Having a passion for economics and real estate, Matthew Chavez knew the journey he wanted to take when graduating from the University of Arkansas in 2011. Moving back to his native California, his path took an unexpected turn upon meeting Josh Flagg, one of California’s top real estate agents and a star of Bravo’s TV show, “Million Dollar Listing LA.”
“I met Josh Flagg while I was doing some temporary work and he said, ‘Come work for me,’” Chavez said. Accepting an internship with the real estate professional, he studied to obtain all of the proper licensing to work in real estate. Appearing on the TV show, Chavez assists Flagg with listings and sales, saying, “We co-list properties together.”
A self-proclaimed “luxury real estate agent,” Chavez’s passion for the industry began at an early age, admitting, “My interest in the industry started when I was a kid. I would go through what was for sale in my neighborhood. I was always interested in that.” Although he grew up on the West Coast, it was the Sam M. Walton College of Business that brought him to Arkansas.
As a student, Chavez pursued a degree in business economics with a minor in finance and real estate, all while working in University Programs helping to co-sponsor events with other organizations on campus. “I was also involved with Associated Student Government and GSA [known today as P.R.I.D.E],” he said.
Stating, “I use my business law class every day,” Chavez puts his University of Arkansas education to use when working closely with celebrity clientele as well as anyone looking to live in Beverly Hills. Through his work with Flagg, Chavez has helped celebrities such as Maroon 5’s lead singer, Adam Levine, and late-night comedian and talk show host, Chelsea Handler, with their property endeavors.
Determining what a client wants can be difficult and hard work, but Chavez understands the importance of finding the right property for the right buyer. “Finding a place for someone is so rewarding. Sometimes it’s not so easy, but when you find the right place, it’s all worth it,” he said. Adding that condominiums are growing in popularity, much of the clientele is interested in the amenities of a property – parking availability and a pool – providing Chavez with a more detailed idea of what to look for when working with various clients. “Some people wait a very long time to choose, which can sometimes be a challenge,” he added.
While the life of working in celebrity real estate is far from the hills of Northwest Arkansas, Chavez is grateful for the time spent in Fayetteville. “When telling people that I went to the University of Arkansas they ask me, ‘How? That’s so far away,’” he laughed. As a member of the Arkansas Alumni Association, that “far away” feeling is remedied by staying connected through the association’s Facebook page and quarterly alumni magazine, Arkansas.
“We all go to school as an investment for our future. We must maintain that investment by going to interviews and being proud to call ourselves a University of Arkansas graduate and maintaining a positive image of our school.”
