I didn’t just find a career in real estate—I found purpose in guiding others through life’s biggest transitions with care, calm, and integrity.
My journey into real estate began unexpectedly, when I sold my own home. We had a REALTOR®, but for some reason, I was very hands-on throughout the process. I was drawn to the rules, the legal details, and the challenge of making a complex experience feel simple. Then came the purchase of my second home soon after. Again, I found myself deeply involved. After two transactions under my belt, I thought to myself, “You know what? I can do this.”
Originally from California, I bought my first house at 20 and married my high school sweetheart, Marisa, at 23. I had studied Criminal Justice and worked as a reserve firefighter for a while, but helping sell my own home lit something up in me. I knew I could make a career out of it.
The market crashed in 2008, right as I got my real estate license. Those early years were tough. Business was slow, and I had to learn fast. I became an expert in short sales and foreclosures, finding ways to help people in distress. Slowly, things picked up. My business grew—and so did my family.
Being a dad, a husband, and a REALTOR® are the roles I value most. Balancing all three has always been a top priority. My kids? I adore them. Every Valentine’s Day, I buy a bouquet of flowers for Marisa—and one for each of my daughters. I want them to know, without question, how deeply loved they are. It matters to me to show up for them as the most present version of myself.
In 2013, life shifted again when I joined RE/MAX. I had friends there and was drawn to the company’s reputation for supporting its agents through training and technology. It felt like the right fit—and it’s been home ever since.
One of the things I love most about my job is bringing people peace of mind. Real estate can feel chaotic and overwhelming, but when you have the right agent by your side, it doesn’t have to be. I take pride in being a calming and reassuring presence. People even say my voice is calming—and I’ll gladly take that compliment.
Outside of work, I stay active. I go to the gym daily, mountain bike, and hike. Marisa and I are also licensed foster parents and support the Miracle Network, which helps families in need. My kids are grown now and I’m proud of all of them. I would have to borrow your time to tell you what each of them is up to, but my youngest one, for example—Adrian—just turned 17. He recently graduated from the fire academy, excelling both academically and athletically, and he just landed a job at In and Out Burger.
Real estate has turned out to be a deeply rewarding path. It feels good to be in a profession where your work makes a difference and you get acknowledged for it. When I was awarded the People’s Choice for Best Realtor, I was deeply moved. It meant a lot to me—not just because I won, but because the people in my own community voted for me. That kind of recognition is humbling and affirming.
I’m proud of the reputation I’ve built for being honest, reliable, and truly invested in the people I serve. I may not have planned to be a REALTOR® from the start, but looking back, I can’t imagine doing anything else.
After 18 years in real estate, integrity remains my core principle. I follow the rules meticulously and believe in full transparency—because honesty will never get you in trouble. In fact, it protects my clients. I’m patient, communicative, and stay consistently involved, guiding clients step-by-step. With a calm and confident approach, I provide both data and expert analysis to help clients make informed decisions.
I also pride myself on being a fair negotiator, always aiming for win-win outcomes that are justified and beneficial for all parties. My goal is not just to close a deal, but to build trust that lasts beyond a single transaction. I let clients know I want to be their go-to real estate resource for life. That includes sharing a network of trusted vendors—professionals I’ve personally worked with and would use in my own home. Whether it's advice or support years down the line, I want my clients to feel they have someone dependable in their corner, every step of the way.
Sincerely,
Adrian Rissling
REALTOR® | DRE# 01810117
(661) 618-8130
adrianrissling@gmail.com
www.adrianrissling.com