With over $9 billion in career sales, Jade Mills is the number one agent worldwide for Coldwell Banker Realty and consistently ranks among the top residential real estate agents in Los Angeles.
Mills specializes in luxury estate properties in Beverly Hills, Malibu, Holmby Hills and Bel Air, and has a client roster including many A-list celebrities, tech founders and prominent business leaders.
Last year, she sold over $288 million worth of Los Angeles homes.
How did you get your start in real estate and how long have you been with Coldwell Banker?
Many years ago, when my first husband and I were divorced, we had to sell our house in Sherman Oaks. My then real estate agent told me he thought I would be a great real estate agent because I loved people.
Well, it is true, I have had an incredible career in real estate and have met many amazing people who have become my friends. I started working for Prudential California Realty in 1990 and we were later purchased by Coldwell Banker.
I have never changed companies, and I love working with Coldwell Banker – the company supports me in any way possible.
Within Los Angeles, which neighborhoods are you most passionate about and why?
I live in Trousdale, which is a neighborhood within Beverly Hills. Although I work from the Hollywood Hills to Malibu, I love the City of Beverly Hills. I am on the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and the strength of our police and fire departments are stellar.
Los Angeles offers so many great things, from theater to restaurants to world-class art and music. What is special about Los Angeles is its diversity. Whether it’s the culture, food or people, Los Angeles brings a mix of everything from all around the world.
What excites you most about a home?
It is never just “a home” for me. What excites me most about that home is the feeling, not necessarily (amenities such as) a theater, a spa or a bowling alley.
Home is a place where you can truly be yourself. I try to think about how my client will feel coming home after a long, hard day at the office.
For me, I need an elegant, bright and comfortable space. I also get excited when I see a home that has been beautifully designed and where every space is usable, from the interior to the exterior grounds.
A home can offer both tranquility and creativity – it is not only a space to live, but to create memories.
How did 2024 compare to other years for you?
Knowledge is power! It was a really unusual year. Many people looked for an experienced real estate agent to help navigate a challenging market. It was difficult on new agents because inventory was low, and agents were forced to find off-market inventory.
2024 was also challenging for me, but I know in other areas of the United States agents had their best years. I am thankful I have been in the business for so long because in a tough market I feel (like) I can still thrive.
It’s been almost two years since Measure ULA first went into effect. How would you say it’s impacted the landscape of Los Angeles real estate?
Measure ULA has definitely affected the market but, as time has passed, it is becoming more acceptable.
People are always asking when Measure ULA will be overturned and, although the real estate agents would be very happy with that, it does not look like it will be happening soon. A group of agents have banded together since the Palisades and Eaton fires to appeal ULA to eliminate the tax.
Have the recent Palisades and Eaton fires impacted your personal portfolio? Are you seeing a rise in sales or leases because
of them?
Of course, my heart goes out to so many people who lost their homes in the Palisades and Eaton fires. We have focused on finding leases for these people, but we are finding that many of them are now either in one-year rentals or have purchased homes while deciding what their future will bring.
In areas close to Pacific Palisades and Malibu where families are looking to keep their children in their present schools, we are seeing a rise in sales.
What are your expectations for 2025?
My expectations for 2025 is: “let’s all thrive in 2025!” I would love to try to think positively and pray that all fire victims can heal from the devastation.
My wish is for everyone to have a beautiful home or space where they feel comfortable and not frightened.
My son and his wife lost their home in Pacific Palisades, and they are doing their best to help others. In the past, we have seen many people move out of Los Angeles (following disaster), but it seems they always come back. We have so much to offer between our fabulous weather, the proximity to the beach and the mountains, and our Los Angeles culture – it is hard to move away.
What’s your favorite part of being an agent?
I love being a real estate agent. For the last 35 years, I have enjoyed meeting new people, making new friends and having wonderful experiences.
I so enjoy finding people their dream homes and seeing people so excited at the close of escrow. Whether it is a condominium or an estate over $100 million, it is the same feeling for me.
My first house sale was to a Los Angeles Times delivery person in Van Nuys. We stood in front of the house at the close of escrow and we cried together. There is nothing better than tears of joy.
