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OUR TEAM
John R. Ellis
President, Broker, Realtor®
DRE License Number: 01331716
John Ellis is the President, and CEO of LS Real Estate, Inc. John is a licensed Real Estate Broker and Realtor, with a CAM (Certified Apartment Manager) certification from the Apartment Association, California Southern Cities, in cooperation with the National Apartment Association. He established the company back in 2002 and has grown it into the corporation it is today. John has worked hard establishing the vision and charting the path of growth for LS Property Management. As acting Broker, John is meticulous about details and accuracy within clients’ accounts, and has a reputation for placing clients’ needs, goals, and objectives at the forefront of every transaction. As a property manager, John provides his clients with communication, negotiation, and management skills in combination with an in-depth knowledge of the surrounding areas, neighborhoods, and real estate markets. He is always looking for new ways of using current technology to provide a higher level of service to all his clients. For many years, John taught property management classes for the City of Whittier and the Apartment Association, California Southern Cities; including, emergency preparedness, tenant screening and fair housing issues. He has also served as chair of the Whittier Apartment Association of Owners and he is currently a member of the National Association of Residential Property Managers, and the Apartment Owners Association. John is a devoted husband and father of 2 grown children. He enjoys photography, shooting sports, traveling, and spending time with his lovely wife, Julie.
Brenda Nuñez
Operations Manager, Licensed Agent, Notary Public
DRE License Number: 01808729
Introducing Brenda, a cornerstone of the LS Team since 2013, whose journey from office bookkeeper to licensed real estate agent and notary public embodies dedication, growth, and expertise. Fluent in Spanish and English, Brenda seamlessly connects with clients, ensuring top-notch service and support in both languages.As the linchpin of our office, Brenda orchestrates the day-to-day operations with precision, ensuring everything runs smoothly and on schedule. Her role extends far beyond mere management; she's the go-to problem-solver, always ready to lend a helping hand and foster a collaborative atmosphere.Brenda's evolution into a true property management expert reflects her unwavering commitment to excellence. With meticulous attention to detail and an insatiable drive to learn, she has emerged as a leader within our team, inspiring others with her dedicated work ethic and passion for the industry.
One of Brenda's key responsibilities includes meeting with potential new property management clients, guiding them through the onboarding process, and addressing any questions or concerns they may have. Her expertise and genuine care ensure that clients feel confident and supported as they entrust their properties to our care.At LS Real Estate, we prioritize professionalism, integrity, and people-centric values, and Brenda exemplifies these principles in every interaction. Whether you have questions about property management or real estate, Brenda is your trusted advisor, ready to provide expert guidance and support.
Silvia Jauregui
Operations Associate
Introducing Silvia, a valued member of our LS Team since May 2020, bringing forth a wealth of expertise and dedication to every facet of our operations. Fluent in Spanish, Silvia seamlessly bridges communication gaps and fosters inclusive environments, enriching our team's diversity. Silvia's multifaceted role encompasses various responsibilities, including supervising our maintenance department and conducting property viewings with finesse. Her keen eye for detail ensures that properties undergo necessary improvements, collaborating closely with owners to enhance their assets. Additionally, Silvia spearheads our efforts in expanding our property management clientele, showcasing her adeptness in fostering lasting relationships and facilitating seamless transitions. With a passion for ensuring rental properties are market-ready, Silvia takes on the task of capturing captivating photos to showcase our available rentals in their best light. However, it's her genuine enjoyment in communicating with residents and property owners that truly sets her apart. Silvia's compassionate approach and dedication to customer satisfaction shine through as she goes above and beyond to assist those in need. Beyond the office, Silvia finds solace and joy in the company of her cherished family, cherishing every moment spent with them. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and genuine care for others exemplify the values we hold dear at LS Team, making her an invaluable member of our family.
