She was a stay-at-home wife and mother. He was able, together with his brother, to purchase a tract house where the two families lived together for many years. Their dream was to own a ranch with chickens and goats on acreage. They always lived modestly. Silvia began a business through social media, which took off. Years went by. I stayed in contact with them. Then they called to say they were to ready to buy their dream ranch. I let them know that the first step was to have them approved for a loan. I was surprised when they said they would be paying cash. I knew they had saved for years and worked hard, but prices during the pandemic had gone through the roof. I was able to find them five acres with an older manufactured home that needed work. They transformed the place into their dream ranch and continue to make improvements.

What advice would you give to young professionals entering the real estate industry, especially those from minority backgrounds?

Clara: The real estate industry can be challenging… markets change, policies change, and the economy can turn from one day to the next. You must be ready and flexible to overcome whatever you are faced with to continue. Have a clear understanding of who your clients are to better serve them. Because, in the end, it is a career that is rewarding–knowing you had a key role in helping your client achieve the American Dream of Homeownership and the beginning of building generational wealth.

Clara Asimakopoulos continues to inspire both newcomers and veterans in the real estate industry with her innovative approaches and dedication to community. Her story is not just one of personal success but also of profound community impact, making her a standout figure in Southern California’s real estate scene.

Disclosure: Please note that the information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

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