Davina Potratz describes what it is like to be on a Netflix series
Davina Potratz, a real estate agent, has been all over the world to talk about property. Things became more interesting when she gets a role for the Netflix series “Selling Sunset.” For this feature, she talks about her experiences in real estate and what it is like being on a series for Netflix.
How would you describe your profession in real estate?
My real estate career has been extensive. I have worked for several of the biggest developers and sold some of the most luxurious condominiums in Los Angeles, for the past 13 years. Typically I meet new clients by referral. Many of my transactions have been record-breaking prices per sq ft such as some of the Penthouses at The Ritz-Carlton Residences at LA Live and 460 N Palm in Beverly Hills.
I have attended property shows all over the world such as in Dubai, Qatar, Bahrain, and London. I have loved working with buyers from all over the world, getting to know their needs and finding them their perfect property. Everyone is different and has unique goals, which is why I love working with various clientele, it keeps my job creative and fun.
My current listing for 75M is a true compound in one of the finest areas of Beverly Hills. The seller was a past client who has now moved into real estate development and has listed one of his most impressive properties with me. It is a special honor and fulfilling feeling when a long-standing client awards you a meaningful listing, it is evidence that I have been doing my job right. I recently also obtained my broker’s license so I can truly offer the most knowledge and experience to my clients.
What is it like being on the Netflix show “Selling Sunset?”
I love being on Selling Sunset!
We are lucky to work with some of the top producers in the industry and try to show the most interesting aspects of our business. Real estate is all about relationships and in sales, in particular, there are big personalities. We are also a small brokerage that works in close quarters so there are many interpersonal relationship highs and lows that people get to witness. Sometimes those are highlighted to make for an entertaining show and edited down to fit into an episode (time allowing) but everything you see is real.
In my case, I joined the show last minute so they sort of squeezed me in, which is why you initially don’t see as much of me. Our team spends a lot of time together and I have become very close friends to some of the other agents/cast. I consider them family. Filming can be fun but also a lot of work, especially when clients are involved in a scene as you have to focus on several things at the same time. In the end, we are extraordinarily fortunate to have this opportunity and be on a network like Netflix. I am grateful to be a part of it!
What is your role on the show?
My role on the show is to be myself!
All of us are encouraged to truly be ourselves and share as much of our real personalities as possible. All of the agents are quite different yet I think if you got to know them one on one, you would find a common thread with each, although maybe some a little more. I take great pride in my work ethic, honesty and experience, it’s the reason why people trust me. I can be very direct but always with the best intentions. I am also very loyal.
I think a lot of it has to do with my upbringing and maybe also my native German culture. (I am born and raised in Germany, my dad is 100% German and my mom is half German and half Native American-Chippewa). Sometimes my delivery is perceived as cold, as in the case with two of my castmates on the show but I’m never inappropriate or disrespectful. I simply feel empowered to speak my truth and feel that when men do that, they are seen as strong and confident, so why not us women too?
In my mind, it is a matter of fact. I think we have to empower all people to be confident enough to be themselves, certainly not in a hurtful way but in a truthful way. Authentic energy is the most powerful energy, it’s what true love and happiness are also about, what we are all after, and “fake” simply does not have the same energy charge. That’s what I believe in.
Along with the show, what other major elements make up your profession?
Representing buyers and sellers is what makes up my job. My focus is on single-family houses but also representing condominium developers, since I have so much experience with multi-family projects.
What is it about Los Angeles that makes it a popular city to live in?
Los Angeles is one of the most alluring cities. I would say the weather, natural beauty of the coast and mountains, combined with the glamour of the entertainment industry and unique opportunities that this city offers, like no other, is what makes it such a popular destination. In real estate terms, due to the high value of properties and extremes of the types of homes here, it is truly a dream for buyers and developers (sellers) alike. Many of the world’s wealthiest individuals reside here which allows for a multicultural experience filled with extremes of every sort. It’s also a very healthy city with fantastic health food stores and various ways to optimize your lifestyle. It’s exciting and inspiring to be here.
What smaller activities most interest you?
I am very passionate about living a healthy lifestyle. I work out 5-6 days a week and eat mostly organic food. I love to be outdoors, hiking or play beach volleyball. Mixing up activities is key. One of my other passions is beauty, which I feel like is closely linked to wellness. If you are healthy and feel good, you look good and radiate positive energy. Beauty is another way to channel confidence. I learned a lot about this from my previous career as a fashion model. I am currently working with a toxic-free beauty line called “with Simplicity” on developing two products that I personally felt a need for and strongly believe in. I think they solve a universal issue (specifical dryness in powdery makeup) that people are often struggling with. I truly believe in these unique products and the brand so this is a very exciting project for me. Stay tuned!
Will there be more seasons for “Selling Sunset?”
We don’t know yet if there will be more seasons of Selling Sunset but we are very hopeful! Fingers crossed!
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