Congratulations to July Agent to Watch, Trista Fossa! Trista is a pillar in our new Lake County office, and we are thrilled to have her on our team! She brings with her a depth of knowledge and an enthusiasm for our industry that is contagious. Keep reading to get to know Trista!
What was the first thing you wrote on your to-do list for today?:
Walk or Yoga, coffee, client follow-ups 😅☕📞. Real estate days move fast, so I always start by grounding myself and checking in on the people who count on me, especially on Monday!!
What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given?:
“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
This advice has guided me in both teaching and real estate. Building trust and showing genuine care always comes before the paperwork or the sale.
What is your favorite part about working in real estate in this part of the world?:
My favorite part about working in real estate here is the deep sense of community and connection to the land. As a Navy veteran, I value integrity and service, and as a teacher, I love educating and empowering people through major life transitions. This area—Cobb Mountain (my home), Lake County, and beyond—offers something truly special: peaceful living, natural beauty, and room to grow. Helping people find their place here feels like more than a career—it feels like giving back.
Tell us about a recent challenge you came upon and how you conquered it.:
Balancing multiple roles can be a challenge, especially when people assume that teaching or community work means I’m not fully focused on real estate. The truth is, real estate is my main priority and passion. I’ve built my business to be responsive, strategic, and client-centered—no matter what else is on my calendar. My work in schools and with exchange students just deepens my connection to the community I serve.
What role has mentorship played in your career?:
Mentorship has played a huge role in my career. Early on, I had the privilege of working under Corinne Hays, an incredible Escrow Officer who taught me the ins and outs of title and escrow. Her guidance gave me a deep understanding of the closing process—something many agents don’t get firsthand experience with. That foundation has absolutely set me apart in this field. I’m able to anticipate issues, communicate clearly with all parties, and help my clients navigate the process with confidence. I’m so grateful for what she taught me—it’s shaped how I show up as both a professional and a resource for my clients.
What's your favorite home design feature that you wish more homes had?:
A laundry room you don’t dread walking into. Give me space, light, and somewhere to hide the unmatched socks!
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?:
If I could have dinner with anyone, it would be Barbara Corcoran. Her journey in real estate is inspiring—she built her business from the ground up with confidence, creativity, and grit. I’d love to hear her thoughts on staying bold in a competitive industry while still leading with heart. As someone who also works with students from around the world through exchange programs, I think we’d have a great conversation about connection, resilience, and trusting your gut—no matter the odds.
Someone is coming to visit Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County. Where should they go first?:
Start in Lake County! It’s often overlooked, but that’s part of what makes it special. Clear Lake is stunning, the hiking is peaceful, and you’ll experience the kind of small-town hospitality that’s rare these days. Then take the scenic route out to Mendocino’s coast or Sonoma wine country—it’s all within reach.
What's something you're looking forward to in the upcoming year? (Wedding, vacation, new opportunity, etc.):
I’m beyond excited for our upcoming trip to Italy (we leave tomorrow)—it’s our first time visiting Europe! We’ll be spending two weeks exploring the country, and our daughter Laney is already there, having an amazing time with Simona, the exchange student we hosted this past school year. We’ll be meeting up with them soon, and in Venice, another one of our former exchange students, Morgane from France, will be joining us. I truly can’t wait—it’s going to be such a special reunion and an unforgettable adventure!
