Chris Leavitt: How MDLMIA Changed Me
The agent also shares an update on his love life—and how he knows Ryan Serhant.
It's been a wild ride with the inaugural season of Million Dollar Listing Miami, but the drama (and the real-estate porn in Florida) comes to its first season close with tomorrow's episode.
For agent Chris Leavitt, the show has been an unforgettable experience. So the Dish caught up with him to talk about how the MDLMIA changed his life, what's going on in the romance department—and all about growing up with another Million Dollar Listing star, Ryan Serhant.
What’s been the best—as well as the weirdest—part about doing MDLMIA?
The best part about being on MDL Miami is the creative journey I have been fortunate enough to experience as a cast member on a television series. The exposure from the show brought in far more business than anticipated. The weirdest parts are watching myself on television and getting recognized in public. Thankfully I am a people person, and I really enjoy meeting the fans that watch the show. It's interesting to hear their perspective.
How has your life changed since doing the show?
My business has increased considerably which has kept me very busy. The loss of anonymity is another change. I am still not used to so many people knowing my name, but I really enjoy the new friends I've made on social media and while out and about.
Now that Season 1 has wrapped, what are your plans for the next few months?
I am all work, work, work 24/7. I have so many new properties coming on line in the next few weeks and new clients from all over the world. I am also planning a charity event and expanding my business.
What’s the best—and the most awkward—interaction you’ve had with fans of the show in Miami?
The best interaction with fans is when they are kind enough to compliment my work on the show, I really appreciate that. One woman was shaking and trembling because she was so excited to meet me. I really enjoy meeting the fans. The most awkward interaction with a fan was when a woman told me that she didn't like the show then recited quotes from each episode. Of course, she then proceeded to ask me for my photo and autograph.
How much has your business improved as a result of MDLMIA?
I literally get calls everyday from legitimate potential buyers and sellers. I had to expand my team to handle the influx of business that has come my way as a direct result of the exposure. Again, I am really grateful.
Any updates on your love life?
It has been challenging to carve out time for a personal life in the midst of my 24/7 work schedule. That said, I have been dating but have yet to meet the person that truly wows me and respects the major commitment I am currently making to my career.
What projects are you hoping to tackle beyond real estate? Where would you like to be career-wise in five years?
Real estate is my passion but I also love architecture, fashion, art, and luxury goods. I would love to explore developing a luxury lifestyle brand in the future. I think that would compliment my business and provide another creative outlet for me.
What’s the most insane piece of property you’ve had the chance to sell in your whole career?
To me they are all insane. I haven't lost that perspective. I am well aware that the properties I sell are incredible and I work hard to live this fabulous life.
Have you ever thought about moving to a new market? If so, where would you go?
I love challenges and new experiences. I would always consider the NYC and LA markets. Miami, NYC and LA are very interconnected because most of my clients have homes in all three cities. I do business in both cities and know the markets like the back of my hand.
You famously went to school with Ryan Serhant. Have you guys hung out or communicated now that you’re both MDL stars? What was he like back in high school? What were you like?
Ryan and I did attend the same high school, which we both just realized. We were a few years apart but it was cool to share that bond. We have communicated, and Ryan in fact, referred me to a buyer that purchased millions of dollars of properties from me in Miami. I was a mini version me in school. We were all very preppy and stylish kids. The school was a very exclusive private school and all of the students were privileged. I was lucky to attend, it was a great education.
