Welcome to another exciting episode of Wilder Possibilities Podcast! 🎉 This time, we are graced with an inspiring story of determination, transformation, and real estate mastery. Meet Nina Zarian, the COO of Christie’s SoCal, who shares her remarkable journey from Baku, Azerbaijan, to becoming a powerhouse in LA’s competitive real estate market.

The Humble Beginnings
Nina wasn’t born in the U.S.; her story began in Baku, Armenia, where she lived until her family immigrated to Los Angeles as refugees. She was just six years old at the time. 🌍 Coming from such humble beginnings, Nina’s journey shows us the incredible potential for growth and success when you work hard and stay focused. Growing up in Glendale, part of one of the largest Armenian communities in the U.S., she thrived while juggling multiple languages—fluent in Armenian, Russian, and English. How impressive is that? 🤯

Unexpected Turn Into Real Estate
Believe it or not, Nina’s dream career wasn’t always in real estate. Initially, she studied biotechnology and forensic science. 🧬 She even volunteered with the LAPD, solving crimes! 🔍 But as life often does, it steered her in a different direction. Needing a more stable job while finishing college, she began working as a weekend receptionist at Coldwell Banker. Little did she know this temporary gig would change her entire career path.

Nina’s career took off as she quickly climbed the ranks, getting promoted due to her curious mind and tireless work ethic. She transitioned from a receptionist to a transaction coordinator, and eventually, a key figure in Los Angeles’ real estate landscape. And this all began at a time when the real estate market was booming—right before the 2008 crash. 🌪

The ‘Click’ Moment: Embracing Real Estate
Everyone has that click moment, that pivotal time when life just aligns, and for Nina, it came after years of viewing her work in real estate as “just a job.” 🏠 But when she started working with Aaron Kerman in 2015, she realized that she could make a real career out of it. It was her moment of clarity—the click—when she decided to go all in. Once she fully embraced the potential of her real estate career, things skyrocketed, and the rest is history.

The Rise to COO of Christie’s SoCal
Fast forward to now—Nina has played an instrumental role in growing Aaron Kerman’s real estate team into one of LA’s largest mega-teams, and now operates as COO at Christie’s SoCal. 🎉 They went from operating as a pseudo-brokerage to launching their own Christie’s affiliate, bringing an edge of luxury and sophistication to the local market. Nina was deeply involved in ensuring the seamless transition, focusing on maintaining strong relationships with agents and fostering a healthy workplace culture.

Lessons in Adaptation and Growth
As she and Aaron expanded their operations, Nina found herself on the cutting edge of the business. From boutique-style growth to learning the intricacies of running a brokerage, she has been a constant source of innovation and problem-solving. 🧠 Even when facing challenges—like adapting to constant changes in the industry—Nina’s forward-thinking attitude has kept their business thriving. Whether it’s understanding the latest CAR forms or exploring new market areas like Newport Beach, her ability to adapt is second to none.

Looking Ahead
The future for Nina and Christie’s SoCal is one of selective and strategic growth. 🌱 While other brokerages may be going corporate, Nina and her team are keeping things more personal and boutique, ensuring that their agents have the tools and support they need to thrive. As they expand into new markets and navigate the ups and downs of the current real estate environment, it’s clear that Nina’s leadership will continue to be a guiding light for years to come. 💡

Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this episode of Wilder Possibilities, be sure to subscribe and follow us for more inspiring entrepreneurial journeys. And don’t forget to follow Nina on Instagram: @ninazarian.