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Corcoran Icon Properties North Bay Region Celebrates Best Places to Work Ranking for 2024
Corcoran Icon Properties, an independently owned and operated affiliate of Corcoran Group, LLC, proudly announces its recognition as one of the best places to work in 2024 by the North Bay Business Journal. This achievement reflects the company’s ongoing dedication to fostering an empowering workplace, further positioning it as a top employer in the North Bay.
Building on a strong legacy that began with Terra Firma Global Partners, Corcoran Icon Properties has now been recognized for an impressive nine consecutive years. This year’s award highlights not only their continued excellence in real estate but also their focus on the well-being and growth of their team.
“We couldn’t be prouder to be named one of the best workplaces this year. At Corcoran Icon Properties, we’re about putting people first,” said Betsy Serafini, Regional Vice President and Partner for North Bay/North Coast California. “Our team comes from all different backgrounds, but what brings us together is the shared passion for what we do. We work hard, support each other, and have fun. That’s what makes this place unique.”
Corcoran Icon Properties embraces a people-first approach. The company supports a flexible work environment that encourages collaborative results. Many team members are long-standing residents of the areas they work in, deepening their ties to the local communities and the clients they represent. This local expertise is integral to the company’s success and allows its associates to cultivate long, fulfilling careers.
The firm’s commitment to nurturing talent extends beyond the day-to-day. Leadership actively encourages growth and innovation while ensuring a work-life balance that allows associates to thrive personally and professionally. This holistic approach to success sets Corcoran Icon Properties apart as a real estate firm. It creates a workplace culture where individuals can pursue their passions while contributing to the company’s goals.
With a strong presence across Northern California, including offices in Greenbrae, Napa, Novato, Petaluma, Saint Helena, San Anselmo, Santa Rosa, Sebastopol, and Sonoma, Corcoran Icon Properties continues to grow while maintaining its deep-rooted commitment to its people and its clients. This prestigious recognition as one of the best places to work in 2024 is just another milestone in their ongoing journey of success.
“This award is a celebration of the people behind the brand,” Serafini added. “We’re all about fostering an environment where people feel supported, appreciated, and excited about their work. When you’ve got a motivated and happy team, that’s when the magic happens.”
Corcoran Icon Expands Presence With New Office In Palo Alto
Corcoran Icon Properties, a franchisee of Corcoran Group, LLC is excited to announce the opening of their newest office location in the highly acclaimed Palo Alto area. Led by industry veteran Benyam Mulugeta as Managing Broker and longtime Corcoran Icon Properties Sales Manager and Partner Susan LaRagione, the new office will cater to the brokerage’s existing agents who serve the Silicon Valley area and any newly recruited agents from the immediate Palo Alto area.
The newly established office sits within the centrally located Town & Country Village, which houses various amenities for the surrounding high-end residential neighborhoods and is just across the street from Stanford University. The formal address for the new office is 855 El Camino Real, Building 5 – Suite 311, Palo Alto, California 94301.
“Our new office in Palo Alto represents an exciting step forward for Corcoran Icon Properties,” said Mulugeta. “This expansion allows us to better serve local consumers by providing them with expert market insights and a dedicated team focused on Palo Alto. For our existing agents, this new location offers state-of-the-art resources and a collaborative environment that will help them thrive in one of the most luxurious markets in the country.”
“The opening of our new Palo Alto office is incredibly valuable for both our team and the community,” said LaRagione. “There has been strong demand from our existing agents for a presence in Palo Alto, as it’s a key market for our clientele. We’re already seeing a lot of excitement from local agents who are eager to join Corcoran Icon Properties and take advantage of the innovative tools, top-tier support, and team-oriented culture we provide.”
Palo Alto is one of the nation’s most competitive and expensive real estate markets, driven by its location within Silicon Valley and the nearby presence of major technology company campuses like Google, Facebook, and Apple. Pricing for single family residences remains consistently high, with median prices often exceeding the $3 million dollar mark with the top-end of the market stretching into the tens of millions. Residential options within this coveted enclave range from historic standalone residences and sprawling contemporary estates to mid-century ranch-style homes, as well as a variety of luxury townhomes and convenient condominiums.
“The strength of our agents and the power of our brand are the steppingstones that have carried Corcoran Icon Properties through market headwinds and ultimately brought our expansion efforts into Palo Alto a reality,” said Steve Belluomini, President of Corcoran Icon Properties. “Opening an office in this competitive market is also possible due to our stellar local leadership in both Benyam and Susan, and I am excited to see our Palo Alto Office not only grow but also succeed.”
