From the old days of paper MLS books and no computers to modern digital marketing and AI tools, Broker Derrick Ruiz has helped clients navigate the Westside and Los Angeles real estate market since 1986. This is his story.
March 21, 1986 — Before the internet changed everything
Est. 1986
Listings were published in thick printed books and updated periodically — not instantly online.
Offers and counteroffers were usually typed on typewriters or hand written on forms and delivered in person. Crazy right?
Successful agents relied on local knowledge, relationships, phone calls, and physically touring properties.
"When I started in 1986, there were no online listings, no email, and no instant search. You learned the market by knowing the streets, the inventory, and the people."
Licensed California Real Estate Broker Since March 21, 1986
Late 1980s and early transactions that helped shape my career.
Helping buyers and sellers navigate Westside neighborhoods during a very different market.
Working with property owners and investors on small multifamily properties and rental buildings.
Learning the streets, property values, and neighborhood trends long before online data existed.
"Every listing taught me something — about pricing, negotiation, and understanding what buyers and sellers really need."
Serving Buyers and Sellers on the Westside of Los Angeles Since 1986
Expanding my practice from residential homes to include multifamily investment properties sales across Los Angeles.
Representing owners and investors in the sale of multifamily properties throughout Los Angeles.
Helping clients evaluate income, expenses, and long-term investment potential.
Understanding rent control, tenant issues, and the complexities of owning apartment buildings in Los Angeles.
"Working with apartment buildings requires a different level of analysis, negotiation, and experience. Every deal teaches you something new."
Over 40 Years of Residential and Multifamily Real Estate Experience in Los Angeles
Four decades of experience working through Los Angeles rent control, tenant laws, and regulatory changes.
Experience working with properties subject to Los Angeles rent control regulations.
Helping property owners navigate tenant issues, notices, and legal requirements.
Guiding sellers and investors through inspections, compliance requirements, and evolving housing laws.
"Los Angeles rental regulations can be complex. Experience matters when navigating rent control, tenant issues, and city compliance."
40 Years of Experience Working with Los Angeles Apartment Owners and Investors
From printed listing books and fax machines to modern websites, digital marketing, and AI tools.
Working with printed MLS books, fax machines, and early computer systems.
Building early real estate websites and adapting to the shift toward online property searches.
Using modern websites, online platforms, and AI tools to market properties and reach buyers today.
"The tools have changed dramatically over the years, but the fundamentals of real estate — relationships, market knowledge, and negotiation — remain the same."
Four Decades of Real Estate Experience — From MLS Books to Modern Digital Marketing
Building real estate websites long before most agents were online.
Creating property listings and information online when most real estate marketing was still print-based.
Websites began generating direct inquiries from buyers and investors searching for properties online.
Continuing to adapt to changing technology as real estate marketing moved fully online.
"I started building real estate websites in the late 1990s, when the internet was still new and most property searches were happening offline."
Early Adoption of Real Estate Technology and Online Marketing
Helping families navigate probate, trust sales, aging parents, and complex real estate decisions.
Helping families navigate the sale of property after the loss of a loved one—including preparing the home for sale and guiding every step of the process.
Guiding families through important real estate decisions involving aging parents and changing life circumstances.
Working with attorneys, trustees, and family members when real estate decisions involve multiple stakeholders.
"Some of the most important real estate decisions occur during difficult moments in life. Experience and patience can make those transitions easier for families."
Over 40 Years Helping Los Angeles Families Navigate Important Real Estate Decisions
After four decades in Los Angeles real estate, I’ve learned that every transaction is different — and the ability to solve problems is what makes the difference.
Strong relationships and clear communication are essential when navigating the challenges that often arise in real estate transactions.
Every property presents challenges — tenant issues, inspections, financing, or regulations. Successful transactions require practical solutions.
Understanding property value and local market conditions is critical to positioning a property correctly and attracting serious buyers.
"Technology and markets evolve, but the fundamentals of real estate — relationships, problem solving, and pricing & market knowledge — have never changed."
Four Decades of Real Estate Experience in Los Angeles
Four decades of navigating market downturns, economic shifts,
and
unexpected Black Swan Events.
High interest rates and the savings and loan crisis created a difficult market environment.
A major event that impacted neighborhoods and property markets throughout Los Angeles.
One of the most significant real estate downturns in modern history.
A global pandemic that rapidly shifted housing demand and market dynamics.
"Over four decades in real estate I have seen multiple market cycles, economic shifts, and unexpected events. Experience matters when navigating uncertain markets."
40 Years of Experience Navigating Los Angeles Real Estate Markets
Whether you're selling a home, an apartment building, or navigating a complex real estate decision, experience matters.
Helping sellers position and market their property effectively in today's market.
Representing owners and investors in multifamily property transactions across Los Angeles.
Assisting families, trustees, and property owners with probate, trust sales, and other complex real estate decisions.
"Every real estate situation is different. After forty years in the business, my goal is simple — help clients make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcome."
With four decades of experience navigating Los Angeles real estate, I'm ready to help you achieve your goals.
Over 40 Years of Real Estate Experience in Los Angeles