How We Rebuild Trust in Real Estate: Christophe Choo Featured in RISMedia

Meta Description: Beverly Hills real estate agent Christophe Choo discusses RISMedia's article on public trust, AI in real estate, and elevating standards for home buyers and sellers.

When Gallup released its annual job ethics survey showing that only 17% of Americans rate real estate agents as highly honest and ethical, it sparked critical conversations across our industry.

In a recent feature by RISMedia, I sat down with assistant editor Desirae Sin to share my perspective on why public perception sits where it does—and how dedicated professionals can raise the standard of representation for buyers and sellers.

Addressing Public Perception in Real Estate

With nearly four decades of experience representing clients in Beverly Hills and luxury markets across Los Angeles, I've watched public expectations evolve.

"Since I started close to four decades ago, there's always been that perception that real estate agents are like used car salesmen. It's our job as an industry to not take it defensively, but take it seriously in order to elevate that perception." — Christophe Choo

Trust is not given; it is built through proven competence, complete transparency, and putting client interests above the transaction.

The Difference Between Reality and Television

A major factor in client disappointment is the disconnect between real estate representation in practice and how it is portrayed in popular media.

"We were all brand new at one time. However, in the real estate agency industry primarily, you get your license, but there's no real training per se. You don't really know how to sell or contract. That's just part of the after-license process. However, I think a lot of agents, particularly more so today than I've ever seen, don't take it as seriously as they should."

"There's a lot of very young agents starting out with their licenses because they see 'Million Dollar Listings.' They see these young guys on TV walk into a $40 million house, five minutes later they have a listing and 30 minutes later they have it sold. So these young people see that and think, I can do that and make a lot of money. They don't realize that it's fake, and it's a professional industry. I think that we as an industry and agents need to constantly elevate ourselves in the business."

Embracing Technology and Lifelong Learning

Providing high-level service means staying ahead of market shifts, emerging technologies, and changing consumer behaviors. From pioneering video content early in my career to leveraging AI platforms today, innovation has always been core to my approach.

"People now are basically using AI at every age as opposed to just Google or standard searches."

"I had a lot of flack and people were upset about that, but I did it."

"Since I started at 18 years old, I didn't know anything about real estate. So I started getting educated from my company and going to programs and seminars and listening continuously. To this day, 37 years later, I still do that. I'm always going to conferences. I'm always listening to podcasts and learning and educating myself. I think it's critically important as an agent."

Why Experience Matters for Buyers and Sellers

Whether navigating complex contracts, pricing a home accurately, or negotiating luxury acquisitions, working with a full-time, seasoned advisor ensures your investment is protected.

"We will receive the respect we deserve when we provide the services that the clients expect and deserve." — Christophe Choo

Read the full article on RISMedia: Gallup: Only 17% of Americans Say They Trust Real Estate Agents. Can That Be Changed?

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose a trusted real estate agent in Beverly Hills? Look for an experienced agent with a long-standing track record in your target neighborhood. Ask about their continuing education, active marketing strategies (including digital and AI discovery), and how they handle contract negotiations.

Why is agent experience critical when buying or selling luxury real estate? High-value real estate transactions involve intricate legal contracts, market positioning, and direct negotiation. A veteran agent provides market insight, pricing strategy, and professional representation that protects your capital throughout the purchase or sale.