Kevin Smith

Start buying, selling, and investing as soon as possible. Buying a home in Orange County can feel competitive, but preparation and timing are everything. I always encourage my buyers to get pre-approved early, know their numbers, and be clear about their non-negotiables before touring homes. This saves time and helps us move quickly when the right property appears. Because I’ve lived in Orange County since 1971, I know the neighborhoods, school districts, and local dynamics that can impact both lifestyle and long-term value. My approach is to educate and guide you through every step, ensuring you make a confident and informed decision — not a rushed one.

For sellers, presentation and pricing are key. Today’s buyers are visual and data-driven — the first showing happens online. I focus on professional marketing, strategic pricing, and strong negotiation to position your home for maximum exposure and value. Having owned multiple investment properties myself, I understand the business side of selling, but I also appreciate the emotional connection people have to their homes. My goal is to make the process smooth, efficient, and rewarding from start to finish.

Since becoming a Realtor in 2012, I’ve been fortunate to work with a wide range of clients — from first-time buyers and growing families, to downsizers, investors, and renters transitioning into ownership. I also work closely with military families and veterans through my involvement with VAREP (Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals) and other community organizations. Whether it’s a family buying their first home or an investor adding to their portfolio, I tailor my strategy to each client’s unique goals.

One of my favorite recent transactions was helping a young military family purchase their first home here in South Orange County. They had been renting for years and thought buying in the area was out of reach. Through strategic negotiation and local lender partnerships, we found a beautiful single-family property within their budget that checked every box and wasn't a condo or townhouse — and even secured closing cost credits. Watching their excitement on closing day reminded me why I love what I do — helping people achieve the dream of homeownership with financial awareness and stability.

Real estate has always been a passion of mine. My grandparents owned soybean and rice farms in Louisiana and rental properties in Santa Monica, California. I purchased my first property in 1998, decades ago, while working as a W2 manager for In-N-Out Burger, and quickly realized how powerful real estate can be as both a personal and investment tool. Over time, I began helping friends and family with their own purchases, and in 2012, I turned that passion into a full-time career. Today, I not only help clients buy and sell homes — I also personally own 12 rental doors across 5 different states, giving me firsthand experience in investment strategy, cash flow, tax strategies, fixing, accounting, property management, and long-term wealth building.

Yes — I hold three college degrees (Public Admin, Business Management, Hotel & Restaurant Mgmt) and I’m a graduate of the Orange County REALTORS® Leadership Academy. I’ve also completed ongoing education in real estate law, negotiation, AI technology, and marketing strategies to stay current with today’s market trends. This combination of academic background and real-world investment experience allows me to bring both analytical insight and practical guidance to every transaction. My clients benefit from a professional who not only understands contracts and negotiations but also lives and invests in the same market they do.