Today, Corcoran Icon Properties is comprised of approximately 900 agents across the greater Northern California marketplace with this newest Palo Alto office being their 24th physical office space. Recently, Corcoran Icon Properties ranked No. 8 by the San Francisco Business Times as one of the “Largest Bay Area Residential Real Estate Brokerages,” highlighting their strong presence across the entire Bay Area. Additionally, The Real Deal ranked them as the No. 5 brokerage in San Francisco, based on sales transactions priced at $200,000 or more, recorded by the San Francisco MLS between May 2023 and May 2024.
Since launching in February 2020, Corcoran’s Affiliate Network has grown steadily both domestically and internationally. Last year alone, Corcoran expanded with new domestic affiliates in Northern California, New Jersey, and Texas, and expanded internationally with Corcoran Magri Properties, based out of Lake Garda and Verona, Italy, as well as with Corcoran Horizon Realty, based out of Ontario, Canada. Most recently, Corcoran welcomed Corcoran Property Advisors in Boston, Massachusetts and Corcoran Prime, in Portland, Oregon.
Bonnie Spindler of Corcoran Icon Properties lists Historic Petaluma Bodega
Corcoran Icon Properties is excited to introduce a historic property, 303-307 Bodega Avenue in Petaluma, CA, to the market. This unique listing, represented by agent Bonnie Spindler, presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of local history with versatile potential for commercial and mixed-use.
With over 30 years of industry experience and a deep passion for pre-1926 architecture, Bonnie Spindler is uniquely qualified to guide buyers through the intricacies of this exceptional property. Her extensive knowledge of architecture and commitment to preserving historic landmarks ensure a seamless transaction process.
Originally established in 1918 as a neighborhood grocery store, or “bodega,” 307 Bodega Avenue evolved over the years, eventually becoming Caulfield’s Market in 1925 under the ownership of Thomas J. Caufield. The property’s rich history as a hub for community convenience and commerce reflects the entrepreneurial spirit that defines the heritage of Petaluma.
“303-307 Bodega Avenue is more than just a property; it’s a testament to Petaluma’s rich heritage and entrepreneurial spirit,” remarked Spindler. “We are confident that this listing will attract discerning buyers who appreciate the unique charm and potential of this historic site.”
The property’s flexible zoning, allowing for both commercial and mixed-use, opens the door to a variety of potential uses. From restaurant and winery ventures to boutique retail spaces or creative office concepts, the possibilities are endless. Additionally, with parking for 7-10 cars, accessibility, and convenience are key features of this listing.
“303-307 Bodega Avenue presents a rare chance to adopt a dynamic business model and contribute to the vibrant Petaluma community,” said Spindler “We encourage prospective buyers to embark on a journey to create something truly extraordinary in the heart of Petaluma.”
For more information about this unique listing, please visit the property’s listing page here.
Bonnie Spindler may be reached at 415.706.6660 and bonnie@bonniespindler.com.
Ruthie Jones Installed as President for Humboldt Association of REALTORS®
Ruthie Jones, of Corcoran Icon Properties in Humboldt County, was just installed as President of the Humboldt Association of REALTORS®. The 2024 Installation of Officers Black Tie Affair was held at Bear River Resort & Casino in Loleta.
Humboldt Association of REALTORS® (HAR) has an association membership of more than 455 REALTORS® and 95 affiliate members. Its mission is to provide services and programs to assist its members in successfully succeeding in the business and achieving the highest standards of ethics and professionalism. They pride themselves on being advocates for private property rights and encourage community involvement.
Jones has received several prestigious awards throughout her career, highlighting her unwavering dedication to client satisfaction. These awards include the 2022 Real Estate Icon Top Producer for 2022, the 2018 Rookie of the Year award, 2018 Rising Star Award, and she perpetually retains a high rating as an agent.
“This is a real honor for me, and I’m very excited to carry out my role as President of this impressive group of professionals,” remarked Jones. “We live in a remarkable area, and it’s a pleasure to serve my community through HAR.”
Before her career in real estate, Jones worked with Northcoast Children’s Services as an Early Head Start Home Visitor, where she embraced the opportunity to live out her mission of supporting the community and empathizing with each family’s unique needs. Today, she continues to contribute to the community and finds fulfillment by volunteering with CASA and Kiwanis. Her ultimate goal is for clients to experience complete satisfaction in their real estate transactions, ensuring their needs are met every step of the way with respect, time, honesty, and integrity. Together, Ruthie and her clients embark on this journey.
