I was thrilled to be featured on the Iconic Estates Podcast with Oriana Lehman Wood, Global Real Estate Advisor at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Our conversation explored her 17-year real estate career, her collaborative approach, and the mindset behind successful negotiations.
A Unique Path into Real Estate
Oriana’s background spans corporate leadership and nonprofit work with US Air, British Airways, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Coming from an investor family, she entered real estate to bring strategy and efficiency to property management — a decision that quickly evolved into a full-scale advisory career.
“We’ve always been an investor family, so real estate was a natural extension of what we were already doing.”
Passion for Problem-Solving
What truly drives Oriana is solving challenges for her clients. From primary residences to investment properties and 1031 exchanges, she approaches every transaction as a custom project.
“I love taking something from start to finish and finding the most authentic solution for that person.”
Why Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
Oriana chose Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty for its global presence and collaborative culture. Rather than competing internally, agents work together to deliver the highest level of service.
“If you’re not collaborative in this business, it can be a very lonely industry.”
Smart Negotiation Starts with Perspective
One of the most powerful takeaways from the podcast was Oriana’s approach to negotiation — grounded in data, market awareness, and empathy.
“I always ask my clients to sit on the other side of the table and ask themselves how they would receive that offer.”
By reframing negotiations this way, emotion is reduced and win-win outcomes become achievable.
“The only offer I’m offended by is the offer I don’t receive.”
Final Takeaway
This episode of the Iconic Estates Podcast offers valuable insight into luxury real estate, collaboration, and effective negotiation. Oriana Lehman Wood’s experience and thoughtful approach continue to set her apart as a trusted real estate advisor.
