We had the good fortune of connecting with Alexandra Marikos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alexandra, what’s the most important thing you’ve done for your children?
As an independent parent one of the most important things I’ve done for my daughter & son is to become a committed business owner . But honestly since my divorce in Jan 2017 I’ve been the sole parent physically and financially for my son Maximus (7) and Daughter Alessia (10). They’re absolutely amazing, so brilliant, and thriving which I’m beyond blessed to say!!! Greatest challenges have been work/family balance. I’m overcoming that challenge by the “Family Business Board” we have at home. This is a white board that tracks my transactions. The kids’ “jobs” are moving properties from the escrow column to the closed column on the board. We also have a column of “closing activities” (they fill these ideas in) so when there’s a closing we pick from that list…whether it’s Disneyland trip or movies & shopping day the kids get super excited to be involved then feel like it’s their business because honestly they are my why! This makes it a little easier if I’m hosting opens on the weekend or having to stop what we’re doing to take a call. They feel like important players in our family business. They also like to be my “mailman” & “mail lady” by carrying my popby’s to client doors giving us a little extra family time. Life is about solutions at times right?!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m in this business for the relationships. Of course, let’s be honest we have the opportunity to also earn high which obviously that freedom is an incentive as well. But I pride myself in developing, nurturing, and growing client relationships and have had success doing so! I truly have a heart to help people. Not to toot my own horn (but toot toot just a little) my client feedback/reviews consistently reflects my spirit of empathy & authenticity. That makes my heart smile! Let’s be very real here some days and even seasons are not easy in our industry so I do my best to give out as much encouragement & edification as I would hope to receive. I’ve faced a fair share of adversity in my life so I 100% believe that’s gifted me with great empathy for others. I run my business with kindness and integrity as well because at the end of the day we are all people who need to be cared for by the ones we trust. Client trust is everything to me and that’s something I will always honor and uphold.

Another big thing I’m super intentional about is being a pleasant closing partner! Our industry is challenging enough. Yes I go hard for each and every client but I don’t have to compromise my kind communication to do so! I move with this mindset …Our clients have a goal & contract between one another so it’s our duty to get them there, egos must be set aside for their best interests. Let’s cheer each other on, encourage one another, and maintain a thankful heart for these opportunities! The energy you put out is what comes back and I believe all can be solved/worked through in this industry while still maintaining kindness first. I want longevity in this business and believe the above will get me there and are gifts which I’m just beyond grateful for.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As a San Diego native I have elite tour guide skills when it comes to exploring my city. Once landing in San Diego …hitting the taco shop for a quick bite is a must! I prefer MXN on Morena blvd for the cali burritos or rolled tacos, and flavorful hot sauce is the go to. And let’s grab some extra hot sauce for later lol. We could then pack a bag and set up on the sand of Windansea beach in La Jolla, my personal favorite. We could then grab tapas and drinks nearby at Duke’s or any restaurant on that block. Morning Glory in Little Italy or JRDN in PB are excellent brunch spots both with a great San Diego ambiance. A stroll down the boardwalk with a stop at Baja Beach Cafe for their insane lobster rolled tacos with a view would be the finisher at sunset. For a night out we could start at Barbusa, Born & Raised, or Meza Greek fusion if your into the fun upbeat vibe of Little Italy or Downtown, we migrate to whichever place looks most fun after that. We have many options for making fond memories in San Diego.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to give a s/o to Zandra Ulloa -Head Associate & founder of Team Z. Thank you Zandra for believing in me and allowing me to share in your dream and success. Zandra is a legacy leader who leads from her heart. She has paved the way for Team Z and is in the trenches with us daily. Zandra has proven that how you do anything is how you do everything -and that is in the spirit of excellence. Thank you Zandra and Team Z for your consistent love and support, you all inspire & just bless me!

PersonalAlexandraMarikos

Website: alliesandiego.com

Instagram: Alexndra_Alessia

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-marikos-754a2694/

Image Credits
NAV productions

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