This career of being a real estate broker is a part of my DNA. In some fashion, I was genetically preordained to be involved in this wonderful industry. It really starts with my father’s history and even before that with my grandfather’s life experiences. Without them, my life would have turned out much differently.
Back in the 1930s and 40s, my grandfather Mun On Chun was heavily involved in the Chinese community in Hawaii. When World War II ended, the lending practices of banks were highly discriminatory for immigrants of Asian descent. It was nearly impossible for an Asian to purchase a house, much less provide the financing for one. So my grandfather, along with other community leaders founded a company called Finance Factors as a solution for immigrant families to be able to finance and buy a home of their own. I am very proud of the fact that my grandfather was the anchor and catalyst for so many families to be able to realize the American Dream.
My father carried on the family tradition of service and investing in real estate, and was a shining example of perseverance, sacrifice, and service to others. Thanks to him, I was able to witness business transactions in real estate while I was growing up, which inspired me to pursue a degree in business with an emphasis in entrepreneurship at the University of Southern California.
I’ve followed my father and grandfather into the real estate industry, and have found the work to be truly rewarding! Being able to hand someone the keys to their first home is a magical moment, and I love hearing the stories behind houses and clients alike.
I can truly empathize with clients throughout every part of the real estate transaction, as my family and I recently sold our home in Napa and purchased a property in Saint Helena. My wife Ilse and I had met in Los Angeles, but quickly decided that it was not the place to start our family. Our daughter Lucy is a terrific little girl! She attends St. Helena Primary School, and loves Gymnastics Zone.
Ilse is a wine ambassador in the wine industry. She’s currently working with Schramsberg. As a member of the Napa Valley Country Club, I can often be found enjoying a round of golf. We also love to spend time as a family around the club pool, playing tennis or just hanging out. We stay busy with numerous groups in our town including the Napa Police Department Volunteers, Pathway Home for Veterans, and Napa Valley Vine Trail.
I’ve dedicated myself to my community for years, both as a real estate agent and as a volunteer. I believe the two go hand-in-hand.
