Michelle Schwartz and Craig Knizek, founding team members of The Agency, were recently spotlighted in Ventura Blvd. magazine. With nearly 20 years of combined experience, Michelle and Craig discuss real estate trends, growth, challenges and an exciting new partnership. Regarding market trends for 2016, Craig noted that “we’re seeing a leveling off of the price appreciation. There is obviously an insatiable demand for new homes, but the supply has shifted the pricing power back toward the buyer.” Michelle added that being based 50/50 in two different areas has attributed to her success. “My business has skyrocketed in the past year; reaching and breaking goals and previous records. Since my business is based both in Westside and Valley-side, it’s allowed me to offer a really unique perspective to my clients. I can truly tap in to “both sides of the hill.” As far as challenges faced in the real estate market, Craig believes that much of it comes down to pricing. “The mispricing of a home is the most critical error a seller can make,” he says. Regarding buyers and development, there is so much to look forward to. In fact, Michelle and Craig are thrilled to soon be unveiling an exclusive partnership with renowned home builders, Williams Homes, as their sales and marketing representatives for Country Ridge Estates, a new gated community minutes from the heart of Calabasas. “We’re truly honored to represent this collection of six ultra-private estates just off Mulholland and Las Virgines,” said Michelle. “We look forward to this relationship and to spreading the word about this exclusive community.” Michelle, a native of Beverly Hills who now lives in Studio City, and Craig, a graduate of UC Santa Barbara, joined The Agency at its inception in 2011. For more information on Country Ridge Estates, contact Michelle Schwartz or Craig Knizek.