Liz Venema

Q: 1. What advice would you give a buyer trying to purchase a home?

In a market as competitive as the Tri-Valley, you need more than just a pre-approval letter; you need a strategy. My best advice is to focus on the "long view." Don't just look at the paint colors or the staging—look at the bones, the lot, and the neighborhood's potential for appreciation. More importantly, don't wait to buy real estate; buy real estate and wait. I bought my first home at 20 years old because I believed in my father’s wisdom that there is nothing greater than owning your own land. Align yourself with an advocate who has a deep, "lived-in" knowledge of these streets so you don’t just find a house, but a sound investment for your family’s future.

Q: 2. What advice would you give a seller trying to sell their home?

Preparation is the key to positioning. You only get one chance to make a first impression, and in the digital age, that impression happens on a smartphone screen before a buyer ever pulls into your driveway. I advise my sellers to focus on The Three Ps: Preparation, Pricing, and Positioning. We don’t just "list" a home; we launch it. This means professional staging, cinematic video, and a pricing strategy that drives momentum rather than stagnation. You deserve an advisor who isn’t afraid to be direct about what it takes to get top dollar. High-end marketing isn't an "extra"—it's a requirement to protect your equity.

Q: 3. What types of clients have you worked with?

Over the years, I’ve worked with every type of client imaginable. Because I’ve lived in Pleasanton for four decades, I’ve helped families move through every stage of life. I work with: First-time buyers who are nervous but excited to plant roots. Move-up families who have outgrown their starter homes and need more space in the Tri-Valley’s top school districts. Luxury sellers in communities like Ruby Hill and Castlewood who require discretion and elevated global marketing. Seniors and Retirees who are navigating the emotional and logistical transition of downsizing.

Q: 4. Describe a recent transaction you are fond of. How did it go?

I recently worked with a family who was selling their longtime family home while living out of the area. It was an emotional transition for them, as they couldn't be here to manage the "refresh" the home needed to hit the market. My team and I stepped in as their boots-on-the-ground. We coordinated the entire preparation process—from minor repairs to full staging—while keeping them updated every step of the way. Because of our strategic positioning, we received multiple offers well above the list price. What made it special wasn't just the final number, but the relief in the client's voice when they realized they didn't have to carry the stress alone. We aren't a transaction machine; we are a relationship practice.

Q: 5. How did you get started in Real Estate?

Real estate runs in my blood. I was raised in Walnut Creek by a father who was a builder and developer. I grew up on construction sites, watching homes take shape from the foundation to the front door. I learned early on how to see the "value" in a property that others might miss. Before transitioning into real estate full-time, I was a General Manager overseeing 11 retail stores. That experience was my "boot camp" for negotiation, systems, and people management. When I finally combined my business background with my lifelong love for housing, everything clicked. I’ve never looked back.

Q: 6. Do you have any special education or training that will benefit your clients?

Beyond my decades of experience, I am a certified Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®). This designation is very close to my heart. It means I have specialized training in helping clients aged 50+ navigate major financial and lifestyle transitions. Whether it’s understanding the tax implications of a sale, managing the emotional weight of an estate, or coordinating with a network of trusted movers and specialists, I provide a "white-glove" level of care that goes far beyond a standard real estate transaction. My clients don’t just hire an agent; they gain a lifelong advocate who understands the nuances of their specific stage of life.

Venema Homes

13 Years of Experience

(22)

$105.1M

Total Sales Last Year

Years of Experience

Recent TransactionsTransactions from the last 3 years

$2.1M

Average Price Point

Service Areas

Castro Valley, CA Dublin, CA Fremont, CA Hayward, CA Livermore, CA Pleasanton, CA San Leandro, CA San Lorenzo, CA San Ramon, CA Sunol, CA Union City, CA

View All Service Areas

About Liz Venema

Liz Venema | Founder & Strategic Architect, Venema Homes Team

License ID: 01922957

Service Areas: Pleasanton, Ruby Hill, Dublin, Livermore, Danville, San Ramon, and the greater East Bay.

Experience Excellence. Experience the Venema Difference.

Real estate isn't just a career for Liz Venema-it's a lifelong calling. As the daughter of a builder and developer, Liz grew up watching homes take shape from the foundation up. That early immersion gave her an instinctive understanding of property value and craftsmanship that few agents can match. Today, with over 45 years of experience in real estate and business leadership, Liz serves as the Founder and Strategic Architect of the Venema Homes Team, one of the most respected and top-performing teams in the Tri-Valley.

