Why You Should Work With a Boutique Real Estate Agency

 

 

With thousands of brokerages collectively employing millions of agents, the real estate industry is undoubtedly huge. If you’ve stumbled upon this blog, you may have already found yourself asking: What’s the benefit of working with a boutique firm over ‘big brand brokerages’ such as Rodeo Realty, Compass, or Douglas Elliman?

 

Before we reveal the answer, we’d like to share a little bit about our founder, Chana Gedy, and what persuaded her to establish her own boutique firm, Chana Gedy Real Estate.

 

 

Background

 

Chana Gedy’s career began in 2008 when she managed 25 buildings in downtown Manhattan and three additional properties in Washington Heights. For the first three years of her career, this opportunity gave her the chance to work firsthand with the property owners and learn the ins-and-outs of the business. After obtaining her Real Estate Salesperson license in 2011, Chana joined a firm specializing in leasing and sales based in the Union Square neighborhood. And just two years later, after her dear client introduced her to the owner of the Weinstein Realty Group, she began working for their hybrid firm specializing in leasing, sales, and property management.

 

In 2016, Chana moved to Los Angeles, California and began working for one of the biggest management companies based in the Sherman Oaks area. Her mission was to build the company’s single family homes portfolio by offering personalized and concierge style services with a focus on leasing, sales, and management. Through hard work and determination, she quickly climbed the company ladder. As her responsibilities grew, she tapped into business development by signing on new accounts and building a website for the successfully growing single family homes division, all while continuing to provide leasing, sales, project management, and property management services for her extensive client list. In other words, she was a one woman show — determined to do it all.

 

This path of success led her to pursue continuing education courses and eventually led to further career advancement. In the summer of 2019, she obtained her broker’s license and decided to leave the world of corporate real estate to open her own firm in 2020.

 

Why Did Chana Gedy Open Her Own Firm?

 

After 14 years of working with various companies ranging from small to large, Chana noticed an unmistakable pattern: time and time again, property supervisors were not getting enough support to manage their portfolios. Some didn’t even have proper leasing training and consistently missed important steps in the advertising and qualifying process as well as important aspects of the move in and move out, such as the make ready and inspection process. Ultimately, this contributed to the overall property mismanagement, which resulted in the inability to collect rent, keep up with property maintenance, and quickly fill vacancies.

 

Eventually, small issues scaled exponentially and due to tenants not paying rent and owners deferring maintenance as a result of mismanagement, properties were declining and with them, their value and income potential. The lack of specifications in the property management contract regarding the scope of work, amount of time spent on each property per month, number of inspections, or property visits hurt not only the property owners, but the management companies themselves.

 

With so much inevitable decline, their reputation was at stake. Since the management companies were charging a flat fee for all-inclusive property management that was impossible to fulfill given the circumstances, many upset phone calls and angry voicemails ensued as the owners relentlessly fought to receive the professional and accountable service they initially expected.

 

But this is avoidable…

 

The Benefits of Working with a Boutique Firm

 

When Chana made the decision to open her own firm, she was doing much more than establishing her own company — she was breaking the pattern.

 

Built on the guiding principle of quality over quantity, Chana Gedy Real Estate takes only a select number of clients at any given time, allowing us the opportunity to provide limitless, unconditional support. Many have described working with us as a “comprehensive and holistic” experience, so it’s no surprise that we take extra care to fulfill our mission of walking side-by-side with our clients through every step of their real estate transaction. Our goal is to provide our clients with the most in-depth data, information, and understanding to help them make the most informed and lucrative decisions for their real estate portfolios. Whether you’re buying, selling or leasing, you won’t have to worry about when your call will be returned or when your email will be answered— with Chana Gedy Real Estate, you are guaranteed clear, consistent communication.

 

Will Your Listing Get the Same Exposure?

 

Absolutely! While our firm may be small, our resources are extensive. Along with full access to the MLS and all aspects of marketing and advertising platforms, we work with the best in the industry and constantly learn about new features and technology; priding ourselves on being fine-tuned with the ever-changing demands of the industry. And since full access requires technology, we’re endlessly working on making sure that we’re ranking up and providing you with the best exposure and personalized features for your real estate needs.

 

Due to our vast experience in the various aspects of real estate, we don’t see other firms as our competition; furthermore, because our guiding principle is quality over quantity by only taking on a select number of clients at one time, we are constantly searching for YOUR dream home and will most likely spot it before ‘our competition’ will!

