The Kondo Group
Compass

Above: L to R: Poul Erik Norgaard, Michelle Nishide Lucin, Hanna Carlson, Victoria Paullin, Shima Circle, Amanda Krampert, Lisa Martini, Tadashi Kondo, Lorena Andrade, Sylvia Kim, Alyssandra Hill, Mora Sepehrnia, Jessiqa Pace, Meg Puccinelli, Andrew Boston

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My Local List

• Cute French Bakery: Pinwheel Café 
• Amazing Japanese Hand Rolls: Oh! BANZAI
• Cool Vintage Boutique: Retro Reload
• Best Kids Services: SHARE Pediatric Therapy   

Founded by Tadashi Kondo in 2014, The Kondo Group is a team of 17 professionals who have been consistently ranked among the top 1% of producers nationwide and recognized by RealTrends and Wall Street Journal over multiple years. With deep roots in the Palos Verdes and South Bay markets, the team specializes in luxury service enhanced by Compass’ innovative marketing. Beyond real estate, The Kondo Group is actively engaged in the community and real estate industry through organizations like the Asian Real Estate Association of America, Rotary clubs, dog rescue initiatives, golf clubs and chambers of commerce.

What makes you stand out in your field?

Our team is truly one of a kind. We bring a wide range of expertise to the table—from mediation and negotiation to interior design and marketing. This collaborative model allows us to provide well-rounded, strategic service that goes beyond what a single agent can offer. We lean on each other’s strengths to ensure that every client gets the best possible outcome. We even have a team in Las Vegas, Nevada, and are the only Compass agents licensed there!

What do you credit for your success?

Without question: our team. Our shared values, work ethic and support for one another have been the foundation of our success. We operate as a unit and always put the client first. We’ve streamlined our system over the years to perfect our communication and assist with a smooth transaction. 

What are your top tips for getting a home ready for market?

Start with decluttering and professional staging. Presentation is everything. Just like you’d detail a car before selling it, a clean, well-styled home can have a major impact on how quickly it sells—and for how much. Buyers want to see the potential of a space, and thoughtful preparation helps them do just that. We also utilize our brokerage Private Exclusives to pre-market our listings before they hit the public. This is an amazing way to test the price while adding finishing touches and even selling off market. 

How do you want people to feel when they step into a space you’ve prepared?

We want it to feel like home—inviting, warm and full of good energy. Every home has a vibe, and we aim to create spaces that feel light, bright and full of life so buyers can instantly picture themselves living there. 

How would you describe your approach?

We’re resourceful, solution-oriented, client-focused and always thinking outside the box. Most importantly, we prioritize our clients’ best interests above all else. When negotiating terms or navigating challenges, we bring a proactive mindset and a calm, professional presence to every transaction.

Describe your communication style. 

We adapt to what works best for each client. Whether you prefer texts, calls, emails or in-person updates, we stay flexible and responsive to match your schedule and needs. Everyone is so different, and we will cater to them. That said, clear communication is always a priority. We set expectations early, keep you informed every step of the way and make sure you understand all your options. No one likes feeling backed into a corner—transparency and choice are key to helping our clients feel confident and in control. Plus, within our team we are fluent in six languages. 

How well do you know this area?

Incredibly well! We know just about every street, school, park, hidden gem, local eatery and driving shortcut in the area. Tadashi is even a Miraleste High School graduate! Every one of us either graduated from a South Bay high school or have kids in the local school systems. Chances are we know who has lived in that house.

What’s the most bizarre request you’ve heard?

We haven’t had many bizarre requests—but we do have stories! One memorable moment was having to break up a fistfight between two sisters during a showing. That was definitely a first!

What do you expect to see in real estate this year, especially in Southern California?

We’re seeing a gradual shift toward a buyer’s market, with inventory increasing and buyers gaining more leverage in negotiations. That said, demand in the South Bay and Palos Verdes remains strong, so strategic pricing and preparation are still key. It’s a more balanced market, and that opens the door to new opportunities on both sides.

Photographed by Shane O’Donnell