By the Numbers

Liz's track record speaks to her relentless work ethic and the trust she has earned from the community:

$1 Billion+ in career sales volume.
1,200+ families successfully guided home.
Top 1% of real estate teams nationwide.
#122 Mid-Sized Team in the country (2024).
Voted "Best Real Estate Team" by Pleasanton Weekly readers for consecutive years.

Strategic Command & White-Glove Service

Prior to real estate, Liz managed 11 retail stores, a role that sharpened her negotiation instincts, operational discipline, and people skills. She is a strategist who leads with heart. Whether she is navigating a complex luxury estate sale in Ruby Hill or helping a first-time buyer in Dublin, Liz provides "white-glove" guidance characterized by:

Expert Negotiation: Protecting your interests fiercely from offer to close.
Elevated Marketing: Utilizing professional photography, cinematic video, and targeted exposure to position every home as a premier listing.
Specialized Expertise: As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRESA(R)), Liz brings deep empathy and specialized knowledge to families navigating downsizing, retirement transitions, and estate sales.

Deeply Rooted in Pleasanton

A resident of Pleasanton for over 40 years, Liz has raised her family here and watched the local neighborhoods evolve through every market cycle. Real estate is a family legacy: her oldest daughter serves as the team's Director of Operations, and her youngest is a top-producing agent.

When you hire Liz, you aren't just hiring an agent; you are gaining a lifelong advocate with the local wisdom and professional grit to ensure a win-win outcome.

"There is nothing greater than owning your own home and land. This is a big move-you deserve the experience and the strategy to get it right." - Liz Venema

Ready to start your next chapter? Contact Liz today for a private, strategy-based consultation.

Community Involvement

For me, community involvement isn't a box to check--it's the fabric of my life. Having called Pleasanton home for over 40 years, my involvement is rooted in the relationships I've built across four decades of living, working, and raising a family here. The Pleasanton Connection My commitment to the community started when my daughters were young. I was deeply involved in the Pleasanton Unified School District, supporting the schools and programs that helped shape my children into the professionals they are today. That "mom-on-the-ground" perspective gave me an intimate understanding of why families flock to the Tri-Valley, and I continue to advocate for the local institutions that make our town special. A Family-First Philosophy I believe that a strong community is built on strong families. My involvement often looks like: Supporting Local Businesses: Coming from a retail management background, I am a fierce advocate for our local downtown Pleasanton merchants. I believe a thriving Main Street is the heartbeat of a community. Mentoring the Next Generation: I take great pride in being a "Grandma in Charge" and a mentor. I've spent years passing on business ethics and negotiation skills to local professionals, ensuring that the integrity of our local real estate industry remains high. Voted Pleasanton's Best: Being voted "Pleasanton's Best Real Estate Team" by the readers of the Pleasanton Weekly for multiple years is the honor I'm most proud of. It tells me that the work we do--and the way we show up for our neighbors--is truly making a difference. Advocacy Through Expertise As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES(R)), my community involvement takes a more personal turn. I work closely with our local seniors and their families to navigate the complexities of downsizing and estate planning. I see myself as a resource for the "silent" transitions in our community, ensuring our longtime residents are treated with the dignity and care they deserve. Giving Back Where We Live Whether it's participating in Keller Williams' annual RED Day (Renew, Energize, and Donate) to give back to local nonprofits or simply being the neighbor who answers the phone when a friend has a question about a local zoning change, I am "all in" on the East Bay. Experience Excellence. Experience the Venema difference.

HOBBIES/INTEREST

When I'm not advocating for my clients or strategizing our next listing, you can usually find me leaning into the roles I cherish most: wife, mother, and "Grandma in Charge." Family is the center of my world. Because real estate is a "family affair" for us--with both of my daughters playing key roles on the team--our Sunday dinners and family gatherings are filled with laughter, storytelling, and the deep connection that comes from working and living together in the community we love. I also enjoy: Exploring the Tri-Valley: Having lived in Pleasanton for over 40 years, I never tire of visiting our local parks, downtown shops, and hidden gems. I'm a "collector of light" and find inspiration in the beautiful landscapes and architecture of the East Bay. Community Advocacy: I am deeply rooted in our local school systems and community organizations. I find great joy in staying connected with the neighborhoods that I've seen grow and evolve over the last four decades. Mentorship: Passing on the wisdom my father gave me--and the lessons I learned running 11 retail stores--is a personal passion. I love seeing the next generation of real estate professionals (including my own daughters!) lead with integrity and heart. At the end of the day, my "hobbies" are simply extensions of my values: building relationships, honoring family, and staying present in the community I call home.