 

We pride ourselves on providing the most customized and tailored real estate services with an emphasis on open communication throughout what could possibly be the biggest transaction of your life. At Chana Gedy Real Estate, we focus on what matters most to each client; whether it’s finding a home with the perfect chef-worthy kitchen, or tracking down a property that fits environmental requirements for green living, we listen to what each client wants and then work hard to deliver that dream.

 

Are you ready to break the pattern and work with a boutique firm? To find out if we’re a good fit for your property and real estate services, contact us today!

 

 

 

 

Sept. 18, 2025

Investing in Los Angeles Real Estate | Chana Gedy, Broker

Investing in Los Angeles Real Estate: From Leasing to Legacy

Los Angeles has long been a magnet for real estate investors. From single-family rentals to multi-unit properties, the city’s dynamic housing market offers opportunities to build both wealth and long-term stability. But as any seasoned investor knows, profit doesn’t just come from owning a property—it comes from managing it wisely.

That’s where the right real estate broker makes all the difference.

Experience That Speaks to Investors

My career began in 2008 in New York City property management, where I learned the day-to-day realities of maintaining buildings, handling tenants, and balancing operational costs. By 2011, I became a licensed agent, expanding into leasing and sales. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how tenant–landlord relationships, leasing strategies, and property upkeep directly impact an investor’s bottom line.

Today, as a Real Estate Broker in Los Angeles and founder of Chana Gedy Real Estate (CGRE), I bring that same well-rounded perspective to investors in the Greater Los Angeles Area.

What I Offer Investors

  • Leasing Expertise: Helping you position your property to attract quality tenants and reduce vacancies.

  • Tenant–Landlord Insights: Drawing from my background to navigate relationships smoothly and avoid costly disputes.

  • ROI Strategies: From upgrades that increase rental value to timing the market for a profitable sale, I advise on decisions that maximize return.

  • Portfolio Guidance: Supporting both first-time investors and seasoned owners with multi-property portfolios.

Why Los Angeles Real Estate?

The Greater Los Angeles Area continues to be one of the most resilient investment markets in the country. Demand for rentals remains strong, especially in sought-after neighborhoods like Westwood, Sherman Oaks, and Beverly Hills. Inherited properties, multi-unit buildings, and even single-family homes all present opportunities for investors who approach them with the right strategy.

From Leasing to Legacy

Real estate investment is about more than spreadsheets—it’s about creating security, income, and long-term growth. Whether you’re leasing, upgrading, or planning an eventual sale, having a broker who understands both the numbers and the people side of real estate gives you a true advantage.

At Chana Gedy Real Estate, I help investors turn properties into legacies—always with professionalism, strategy, and a concierge approach.

Sept. 18, 2025

Inherited a Home in Los Angeles? Next Steps for Families & Investors

Inherited Property in Los Angeles: Honoring the Past, Planning for the Future

Inheriting a home is often bittersweet. A property can represent a lifetime of memories, traditions, and family history—yet at the same time, it becomes a responsibility that requires thoughtful decisions.

Do you keep it in the family? Rent it out as an investment? Or sell it and allow the value to serve the next generation? Each path requires not just financial clarity, but also respect for the legacy attached to the home.

More Than Bricks and Mortar

As a Real Estate Broker in the Greater Los Angeles Area, I’ve helped families approach inheritance with both care and creativity. An inherited property isn’t just another listing—it’s a story, a connection, and often a chance to build stability for the future.

Here’s how I support clients:

  • Legacy Assessments: Understanding the history and condition of the property while identifying its market potential.

  • Investment Possibilities: Exploring rental opportunities for families who want to hold on to the home as a source of income.

  • Smart Sales Strategies: When selling is the best choice, ensuring the process is smooth, timely, and maximizes value.

  • Family-Centered Guidance: Navigating decisions with sensitivity, keeping all voices in the process heard and respected.

Why Los Angeles Inherited Homes Hold Value

The Greater Los Angeles Area is unique: a city where every property—whether in Westwood, Sherman Oaks, or Beverly Hills—carries its own market demand. Inherited homes often sit in established neighborhoods, making them especially attractive to buyers and investors. With the right approach, families can transform inheritance into opportunity.

From Loss to Legacy

An inherited property can feel overwhelming at first. But with the right guidance, it becomes a way to both honor a loved one’s legacy and create meaningful value for the next generation.

At Chana Gedy Real Estate, my goal is to walk families through this process with professionalism, empathy, and strategy—turning what can feel like a burden into a future filled with possibility.