Alondra Soto
Office Assistant
Meet Alondra, a dynamic member of our LS Team since late 2023, steadily paving her path towards becoming a licensed real estate professional. She effortlessly blends her passion for real estate with her meticulous skills in billing and accounting. Alondra's role extends far beyond numbers; she also assists in organizing files, processing applications, showing open houses to potential new residents with her warmth and expertise in sales and customer service. Her knack for social media marketing has elevated our online presence, drawing in a broader audience and fostering meaningful connections with clients. Beyond the office, Alondra finds joy in the company of her cherished family and her two adorable dogs, Pumpkin and Potato. A self-proclaimed Disney enthusiast, she finds solace and inspiration in the magic of Disney Parks, further reflecting her vibrant and adventurous spirit.
Gladys Benavidez
Broker Associate, Realtor®
DRE License Number: 01742006
Introducing Gladys Benavidez, a licensed Broker Associate and Realtor® who has been an integral part of the LS Real Estate team since 2008. Starting as a part-time office assistant, Gladys's journey has been one of growth and transformation, culminating in her current role as a full-time real estate agent.With a wealth of experience in both property management and real estate sales, Gladys brings a unique perspective and seasoned expertise to every transaction. Her vibrant energy and dedication to top-notch customer service have earned her a stellar reputation among owners, residents, buyers, and sellers alike.Gladys thrives on building lasting connections with her clients, always going the extra mile to ensure their needs are met and expectations exceeded. Outside of her professional pursuits, she is a devoted team mom, eagerly cheering on her 2 sons at every basketball and football game.
Karen S. Toth
Realtor®, Notary
DRE License Number: 01777629
Karen S. Toth is a licensed Realtor and has been with LS Real Estate for several years working both the property management and real estate sales divisions of our company. She is also able to provide our clients with notary public services, and has served as a Whittier Chamber of Commerce ambassador. She has extensive experience in both property management and real estate sales and enjoys working with both buyers and sellers. Karen is a devoted wife and mother of 4 grown children, and grandmother of eight. She is a sports enthusiast, loves playing Spades, and enjoys cooking and spending time with her grandkids. Karen is definitely a “people person” and is enthusiastic about everything she does! Karen is available to assist you with any of your real estate needs.
Paul Bonner
Move-In/Move-Out Coordinator
Paul Bonner is the Move-In/Move-Out Coordinator for LS Real Estate, Inc., and performs property inspections for the team.. Paul is proud to say that he has been with LS Real Estate, Inc. the longest. He is certified by the National Apartment Association, both as a Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) and a Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT). Paul earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies from Cal State University, Dominguez Hills, and his Master’s Degree in School Management from the University of La Verne. Paul retired from teaching after 30 years as an elementary school teacher. Paul is a devoted husband, father of 2 grown children, and a grandfather of 3. Paul enjoys reading books, magazines, and newspapers, especially with a hot cup of cocoa with his morning paper!
Cesar Gonzalez
Lead Maintenance Technician
Cesar has been a part of the LS Property Management team for many years, and serves as the Lead Maintenance Technician for the company. He has extensive experience in plumbing, electrical, and mechanical repairs. In his role as lead technician, Cesar responds to maintenance requests at properties, effectively diagnosing issues and making repairs. From installing smoke detectors to replacing water heaters, the team relies on Cesar to provide excellent customer service and to complete each project thoroughly. He also helps conduct annual inspections at properties, which allows him to catch small issues before they become larger problems. With his positive attitude and strong work ethic, Cesar is committed to providing safe, quality homes and properties for our residents and owners.
Arianna Malhiot
Notary
Arianna originally joined LS Property Management in 2019 and returned in 2022 as our part-time office assistant. She has previous experience in sales, marketing, and account management, and is now applying her skills in the field of property management. She has become an integral part of the team and helps with a variety of tasks around the office including organizing files, communicating with residents, processing applications, and more. Arianna hosts many of our open houses, and has become our social media marketing expert. With an A.S. degree in Business Management under her belt, she is also working on becoming a notary public. She looks forward to advancing her career in the real estate realm, with an ultimate goal of becoming a loan signing agent. In her spare time, Arianna enjoys a variety of outdoor activities and sports including hiking, golf, softball, and running marathons.