Craig Strong

Native New Yorker Craig Strong graduated from Ithaca College and worked for years at his family business, Point Blank Body Armor—rising through the ranks to vice president of manufacturing. When he relocated to Los Angeles, he got involved in property investment and transitioned to the field of real estate. Craig has been an award-winning, top-producing Realtor^® for more than 25 years and is the founder of the Craig Strong Group under the umbrella of Compass. 

Craig has been a Toluca Lake resident for more than two decades and has invested 15+ years serving on the Greater Toluca Lake Neighborhood Council. He has also served for years on the boards of the Toluca Lake Homeowners Association and the Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce, and today he sits on the board of the Toluca Lake Beautification Partners. This year’s project is reviving the December 24 Magical Holiday Parade so the entire community can once again come together to watch and enjoy the festivities!

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What are some key qualities for leadership roles?

Success in this business hinges on the ability to delegate effectively and overcome obstacles. Delegating involves not only assigning tasks but also selecting the right individuals for the job. Given the nature of this industry, challenges are constant, and the key lies in confronting them head-on. Negotiation skills are paramount, as is recognizing when to enjoy those victorious moments with your team.

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Why are you considered a go-to person in the Toluca Lake community?

I’ve had the privilege of participating in nearly all of Toluca Lake’s community groups and getting to know each member—gaining extensive knowledge about this wonderful area. I thoroughly enjoy engaging with the diverse community here, discussing all things Toluca Lake and organizing enjoyable events that foster a sense of togetherness.

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Share a significant accomplishment in your career. 

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve recently taken on the prestigious role of lead mentor for Compass, where I’ve initiated a mentoring program. This position comes with a substantial learning curve. While it will require some time to fully establish, I’m eagerly anticipating the opportunity to pass on my knowledge and help new agents find success in this industry. Achieving this milestone is a source of great pride for me!

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What advice would you give your younger self just starting out in business?

If I were to offer advice to myself, I would emphasize the importance of patience and the understanding that success may not come immediately. The real estate field has seen an influx of individuals obtaining their licenses in recent years, making it challenging to distinguish oneself from the rest. However, as with any endeavor, those who are truly skilled will eventually stand out. This process may take some time, particularly given the current shortage of available properties in the market.

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What are the roadblocks in taking care of yourself?

Balancing self-care with a 24/7 work schedule is very challenging. The real estate profession often means being on call at all hours, including weekends. However, this constant availability is also a reason why clients choose to work with me for their real estate needs. It’s a catch-22 that you learn to adapt to. I understand the importance of not stopping until the job is done and getting the results both the client and I want. It’s a commitment to delivering excellent service that sets me apart in this industry.

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What does success mean to you?

Getting referrals from past clients and even having their family members reach out for assistance is a significant win in this business. It’s a testament to the trust and rapport built with clients, making you not just their real estate agent but a valued part of their network and even their extended family. It’s one of the most rewarding aspects of this profession.

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What local hot spots do you love?

There’s no shortage of fantastic dining options in Los Angeles. If you’re looking for delicious French cuisine, Mistral is an excellent choice. For top-notch sushi, Sushi Yuzu in Toluca Lake is a must-visit. And Catch Steak LA and Craigs LA continue to be my personal favorites!

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What motivates you to go to work every day?

My motivation comes from the knowledge that my clients and team are relying on me. I strive to do the best job possible for all of them, and this sense of responsibility drives me to achieve successful outcomes for my clients year after year. 

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Where do you see yourself in the future?

I recently established a Burbank office in partnership with the amazing agent Kristin Neithercut. I envision further growth for our team and business in the future. On a personal note, I’d love to spend more time on the golf course, perhaps accompanied by a few martinis.

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Photographed by Jeffrey Fiterman