We recently connected with Sergio Gonzalez and have shared our conversation below.

Sergio, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

The story behind my mission in the real estate industry is one of adaptation and a relentless drive to offer something different in a crowded industry. With over two decades of experience, I’ve worked in various facets of real estate—from residential lending to running one of California’s largest FHA and reverse mortgage companies, to building a top-performing luxury real estate agency. Each phase taught me valuable lessons about the industry, particularly the gaps in service that traditional big-box companies often overlook.

The launch of 805escrow in 2018 and 805title in 2023 stemmed from this understanding. We knew there was a need for more tailored, high-end services that prioritized realtors, lenders, and real estate and probate attorneys. As a “challenger brand,” we deliberately set ourselves apart from larger firms by focusing on personalized, dedicated service across California. By staying nimble and customer-centric, we offer an experience that truly supports our clients in ways that set us apart from other firms. This drive to personalized excellence fuels our mission every day.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

At 805title and 805escrow, we solve the critical issues that can derail real estate transactions, especially in the high-stakes luxury market. We protect homebuyers, as well as the realtors, lenders, and attorneys they work with, by ensuring accuracy and efficiency in title and escrow services. Our focus is on providing a seamless experience, especially when dealing with complex, multimillion-dollar transactions for high-profile clients, where precision is key.

What sets us apart is our deep understanding of the real estate industry’s unique challenges, having worked as buying and selling agents ourselves. We know firsthand the frustrations that arise from incomplete title reports or a disorganized escrow process, which can lead to costly delays or leave clients feeling dissatisfied. We have built our services around these pain points, designing processes that offer thoroughness, accuracy, and an exceptional level of client care.

In addition to our expertise, we offer something larger institutions often overlook—personalized support. We go above and beyond by providing detailed, localized market reports and resources that empower agents to rise above the competition. Our commitment to helping professionals build their businesses and giving buyers confidence in their decisions is what truly sets us apart.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

A story that truly illustrates my resilience came during the subprime mortgage crisis. At the time, I was excelling as a top account executive in wholesale lending, working with major financial institutions. When the housing market collapsed, the banks I had been working with started to close, the industry was in chaos, and I saw how difficult things were for people. I saw an opportunity to help and play a role turning things around during the downturn.

I took a bold step and launched Axis Capital Group Inc. in Marina Del Rey. Despite the turbulent market, I built it into one of California’s largest FHA and reverse mortgage companies, with licenses to operate in 13 states. The challenge wasn’t just surviving in a collapsing industry—it was thriving by finding a niche and adapting to a radically changing environment. That experience taught me how to pivot under pressure and stay ahead of the curve.

Later, as my family grew and my work life expanded and morphed, I launched S.G. Associates Inc., a successful luxury real estate company, followed by 805escrow and 805title. Each shift required resilience, but every challenge only reinforced my commitment to providing exceptional service in the real estate industry. I am excited at what the future holds.

Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?

My wife Galen Callahan and I have built a partnership that goes beyond just business—we are each other’s biggest supporters and biggest fans. Galen is my confidante, always there to offer guidance, and I’m her unwavering cheerleader, encouraging her to chase her passions in business and life.

We met while working in the real estate industry. At the time, Galen was a realtor in the Santa Monica and Malibu area, and I worked at a firm that assisted the lending side.

As co-founders of multiple companies, we balance our home life with our work life by relying on each other’s strengths. Whether it’s supporting each other through the challenges of raising our six beautiful children or running five businesses together, we have developed a dynamic that allows us to thrive both as a couple and as business partners and to actively contribute to our local community.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://805title.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergiogonzalez805/

Image Credits

Courtesy: Sergio Gonzalez and Galen Callahan