Sept. 18, 2025

Navigating Divorce and Real Estate in the Greater Los Angeles Area | Chana Gedy, Broker

Navigating Divorce and Real Estate in the Greater Los Angeles Area

Divorce is never easy. Beyond the emotional and personal challenges, there are often complex financial and housing decisions to make—especially when it comes to the family home. For many, the home isn’t just a property; it represents memories, stability, and investment.

As a Real Estate Broker in the Greater Los Angeles Area, I’ve worked with clients navigating divorce and the sensitive real estate decisions that come with it. My role is to provide clarity, strategy, and compassion during a time that can feel overwhelming.

The Real Estate Challenges of Divorce

When a couple decides to separate, the question of the home often arises quickly:

  • Should the home be sold and the proceeds divided?

  • Should one party keep the home and buy out the other?

  • Is it better to lease the property temporarily until emotions settle and the market aligns?

These are deeply personal choices, but they also require clear financial guidance. That’s where an experienced broker makes all the difference.

A Steady Hand During Uncertain Times

With 17+ years in real estate, including property management, leasing, and brokerage ownership, I bring a well-rounded perspective to divorce-related transactions. My concierge approach ensures:

  • Objective Valuations: Honest market assessments to help both parties make informed decisions.

  • Timely Transactions: Coordinating sales and purchases efficiently to reduce stress.

  • Discretion & Sensitivity: Handling each step with professionalism and care.

  • Future Planning: Advising on next steps, whether that means downsizing, upgrading, or investing in a new property.

Why the Greater Los Angeles Area?

From family-friendly neighborhoods to luxury enclaves, the Greater Los Angeles Area offers diverse options for those starting a new chapter. Whether a client needs more space, prefers a central location, or is seeking long-term investment value, Los Angeles provides the opportunities to match their goals.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Divorce is a difficult life change, but it can also be the beginning of a new chapter. With the right support, clients can move forward not just with resolution, but with a clear real estate strategy for the future.

As your Los Angeles Real Estate Broker, I’m here to guide you through the process, ensuring that—no matter how complex the deal—everything is handled with professionalism, compassion, and your best interests in mind.

Sept. 18, 2025

Upgrading to a Bigger Home in Westwood | Chana Gedy, Real Estate Broker in Los Angeles

Moving Up: How to Upgrade to a Bigger Home in Westwood

Westwood is one of Los Angeles’s most desirable neighborhoods—a vibrant community that blends UCLA energy with tree-lined residential streets and proximity to Beverly Hills, Brentwood, and Century City. For many families, Westwood isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to put down roots and grow.

But what happens when your current home no longer fits your lifestyle? Whether your family is expanding, your needs have shifted, or you simply want more space, upgrading to a bigger home in Westwood can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re selling one property while buying another.

That’s where I come in.

The Challenge of Buying and Selling at the Same Time

Many Westwood homeowners hesitate to “move up” because of the complexities of coordinating a sale and purchase at the same time. Do you sell first and risk temporary housing, or buy first and risk carrying two mortgages?

The truth is, with the right strategy, you don’t have to choose between stress and uncertainty.

A Concierge Approach to Family Upgrades

As a Real Estate Broker in Los Angeles with 17+ years of experience, I specialize in helping families navigate simultaneous transactions. My role is to guide you through every step:

  • Strategic Planning: Assessing your current home’s market value and identifying your ideal upgrade in Westwood.

  • Timing the Sale: Coordinating timelines so your current home sells smoothly while your new home is ready to close.

  • Trusted Network: Leveraging relationships with lenders, attorneys, and contractors to streamline the process.

  • White-Glove Service: Handling details so you can focus on your family and the excitement of moving up.

This concierge approach is about more than buying and selling—it’s about creating a seamless transition for your family’s next chapter.

Why Westwood?

From top-rated schools and cultural institutions like the Hammer Museum, to walkable streets filled with dining and shopping, Westwood offers a balance of lifestyle and long-term value. For families looking to expand, it’s a neighborhood where the investment in a bigger home pays dividends in both quality of life and property appreciation.

Your Next Step

If you’ve been considering upgrading your Westwood home, now may be the perfect time. With a strategic plan and the right guidance, you can move forward with confidence, knowing every detail is handled.

As your go-to real estate broker in Los Angeles, I’m here to help you get the job done—no matter how complex the deal.

