Strand Hill | Forbes Global Properties

Highlights 

• Locally Owned & Globally Connected
• Expert Analysis & Pricing
• Strategic Market Positioning
• Personalized Client Service

Strand Hill | Forbes Global Properties is a locally owned, independent real estate brokerage with more than $8 billion in sales volume since 2014. The Strand Hill agents featured here bring years of combined experience and expertise to South Bay real estate.

What does local mean to you?

Denise Mazzotta: As a longtime South Bay real estate agent, I believe being truly local makes all the difference. Years of building relationships with clients and agents across multiple brokerages provide valuable insight beyond the data, including the context behind negotiations and current market activity. That knowledge helps me price listings strategically, craft stronger offers and navigate negotiations with flexibility. My longtime tagline says it best: “I work hard for my clients.” I strive to live up to it every day.
310-418-1462, DRE #01302091

What inspired you to pursue?

Alex Gauss: My mother, Joan Zirkel, was a Realtor in Palos Verdes, so I grew up going to open houses and learning about her business. I always wanted a career in real estate and was a real estate attorney for many years. I later pivoted to become a Realtor because I wanted to negotiate deals and help clients throughout the entire process. My mom worked until she was almost 90 years old doing the job she loved, and I hope to do the same!
310-418-0869, DRE #01426014

Lisa Lerner: Real estate felt like a natural evolution after 20 years in interior design. I’ve always loved homes, not just how they look but how people live in them, and the potential that may be hard to see at first glance. My advice for any woman starting a new chapter: Don’t discount what you already bring to the table. Your career, experiences, skills and relationships are your differentiators. Stay willing to learn, surround yourself with people you respect and build a path that feels uniquely your own.
323-314-4481, DRE #02434969

What’s the most unconventional business advice you have received?

Lizabeth Walker: Someone said something to me a long time ago about the benefits of being out of your comfort zone, and I have found that to be great advice! You grow as a person and professionally when you take risks … or in the case of real estate, being persuasive—not pushy, but persuasive—about a great home for sale. Clients need the reassurance of a Realtor who doesn’t push but persuades them to either buy or sell.
310-880-8453, DRE #00680977

Speak about the importance of community.

Joanna Recinos: Community is at the heart of my 20-year real estate journey. I’ve always believed in helping others and giving back. I never imagined the meaningful relationships this career would bring. That trust goes beyond real estate. I’m there for the moments that matter most.  Being present, staying involved and genuinely caring for others has been the foundation of my business, and I’m deeply grateful for it.
310-283-4353, DRE #01826417

What real estate trends are you loving?

Peggy Johnston: Technology has had a huge impact on our industry. I love how informed the buying and selling public has become about real estate. Communication and education have become more collaborative—a positive development. The dynamics and intricacies of buying and selling real estate are still complex, but the transparency our industry now promotes has improved all aspects of what is often the most expensive transaction people experience.
310-779-8755, DRE #01137455

Nicole Peters: I love that my clients prioritize lifestyle over speculation. Families aren’t just buying a house; they’re buying into a community, a Sunday morning routine and a Little League. Our lifestyle-driven coastal cities are outperforming more speculative L.A. submarkets as buyers prioritize top school districts and long-term value over quick flips. Remote work continues to expand our buyer pool; professionals prefer Pacific views, outdoor entertaining space, and proximity to the sand over a long commute.
310-200-2234, DRE #01906239

What strategies are most effective in growing your business?

Cindy Shearin: I LOVE what I do! Over my three decades as a top-producing luxury agent, I’ve found that growing locally comes down to genuine relationships that drive a powerful repeat and referral network. My foundation is uncompromising professionalism and high-touch service. My eye for detail-oriented design and development sets me apart. I want to help you find your dream home and make it a reality. When clients become friends, it never truly feels like work.
310-200-8318, DRE #00925580

Photographed by Shane O’Donnell at 1626 1st Street, Manhattan Beach, Listed by Michael Rossi, DRE #01089100