Written in Partnership with Daniel de Castellane
Picture this: a powerhouse Australian native, a single mother with a magnetic presence, effortlessly blending luxury and sustainability in the high-stakes world of real estate. Enter Bronwyn Leigh Jones. This former model and actress has quickly made a name for herself in the elite circles of luxury real estate, bringing her unique vision of elegance and sustainability to Southern California’s most exclusive neighborhoods. Intrigued by her meteoric rise, I sat down with Bronwyn to discover who she is and how she found her way into the glamorous world of high-end real estate.
Bronwyn’s journey began with a successful career in modeling and acting, appearing in numerous TV series in Australia and the UK. Despite her success in the entertainment industry, she always had a passion for architecture, design, and sustainable living. In fact, Bronwyn studied business administration at Williams Business College in Sydney and is the founder and CEO of CORAL SUSTAIN, a green consulting firm focused on luxury real estate, sustainable development, and wellness amenities.
When I asked how she started her journey into the luxury real estate business, she said: “One of my favorite pastimes has been spending countless hours scrolling and searching for stunning properties that I would imagine living in one day. So when my close friends Brett and Jason Oppenheim started their O group brokerage, my two close girlfriends Amanza Smith and Mary Fitzgerald became agents there, and it just seemed like a natural progression for me to get my real estate license and start getting paid for finding homes for my clients.”
Bronwyn Leigh Jones and Amanza Smith on the red carpet of 1060 App’s 1st In-Person Exclusive Event.
Brett and Jason Oppenheim, twin brothers and founders of the Oppenheim Group, are renowned for their work in the luxury real estate market, as featured on the Netflix series “Selling Sunset”. Amanza Smith and Mary Fitzgerald, also key members of the team, have become well-known faces through their appearances on the show. Bronwyn’s close connection to these prominent figures speaks to her ability to navigate the high-stakes world of luxury real estate with ease.
Bronwyn’s primary focus now lies in the luxury market of Orange County, where she works with the Oppenheim Group to cater to the needs of her high-net-worth clients. She has a unique understanding of the market, thanks to her background in sustainable development and her certification as a National Association of Realtors (NAR) Green Designee.
In our interview, Bronwyn discussed the evolving luxury real estate market in Orange County. She says, “Smart home technologies, luxury wellness amenities, sustainable construction and design are trending amenities that luxury home buyers are pivoting to. I am seeing more demand for wellness homes with luxury modern applications and aesthetics.” Her background in green technology and sustainability has led her to focus on wellness smart homes, a growing trend in luxury real estate. Bronwyn has observed key features and amenities that her clients are increasingly seeking in their dream homes. “Most clients buy in OC for the coastal aspects, ocean views, larger lots, larger sq ft homes with luxury amenities like screening rooms, guest houses, larger yards, pools, gyms, huge spacious garages appeal to car collectors and more spacious outdoor entertaining area space. Many families tend to gravitate toward safer, gated communities in excellent school districts.”
Her vast experience in the multifaceted business arena, coupled with the loyalty she has earned from her trusted high-net-worth network, including pro athletes, celebrities, and political figures, has allowed her to thrive as a luxury realtor. Bronwyn’s mantra of integrity and confidentiality in everything she does makes her the industry’s “go-to” for clients looking to embark on luxury real estate ventures.
When asked about her approach to marketing and showcasing luxury properties, she explained, “We are lucky enough at the O group to have access to the channels created by the TV series “Selling Sunset” and its spin-off series “Selling The OC”. Our luxury listings are featured on the Netflix TV series, and we have even launched our own real estate magazine called “Sunset Living” which enables us to showcase our properties not only on our website and social media accounts, but also through the TV series and magazine. That being said, I do very little personal marketing as most of my business comes from my existing clients or referrals from my network of close business relationships and friends,” she says.
For those looking to break into the luxury real estate market, Jones advises getting involved in the community and finding a mentor to guide them. “The opportunity to gain field experience by working closely with a successful mentor is invaluable”. She also suggests, “After studying the areas you want to farm, be social in those areas. Go out and meet people. Door knock if your area allows it. Start conversations with people in the area. Be active in your community, school, church, gym, and city events. Finding a mentor to work alongside who is willing to guide you and teach you the nuances you will need to become a high-performing agent is vital.”
Bronwyn also shares her excitement about an upcoming luxury real estate project in Orange County. “I have a unique oceanfront property listed right now in China Cove in Corona Del Mar, where the historical “China House” once stood. There is a lot of history about this location and the hidden cove and beach that is steps away from the home. This listing is a rare and unique property that shares absolute ocean frontage with only four other homes in the same cove. Houses rarely become available for sale here, therefore making it a special offering.”
With her ever-growing influence, and unwavering commitment to her clients, Bronwyn Leigh Jones is undoubtedly an unstoppable force revolutionizing the luxury real estate industry. Keep an eye on her as she continues to make waves in Southern California’s most exclusive neighborhoods and beyond.
2717 Shell St, Corona Del Mar, CA, 92675 , 4 beds, 3 ½ baths, sqft , listed at $16.8m, for a private showing please contact bronwyn@oroup.com. DRE # 02104013 NAR Green Designee
Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.