Up Close With “Fair Market Value” Star Luisana Lopilato and Producer Judy San Roman

It’s very rare for us to see movies that specifically focus on real estate and the rigors of the business.  While a classic like Glengarry Glen Ross is always mentioned as one of the prime examples, you don’t see many that dive into the world of brokers.   “Fair Market Value” is a Reelhouse Productions film produced by Judy San Roman that focuses on Kendall, a real estate agent from Miami, who moves to the suburbs of New York to work at the prestigious Atlantic Shores Realtors.

She immediately butts heads with Brooke, a rival real estate agent. Tensions soon mount when Kendall and Brooke are forced to work together to try and sell one of the most expensive mansions on Long Island, all while navigating their complex and messy relationships.   The film marks Luisana Lopilato’s American film debut.

We had a chance to catch up with both the star, Lopilato and producer, San Roman, to ask them some questions about the film and real estate in general.  Here they are:

PRODUCER, JUDY SAN ROMAN

1. What was the impetus to make “Fair Market Value”? It’s loosely based on my life. I thought it would be a relatable story to share. It is comprised of empowering women who are successful in business, yet make poor decisions when it comes to their personal relationships. Why not make a beautiful film that makes you think and laugh? Different levels of emotions, connections all intertwine in love and business.

2. Was there any particular reasons you chose Miami and Long Island for the film? I live on Long Island and wanted to incorporate Long Island as its own character in the script Long Island is home to me. My family and friends, everyday life. As for Miami – who doesn’t want to have Miami as a part of their script!? It’s glamorous, has beautiful real estate, and I love those pastel colors! Miami is one of my favorite places for fun get away.

3. What has this movie taught you about real estate? I’ve had my real estate license for the past twenty years. This film has allowed me to poke fun at the real estate business, and turn personal difficulties into hilarious stories! When I wrote the story it wasn’t to teach myself anything, but to share my real-life experiences in real estate. The film allows an inside view of some of the things that go on and makes light of a tough business.

4. What was it like working with Luisana and Michael Buble? It was a dream come true to work with Luisana. Every time I travelled to Argentina to visit family, this beautiful star was on TV entertaining. I’m a huge fan of her work, and to work with her has been an amazing dream come true. She is one of my favorite ladies in the world. Her talent matches her beauty. I could never have imagined that someone so beautiful could be so genuine. She was truly the least high maintenance person on set. Her comedic timing is impeccable, and she worked so hard to deliver an amazing performance, especially as this is her first film speaking in English! Michael Buble was on set only as a doting husband, extremely proud of his beautiful wife. He also allowed us to use some of his songs on our film. On set, he and their son, Noah, were the two biggest fans of Luisana and the Fair Market Value team!

5. How has your opinion changed of real estate since making this film? It’s made me realize that you can make an opportunity out of anything. It’s also made me more confident that we can accomplish anything we put our minds to, deal or no deal. In that way, real estate and life are intertwined. It made me even more aware how much research goes into selling a property. At the end of the day strategize and implement actions to sell the property, then one day all your activity results in success.

6. Will you now invest in real estate differently (or at all) since making the film? This film is about women, empowerment, and not needing a man to be successful. With that said, I absolutely have always believed that you should invest in real estate. One of my favorite sayings that would be relevant here is, “Women: Don’t buy shoes. Buy real estate!” That’s what makes these three strong leads so important and independent.

7. Do you think you have what it takes be a real estate agent? And why? Yes, I hope so, considering I have had my license for 20 years! 20 years in this industry has lead me to believe that women can be just as impactful as men in this business. Our three leads, Luisana Lopilato, Wendy Makkena, and Tina Benko, who play Kendall, Jessica, and Brooke, have the brains and the beauty to get the job done! Our tagline, “There Goes the Neighborhood!” is a spoof on the incredible journey these driven and determined women embark on.

8. What style of home is your favorite and why? The one without a mortgage! Just kidding. I love center hall colonials. Beautiful foyers and spacious kitchens to entertain. The curb side appeal is so breathtaking. A gorgeous deck to BBQ is always a plus. I think the most important thing about a house is family – the people, the cooking, and the day to day activities. That’s what truly complements a home. When my family and friends stay over and don’t want to leave that’s a great sign of a happy home.

