Ranked #6 in the country, Santiago Arana has gained a reputation as one of the most distinguished real estate agents in Los Angeles, garnering national recognition that includes being named among the Top 250 Realtors in the United States by Real Trends as advertised in The Wall Street Journal for seven consecutive years. Part of a power trio that includes Billy Rose and Mauricio Umansky, Santiago joined The Agency in 2014 as Principal and Partner, specializing in high-end residential real estate and new construction in Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Holmby Hills, the Sunset Strip, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Santa Monica and Malibu. Spearheading the company’s new Westside offices in Brentwood and Pacific Palisades, he doubled his business in 2016 with his sales volume topping $305 Million. To date, Santiago has closed over $2 Billion worth of real estate, netting over $420 Million in sales volume in 2017 alone. Haute Residence caught up with Arana to discuss the best places to spend the Summer in Los Angeles' Westside area, which includes Brentwood, Santa Monica & the Pacific Palisades:
What makes the Westside so special in the Summer?
The cleaner air, less traffic, proximity to the beach and all its activities. It’s an amazing lifestyle!
What are some activities that happen this time of year in the Westside that are unique and special?
There are so many activities that are at your fingertips. From Golf to Hiking and Biking in the Santa Monica Mountains, Horseback Riding, Surfing, Paddle Boarding or hitting the beach for an amazing sunset.
What are some great restaurants and places where people love to spend time in the Westside during the Summer?
Best restaurants and my favorites are, Giorgio Baldi, Capo, in SM and Tratto in Pacific Palisades.
Do you have a favorite activity to do in Westside in the Summer?
I love to get up earlier and run down San Vicente Blvd towards the beach, hit the Santa Monica stairs and end with a plunge into the Ocean.
Is there a place or activity you recommend anyone to try that’s visiting the Westside this Summer?
One of the amazing things of this side of town and unique area is that you actually could do everything in one day if choose. A great morning in nature, a fantastic lunch in the sun, an afternoon at the beach and a dinner at one of the best spots in LA.