Less Arnold: An Interview

“It’s a true privilege to help shepherd and protect each dream that I’m entrusted with.”

What do you love most about real estate?

My love of real estate is threefold:

The people. I so enjoy the wild variety of individuals that I get to work with on a daily basis. Every person has their own story and, as a once-aspiring writer, I’m often swept up in their narratives and life stories. I always have a great time with my clients, especially as we progress in our relationships over the years. It’s a privilege to help people from all walks of life find their way home and achieve their financial dreams via investing in real estate.

The properties. I’m a very visual person and I’ve always been able to innately point clients to homes that weren’t on their radar, but were exactly what they didn’t know they needed in terms of light, space, feel, and layout. The history and architectural variety of homes throughout New England makes selling here a visual treat.

The pace. Our market moves at a fast clip, which can be as invigorating and fun as it is challenging. Every day comes with new obstacles, opportunities, and chances to both win and deliver for clients. I’m passionate about helping people navigate the roller coaster ride, whether it be over the short or very long term.

How did you get into real estate?

On a dare. I’m serious. A friend of mine thought that I’d be a natural and she pushed me to take the class back in 2002, which I resisted fiercely. Turns out she knew me better than I knew myself; I’ve been happily selling real estate in Greater Boston for over 16 years.

If it weren’t for real estate, what would your career be?

I was raised by a family of entrepreneurs. My mother is a serial CEO and an amazing natural leader who serves on both non-profit and corporate boards. My father has his hands in dozens of businesses and investments. And my brother co-founded both a brewery and a solar company. I’d definitely be the captain of my own ship if I weren’t selling real estate in Boston — but then again, aren’t I doing that now in a way?

What do you do in your spare time?

I’m entrenched in the contemporary art community, serving on the Advisory Board of the ICA/Boston, the Board of Directors of the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, and as a partner in a non-profit organization that supports artists philanthropically. Downtime for me consists of attending museum and gallery openings, traveling to art fairs, and building a small personal art collection.

What is the best advice you‘ve been given?

Be yourself no matter what. Play to your strengths. Work and surround yourself with people that you enjoy.

What gets you out of bed every day?

I love helping people find their dream home — and helping others maximize their return on their investment. Real estate is so personal. Every family and individual has a backstory and a desired endgame that’s uniquely their own. It’s a true privilege to help shepherd and protect each dream and goal that I’m entrusted with.

Why Compass?

Compass is an amazing and collaborative ecosystem of support, technology, an in-house advertising agency, and fabulous people—the company is literally redefining the real estate industry. Every part of Compass is built around serving buyers and sellers more efficiently, creatively, and effectively. Locally and nationally we employ many of the most collaborative, respected, and productive agents in each market—the best in the business. I’m a founding agent of our Greater Boston team and I believe more passionately in the company now than when we launched here in early fall 2015. I can’t imagine being happier professionally than I am at Compass or being able to provide a higher level of service elsewhere.