FAMILY

Real estate may be my profession, but family is my "why." In our world, the line between family and business doesn't just blur--it disappears in the best way possible. A Multigenerational Legacy I often say that real estate runs in our blood. I was raised in the industry by my father, and today, I have the immense privilege of working alongside my daughters. We aren't just a "team" in the professional sense; we are a family unit dedicated to serving other families. Alexis Venema (Associate Broker): My youngest daughter is a powerhouse and a top-producing luxury agent. Seeing her named to NAR's 30 Under 30 was one of my proudest moments as both a mentor and a mother. Amanda Davlin (COO): My oldest daughter keeps the engine running. As our Director of Operations, she ensures that every client receives the "white-glove" experience we are known for. The "Grandma in Charge" While I am the "Strategic Architect" of the Venema Homes Team, my favorite title is Grandma. My grandchildren are the light of my life, and they are a constant reminder of why finding the right "forever home" matters so much. When I'm helping a client, I'm not just thinking about a transaction; I'm thinking about where their grandkids will run through the sprinklers or where they'll gather for holiday dinners. 40 Years in Pleasanton My husband and I have called Pleasanton home for over four decades. We raised our girls through the Pleasanton Unified School District, built our lives in these neighborhoods, and remain deeply rooted here. Being a "Builder's Wife" means I share my husband's appreciation for quality, character, and the hard work it takes to build a home from the ground up. Treating You Like One of Our Own When you work with us, you aren't just a client on a spreadsheet. You are welcomed into the Venema family fold. We bring the same level of fierce advocacy, emotional intelligence, and protection to your move as we would for our own family members. This is a big move. You deserve a family who has your back.

Credentials

LICENSE

Real Estate - California - # 01922957

Designation

Military Relocation Professional

ABR (Accredited Buyers Representative)

Seniors Real Estate Specialist

Seller Representative Specialist

Top Producer

REALTOR

Specialties

Buyer's Agent
First Time Home Buyers
Listing Agent
Luxury Specialist
New Construction
Relocation
Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES)

Awards

Loading recent sales...

Liz Venema's Reviews & Ratings

22 Reviews

(5/5)

Note: Reviews may include other agents on their team

What clients say about this agent....

Professional
Communicative
Responsive
Knowledgeable
Outstanding
Excellent negotiator
Attentive
Hard working
Trustworthy
Available Remotely

Sharon S.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

October 5, 2026

We had an exceptional experience working with Liz, Lisa, Michelle, and the whole team at Venema Homes! From start to finish, they were professional, attentive, and dedicated to getting us the best results. Thanks to their efforts, we received multiple offers, with many over asking price. The entire process was seamless, and we especially appreciated the stunning home staging, which highlighted the home beautifully. The marketing materials were top-notch and helped our listing stand out. The team did an excellent job hosting the open house, attracting many potential buyers. This was our second time working with Liz to sell a home, and we couldn't have asked for a better experience. I highly recommend Venema Homes to anyone looking to buy or sell. Their expertise and commitment made all the difference!

Molly D.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

May 17, 2026

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Liz and Alexis were so helpful for us in buying a house! We had an odd situation where we had to bring in a realtor very late in the process, and they had no problem jumping right in and advocating for us the whole way through.

Jaclyn B.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

May 15, 2026

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Working with Liz was an dream Come true! Liz and Alexis helped my fiance and I purchase our first home together. Liz and Alexis offered her expertise every step of the way- from making offers to closing. She made herself available for showings and walk throughs, according to our schedule, which we greatly appreciated. Liz and Alexis answered any and all questions we had throughout the buying process. The entire Venema Homes team was and still is incredibly helpful and accommodating!

