By: PR Team Cloud Realty
Zulay Rennells, a dedicated and passionate realtor, has been transforming the real estate scene in San Diego County since she first stepped into the industry in 2018. Born into a military family, Zulay’s journey in real estate is rooted in her experiences as a “military brat.” Moving across the country and living on various military bases gave her a unique perspective on what makes a home truly special.
As a child, Zulay developed a love for real estate during weekends spent attending open houses with her mother and working on home improvement projects with her father. These experiences sparked an early interest in how homes could bring people together, a passion that has shaped her career.
By 2018, Zulay had officially entered the real estate world, obtaining her license and immediately diving into property management and leasing. Having grown up in military housing, she was no stranger to the important role property managers played in creating a sense of community. She recalls how events such as barbecues and family fun days helped residents feel at home, even while living on base. This connection between property management and fostering a sense of belonging became a key motivator for her work.
For Zulay, real estate is more than just transactions; it’s about helping people find that feeling of home. This mindset has been crucial as she works closely with first-time homebuyers, guiding them through what is often the biggest investment of their lives. “Real estate is fun because each client’s needs and resources are different,” she explains. “Helping those first-time buyers navigate their biggest investment of their life is a reward all on its own.”
Zulay’s network of real estate professionals has grown steadily over the years, allowing her to provide clients with the support they need in a fast-moving and competitive market. This network includes lenders, contractors, and other real estate professionals who help ensure her clients have access to the best resources. In today’s challenging market, this collaborative approach is more valuable than ever.
When asked about the current real estate landscape, Zulay points to the recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement as one of the significant challenges—and opportunities—facing the industry. The settlement has created confusion among many, but Zulay sees this as an opportunity to stand out by providing clear, accurate information to her clients. “Being able to give clear and precise answers is a great opportunity to set yourself apart in the industry,” she says.
The current economic climate is also a hurdle for many buyers, with more stringent lending practices making it difficult for some to secure financing. However, Zulay sees this as yet another opportunity to assist her clients. “Helping clients find the right lender and type of financing is probably the biggest opportunity today,” she notes, emphasizing the importance of her extensive professional network. By staying flexible and maintaining open lines of communication, Zulay ensures her clients receive the ideal guidance through their home-buying journey.
Looking ahead, Zulay envisions significant changes in the real estate industry over the next five to ten years. She predicts an increase in investor-owned properties, with major companies such as Amazon, BlackRock, and Open Door playing a larger role in the market. While she enjoys working with investors, Zulay remains committed to helping everyday people achieve the American dream of homeownership. She also foresees advancements in technology that will streamline the buying and selling processes, making them more efficient for both realtors and clients. “Soon, I think only the best and most engaged real estate professionals will be relevant,” Zulay predicts.
If given the chance to make changes within the industry, Zulay would focus on improving communication and transparency. She believes ongoing training and refresher courses should be required for real estate professionals to ensure they remain knowledgeable and well-prepared to assist their clients. Drawing from her experience in property management, Zulay points out that the annual training she receives in that area helps her stay informed and provides valuable insights into the rental market—a practice she believes should be extended across the entire real estate sector.
For Zulay, the most rewarding aspect of being a realtor is the opportunity to help first-time buyers. She relishes the challenge of guiding them through what can be a daunting process, ensuring they feel confident and supported every step of the way. As a member of her local real estate association, she also enjoys the camaraderie and resources that come with being part of a larger professional network.
What truly sets Zulay apart in the competitive San Diego market is her personal philosophy: treat others as you would like to be treated. This simple yet powerful principle shapes the way she interacts with clients and colleagues alike. Whether she’s helping someone buy their first home or assisting a seasoned investor, Zulay approaches each situation with empathy, respect, and a commitment to transparency. “I always think, what if the roles were reversed? How would I or my loved one want to be treated?” she says.
In addition to her professional life, Zulay is a firm believer in maintaining a balance between work and personal time. She enjoys dancing, running, volunteering, and exploring new activities—all of which have influenced her approach to real estate. For example, she credits running with teaching her that “starting is the hardest part,” a lesson she applies when working with hesitant first-time buyers. Dancing, meanwhile, has helped her see the rhythm in all things, including real estate transactions.
Recently, Zulay has developed an interest in homesteading, a passion sparked by her family. This new goal reflects her desire to live off the land and have a deeper connection with her resources—an aspiration that could influence her future real estate endeavors.
As she continues to make her mark on the San Diego real estate market, Zulay Rennells remains dedicated to helping clients achieve their dreams of homeownership. With her extensive experience, strong professional network, and unwavering commitment to ethical practices, Zulay is well-positioned to thrive in the ever-changing world of real estate.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the content, the real estate market is dynamic, and specific outcomes or results cannot be guaranteed. Readers should not rely solely on the information presented here for making real estate decisions. It is recommended to consult with qualified real estate professionals or other relevant experts for advice tailored to individual circumstances. The author and publisher assume no responsibility for actions taken based on the content of this article.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
