Key Highlights
- Most of the Selling Sunset cast members are legitimate realtors with an active real estate license.
- Most of the Selling Sunset cast members are legitimate agents with an active real estate license.
- The Oppenheim Group has a long history in LA, with over $3.5 billion in sales across its offices.
- Luxury homes featured on the show are actual listings, though touring them is reserved for serious buyers.
- While the drama is amplified for Netflix, the real estate transactions are genuine.
Introduction
Have you ever wondered what’s real and what’s for television on Selling Sunset? The hit Netflix show gives us a peek into the glamorous world of high-stakes real estate in Los Angeles. It follows the agents of the Oppenheim Group, including Romain, as they sell breathtaking homes and navigate personal drama. But behind the stunning properties and intense rivalries, is the business legit? This article explores the real deal behind the show, from agent licenses to the incredible homes they list.
Behind the Scenes of Selling Sunset: The Oppenheim Group
The Oppenheim Group, led by Jason Oppenheim, is a real and highly successful real estate brokerage in Los Angeles. The connection between Selling Sunset and the firm is direct; last year, the show was created after its founder, Adam DiVello, saw an ad for the agency and thought its all-female team and twin-brother leadership would make for great television.
The firm operates at the top of the LA luxury market, dealing with billion-dollar sales and exclusive properties. Any insinuation that the Netflix show does not accurately document the lives and work of the agents at their actual offices would be misleading. Let's look closer at the roles these agents play and the listings they manage.
The Role of the Selling Sunset Broker in Los Angeles Real Estate
The Oppenheim Group isn't just a backdrop for a TV show; it's a legitimate powerhouse in Los Angeles and San Diego real estate. The brokerage has deep roots, with Jason and Brett Oppenheim being fifth-generation real estate professionals. Their ancestor, Jacob Stern, founded The Stern Realty Co. in 1889, making him one of the city's earliest real estate moguls.
After pursuing careers in law, Jason Oppenheim, the founder of The Oppenheim Group, and Brett Oppenheim rebranded the family business as The Oppenheim Group in 2013. They are both licensed brokers, with Brett earning his license in 2007 and Jason following in 2009. This strong leadership and history give the firm its credibility.
Under their guidance, the team of real estate agents at the Oppenheim Group has facilitated over $3.5 billion in sales. They operate across four offices, including Newport Beach and the famous West Hollywood location, proving their significant influence in the competitive LA market.
How the Selling Sunset Agency Selects Million-Dollar Listings
The Oppenheim Group doesn't just sell any home; they specialize in million-dollar listings that define luxury in Los Angeles. These properties are carefully selected for their unique features, prime locations, and jaw-dropping prices, making them perfect for the show's glamorous aesthetic. The homes featured include those once owned by Nicole Young, architectural marvels often owned by celebrities or designed by famous architects.
You’ll typically see the agency handle properties that have:
- Spectacular views of the Hollywood Hills or the city skyline.
- Opulent amenities like infinity pools, home theaters, and expansive outdoor entertaining areas.
These luxury homes are more than just places to live; they are statements. From sprawling estates in Beverly Hills to modern marvels on the Sunset Strip, each dollar listing is chosen to appeal to an elite clientele. This focus on high-end properties is what has cemented the Oppenheim name as a leader in the luxury market.
Are Selling Sunset Stars Real Licensed Real Estate Agents?
A common question viewers have is whether the Selling Sunset cast members, including Davina, are actual agents or just actors. The answer is yes, they are real agents! Despite skepticism from critics like Chrissy Teigen and Million Dollar Listing's Josh Flagg, the agents at the Oppenheim Group are professionals with years of experience.
Jason Oppenheim himself has confirmed that the team has over 50 years of combined licensed real estate experience. Almost every agent on the show holds a valid real estate license, with only one recent exception. Any insinuation that these agents lack experience evidences a complete disregard for their qualifications and sales records, which speak for themselves.
Agent Qualifications and Real Estate Credentials
The agents on the show bring a variety of backgrounds and experiences, but most share one crucial credential: a real estate license. The California Department of Real Estate confirms that nearly the entire cast of season 8, including repeat villain Davina Potratz, holds an active license. This is a fundamental requirement for legally selling property, and the Oppenheim Group team is well-qualified.
Many of the agents had established careers before joining the brokerage. For instance, Chelsea Lazkani worked at Rodeo Realty, and Bre Tiesi was with Agents of LA. This proves they are not just personalities hired for a show but are practicing real estate professionals. The only exception mentioned is Amanza Smith, whose license expired in August 2024, though she continues to work as an interior designer.