Morec1

Review for Member: Liz Venema

May 15, 2026

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

In August of 2026 my younger single brother passed away. As a result, I was saddled with administrating his Trust. Among the Items that needed to be sold was his residence in Santa Clara. As I had not been in the housing market sales for over 50 years, I was concerned of the process. I contacted Venema Homes and the sale process was started. Venema's army of experts stepped in and things began to happen within a week. Venema Homes reviewed the property and provided a list of recommendations to aide in the sale. I original was concerned but quickly realized they knew their stuff. So, I followed the recommendations. Within a month all the upgrades were completed, and an open house was scheduled. The activity was more than expected and we receive two offers, both above asking. The final price was $150,000 over asking. If you are looking to buy or sell you will Not find a more professional, well-organized team of realtor's than Venema Homes. I strongly recommend them.

E S.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

October 23, 2024

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

My husband and I were extremely pleased with the service provided by Venema Homes in selling my mother-in-laws home. Liz and Alex, as well as their team, were such a pleasure to deal with. We chose them as our realtors because it was clear to us from the get-go that they were experienced and exceptionally knowledgeable about the local market. They provided us with detailed information and documentation about the most recent transactions in our area and their marketing was truly impressive and comprehensive. They offered welcome guidance and suggestions throughout the process, but without the least bit of pressure. They really LISTENED and were incredibly responsive (even in the wee hours of the morning!), always providing thoughtful and detailed responses to all of our many questions and comments. And they were unfailingly upbeat; it felt as though we were their number one priority! An added and tremendous advantage was their partnering with Vista Construction, which made an all out effort to ready the home with some much needed updates in record time, with beautiful results and with very fair pricing. They worked hard to negotiate on our behalf for what we felt was a seamless and expeditious transaction , and we were very happy with the resulting sale.They exceeded all our expectations. In short, we could not have been more pleased with their services, and would wholeheartedly recommend them.

Dkcpking

Review for Member: Liz Venema

October 20, 2024

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Liz and her team were incredible! They were knowledgeable, responsive, and proactive! They helped us get our home ready to sell, walked us through the paperwork, and ensured we got the most we could for our home. As a buyer, Liz and her team helped negotiate a deal to make sure all homes involved closed within a day of each other. It was quite amazing. We were thrilled with ease of this process! I would recommend this wonderful group of professionals!

Khursheed I.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

March 2, 2024

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Working alongside Liz & Alexis Venema was an exceptional experience from beginning to end. They consistently aim for excellence and deliver results with unwavering dedication. Their expertise shines, particularly in the Pleasanton market, including the Ruby Hill community. Throughout our search for a home, the Venema team consistently presented some of the most enticing listings in the area. Beyond their professional prowess, the entire team exudes warmth, making the process a delight. When we finally identified the property we desired, Liz and Alexis guided us and helped us through the negotiation process remaining highly responsive and consistently available. Their commitment to service extends far beyond the sale itself. Even post-purchase, they remained steadfast in offering valuable guidance, connecting us with trusted contractors, and providing ongoing advice. If you are looking at buying or selling a home in the Pleasanton area, this is the A-Team to go with!

Andrea O.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

February 21, 2024

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Liz did an outstanding job! The whole home sale process was smooth and I really appreciate all the time she took to make sure everything was taken care of. I would recommend Liz!

Robert B.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

February 13, 2024

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Liz and her team did a great job for us when we purchased our home in Ruby Hill and when we sold it several years later. She knows her business and can help with anything thats needed to get the best price and get the deal closed. 5 Stars!

Abharper07

Review for Member: Liz Venema

February 11, 2024

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Liz went above and beyond helping us sell our townhouse, accommodating our schedule to make the sale the least stressful for us. Not only that but she helped secure an excellent realtor in the town where we were moving because the one we had wasnt working out. A mutual friend recommended Liz, who wasnt really on our list of potential realtors. I thought she might have had too big of a business to sell our little townhouse. But Liz and her team were friendly, professional, down to earth and absolutely perfect for us!

Duanya T.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

January 1, 2024

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Liz and her team is super professional. She helped found the buyer and negotiated the best price that we could get. She and her team member are very patient and highly efficient in helping sell and close the deal! I highly recommend Liz and her team to anyone who wants to buy or sell the house!

Elainealba1

Review for Member: Liz Venema

October 31, 2023

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

A rave for Liz Venema. I have sold multiple homes but none could compare with my recent experience. . I listed my house with Liz Venema and from start to finish the process was so easy. The (coming soon) sign became ( sold) within a week. I talked with Liz a few years ago and knew when I was ready she would be the one I choose. She kept me informed of what was available but never called, left constant flyers etc unlike many others. She is a true professional and it was a pleasure working with her and her team. She has been in this business a long time and I highly recommend her.

