Karen Manuel

Broker Associate, BA, CRS, CDPE, ePro.

I have a BA in Management. I have worked in a few industries, but found my home in real estate. I love architecture. The varied styles of east bay homes provides constant inspiration and enjoyment for me. I own a bungalow in Alameda, which was a true fixer when I purchased it. I completed a big renovation on my home and learned a lot about old homes and remodeling in the process. I bring this experience to my work every day.

I earned my salesperson’s license and began selling real estate in 2005. In 2016 I earned my broker’s license. That same year I completed a real estate Innovator’s Certificate program at Stanford Graduate School of Business. This program focused on Negotiation, Design and Marketing through story telling. In 2018 I earned my CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) designation. This designation, which requires a high level sales and education, is held by only 3% of the real estate agents in the country.

I believe in volunteerism and have donated my time to organizations throughout my life. I am a board member of Friends of the Alameda Free Library. In the past I have raised funds for UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland and Park Day School. I’ve been a room parent, produced teacher appreciation meals and coordinated soccer uniforms. I taught CPR and Keep Your Child From Choking classes for the American Heart Association. I was a counselor for a sexual assault crisis service and a candy striper.

I love to cook and entertain. I’ve held season tickets at Berkeley Repertory Theater since 1983. I belong to the Wicked Women’s Book Club and the Oodles of Poodles hiking group. I have a goal of seeing all the Oscar nominated movies (before the Oscar ceremony) each year. If you run into me, ask me about standard poodles, gin, garden roses, movies, poker, knitting... and real estate of course.



"Karen is a truly exceptional agent. We have purchased two properties with her assistance. She is organized, very knowledgeable, professional, accessible, and caring. Karen remains calm under all circumstances and offers wise counsel throughout the process. I wholeheartedly endorse and recommend her." - Rosemary V.


"Karen is the consummate professional and just such a nice person as well. Truly a pleasure working with her." - Nancy B.


"Karen was extremely helpful in my first home purchase. She has invaluable experience and insight. She was communicative, courteous, and patient throughout the entire process. I highly recommend working with Karen." - Andrea W.


"Wonderful! Karen was very professional and personable at the same time. We were very fortunate to work with Karen to find the right home in Alameda. We moved from Southern California and knew little about the housing market here so having Karen’s expertise made the process stress free and enjoyable." - Marianne & Paul S.


"My Experience with Karen was excellent. She really knows what she is doing and has all the right contacts for needed service people to get my home on the market and to get top dollars! I highly recommend Karen Manuel." - Lance A.