From my own experience as a real estate investor to helping guide hundreds of client transactions, I’ve learned countless lessons that have shaped my approach and defined the values my business is built on.

It was the mid-1980s when I made the decision to purchase my first rental property. That initial investment took two years to find. I approached it carefully, knowing the importance of running the numbers, protecting the long-term value of the investment, and choosing a property that could ultimately support itself. The one I settled on was located just outside Torrance and required substantial repairs and management. It was a large undertaking, but the process taught me how to evaluate risk, recognize potential, and manage real estate in a way that could generate consistent returns.

From there, I kept investing and learning firsthand how to spot opportunities, manage rental properties efficiently, and make decisions that supported long-term growth. Those experiences laid the foundation for my career in real estate. 

In 1988 I earned my real estate license, initially to handle my own transactions. The market was strong, but when the early ’90s downturn hit Southern California, I had to learn some hard lessons, just like many others in the industry at the time. It taught me to become more cautious, more strategic, and more focused on protecting long-term value.

When the next crash hit in 2008, I was better prepared. I recognized the warning signs and avoided the high-risk deals that were common at the time and helped my clients do the same. Working through these pivotal times in real estate shaped how I approach my work today. I take it seriously to help clients understand the market, time their decisions carefully, and protect their investments through every phase of the cycle.

Having lived in the area my entire life, I bring a level of insight into the local neighborhoods and communities that only a true local can. Combined with over 30 years of experience selling homes across the greater region, I’ve developed a deep understanding of this market. I only take listings in areas where I know I can provide the highest level of service. I don’t cut corners. I believe in doing things right the first time, being honest with clients, and setting clear, realistic expectations. That’s how I’ve built long-term relationships and why many of my clients continue to return or refer others, earning me the 5-Star Real Estate Award for 12 years!

There have been many highlights in my career and countless lessons learned. Now, I’m entering a new chapter once again. For years, I dealt with health issues that affected my energy, and over time, it simply became normal. I learned to live with it and kept moving forward. But that changed in 2021 when I had surgery to remove a benign thyroid tumor. Since then, I’ve felt my energy return, closer to normal than it had been in a long time. 

With that has come a renewed sense of drive and purpose for where I want to take my business next. This chapter is focused on growth: expanding services, improving systems, and building the support needed to serve more clients with the same level of care and expertise I’ve always prioritized. It’s an exciting time in my career, bringing together everything I’ve learned and the core values that have shaped how I serve my clients from the very beginning.

With decades of experience in the South Bay market, I help clients navigate a wide range of real estate needs with clarity and confidence. I have extensive knowledge of older and historic homes, which often require more specialized preparation, inspection oversight, and marketing strategy. My background also includes trust and probate sales, income properties, and traditional residential transactions. Having started as an investor myself, I understand how to evaluate long-term value, manage multi-unit properties, and guide clients through more complex sales, including REOs and rent-controlled buildings. I also work with buyers on new construction purchases and understand the unique steps involved in those deals.

 

I focus only on the communities I know well because that local insight directly benefits my clients. Every transaction is approached with clear communication, honest advice, and attention to detail. Whether preparing a 1905 bungalow for sale or advising a family through the sale of an inherited property, I bring a steady, informed approach that has defined my work for more than 30 years.

 

Sincerely,

  

 

 

John Fields