FROM THE BEGINNING

Ricky Lemann was born and bred in New Orleans’ Garden District. In 1985, he moved to New York City where he was involved in home video and television syndication until he discovered his natural ability to cook. He them embarked on what would become a thirteen-year career in the hospitality industry. After several culinary positions in New York, Ricky moved home in 1989 to co-own, consult, or have sole proprietorship of six local restaurant and nightclub establishments, most of which have enjoyed national press.

                            CHANGE IN THE BREEZE

After several years in a business that is tough to grow older in, Ricky knew it was time for a change. It was his own quest in finding a home that would lead him to a real estate license. "During my period of searching, I experienced treatment by agents that was well.... less than professional. I knew I could do better.” After purchasing his own home, he continued going to Sunday Open Houses. Friends and colleagues recognized his expertise in the New Orleans market area and sought out his advice and counsel. This is when Ricky realized he was tailored for the real estate business. “I kept a pulse on the market simply because I loved it. Many of the agents out there thought I was an agent long before I was licensed. I had seen enough sunrises in the club business, and as glamorous as it was, I knew I wanted out of that life."

LAYING THE FOUNDATION

Ricky’s hospitality background proved to be a terrific training ground for Real Estate. "Many agents forget the service part of the job. This is a service industry. Clients need to be provided for hand and foot. This is where I shine. I cannot rest until the client is satisfied and I know I have done everything I can do to rectify whatever problems arise. Real estate is a really difficult job and I do not think I could have been this successful at it without this foundation."

WHY DOES HE DO IT?

Friends and family have witnessed what has become an absolute determination with his clients not to just procure a house but the right home. On more than one occasion Ricky has talked a buyer out of a house, a rare occurrence for some agents. Integrity is paramount with him. "A person’s home is probably their biggest investment. It’s where all their “eggs” are. I must be certain it’s the right one for them.” The same honesty goes into his listings. “I must determine that it’s the highest offer with the best conditions. I think long term. I’m not looking for one commission, but a lifetime relationship. It’s just the way I’m built."

MULTI-TALENTED

Ricky has a myriad of interests and passions. He is a painter with two gallery shows under his belt, dabbled in film work, and produced several fashion layouts for national magazines including Esquire and Glamour. Interior designer is another one of his interest, but he only takes on selected projects in order to keep his focus on real estate. It is this talent for design that allows Ricky to see the potential and underlying charm in properties that mainly go undetected. This adoration and respect for architecture stems from his childhood.  His uncle, Dr. Bernard Lemann, a celebrated professor of architecture at Tulane for over 50 years, was a respected architectural historian who co-authored an important series on the historical neighborhoods in New Orleans.

PICKING UP HARDWARE

Ricky’s knowledge, coupled with his enthusiasm, has won him a multitude of awards in a remarkably short time.

v  Keller Williams Realty Rising Star Award New Orleans Market Center 2002

v  New Orleans Metropolitan association of Realtors Platinum Award 2002

v  Keller Williams Career Launch Award 2002

v  New Orleans Metropolitan Association of Realtors Rookie of the Year Award 2002

v  New Orleans Metropolitan association of Realtors Silver Award 2003

v  New Orleans Metropolitan association of Realtors Platinum Award 2004

v  New Orleans Metropolitan Association of Realtors Platinum Award 2005

v  Keller Williams Realty New Orleans Top Producer for 2005

v  New Orleans Metropolitan Association of Realtors Platinum Award 2006

EXTRA CURICULAR ACTIVITIES

Ricky believes in giving back to the city he loves and has been involved in several charities over the years.

v  NO AIDS Task Force

v  Covenant House

v  Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana

v  St. Baldrick’s

KRISTI RUSSO

Kristi Russo is Ricky’s full time licensed Realtor assistant.  She has grown up around the business for 29 years and has been a licensed Realtor for over 5 years.  She can assist in any and all real estate transactions and will adhere to your highest standards to assist Ricky from contract to close.  Kristi majored in business administration at LSU and UNO.  She was born and raised in New Orleans, a place she loves to call home!