There is an undeniable allure in watching real estate shows that feature multi-million dollar mansions. The imported marble countertops, the elevators, the infinity pools with breathtaking views—it all seems so unattainable for the average person that it feels more like a fantasy than a reality show. And that's exactly why Selling Sunset, the Netflix docusoap spotlighting a group of luxury realtors at the Oppenheim Group selling some of the ritziest homes in Los Angeles, has captivated audiences. With its fourth season set to premiere on November 24, Selling Sunset will once again invite us into the world of tall, beautiful real estate agents selling huge, beautiful homes.
But amidst all the glitz and glamour, viewers often wonder just how real Selling Sunset actually is. Are these women really licensed realtors? Do they actually work in that office? And who are the people actually buying these houses? Let's dive into these questions and uncover the fascinating truth behind the show.
The Oppenheim Group: The Real Deal
One of the most common questions viewers have is whether the houses sold on Selling Sunset are real or just staged for the show. According to Jason Oppenheim, the president and founder of the Oppenheim Group, every house and property that is sold on Selling Sunset has actually been sold by the Oppenheim Group in real life. So, yes, these sales are very much real. Sometimes, the agents even work together on the sales, showcasing their collaborative efforts.
Licensed Realtors Taking Center Stage
Another burning question is whether the cast members on Selling Sunset are actually licensed realtors. And the answer is a definite yes. All of the main cast members are registered realtors, as per California's Department of Real Estate, which publicly lists registered real estate agents in the state. The cast members have faced doubts about their authenticity, with Chrissy Teigen even tweeting her skepticism. However, the facts stand strong. These agents are experienced, successful, licensed professionals with a proven track record in the industry.
The Mighty Oppenheim Brothers
The Oppenheim Group, the real estate brokerage that serves as the backdrop for Selling Sunset, is currently run by Jason Oppenheim. His twin brother Brett, who appeared in all seasons of the show, broke off last year to start his own real estate group. But the Oppenheim family has a rich history in Los Angeles real estate, spanning generations. In fact, the Oppenheim Group can trace its roots back to the 1880s when Jason's great-great-grandfather started Stern Realty Company in Los Angeles. The Oppenheim Group as we know it today was established in 2013 by Jason.
Authenticity Amidst the Drama
Being a reality show, Selling Sunset does have its fair share of staged moments and manufactured drama. However, real estate is a legitimate business with records and public information, so many aspects of the show are grounded in reality. The houses showcased on the show can indeed be found on the Oppenheim Group website, with all past and present listings available. Some clients, however, prefer not to be on television, so the crew has to work around their unwillingness to be featured. In some cases, celebrity clients are mentioned, but details are kept confidential due to non-disclosure agreements.
A Unique Blend of Real Estate and Entertainment
While Selling Sunset falls into the reality real estate show genre, it stands out from the crowd. It combines actual real estate sales with design projects, staged events, and, of course, drama. Creator Adam DiVello, known for his work on shows like Laguna Beach and The Hills, convinced Jason Oppenheim to make Selling Sunset by promising a different approach—one that focuses on both the dramatic and cinematic aspects of the real estate world. The result is a visually stunning show that offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Los Angeles.
So, the next time you find yourself marveling at the jaw-dropping homes and captivating drama on Selling Sunset, remember that while the show has its fair share of manufactured moments, the real estate sales are indeed genuine. These talented, licensed realtors at the Oppenheim Group are making dreams come true for buyers in the luxurious world of Los Angeles real estate. And that's a reality worth celebrating.