Meet CaLee McManus

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

Hi CaLee, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I aspire to build something that goes beyond my personal accomplishments. My vision for Monarch Real Estate is to assemble a team of agents dedicated to delivering unparalleled white glove service to our clients. I aim to ensure seamless execution, expert negotiations, and a marketing strategy that yields exceptional results. I firmly believe in providing the highest level of service to every client, minimizing market time and achieving the highest possible sale prices.

Looking ahead, I envision expanding Monarch Real Estate’s reach to both coasts. With deep roots in Florida, where I grew up and have family, it would be incredibly rewarding to see Monarch Real Estate thrive in both states, maximizing our impact and creating new opportunities for success.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
As a young woman, I began my career in retail sales, working solely on a commission basis. I found the experience exhilarating and quickly transitioned into a management role. This laid the groundwork for my journey into the corporate world, where I joined a Fortune 100 company during the tech boom. As a Senior Manager in the Credit Department, I oversaw a portfolio of accounts receivable exceeding $3 billion and managed a team of over 100 employees. My role focused on driving efficiency, mastering effective negotiations, delivering exceptional service to our clients, and nurturing employee development. I thrived in a culture that fostered camaraderie among nearly 5,000 employees, united in achieving our goals.

While I excelled in the business-to-business arena, I felt a strong desire for a more personal and fulfilling career. After having children and relocating six times across the country, I decided to pursue a career in real estate. I believed that I could offer unparalleled service and value to my clients, a belief that has inspired me throughout my 19 years in the industry.

I am passionate about architecture, transforming homes to achieve top market value, and witnessing my clients succeed and maximize their profits. I understand that moving can be overwhelming, so my goal is to alleviate the burden from my clients, save them time, and help them earn more money in the process.

I take immense pride in the quality of work that goes into every home transaction. With the innovative programs we’ve developed alongside Side Inc., we offer zero-interest loans for home improvements to enhance profitability, complimentary professional staging, and a partnership approach that ensures a smooth and successful experience for our clients. My team and I are dedicated to walking with our clients every step of the way.

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.
South Orange County boasts a multitude of fantastic restaurants, stunning beaches, outdoor activities, shopping opportunities, and much more. I would take my friend to The Montage Hotel for a spa day—it’s truly a delight, complemented by lunch and lounging by the pool. It’s a full day of pampering, all while soaking in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. After that, I’d love to spend a day shopping in Beverly Hills, where we could also explore the Walk of Fame, stay the night, and hike to the Hollywood Sign. A day of dolphin and whale watching in Dana Point is one of my favorite pastimes, allowing us to truly appreciate ocean life. I like to start at Bonjour Cafe for a delightful brunch before heading to the Marina. Next on the agenda is Laguna Beach, one of my favorite spots for beachside shopping and enjoying lunch or dinner; I particularly love 240 Forest Avenue, followed by a night of music and fun at the Marine Room Tavern. Another great day trip is an overnight visit to Temecula, renowned for its delicious food, wine tasting at remarkable vineyards, and vibrant entertainment. A wonderful day can also be spent at the San Clemente Pier, where you can walk, fish, admire surfers, and savor a great meal. I adore South of Nick’s for gourmet Mexican fare and refreshing margaritas. Lastly, my hometown of Ladera Ranch is a lovely place for walking or hiking, enjoying heated private pools, playing tennis or pickleball, riding bikes, and having a drink with neighbors on the porch. Finally, we can’t overlook the wonders of Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm, just twenty minutes away. We are fortunate to be so close to an array of exciting activities, excellent restaurants, and friendly people to share good times with.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I launched Monarch Real Estate in February 2020, completely unaware that a pandemic was on the horizon as I embarked on this journey. I knew starting a new business while working full-time as a successful agent would be a formidable challenge. That’s why I chose to partner with Side Inc. as my brokerage and business ally in this entrepreneurial endeavor. This strategic partnership has played a pivotal role in my success.

With the support of a full-time business manager, I can effectively assess our goals, implement best practices, and foster the growth of both Monarch Real Estate and its agents. Side provides extensive education, training, compliance assistance, and a cutting-edge tech stack that keeps us ahead of the competition. This support allows me to concentrate fully on my clients and mentor my agents to achieve their goals.

Despite the unpredictable and volatile nature of the market since the pandemic, I have managed to remain competitive. Throughout this journey, the leadership team at Side has consistently encouraged and motivated me, providing an unparalleled sense of community among the founding partners. We genuinely celebrate each other’s successes as true partners. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Side Inc. for this incredible partnership!

Website: https://monarchrealestateca.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caleemcmanus/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calee-mcmanus/

Twitter: https://x.com/caleemcrealty

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caleemcmanusrealestate