 

Sept. 18, 2025

Chana Gedy | Real Estate Broker in Los Angeles | Concierge Real Estate Services

Chana Gedy Real Estate: Your Concierge Real Estate Partner in Los Angeles and Beyond

When it comes to buying or selling a home, having the right real estate professional by your side makes all the difference. Since 2008Chana Gedy has built her career step by step—from property management in New York City to becoming a licensed agent, and ultimately a Real Estate Broker in Los Angeles. With 17+ years of experience, she is the founder of Chana Gedy Real Estate (CGRE), a full-service concierge real estate company launched in 2020. Today, she is known for getting the job done—no matter how complex the deal.

A Career Built on Experience and Growth

Chana’s real estate journey began in 2008 with property management in New York City, where she gained firsthand knowledge of property operations and developed a strong foundation in client care.

By 2011, she earned her real estate license in NYC, immersing herself in leasing, sales, and property transactions across Manhattan and the outer boroughs. These years gave her a well-rounded perspective on the business—strengthening her negotiation skills, expanding her knowledge of contracts, and deepening her understanding of tenant–landlord relationships. This experience has proven invaluable when advising investors on how to balance returns with long-term tenant stability.

In 2016, she relocated to Los Angeles and secured her California real estate license, bringing her East Coast experience to one of the most dynamic housing markets in the country. By 2019, she had earned her California Broker’s License, a milestone that reflected her commitment to the highest professional standards.

The following year, in 2020, Chana launched Chana Gedy Real Estate (CGRE)—a boutique concierge brokerage serving clients across Los Angeles and New York. From property management to brokerage ownership, her journey is one of continuous growth, adaptability, and client-focused service.

A Concierge Approach to Real Estate

CGRE is more than a brokerage—it’s a concierge real estate company. From estate management to sales, leasing, consulting, and tax-deferred strategies (DST), Chana and her trusted network of attorneys, lenders, and contractors deliver end-to-end support with a polished, professional touch.

Her concierge approach ensures every client receives white-glove service: seamless communication, personalized strategies, and unwavering advocacy for their best interests.

Expertise in Complex Transactions

What sets Chana apart is her ability to handle timely and complex transactions—the kind of deals that often overwhelm others. She is especially recognized for:

  • Simultaneous Buy + Sell Transactions: Helping families sell their current home and purchase their next one at the same time, making upgrades smooth and stress-free.

  • Luxury & Family Homes: Guiding clients through buying or selling properties that balance lifestyle with smart investments.

  • Timely Closings: Ensuring smooth, efficient transactions even under strict deadlines.

When clients need someone who can get the job done—no matter how complex the deal, they turn to Chana Gedy.

Bi-Coastal Presence, Local Focus

While Chana is licensed and active in both Los Angeles and New York, her primary focus is serving families and investors in Greater Los Angeles—from Beverly Hills and Sherman Oaks to Pasadena and West Hollywood.

Her bi-coastal expertise offers an edge for clients with ties to both coasts, providing seamless coordination across markets.

Why Clients Choose Chana Gedy Real Estate

  • Concierge Service – Tailored, premium real estate solutions.

  • Classy & Professional – A polished brand identity that reflects trust and expertise.

  • Client-Focused – Always prioritizes the client’s best interests.

  • Resourceful & Networked – Backed by a vetted team of attorneys, lenders, and contractors.

Your Go-To Real Estate Broker in Los Angeles

Whether you’re upgrading to your dream home, exploring investment opportunities, or planning a 1031 exchange or DST strategy, Chana Gedy Real Estate is your one-stop shop for all your real estate needs.

If you’re searching for a referral agent in Los Angeles, look no further. With a reputation for class, professionalism, and results, Chana is the trusted choice for families, investors, and fellow agents alike.

 

 

Sept. 22, 2023

What Goes Up Must Come Down: The History of Interest Rates Since 1953

Posted in Interest Rates
May 26, 2023

Deferred Sales Trust™

March 20, 2023

An Expert Gives You Clarity in Today’s Housing Market

The housing market has been going through shifts lately. That’s why it’s so important to work with an industry professional who can be your guide throughout the process.

A real estate expert uses their knowledge of what’s really happening with home prices, housing supply, expert projections, and more to give you the best advice. Someone who can provide clarity like that is critical right now. Jay Thompson, Real Estate Industry Consultant, explains:

“Housing market headlines are everywhere. Many are quite sensational, ending with exclamation points or predicting impending doom for the industry. Clickbait, the sensationalizing of headlines and content, has been an issue since the dawn of the internet, and housing news is not immune to it.”

