Cover Valentin Kretz (Photo courtesy of Valentin Kretz)
Valentin Kretz (Photo courtesy of Valentin Kretz)
1 / 1
Tatler speaks to Valentin Kretz from Netflix's The Parisian Agency about what it's really like to be in the family business
France is home to some of the most astonishing properties in the world, from splendid castles to fabulous duplexes, and only a lucky few are able to peek into these exclusive properties.
In Netflix's new reality series, The Parisian Agency, we get a glimpse of these grand spaces as we meet the Kretz family. In all five episodes, they take us along their luxury property business while helping clients buy and sell exquisite homes in the City of Light.
Above Photo: IMDb
Photo: IMDb
1 / 1
And it all began 12 years ago when Valentin Kretz's father, Olivier, the founder of the company, bought the house they'd live in today. He was joined by his wife, Sandrine, who wanted to change her path after being a teacher for 20 years.
Later on, their children Martin (who pursued management and marketing) as well as Valentin himself decided to enter the world of real estate, knowing what they could bring to the table. He studied Engineering and Computer Science at Leonard de Vinci Engineering School and Mathematics and Computer Science at City University in Hong Kong.
"After two years, they managed to close their first deal," Kretz shares.
Above Photo: IMDb
Photo: IMDb
1 / 1
Since then, the family has specialised in luxury which separates them from other businesses in the industry. Fortunately, Louis, who's more inclined with digital marketing, joined the growing company.
Although arguments and misunderstandings are inevitable, especially when making vital decisions, it seems the family is able to handle the situation with ease. "We can fight for sure but it doesn't last—it lasts five or ten minutes—I think it's healthy to fight instead of putting everything under the carpet."
See also: Deli By Chele Brings Luxury Home: We Talk To Chefs Chele Gonzalez And Carlos Villaflor
1 / 1
Working with family also has its perks. "We make decisions much faster than our competitors and that's our advantage. When we have an idea, 10 or 20 minutes after, we can just apply it, we don't have a huge process," says Kretz.
However, when they are unable to agree on a situation, the family proceeds to a voting system. "It's a good thing we are only five right now, but I wonder how it's going to be when Rafael joins us," says Kretz, whose youngest brother Raphael has not joined the business as he's still in his first year of university. "He's not really sure if he will work with us. . .but I hope so. . .He's been living with us in the house so he can hear the stories".
Some of these stories are the same tales we hear on The Parisian Agency, including those that the family learns and shares in every home. "It's very important to find the right angle on how we're going to transfer the emotions of every property," explains Kretz.
It is these stories that add to the grandeur of each home, which makes it difficult for Kretz, or anyone at all, to find a favourite. "But I would say that the most impressive, in terms of sizes and space, would be in the last episode of Season 2, [which] is one of the most incredible castles in France."
See also: 5 Popular Movie Mansions (and How Much They're Actually Worth)
Kretz is also thankful for the positive response from Filipino fans and is hoping to shoot an episode in the country. "It's a country that we are very attached to as my wife, Charina, is Filipina and my son is French-Filipino." Kretz also hopes to film an episode in the country in the future for the viewers.
For now, Filipino fans of the series can still rewatch the first season on Netflix. And soon, we will be able to gaze at new lands and properties across France in the upcoming season.
Watch the reality series,'The Parisian Agency' on Netflix.
Christine Andas is a features writer and the style lead of Tatler Philippines. She mostly covers style-related content but enjoys writing about space, sneakers, and her favourite stars. She acquired a master's degree in Creative Writing at the University of Santo Tomas and has written young adult short stories which can be read online.