9. Do you have a dream house out there? If so which one is it? I actually do. One of my best friends pretty much has my dream house! Open floor, large kitchen and amazing views on the water. The funny thing is, she always complains about cleaning it. So I tell myself, I’ll keep my little cozy home so I don’t need to burden myself with cleaning. Truly blessed to say I love my home as is. Love my backyard and classic decor throughout my home.

10. Where do you think the real estate agent business is headed in the future? Real estate is definitely thriving! The direction of real estate is more regional. Case and point, wherever you are, there is always a great opportunity to jump into the market! I just got back from the Bentonville Film Festival, where Fair Market Value actually won Best Ensemble and I realized I love the community out there and am so happy to see it exploding (real estate wise). Investors: that’s a great place to look! Interest rates are still low, and there are plenty of opportunities out there! Just don’t team up with Diesel Realty! (You must watch Fair Market Value to appreciate that last statement.) Home depot sales are at an all-time high. People fixing their homes and increasing the value in their homes.uy, buy and buy.

ACTRESS, LUISANA LOPILATO

1. Tell us about “Fair Market Value.” What attracted you to the role? It’s a great story. About three strong women who are funny, too. I wanted to do something in English for some time. The producer Judy San Roman is Argentinean too, and really wanted to work with me. My role as “Kendall” was smart and empowering. I wasn’t just the sidekick to a male lead. Very honest and quirky character. I was apprehensive but so excited to work In United States. I have a huge following in South America and Europe. Worked hard through shooting practicing my dialogue. Looking back, a year ago to the day on set, I am really grateful for the opportunity and experience. Great cast and crew. I didn’t know what to expect working on an Indie film. So excited about future roles in the US.

2. What did working on this film teach you about real estate? So much research is involved — permits, insurance! People just don’t buy real estate to raise a family but investment. Closer to businesses, casinos, water, so many different reasons why clients are attracted to properties and investments. Curbside is so important. Outside appeal is as important because it will get them through the door. Both producers Judy San Roman and Chris Gucciardo are realtors. One of the other actors, Clem Cote does commercial real estate. I was surrounded by facts and true scenarios. Very interesting.

3. How was it working with your husband Michael Buble on a movie, was it fun watching him come up with the music in the film? Michael was there to support me and help take care of our two year old son Noah. He took some time off touring so we would be together as a family. He will back on tour next year, so I’m taking some really great roles and enjoying my acting career alongside my family. Michael is my friend and biggest fan. Completely believed in me that I would be terrific and nail the script in English. He ended up giving two songs to the film in post because our producer, Judy San Roman, asked. He is all about supporting the arts.

4. What will you do differently in real estate in the future having made this movie? I would be selective with the broker firm I choose. Not Diesel Realty. Must watch my film to appreciate this comment. (laughing)

5. Now that this movie has been made, what do you think your biggest mistake in real estate has ever been? You always regret letting go the first house you sold. The classic answer is I wish we bought more or back a few years ago.

6. What do you think the toughest aspect of a real estate agents job is? Staging the home is fun and creative but dealing with the buyers and sellers is a tough process. You need to make all parties a priority and feel like they got the best deal.

7. What is your favorite room in the house and why? I love my kitchen! We are homebodies and love to cook and entertain family. I walk out to the deck and grill a killer parrillada. (all kinds of meats and sausages)

8. What kind of style do you like in a home? I love stone, slate and brick outside the homes, new ways to use slate and brick. Inside the home, neutral colors, open floor plans, beautiful views. We have lots of family so a big, spacious home is a plus.

9. Would you ever consider being a real estate agent now that you’ve played one? I leave the job to the trained professionals — the brokers and agents who are good business people. I truly enjoyed acting as an agent. Bring on the roles for sure. Just don’t put me in a closing. I will not know what to do with all the paperwork!

10. This was your American Film debut. Got any other films in the works here in the U.S.? I’m currently in preproduction in Argentina and another film in Italy. My producer for Fair Market Value is trying to get me back to New York for her next film. Excited about all the opportunities ahead of me. Love my beautiful family and making good films. Our family welcomed my gorgeous second son, Elias this year and premiering my first Hollywood film, Fair Market Value grateful to be living my dream every day.