Are the ‘Selling Sunset’ Stars Actual Real Estate Agents?
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Since its debut in 2019, the Netflix reality series ‘Selling Sunset’ has captured the attention of viewers across the globe. The show follows the glamorous lives of real estate agents at The Oppenheim Group as they navigate high-end property deals and drama-filled relationships. However, amidst all the luxury listings and personal conflicts, there has been speculation about whether the cast members are indeed legitimate real estate agents or just reality TV stars.
Jason Oppenheim, the president and founder of The Oppenheim Group, has been vocal about defending the expertise and credentials of his team. In an interview with PEOPLE in August 2020, he emphasised the agents’ years of experience, successful transactions, and valid real estate licenses. Despite such assurances, there have been sceptics like Million Dollar Listing’s Josh Flagg, who questioned the authenticity of the Selling Sunset agents.
The cast of ‘Selling Sunset’ includes a mix of seasoned real estate professionals and newcomers to the industry. According to the California Department of Real Estate, most of the cast members featured in the latest season hold active real estate licenses. However, there are exceptions such as Amanza Smith and Chelsea Lazkani, whose licenses have expired. This raises questions about their current status as practising agents.
Chrishell Stause, a familiar face from her time on the soap opera Days of our Lives, obtained her real estate license in 2016 and has since been involved in high-value property sales. Similarly, Mary Bonnet, the vice president of The Oppenheim Group, boasts a successful track record with over $105 million in real estate sales. On the other hand, Chelsea Lazkani’s expired license in June 2025 has sparked discussions about her ability to conduct real estate transactions.
Beyond their on-screen personas, members of the Selling Sunset cast have pursued diverse business ventures. Emma Hernan, for instance, launched a plant-based frozen food brand called Coast to Coast Kitchen in 2022, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit. Alanna Gold, another cast member, has invested in a town in the California desert, demonstrating a multifaceted approach to her career.
The credibility of The Oppenheim Group as a real estate brokerage has also been scrutinised, with questions raised about its history and operations. Jason and Brett Oppenheim, the twin brothers behind the firm, come from a long line of real estate professionals tracing back to the late 19th century. Their family legacy in the industry lends a sense of tradition and expertise to the brokerage’s image.
While Selling Sunset offers a glimpse into the high-stakes world of luxury real estate, it also showcases the personal lives and ambitions of its cast members. From acting and entrepreneurship to interior design and property investments, the agents featured on the show are involved in a variety of pursuits beyond selling homes. Their experiences highlight the dynamic nature of the real estate industry and the possibilities for professional growth and diversification.
In conclusion, the stars of ‘Selling Sunset’ bring a blend of real estate expertise, personal branding, and entrepreneurial flair to the screen. While the show may blur the lines between reality and entertainment, the cast members’ commitment to their craft and business endeavours underscores their versatility and ambition. Whether sealing multimillion-dollar deals or pursuing passion projects, these real estate agents-turned-TV personalities continue to captivate audiences with their unique blend of glamour and drive.