Making Your Move With Joy Bender & Robert Aumann of Compass

Unrivaled sales, high profile transactions, and comprehensive knowledge of the San Diego real estate market are just a few key phrases that define real estate agents Joy Bender and Rob Aumann of Aumann Bender & Associates. The dynamic duo continually generates noteworthy results for accomplished entrepreneurs and affluent residents, earning them a spot on the elite 2015 list of top real estate professionals compiled by Real Trends in the Wall Street Journal. Joy Bender and Robert Aumann sat down with Haute Living for an inside look on where to find the best real estate in San Diego.

How did you get started in real estate?

I previously ran a mortgage business in the twin cities for a decade. After relocating to San Diego, in 2009, I was able to transition into real estate and sell my mortgage business.

What sets you apart from the competition?
When I moved to San Diego I didn’t have any understanding of the area or the market. San Diego is the size of the state of Connecticut. I spent a significant amount of time learning San Diego’s most premier communities along the coast, and inland Rancho Santa Fe.

What advice would you give someone looking to get started in real estate?
To be successful in real estate, it is a full time + occupation. In the early days, you must dedicate a significant amount of time learning your market, client acquisition techniques, marketing, social media, and digital marketing strategies.

Do you have a special listing or property currently on the market that you absolutely adore?
We adore our listing 7199 Rancho La Cima Drive in Rancho Santa Fe, the architecture, privacy, and unique waterscape features.

What sets La Jolla apart?
With seven miles of the coastline, La Jolla is a unique seaside resort town with picturesque natural beauty, high-end shops, art galleries, world-class dining, and activities like snorkeling, kayaking, & parasailing. La Jolla is also in close proximity to downtown San Diego for Padres games, vibrant culture, and sailing in nearby Point Loma.

How would you describe the quality and style of life to someone looking to relocate to La Jolla?
The lifestyle in La Jolla is very active with biking, hiking, kayaking, parasailing, snorkeling, and swimming.

What are some of the best dining, drinking and shopping spots in your market?
Eddie V’s, George’s, and Herringbone for a nice evening out. Trilogy and Lean and Green are super popular health options. Sugar and Scribe is the best bakery. My favorite places to shop are We Olive and Wine Bar, Muttropolis, Optical Shop Of Aspen, Bloomers, and Gracie James.

What real estate market trends have you seen in the last five years, and where do you see the market and trends going in the next five?
We’ve had significant development in La Jolla with four new condo/townhouse communities. There is very limited inventory available for buyers looking to relocate or invest in La Jolla creating an environment of market stability and continued appreciation.

What are the top three things you would recommend to someone looking to relocate here?
Work with an experienced La Jolla real estate agent that can help you compare the various micro-neighborhoods with your specific lifestyle and budget in mind. Explore nearby Del Mar, Coronado, North Pacific Beach, and Solana Beach as possible real estate destinations to compare prices, views, and other important aspects to your home search. Visit the various schools, we have many private schools in La Jolla for all levels of education, Gillispie School, The Evans School, Stella Maris Academy, La Jolla Country Day School, The Children’s School, Bishops, San Diego French American School, and All Hallows Academy.

What advice would you give buyers looking to invest in and/or move to La Jolla?
Stay a few days in downtown La Jolla Village to get an idea of what it would be like living here full-time in a resort town.  Experience the La Jolla Cove, hike Torrey Pines, golf Torrey Pines, and stroll Girard and Prospect.