“Ruthie’s recent achievement with the Humboldt Association of Realtors® is quite remarkable,” remarked Joshua Cook, Sales Manager of Corcoran Icon’s Humboldt County Operations. “She exemplifies leadership and strength, and her guidance is sure to bring valuable contributions to the entire association and community.”
Ruthie Jones may be reached at 707.572.0683 and ruthie.jones@corcoranicon.com.
Hannah Tai Receives 2023 Good Neighbor Award from Marin Association of Realtors
Hannah Tai, an agent with Corcoran Icon Properties Greenbrae office, received the 2023 Good Neighbor Award presented by the Marin Association of REALTORS® at their annual Installation and Awards Luncheon held at The Spinnaker in Sausalito. More than 175 real estate professionals and affiliates gathered at this event to celebrate the award winners and welcome the new board for 2024.
Nominees for the Good Neighbor Award are individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment through volunteer work for 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations. Eligible activities extend beyond real estate or housing issues encompassing a diverse range of activities, including volunteer work conducted internationally.
Tai was honored with the 2023 Good Neighbor Award in recognition of her contributions to Cake4Kids. The mission of Cake4Kids is s to provide free, custom homemade birthday cakes to children at risk, unhoused, or otherwise underserved circumstances. Cake4Kids relies on dedicated volunteers who donate ingredients to bake customized cakes for youth at their homes. These cakes are then delivered to partner agencies supporting the youth, and volunteers have the flexibility to choose their commitment level. As a former pastry chef, Tai devotes her time outside of real estate to baking, having created and donated more than 30 cakes over the last few years.
“When you have a skill, being able to use that skill in a way that makes a difference is heartwarming,” said Tai. “It makes you feel really good to know that you’ve done something that makes someone else feel great!”
Beyond her involvement with Cake4Kids, Tai is deeply committed to philanthropy. In addition to donating her skills to support charities, Tai also donates a percentage of her commission after each closing to various charities including Cake4Kids, Marin Grateful Gatherings, and The Gentle Barn.
“Hannah’s dedication to both her community and Cake4Kids exemplifies the spirit of giving back,” expressed George Crowe, Sales Manager for Greenbrae, Novato, and San Anselmo offices. “We are proud to have her as a member of our team, making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
Hannah Tai may be reached at 415.706.9654 or hannah.tai@corcoranicon.com.
Chris Backer Is Named 2023 REALTOR® of the Year by Marin Association of Realtors
Corcoran Icon Properties is pleased to announce Chris Backer as the 2023 REALTOR® of the Year by the Marin Association of Realtors. The Marin Association of Realtors announced the winners at their recent Installation and Awards Luncheon held at The Spinnaker in Sausalito. Over 175 real estate professionals and affiliates attended this event to honor the accomplishments of the award winners and usher in the new board for 2024.
Backer served as the Marin REALTORS® President for nearly two years, stepping in unexpectedly in 2019. In his initial year, he navigated the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic and successfully led the association and its members. More recently, he took on the position of the 2022 C.A.R. Region 4 chair and served on the 2023 C.A.R. Executive Committee. His extensive involvement also includes roles as a C.A.R. Director, Vice Chair of the C.A.R. Local Government Policy Committee, Chair of the 2023 and 2024 Marin REALTORS® Local Candidate Recommendation committee, and is an active participant in the Government Affairs and Budget & Finance committees at the local level.
“I’m really just in awe at being selected to follow in the footsteps of such a select group of real estate professionals that I aspire to be like and whom I’ve looked up to over the years. It is a great honor to even be nominated,” commented Backer. “It’s important to me to find ways to serve my industry and give back to the community. I’m grateful to be a part of an association that gives accolades for achievements and contributions in other areas, and not only production. I am truly honored to be recognized and sincerely appreciate all of my clients and colleagues for their trust and this acknowledgment.”
Backer is an essential member of the Greenbrae office, consistently demonstrating exception leadership. His dedication and efforts have not only left a positive mark on the Marin real estate community but also have resonated statewide. He truly embodies the core values of Corcoran Icon Properties, and Corcoran Icon Properties takes immense pride in having him as a valuable part of their company.
“I can’t think of an agent who has devoted more time and energy working on behalf of the Realtor community than Chris,” remarked George Crowe, Sales Manager for Greenbrae, Novato, and San Anselmo offices. “We are proud of him and this award is well-deserved.”