Here's a quick look at the qualifications of some key agents:
- Mary Bonnet
- License Obtained: 2008
- Notable Fact: Vice President of The Oppenheim Group
- Chrishell Stause
- License Obtained: 2016
- Notable Fact: Co-listed and sold a $3.5M home in 2024
- Emma Hernan
- License Obtained: 2019
- Notable Fact: Sold a $4.3M home in June 2024
- Chelsea Lazkani
- License Obtained: 2017
- Notable Fact: Previously worked for Rodeo Realty
- Bre Tiesi
- License Obtained: 2017
- Notable Fact: Sold a $4.9M home in June 2024
The Reality of Real Estate Transactions on the Show
While the drama on Selling Sunset might seem exaggerated for Netflix, the real estate transactions are very real. The agents, including a new cast member, are actively closing deals and earning commissions, even if the show focuses more on their personal lives. Their sales records, available through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), confirm their professional activity.
For example, Chrishell Stause recently partnered with Jason Oppenheim to sell a house for $3.5 million. Emma Hernan closed a $4.3 million sale in June 2024, and Bre Tiesi sold a home for $4.9 million that same month on Instagram. These are significant real estate transactions that highlight their genuine work in the Los Angeles market.
Of course, the show is edited to maximize entertainment. The conflicts and personal storylines are amplified, but this doesn't take away from the fact that even a superficial investigation reveals that the cast has legitimate real estate experience. The deals you see are not just for show; they represent real wins for the agents and the brokerage.
Luxury Homes Featured on Selling Sunset
The luxury homes on Selling Sunset are as much a star of the show as the agents themselves. These properties are the epitome of Los Angeles glamour, featuring stunning architecture, breathtaking views, and amenities that most people can only dream of. The Oppenheim brothers’ Group specializes in this high-end market, securing listings that are sure to impress both clients and viewers.
From mansions in the Hollywood Hills to beachfront properties in Malibu, the show provides a glimpse into some of the most exclusive real estate in New York City and the world. The next sections will give you more details on the types of properties listed and whether you can actually visit them.
Types of Properties Listed by the Agency
The Oppenheim Group's portfolio is a showcase of architectural diversity and opulence. The agents, including Mary Fitzgerald, typically handle multi-million dollar listings that cater to a clientele looking for exclusivity and style. These luxury homes are often located in the most sought-after neighborhoods in Los Angeles, like Beverly Hills, the Sunset Strip, and Hollywood Hills.
The properties featured on the show often include:
- Homes owned by celebrities like French Montana.
- Houses designed by renowned architects.
- Sprawling compounds with multiple structures.
- Modern mansions with state-of-the-art technology.
Each dollar listing is carefully chosen to represent the best of what the LA market has to offer. Whether it's a historic estate or a brand-new contemporary masterpiece, the properties handled by the Oppenheim Group are always impressive, making for fantastic television and even better investments for their clients.
Can You Actually Buy or Tour These Homes?
Yes, you can absolutely buy the homes featured on Selling Sunset season! These are real listings managed by the Oppenheim Group. However, getting a tour isn't as simple as just showing up. The agency deals with high-profile properties and serious clients, so you can't just walk in for a casual look around.
To tour one of these incredible Los Angeles homes, you need to be a pre-qualified, serious buyer. The agents at the Oppenheim Group vet potential clients, including those who might remind you of Christine Quinn, to ensure they have the financial means to make such a significant purchase. This process protects the sellers' privacy and ensures that only legitimate buyers view the property.
If you are a serious buyer, your first step would be to connect with a licensed real estate agent like Heather from the brokerage. They can guide you through the process, from verifying your finances to scheduling a private viewing of their exclusive listings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Selling Sunset" has transformed the landscape of luxury real estate, offering viewers a captivating glimpse into high-end properties and the dynamic agents behind them, including Alanna Gold, one of the newest members of the cast. As you navigate through the world of million-dollar listings and glamorous homes, it's essential to remember the reality behind the glitz. The show showcases real licensed agents who are deeply involved in the Los Angeles market, bridging the gap between entertainment and actual transactions. Whether you're an avid fan or considering a luxury purchase, understanding the intricacies of the agency and its listings can profoundly impact your experience. If you're eager to dive deeper into the world of luxury real estate, reach out to us for insightful guidance and support!
