Gil Figueroa currently runs a successful real estate company with his wife Tammy called The Figz Team Real Estate. They specialize in luxury homes throughout the East Valley and pride themselves on bringing expertise and insight to their clients on their home buying or selling journey. However, Gil has not always been in real estate and has, in fact, had many interesting chapters in his life. He began his career in an entirely different line of work in law enforcement. From 1978 to 1998, Gil worked for the Sheriff’s office for LA County.
Gil was inspired to follow in his father’s footsteps who was a deputy for the Sheriff’s Department. Not only did he look up to his dad but he also enjoyed hearing the many stories from his dad and his friends in the department. ‘I saw them as role-models.’ Says Gil who would join the department when he was just 20 years old. Gil even had the opportunity to work alongside his father and colleagues, observing them in action. 'It made it easier, there was lots of trust there.' he says of the chance to work with the men he admired. He also added that because he had grown up under their influence and example, his experience working for law enforcement turned out to be exactly what he expected, no surprises.
During his time with the Sheriff's office, Gil worked on patrol, in the jails, and eventually he was selected to teach at the academy to train other officers. Of his experience working on patrol, Gil said, 'It is the most fun you can have on a job because you weren't being micromanaged, you were making your own calls.' The worst aspect of the job, he says, was all the paperwork. He particularly loved teaching other officers and sharing his knowledge with them.
Of course, working in law enforcement could mean stress and an element of danger but Gil credits living near his parents in Huntington Beach for helping him and Tammy have a better life/work balance with two kids. His mother, in particular, knew what it meant to be the wife of a deputy and shared her wisdom and understanding with Tammy. When asked about facing the risks of his job Gil said, 'You're kind of fearless when you are young, maybe reckless even. But you get more careful as you get older.'
However, working in Los Angeles also came with some perks too. He did security for the LA Open and saw Tiger Woods play. He also did security for the Golden Globes, for Tom Hanks's Band of Brothers wrap party, and also for Clive Davis who threw a glamorous party every year the night before the Grammy's. He says they would also run training exercises at places like Warner Brother's Studios. Though he made many lasting memories, Gil says that he knew it was time for a change when he retired after 20 years of service. He moved into construction after that, running a business for 32 years. Gil said he enjoyed being more in charge, although running a business with so many employees to worry about, brought a different kind of worry.
Finally, Gil and Tammy made the move to Queen Creek and now enjoy running their real estate business together and the lifestyle that Encanterra's community affords them. Gil, who loves playing golf, has perfect views of the golf course from their home. Working closely with his wife is just another chapter in a long career of service. Gil looks back on his life so far and says, 'I have the greatest life going.' Gil and Tammy are also proud grandparents of five children ranging in age from 18 to 5 years old. The eldest grandson has even mentioned he might be curious about a career in law enforcement one day. 'He's been asking more questions.' says Gil. However, Gil says he would never push any of his grandkids into any line of work. 'He gets to make his own choices.' he insists.
Nevertheless, Gil maintains he has 'such respect for cops.' while also acknowledging that back when he served it was a 'different time with different challenges.' Wherever the road has taken him, it is clear that there are no regrets for Gil. Today, Gil has the best of both worlds. He is able to have the autonomy of running a business, while also bringing his expertise in construction to his clients. Not to mention squeezing in the occasional round of golf when he can.