Choosing Real Life Over Reality TV
Some stories sparkle on screen and break your heart. My conversation with Maya Vander from Selling Sunset and now Selling Miami did both. She is sharp, straightforward, funny, and in the middle of major grief, parenting, and building her business. Behind the luxury listings is someone who has survived more than most of us will ever experience.
From Selling Sunset To Selling Miami
Maya did not grow up dreaming of reality TV. She started in retail, got nudged into real estate by her mom, and built her career the old school way: door knocking, cold calling, grinding. When she joined Jason’s tiny Beverly Hills office, it was just Maya and a few agents. That little group turned into one of the biggest real estate shows in the world.
Reality TV And A Real Career
The show gave her massive reach and instant credibility, but it also came with a risk. When the focus shifted from real estate to drama, she had to protect what she had built. Clients are not just watching the homes. They are watching how you show up. For Maya, reputation matters more than screen time. She is the agent who cuts commission to get the deal done and cares more about doing right by the client than about the cameras.
Living Grief In Public, Functioning In Private
On screen, Maya shared something most people keep very private: pregnancy loss, a stillbirth at nine months, miscarriages, and trying again. She did it in real time, while filming, while working, while parenting two young kids. She let people see her story so other women would not feel alone. Off screen, she still showed up for showings, clients, and emails. Not because she was not hurting, but because she separates her roles. She allows herself to cry, to read, to go to therapy, then gets up and does the next thing in front of her. One day at a time.
Perspective Shaped By War
Maya grew up surrounded by terror attacks and the constant possibility that something could happen at any moment. It changed what she values. Bags, shoes, drama on TV all feel small next to real loss and real danger. That perspective is part of her strength. She knows what she cannot control and pours her energy into what she can: her work, her family, how she shows up for other people in pain.
Stepping Away To Choose What Matters
Walking away from a hit show was not easy. But when flying back and forth to LA meant less time with her kids and less focus on Miami, she chose her real life. A strong marriage, her children, and her business came first. And even though you rarely see her husband on camera, his support is everywhere in the way she talks about him and the choices she makes.
What Maya Wants You To Remember
Say yes to big opportunities, knowing that editing is never the full truth.
If you are grieving, there is no right or wrong way. One day at a time is enough.
If you are starting something new, especially in real estate, save money, expect a slow start, and cut through the noise.
Most of all, control what you can control. Show up honestly in your work and your life, and let the rest be what it is.
Connect with Maya Vander