Chris Backer may be reached at chris@chrisbacker.com or 415.729.4139.
Corcoran Icon Properties North Bay Offices Make Best Places to Work Ranking for 2023
Corcoran Icon Properties, an independently owned and operated affiliate of Corcoran Group, LLC, is pleased to announce that they have been recognized as one of the best places to work in 2023 by the North Bay Business Journal. While Corcoran Icon Properties has indeed achieved remarkable victories in recent years, it’s important to recognize that their impressive journey began during their previous incarnation as Terra Firma Global Partners, encompassing a continuous and outstanding 8-year winning streak.
In a survey coordinated by the North Bay Business Journal, over 6,500 employees throughout Sonoma, Napa, and Marin counties participated in the annual survey. Honorees were awarded and celebrated at a cocktail party and reception on Wednesday, September 13, at the Graton Resort and Casino. Corcoran Icon sales managers, Mike Lagoyda and Chris Wunderlich, were on hand to accept the award.
“Congratulations on Corcoran Icon Properties being named one of the North Bay Business Journal’s Best Places to Work,” commented Lonnie Hayes from the North Bay Business Journal. “Companies like yours that were nominated and participated in the survey process set a benchmark for the region’s employers and are an asset to our community,”
Corcoran Icon Properties is a company built upon a culture of trust, collaboration, innovation, and communication where real estate is considered a team sport. Leadership is local and many of its associates are life-long residents of the communities they serve, fostering a commitment to see their neighborhoods thrive. The company embraces the idea that associates will be most successful with a healthy work-life balance, and opportunities exist so that the team can have long and fulfilling careers.
Giving back to the community is also a strong element of what makes the firm a desirable place to work, grow, and flourish. Recently sponsored events include the Giro d Wine Country Bike Event, benefitting Rotary Club of Santa Rosa, and a Diamond Sponsor for the Napa Porchfest 2022, benefitting Napa County Landmarks. Being a part of the fabric of the community benefits everyone.
“We are a people-first company. Partners come from a range of backgrounds, but all have incredible histories of industry success,” said Betsy Serafini, Regional Vice President and partner, North Bay/North Coast California. “Our collective experience and expertise allow us to consider many perspectives. Having a shared vision and high regard for one another enables us to make decisions we can all stand behind.”
Corcoran Icon Properties is a 100 percent locally-owned and managed brokerage in Northern California comprised of eight real estate firms that came together in 2022. These firms formed a partnership focused on clients for luxury homes and estates, investment properties, vacation getaways, and first-time homebuyers.
Corcoran Icon Properties has North Bay offices in Marin, Napa, and Sonoma Counties, including Greenbrae, Napa, Novato, Petaluma, Saint Helena, San Anselmo, Santa Rosa, Sebastopol and Sonoma.
This year marks the 18th installment of the Best Places to Work program. In its first year, 24 entities were recognized compared to this year’s 105 honorees. North Bay Business Journal is headquartered in Santa Rosa and covers Sonoma, Napa, Marin, Mendocino, Lake, and Solano counties.
Michael Barnacle Elected to San Francisco Association of REALTOR® Board of Directors
Michael Barnacle, Managing Broker and Partner at Corcoran Icon Properties has been elected to the San Francisco Association of REALTORS® Board of Directors for the term commencing January 1, 2024, along with three other REALTOR® members. Directors’ elections are held annually to replace outgoing directors completing their terms of office.
Barnacle has a strong background in residential and commercial real estate markets, working for brokerages in Boston and Rhode Island before relocating to San Francisco in 2012. In San Francisco, he quickly became a top producer and Top Agent Network member, subsequently taking on his current leadership role at the company in 2015. His expertise in the business has made him a valuable mentor to agents at all experience levels, with many satisfied clients and successful agent teams to his credit.
He is and has been actively involved in the real estate community, serving on the Board of the California Association of REALTORS®, the Board, Executive Committee, and Budget & Finance Committees of the San Francisco Association of REALTORS®, and as a Board Member of the San Francisco Women’s Council of REALTORS®. Michael has been involved in many community organizations outside of work, including serving as the Past President of the United Irish Cultural Center of San Francisco.
“We congratulate Michael on this latest of his many achievements as he continues to excel at all his endeavors,” remarked Randall Kostick, Chief Executive Officer of Corcoran Icon Properties. “His leadership skills, knowledge of the industry, the community, our clients, and our staff are all part of what makes Michael continually successful.”
