Hailing from Park City, Utah, Vanessa Fukunaga has been a very busy woman in Los Cabos for the past 12 years. Not only is she the Owner, President, & CEO of Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate, she is also the CEO and Publisher of the luxury networking platform, Ocean Blue World.
Among her many accolades, Vanessa was named one of the Most Inspiring Women Leaders to Follow in 2024 by Success Knocks Magazine.
Here is our interview with her:
What was your career trajectory prior to Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate?
Before acquiring Snell Real Estate, I spent 16 years as a senior executive with Carlson Wagonlit Travel, the leading corporate business travel company in the United States.
Could you briefly share the inception story of Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate?
Snell Real Estate was established in 1997. Following its acquisition in 2012, I introduced Engel & Völkers to Mexico for the first time, creating a landmark moment for the global brand and giving rise to Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate. And now today, with nearly $3.6 billion in sales volume, a pioneering 27-year legacy, and an impressive roster of internationally recognized accolades, we proudly hold the title of Mexico’s #1 luxury real estate brokerage year after year.
What motivated you to head Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate — Mexico´s #1 luxury real estate brokerage?
In 2012, I acquired the brokerage after being captivated by the beauty, culture, and potential of Los Cabos during a vacation. The destination’s allure as a premier luxury hotspot, combined with its growing reputation, presented a compelling opportunity. Recognizing the potential for significant business success in this high-end market, I was inspired to bring my vision and expertise to elevate the brokerage, ultimately transforming it into Mexico’s leading name in luxury real estate.
Describe a typical day for you. How do you juggle leading two successful and prominent companies?
As the owner, president, and CEO of Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate and the CEO and publisher of Ocean Blue World, I balance a dynamic range of responsibilities. I also personally assist high-net-worth clients from around the globe in buying and selling ultra-luxury properties. Additionally, I have my podcast— “Mod Pod with Fukunaga,” I actively contribute to various community organizations as well as foster partnerships with multiple luxury real estate groups around the globe.
A typical day is fast-paced and multi-faceted, with my time divided between meetings, presentations, hosting or attending special events, property tours, networking, cocktail gatherings, traveling, community-driven initiatives, and so much more.
What unique qualities and values do you believe your clients admire in you as a business leader and individual?
I believe my clients admire my unwavering values, strong ethics, and relentless drive for success. Also, my openness and genuine willingness to inspire and motivate others, my global experience and ability to share meaningful stories — always with the intention of using them to help others and contribute positively.
How do you foster a culture of empowerment within your organizations?
I champion a philosophy of “teamwork” and equip my team with the confidence and the resources they need to effectively market our listings and showcase our destination. Every initiative is rooted in a commitment to shaping the brokerage, and the industry, with far-reaching and lasting impact. This means driving innovation, thinking outside the box, and marketing our brand and services in truly unique ways—all guided by strategy and purpose.
The global real estate industry is ever-changing, inundated with constant news and noise. It’s our responsibility to not only understand and monitor our market but also to assess global trends. This insight forms the foundation for our strategic decisions and forecasting, enabling us to devise the best ways to support our team, network, and community while nurturing leadership potential at every step.
What makes working in the Los Cabos luxury real estate space special or unique?
Los Cabos attracts buyers from around the globe for many reasons: its easy accessibility, year-round comfortable climate, stunning beaches, diverse recreational activities, world-class amenities, vibrant arts and culture scene, philanthropic spirit, and exceptional value in the second and third home markets. The region’s allure draws travelers, leisure enthusiasts, media personalities, celebrities, savvy investors, and affluent individuals, creating an unparalleled buying opportunity—and we have the privilege of living and working here where others vacation!
Luxury ownership options range from exclusive beachfront retreats and majestic mountaintop haciendas to exquisite golf villas, luxury resort residences, prime development and land opportunities, and a diverse selection of commercial properties. Our portfolio spans the most sought-after locations in the Baja California Sur, including San José del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, the East Cape, Todos Santos, and La Paz. Los Cabos continues to thrive as a premier destination, offering something truly extraordinary for everyone.
What advice would you give to another woman aspiring to follow in your footsteps?
Strive to become the expert in your field. Embrace perseverance—success often comes from pushing through challenges. And lastly, continuously innovate, create, and always be on the lookout for the next big idea.
About Vanessa Fukunaga – Owner, President & CEO of Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate & Ocean Blue World
A powerhouse in luxury real estate, Vanessa Fukunaga has transformed high-end property investment in Los Cabos. Her leadership, strategic marketing, and deep expertise in the luxury sector position her as both a visionary and an authority in business and media. For over a decade, she has led her team to more than $3.6 billion USD in sales, securing Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate’s standing as Mexico’s #1 luxury brokerage year after year. As she continues to make her mark on the global business landscape, Fukunaga feels that in many ways, she has only just begun.
This article was created in partnership with FIPROTUR Los Cabos under the private trust. See the website disclaimer here. For more information, visit https://fiproturloscabos.com.
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