Singh H.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

September 25, 2023

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Liz and Alexis (The Venema Team) were instrumental in helping us find our dream home. Their deep knowledge of all the Pleasanton neighborhoods, networks with their peers and superior negotiating skills were key in getting us our current home. They also helped with the sale of our previous home and worked the market to get us top dollars. The entire process from hiring them as our realtors to the final docs handover was smooth and timely where they were always responsive and active listeners to our expectations and asks. Thank you Liz and Alexis for your top notch customer service!!!

Zuser20170904170516693

Review for Member: Liz Venema

October 6, 2021

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Wow! We just used Liz for the second time. Because of our first experience, we knew to expect professionalism, in-depth knowledge of the entire real estate transaction process, a commitment to representing OUR interests, and, oh yes, a fun experience. But even with those expectations, she blew us away! We had a very unusual circumstance happen during escrow with the other party. No one local real estate experts had ever experienced this type of thing. Some agents would have given up on that particular sale. Not Liz! She found a way to get the sale closed AND compensate us for the delay in closing escrow. Cheers to Liz, our "never give up" agent!

Lou V.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

March 16, 2021

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Thank you Liz Venema and Team! Your professionalism, skills and knowledge of the market came together and produced a record breaking sales price for our Vintage Hills home in Pleasanton! Liz and team arranged for the staging, explained and assisted with the mountain of documents needed and kept us informed through out the entire process. The whole transaction ran smoothly thanks for a great team effort! Thanks Liz and Team, way to go! Lou and Karen V. Pleasanton

Poonam K.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

January 14, 2021

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Liz helped us buy our first home in Pleasanton back in 2014 and then in 2020 when we decided to change homes, she and Alexi helped us find our new dream home and also to sell our old home. We did not even have to think twice to chose them! They are such great people, know their business inside out, always available to guide us through the process and were key influencers in all three of our deals!! We love you!

Jasonrdavlin

Review for Member: Liz Venema

December 30, 2020

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Rockstar!! Liz and her team helped my wife and me purchase our first home together. We were up against other competitive buyers, but Liz's negotiation skills and buying strategy helped get us our forever home! She was extremely knowledgeable and responsive, answering any and all of our questions. She also referred us to an amazing lender and fantastic title company. If you're looking for the best realtor, look no further. Liz is it!

Zuser20161008121644571

Review for Member: Liz Venema

December 17, 2019

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

We are outside of US, and have to delegate everything to them, and they are very dependable and trust worthy with everything about selling the house. We had problem with a previous agent, especially about the staging (piece of advice, don't try to save on staging). However, Liz and her team did a wonderful job and sold our house, though not a loft price that we expected, but a happy result in this slow market.

Kakbergmann

Review for Member: Liz Venema

October 14, 2019

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Liz and her team are very professional and diligent. No drama, straightforward and honest. There were now surprises and experience went smoothly thanks to the team's persistence in following up details in a timely manner.

Julie A.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

March 10, 2019

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Working with Liz to sell my mom's home was the perfect choice. Liz and her team are highly professional and on top of every detail. They kept me well informed and made the process smooth and easy. Liz's kindness and warmth made working with her a pleasure. She understood the nuances of our particular situation and handled them beautifully. I also truly appreciated that she was open to all options. We tried to sell "as is" but did not get an offer so we opted to complete a remodel which turned out amazing and led to multiple offers. I highly recommend Liz and her team; they are fabulous.

Simon L.

Review for Member: Liz Venema

February 21, 2017

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Liz did a great job in preparing our house for a hot sale. She advised us on what updates we should do to improve our house value as well as arranging a house staging and cleaning service for us. The Open House was a great turnout. And we got multiple offers above the listed price!

Zuser20140531111959164

Review for Member: Liz Venema

May 27, 2015

Local Knowledge

Process Expertise

Responsiveness

Negotiation skills

ZillowVERIFIED

Liz and her team are very helpful, patience and knowledgeable. Being new to this country and pleasanton, she has helped to secure our new home and provide valuable advices on every steps till close of escrow. I would highly recommended their team for realty services.