San Francisco Board of REALTORS® represents more than 4,000 REALTORS® who are committed to fairness, honesty, integrity, and promoting the rights of homeowners. It provides wide-ranging educational opportunities and industry-leading technology, including SFARMLS, to members; advocacy at the local, state, and national levels for legislation supporting members and their business; and actively gives back to the San Francisco community through the SFAR Foundation and the Welcome Home Project.
Michael Barnacle may be reached at michael.barnacle@corcoranicon.com or 415.552.9500
Change Makers: Spotlight on Social Good – Josh Marquina and the Sentimental Concert by Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club
Welcome to another installment of our blog series, “Change Makers: Spotlight on Social Good.” Today, we are excited to feature Josh Marquina, an agent from our Upper Market – San Francisco office, and his involvement with the Sentimental Concert by Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club. Let’s explore how this event, dedicated to spreading joy through music, is making a positive impact on communities in need.
Josh Marquina and the Sentimental Concert
Josh Marquina is not only a talented agent but also an active member of the Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club (BAGO). During a recent fundraiser event, the Sentimental Concert, Josh had the honor of being a guest performer. This concert was a remarkable opportunity to combine his passion for music with his commitment to serving the community. As a dedicated member of BAGO, Josh has been actively involved since its inception, contributing to the club’s mission of making a difference in the lives of underserved individuals.
Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club’s Mission and Impact
The Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club (BAGO) was established during the pandemic; since then, they have accomplished over 300 projects, positively impacting more than 300,000 underserved individuals in the USA, Philippines, India, Ireland, and Ukraine. BAGO collaborates with various organizations such as Ruby’s Place, New Creation, Macy’s Village Harvest, Rise Against Hunger, SF Marin Foodbank, and more. Their projects range from feeding programs and tree planting activities to infrastructure improvements and providing essential supplies to those in need.
Sentimental Concert and Giving Back
The Sentimental Concert, organized by BAGO, was an exceptional event brimming with music, happiness, and a deep sense of community. Held on June 25th, 2023, the concert successfully raised funds for BAGO’s outreach projects. It’s worth noting that all ticket proceeds from the concert went directly towards supporting BAGO’s initiatives, guaranteeing that the funds were dedicated to impactful causes both within the local community and abroad.
Join Josh and Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club
By supporting the Sentimental Concert and the Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club, you have the opportunity to partner with Josh and other dedicated individuals in giving back to communities in need. For sponsorships and donations, please visit the BAGO Lions Club Facebook page at facebook.com/BAGOlionsclub.
Let’s come together to create a brighter future and make a difference in the lives of underserved individuals around the world.
Stay tuned for updates and future events by connecting with Josh Marquina on social media: @joshmarquinax.
Corcoran Icon Properties Announces New Office on Union Street
Corcoran Icon Properties, an independently owned and operated affiliate of Corcoran Group, LLC, is pleased to announce its newest office, now open on Union Street in the heart of the vibrant Cow Hollow neighborhood. This highly convenient location, managed by Michael Barnacle, is set in the heart of a thriving area in an inviting spot that includes a charming courtyard entry.
“We’ve recently moved into our new location, and we’re happy to welcome our friends, colleagues, and clients into our new space,” commented Barnacle.
Barnacle has continuously worked as part of the same group of local leaders and owners, including under its identity as Zephyr Real Estate, where he was elevated to Sales Manager at the Pacific Heights office in 2015. He has served on various REALTOR® boards and has trained and mentored agents at all experience levels. In the business since 1989, he is originally from Boston where he managed a major brokerage office.
Cow Hollow is a prime neighborhood in the San Francisco landscape and is home to a wonderful array of boutique shops, fine dining, day spas, and wellness centers. Notable attractions include the McElroy Octagon House and the Lynn Steps, a series of 332 stairs that lead to a breathtaking view of Alcatraz and the Bay. Perched near the Presidio, the Marina, and Pacific Heights, the neighborhood captures the feel of the City at its finest.
“Numbers only tell part of the whole story; but at Corcoran Icon Properties, it’s a story we’re proud of,” remarked Steve Belluomini, President of Corcoran Icon Properties. “With 100 percent local ownership and management, we’re committed to our communities and to our clients, including welcoming and convenient locations such as our new Union Street office.”
Corcoran Icon Properties’ newest office is located at 2147 Union Street (between Fillmore and Webster). Michael Barnacle may be reached at Michael.barnacle@corcoranicon.com or 415.552.9500.
