Inspiring Conversations with Michael Collins of Coldwell Banker Realty

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Collins.

Hi Michael, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Beverly Hills, and Los Angeles is the only place I have ever lived, so real estate has always felt personal to me. Before I got into the business, I worked in entertainment management, casting & public relations, which taught me a lot about people, pressure, discretion, and how to stay calm when things matter. Those lessons ended up shaping how I work today far more than any formal real estate training ever could.

I moved into real estate more than 36 years ago and never looked back. I started at a time when everything was relationship-driven, when deals were done face-to-face, and trust was everything. I learned early on that listening matters more than talking, and that telling clients the truth, even when it is not what they want to hear, is what builds long-term relationships. Over time, that approach led to repeat clients, referrals, and a career that grew organically.

Today, I work primarily in Beverly Hills and the greater Los Angeles area, often with architectural homes and condominiums. I stay hands-on, care deeply about the outcome, and treat every transaction with respect, regardless of size. I genuinely love what I do, not just the homes, but the people, the stories, and the trust clients place in me at important moments in their lives.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all. Real estate is full of highs and lows, and anyone who says otherwise is not being honest. I came up in a business where there were no guarantees, no salary, and plenty of moments where you wondered if the phone was ever going to ring again. Markets shift, deals fall apart at the last minute, and even after years of experience, you still get humbled.

One of the biggest challenges has been learning how to ride out the slow periods without losing confidence or perspective. I have also had to adapt as the business changed, from market cycles to technology to how clients consume information. The through line for me has always been staying steady, doing the work, and treating people well. The struggles taught me resilience, patience, and how to stay grounded, and those lessons are a big part of why I am still here and still genuinely enjoying the work.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Coldwell Banker Realty?
I work with Coldwell Banker Realty out of the Beverly Hills office, and I value being part of a brand that takes the work seriously while still feeling human and relationship driven. The name matters to me because it reflects how I do business, with care, integrity, and consistency.

My focus is Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, with a strong emphasis on condominiums, architectural homes, and long time owners who want clear, honest guidance. I am very hands on and stay involved from start to finish. I am known for being direct about pricing, timing, and expectations, because clarity builds trust.

What sets me apart is experience and follow-through. After more than 35 years in the business, I still care deeply about every outcome. I am proud that most of my work comes from repeat clients and referrals, which tells me people feel supported and confident working with me.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I have never thought of myself as a big risk taker, but I am comfortable with smart, thoughtful risk. Early on, choosing a commission only career with no safety net was a real leap. It forced me to trust my instincts, work hard, and figure things out quickly, and it ended up shaping my entire career.

These days, I look at risk in a more grounded way. I am willing to take it when it makes sense, whether that is giving a client advice they may not want to hear or sticking to my values even if it costs me a deal. I have learned that the biggest risk is not being honest or present, and that steady, well considered decisions usually lead to the best outcomes.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.MichaelCollins.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelcollinsrealestate/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.h.collins
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhcollins11/
• Twitter: https://x.com/CollinsCol80025
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@michaelcollinsrealestate7473
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=3iGs_8zJwBuCI9FVBgW67w
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelcollinstherealtor

Image Credits
None, I own all my own photos