Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Lashbrook.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was born in Mexicali, Mexico and raised in Tijuana until I was 10 years old, when my family and I moved to the United States. I’ve been here ever since, in San Diego! Growing up in a Chinese household (my family is originally from Hainan), being raised in Mexico, and then starting a new chapter in the U.S., shaped me in countless ways. It taught me how to connect with people from all walks of life and helped me develop a very specific kind of humor—one that somehow marries all three cultures and makes me a true “Mexicamericanese.” (Yes, I made that word up in high school—and it still applies!) Honestly, being able to translate a joke in any language is a skill in itself. I’m proud that my upbringing gave me the practice to use my languages to better relate to people and where they come from.
One of my earliest jobs was bagging groceries at seven years old—not exactly legal, but definitely character-building! That early hustle stuck with me, and I’ve been working ever since. As I got older, I built a career in sales and customer service. I became a Mary Kay Sales Director (yes, I earned two cars—but never the pink Cadillac… I know, I’m disappointed too), sold Picasso’s and Chagall’s work in a fine art gallery, and even worked as a Travel Nurse Recruiter! From selling a lipstick to navigating healthcare during COVID, I’ve done it all. Work has always been a huge part of my identity, so the decision to step away—even temporarily—was intimidating.
After having my son, I chose to become a stay-at-home mom—a role that completely reshaped my world and my priorities. Still, I knew that one day I’d want to return to work. The challenge was finding a path that would allow me to be fully present for my family while also giving me space to grow as an individual.
Real estate had been calling to me for over a decade. With nearly 20 years of experience in relationship-building, problem-solving, and client care, the transition felt natural. What held me back was the stereotype: that success in California real estate is cutthroat and reserved for a certain “type.” But with encouragement from my loved ones—and the need to finally feel like part of the cast in Selling Sunset—I finally took the leap. I studied for my license and joined Willis Allen Real Estate.
Now, I get to do what I love: helping others find “home” while staying grounded in my own. I’m building a business rooted in authenticity, warmth, and drive—all while raising a tiny human and navigating the journey of motherhood and professional growth.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey was definitely not smooth—but that wasn’t a surprise. I expected to work hard in my first year, but the biggest challenge was learning how to balance motherhood and a brand-new career. As a family, we decided I’d be a full-time mom, so I gave myself 9–12 months to settle into that role before committing fully to real estate. Once my son was sleeping through the night, I used my evenings to study—7 to 10 p.m., after a full day of mom life. It was exhausting, but worth it.
On top of that, I entered the industry at a particularly tough time—higher interest rates, a slower market, and everyone still adjusting post-COVID. California is also flooded with realtors, and only about 25% make it past the first year, and under 15% remain after five years. So yes, I chose one of the hardest careers at one of the hardest times. But I’ve always noticed that when I start something during a difficult period, I end up learning more and building a stronger foundation.
Were there moments I felt overwhelmed? Absolutely and I still do at times. Juggling a toddler and trying to build a career isn’t easy. But I learned to strategize each morning and night. That mindset helped me stay grounded in my two full-time roles: being a mom and being a realtor.
I decided to focus on open houses as my entry point. Within three months, I hosted 26 of them. It was a lot of work—people don’t always see the prep and effort behind a successful open house—but that’s how I met my first clients. And the leads I gained during that time are still turning into business today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Realtor at Willis Allen Real Estate?
I’m a residential real estate agent with Willis Allen Real Estate, a brokerage known for its integrity, deep local roots, and luxury service across all price points. What drew me to Willis Allen is its reputation—not just as one of the most established brokerages in San Diego, but as one that prioritizes professionalism, collaboration, and client care.
As for me personally, I specialize in helping buyers and sellers feel educated, confident, and fully supported through one of the biggest decisions of their lives. I bring 15 years of customer service and sales experience, an interior design background, and a genuine love for real estate that grew from personally buying, and owning rentals. I’m bilingual in Spanish (and a little Cantonese and French!), which helps me connect with a wider range of clients in our diverse market.
What sets me apart is my energy, my sense of humor and hardcore work ethic. I’m a full-time mom and a full-time realtor and I think many women out there can relate to being successful while keeping family as a priority. It’s hard but very rewarding. When it comes to my business, whether it’s staging a home, hosting open houses, or walking first-time buyers through every step of the process, I make sure my clients never feel like just a number. Trust me, I know what feeling like a number feels and I never want anyone to feel that way.
I’m proud to represent a brokerage that supports my values, and proud to be building a real estate business rooted in honesty, hustle, and heart.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Yes! Put in the hard work early on. Build a strong foundation, stay organized, and commit to consistency. A lot of realtors take it slow their first year, which is why it often takes 12–18 months to build momentum. But if you want results sooner, I’ve always believed: “Short-term sacrifices lead to long-term rewards.”
I knew that getting my business up and running quickly would help me learn my systems faster and eventually automate parts of my workflow. That way, I could work more efficiently, serve my clients better, and still protect time with my family.
After hosting my 26 open houses, I was able to generate 150 new leads. It was a ton of work, but that effort directly led to my first clients—and continued business today.
Pick your lead sources—open houses, SOI, floor time, door-knocking, social media,—and focus on just three for the first 3–6 months. Go all in. You’ll generate leads, and the MOST important thing you can do after, is follow up! Life gets busy—your potential clients are parents, caregivers, and working professionals—so staying in touch (respectfully!) is key. You’d be surprised how many come back and thank you for your consistency.
And finally: listen to your mentor. If you’re lucky enough to have one, follow their lead. They care about your growth and success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://monicalashbrook.willisallen.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monicalashbrooksoldit
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574223471495
- LinkedIn: https://www.instagram.com/monicalashbrooksoldit
- Other: https://www.google.com/search?q=monica+lashbrook&oq=monica+lashbrook&gs_lcrp=
Image Credits
Professional photos by Wendy Davis with @lotusbloomphotography.sd