Unfortunately, when information in the media isn’t clear, it can generate a lot of fear and uncertainty in the market. As Jason Lewris, Co-Founder and Chief Data Officer at Parcl, says:

“In the absence of trustworthy, up-to-date information, real estate decisions are increasingly being driven by fear, uncertainty, and doubt.”

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Buying a home is a big decision, and it should be one you feel confident making. You can lean on an expert to help you separate fact from fiction and get the answers you need.

The right agent can help you understand what’s happening at the national and local levels, and they can debunk headlines using data you can trust. Experts have in-depth knowledge of the industry and can provide context, so you know how current trends compare to the normal ebbs and flows in the industry, historical data, and more.

Then, to make sure you have the full picture, an agent can tell you if your local area is following the national trend or if they’re seeing something different in your market. Together, you can use all that information to make the best possible decision.

After all, making a move is a potentially life-changing milestone. It should be something you feel ready for and excited about. And that’s where a trusted expert comes in.

Bottom Line

For expert advice and the latest housing market insights, reach out to a real estate professional today.

 

Posted in Market Updates
March 20, 2023

Balancing Your Wants and Needs as a Homebuyer This Spring

Though there are more homes for sale now than there were at this time last year, there’s still an undersupply with fewer houses available than in more normal, pre-pandemic years. The Monthly Housing Market Trends Report from realtor.com puts it this way: 

“While the number of homes for sale is increasing, it is still 43.2% lower than it was before the pandemic in 2017 to 2019. This means that there are still fewer homes available to buy on a typical day than there were a few years ago.”

The current housing shortage has an impact on how you search for a home this spring. With limited options on the market, buyers who consider what’s a necessity versus what’s a nice-to-have will be more successful in their home search.

The first step? Get pre-approved for a mortgage. Pre-approval helps you better understand what you can borrow for your home loan, and that plays an important role in how you’ll put your list together. After all, you don’t want to fall in love with a home that’s out of reach. Once you have a good grasp on your budget, the best way to prioritize all the features you want and need in a home is to put together a list.

Here’s a great way to think about them before you begin:

  • Must-Haves – If a house doesn’t have these features, it won’t work for you and your lifestyle.

  • Nice-To-Haves – These are features you’d love to have but can live without. Nice-to-haves aren’t dealbreakers, but if you find a home that hits all the must-haves and some of these, it’s a contender.

  • Dream State – This is where you can really think big. Again, these aren’t features you’ll need, but if you find a home in your budget that has all the must-haves, most of the nice-to-haves, and any of these, it’s a clear winner.

Finally, once you’ve created your list and categorized it in a way that works for you, discuss it with your real estate agent. They’ll be able to help you refine the list further, coach you through the best ways to stick to it and find a home in your area that meets your needs.

Bottom Line

Prioritizing what you need in a home is a critical first step of the buying process. If you’re ready to find the one that’s best for you, connect with a local real estate agent.

 

March 20, 2023

What Buyer Activity Tells Us About the Housing Market

Though the housing market is no longer experiencing the frenzy of a year ago, buyers are showing their interest in purchasing a home. According to U.S. News:

“Housing markets have cooled slightly, but demand hasn’t disappeared, and in many places remains strong largely due to the shortage of homes on the market.”

That activity can be seen in the latest ShowingTime Showing Index, which is a measure of buyers actively touring available homes (see graph below):

 

The 62% jump in showings from December to January is one of the largest on record. There were also more showings in January than in any other month since last May. As you can see in the graph, it’s normal for showings to increase early in the year, but the jump this January was larger than usual, and a lot of that has to do with mortgage rates. Michael Lane, VP of Sales and Industry at ShowingTime+, explains:

“It’s typical to see a seasonal increase in home showings in January as buyers get ready for the spring market, but a larger increase than any January before after last year’s rapid cooldown is significant. Mortgage rate activity this spring will play a big role in sales activity, but January’s home showings are a positive sign that buyers are getting back out there. . .”

It's important to note that mortgage rates hovered in the low 6% range in January, which played a role in the high number of showings. What does this mean? When mortgage rates eased, buyer interest climbed. The jump in home showings early this year makes one thing clear – while rates may be volatile right now, there are interested buyers out there, and when mortgage rates are favorable, they’re ready to make their move. 

Bottom Line

An increase in showing activity in January is a good sign that there are buyers who are eager to purchase a home. If you’re thinking of selling your house, talk with your real estate agent.

 

Posted in Market Updates