Biography
Chris Cortazzo is an icon. His name is synonymous with Malibu, a rare breed of real estate agent born and raised in the famed coastal haven. When Chris speaks about his beloved hometown, you don't just hear the passion in his voice - you sense it at the soul level. It's one of the many reasons why countless celebrities and high-profile business leaders continue to seek him out for real estate representation. "Malibu is the greatest place to live and work in the world," he says. "My clients trust me because I know the market better than anyone. I understand the locations and the lifestyle each unique area provides." Knowledge, passion, discretion, and integrity have been the undercurrents of his real estate business for over 29 years. His natural charisma, combined with his ability to be laser-focused on clients in a way that makes them feel like there is no one else in the room, are well-known trademarks. In addition, Chris is widely hailed for his outstanding production and his market-making opinions, which are sought after by businesses, financial publications, and broadcast media.
Since arriving at Compass, Chris's extraordinary sales reflect his legendary status as a real estate leader. He quietly amassed more than $8 billion+ in career sales, achieving over $1+ billion in sales for 2021. During his time at Coldwell Banker®, he achieved No. 1 status at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Greater Los Angeles 12 times over 13 years. He was ranked as the No. 1 top-performing sales associate nationally and internationally out of more than 92,000 Coldwell Banker® sales professionals for ten years in a row. He earned a spot-on Coldwell Banker's Top 10 Sales Associates in North America for AGC list 16 times. In 2018, he was recognized by Coldwell Banker with the Society of Excellence Award, which less than 1 percent of affiliated agents worldwide earned. He also ranked No. 1 in North America in rental income four times.
How does Chris continue to defy market expectations? A Malibu native, he has unsurpassed knowledge of the local market, enabling him to instinctively match clients with their ideal properties. Chris also excels at the negotiating table, navigating even the most challenging situations with grace and ease.
However, central to Chris's success is his dedication to his clients. Given his high-profile persona, many are surprised to find him warm and down-to-earth, with an uncanny ability to connect with them on a personal level. Chris is his clients' greatest advocate, always keeping their interests top of mind.
Chris's very first multi-million-dollar transaction was for a prominent celebrity. Since then, he has attracted some of the biggest names in entertainment and business. Though these powerhouses may be the backbone of his clientele, Chris has always welcomed all types of clients. "No matter the price range I'm working in, it's a tremendous pleasure helping someone buy or sell their home and fulfill their dreams."
Chris lives on Point Dume, where he spends his rare free time surfing and enjoying the company of his family, friends, and pets. An avid philanthropist, he supports many charities that include local organizations like the Malibu Boys & Girls Club and Point Dume Marine Science School, as well as national/international charities such as Farm Sanctuary, UNICEF, Operation Smile, and the Elton John Aids Foundation.
