S&E Member Rafael Murillo Named a Top Luxury Real Estate Industry Leader

Since getting into real estate in 2016, Rafael Murillo's star has risen quickly: Last year, he hit a career milestone of $35 million in transactions and booked the highest-ever lease recorded in the South Loop. He's a go-to broker for high-profile clients and professional athletes, and was recently selected to join the Top Agent Portfolio. Next up: "I'm in the process of getting my license in Florida to keep up with my clients' appetite for vacation properties", Murillo says. "In Miami, the Spanish language is a secret passport and there's a high demand with affluent buyers from Latin America."

Was there a particular moment in your career when you realized "I've made it"?

I knew I'd made it when established real-estate developers started contacting me simply to tell me they love my marketing approach of lifestyle property videos. A lifestyle video offers a way to not only show what a home looks like - but how life could be lived in it. I create an emotional connection. 

Where do you think the market is trending next?

Interest rates are expected to increase, and we're going to see new homebuyers returning to the office. Low inventory will still be the trend and will favor sellers.

What defining characteristics have led to your success?

I have a concierge approach to real estate, and make it a point to be readily available to all my clients. I spend time and effort forging meaningful relationships.

What's one piece of real-estate advice you offer clients?

Price the home right from the start and make your home more marketable. Today's buyers are picky and spend their time on Instagram and HGTV, so your place needs to look its best: painting, refinishing floors, new appliances, staging. If you go the extra mile the property will sell faster and for more money.

Source: Modern Luxury