San Diego Born & Raised
Meet Rusty Rau
From building businesses to building relationships — real estate found me, and I haven't looked back since.
The Story
NotYourTypicalAgentBio
The Beginning
I didn't take the straight path.
I went to Cal State San Marcos, changed my major three times — from biology to marketing to supply chain management. After graduating, I realized corporate supply chain wasn't for me. So I did what any restless 22-year-old would do: I started building businesses.
First, an Amazon business selling physical products. Then a larger drop shipping operation selling hot tubs across the United States. It went well enough that I eventually sold the business. But something was missing.
The Pivot
I missed people.
Running an online business was great for freedom, but it was lonely. Just me, myself, and a laptop. I realized I'm someone who thrives on connection — on actually helping people face-to-face.
Growing up, my mom was an interior designer working on big projects in Rancho Santa Fe, so I'd been around the housing industry my whole life. My first job was as a sales consultant at Best Buy — I ended up being the number one salesperson in the department. The entrepreneurial drive, the sales instinct, the love of homes — real estate was the obvious answer. I just had to take the long way around to see it.
“I haven't looked back. I love this career. I have passion for it. And I love helping people — whether they're getting their first house or setting themselves up with investments. The full spectrum. I just love it all.”
This Is Home
San Diego
Born Here. Raised Here. Work Here.
TheLocalAdvantage
I know every neighborhood in San Diego — which areas have the best schools, where you get the most value, which streets have walkability, and whether you want the suburban feel of Carmel Valley or the character of North Park or the space of Escondido.
If you're new to San Diego, I'm your built-in guide — from the best restaurants and trails to the hidden beaches and neighborhoods that never make the “top 10” lists but probably should.
But the biggest advantage? Relationships. I've built connections with agents across the entire city over 6+ years. When both agents in a deal know and trust each other, deals close smoother, faster, and with fewer surprises. That's an edge you can't get from someone who moved here two years ago.
Every Neighborhood
Coastal, urban, suburban, luxury — I know the vibe, the value, and the trajectory of every area.
Agent Relationships
When both agents know each other, deals go smoother. I’ve spent 6+ years building those connections.
Your SD Guide
New to town? I’ll point you to the best schools, restaurants, trails, and hidden gems.
Market Intuition
I don’t just read the data — I feel the shifts. That’s what living here your whole life gives you.
The Journey
HowWeGotHere
The Leap
After building and selling an e-commerce business, Rusty followed his instinct toward real estate — combining his entrepreneurial drive with his lifelong love of San Diego.
Keller Williams
Hit the ground running at KW Carmel Valley. Closed 7–8 transactions in year one, nearly earning top rookie honors. Then COVID changed everything.
The Proving Ground
Navigated one of the most volatile markets in San Diego history. Sharpened negotiation skills, built a reputation for getting deals done when others couldn’t.
Rau Home Group
Transitioned from solo agent to building a brand. Partnered with Grace, expanded into luxury and investment markets, and set sights on becoming a top San Diego team.
My Philosophy
NotEveryAgentIsCreatedEqual
Here's something I wish every buyer and seller knew: most people hire the first agent they talk to. That's not always the best move.
You wouldn't hire the first lawyer or contractor who raised their hand. Real estate is no different. Experience matters. Negotiation skills matter. And most importantly — having an agent who genuinely has your best interest at heart matters.
The wrong agent costs you real time and real money. Expired listings. Falling out of escrow. Losing homes you loved because your offer wasn't positioned right. Setting yourself up for success starts with hiring someone who's going to do it right the first time.
Work With Rusty“Rusty not only helped me understand what it means to buy and the process but he also has a thorough understanding of the overall market. He made me feel that getting me into the right home was his priority and never pressured me to just buy. The guy is funny and enthusiastic so he keeps the process enjoyable.”
Specialties
DRE #02084462 · Top 5% San Diego Agents · 100% 5-Star Reviews on Zillow