ABOUT US

Your Trusted Big Bear Team

At Gonzalez Big Bear Group, you’re not just working with an agent—you’re gaining a whole team of dedicated professionals. Our mission goes beyond closing deals. We’re here to build lasting relationships, offering guidance and support long after the transaction ends.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, our website is packed with valuable tools and resources to support you at every stage. And because real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all, we’ve built a trusted network of agents across San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Ventura County—and beyond—ready to serve with the same excellence you expect from eXp agents.

Rooted in the beautiful Big Bear Lake, California, our close-knit team of four is passionate about helping buyers find their dream homes and helping sellers achieve top dollar—all with the local expertise only true Big Bear locals can offer. That’s why our motto is:
“Big Bear Locals Serving Big Bear.”

We also specialize in the short-term rental and Airbnb market, managing local properties firsthand. This hands-on experience allows us to provide real-world insight and strategic advice for anyone interested in this unique investment space.

But what truly sets us apart is our heart. We’re proud to donate up to 25% of our net proceeds from your transaction to a local charity or nonprofit of your choice—because making a difference is part of our mission.

With Gonzalez Big Bear Group, you’re not just gaining a real estate team—you’re partnering with people who care about your journey and your community.

MIGUEL GONZALEZ

With over 25 years in the real estate industry and 15 years as a licensed
Realtor® , I’ve had the privilege of helping clients navigate every kind of
market and milestone. Based in beautiful Big Bear, I’m proud to serve the community I call home-not just through real estate, but through active involvement in local causes that matter.

Giving back is a big part of who I am. My wife and I are deeply involved in fundraising efforts to help feed the homeless, and we regularly support a number of local charities that make a real difference in our mountain town. One of our favorite traditions is playing Mr. and Mrs. Claus every December, delivering holiday magic-and surprise visits-to kids right at their front doors.

Whether you’re buying your first home, looking for a vacation retreat, or
selling a property, I bring experience, integrity, and a community-focused approach to every transaction. I’m not just here to help you move-I’m here to help you feel at home.

PHONE
(909) 699-7722

EMAIL
miguel@buybigbear.net

LICENSE NUMBER
01875209

AMBER GONZALEZ

REALTOR®, HOME INSPECTOR | GONZALEZ BIG BEAR GROUP

As a dedicated Realtor® specializing in Big Bear, I bring more than just
local expertise-I bring an added layer of insight as a certified home
inspector. This unique combination allows me to help clients spot potential issues early, saving them time, money, and stress throughout the buying or selling process.

Beyond real estate, I’m passionate about giving back to the community my husband and I proudly call home. Together, we stay actively involved in
helping those in need, from supporting local charities to helping those with an emergency situation. One of our favorite roles each year is spreading
holiday cheer as Mr. and Mrs. Claus, surprising children with magical visits that create memories to last a lifetime.

Another one of my joys is cooking, which inspired me to create a local food forum that brings people together through recipes, stories, and a shared
love for good meals. It’s more than just food-it’s about connection,
comfort, and community.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply seeking guidance in the Big Bear area, I’m here to offer honest advice, expert knowledge, and a heart deeply invested in the place we call home.

JOSHUA JONES

REALTOR® | GONZALEZ BIG BEAR GROUP

With a lifelong connection to the real estate industry, I bring a unique blend of personal and professional experience to every client I work with. Raised by real estate agents, I grew up immersed in the business and developed a passion for helping others navigate one of the most important decisions of their lives. Over the past 10 years, I’ve called Big Bear home, building lasting relationships and a deep understanding of our local market.

For the past 5 years, I’ve specialized in managing short-term rental properties in Big Bear, giving me invaluable insight into what makes a property successful in this dynamic market. Now, as a licensed real estate agent with 2 years of hands-on experience, I focus on helping buyers find homes with strong rental potential, as well as guiding first-time homebuyers through the process with care and confidence.

My clients benefit not only from my market expertise but also from my extensive network of reliable, licensed, and insured vendors ready to assist with everything from property maintenance to home improvements. Whether you’re looking to invest in a vacation rental or purchase your first home in the mountains, I’m here to make your real estate experience seamless, informed, and rewarding.

TJ FOLLET

OFFICE COORDINATOR, REALTOR® | GONZALEZ BIG BEAR GROUP

TJ Follett has been part of the Big Bear community since 1996. Raised in this mountain town, he brings local insight, a strong sense of pride, and a deep connection to the people and neighborhoods that make Big Bear unique. As a student-athlete at Big Bear High School, TJ earned honors as League MVP, First Team All-CIF, and holds the distinction of pitching the only perfect game in the school’s history—an early testament to his focus and commitment.

Now, as a new real estate professional, TJ brings that same drive to helping clients navigate the local market. He offers a fresh perspective, strong work ethic, and a hands-on approach rooted in integrity and personal service. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, TJ is here to help you make the most of your move in Big Bear.

DEREK PORTER

REALTOR® , HOME INSPECTOR, AND MOUNTAIN-LIVING EXPERT | GONZALEZ BIG BEAR GROUP

Derek Porter is a licensed Realtor and the founder of American Dream Inspections, a trusted home inspection company based in Big Bear Lake, California. With a strong background in property evaluation and a sharp eye for detail, Derek has built a reputation for integrity, precision, and exceptional service. His dual expertise as a home inspector and real estate professional gives his clients a unique advantage—offering insights that go beyond surface-level assessments and into the core of what makes a property a sound investment.

As a proud resident of Big Bear, Derek brings local expertise and a genuine love for the mountain lifestyle to every transaction. Whether guiding a family through their first home purchase or helping a seller maximize value, Derek is committed to making the process smooth, honest, and rewarding.

Outside of work, Derek embraces a self-reliant, hands-on lifestyle. He enjoys off-roading, downhill skiing, and motorcycling, A fan of classic Western literature, he often unwinds with a Louis L’Amour paperback in hand.

Known for his authenticity, work ethic, and deep roots in the community, Derek is more than just a Realtor—he’s a trusted partner in helping clients achieve their version of the American Dream. Whether you’re buying, selling, or seeking expert insight into your home’s condition, Derek offers the kind of experience and dedication that turns goals into reality.

AVA JOANNE CELOCIA

MARKETING MANAGER | GONZALEZ BIG BEAR GROUP

Ava Joanne Celocia is the dynamic Marketing Manager of Big Bear Group, bringing a unique blend of creativity, technical expertise, and strategic insight to the team. A licensed and registered architect with a deep passion for the arts and real estate, Ava seamlessly bridges the worlds of design and marketing.

With a strong background in digital marketing, she specializes in crafting compelling online campaigns, managing high-performing social media strategies, and delivering visually striking content as a skilled graphic designer. Ava’s diverse experience and artistic vision allow her to elevate the Big Bear Group’s brand presence across all platforms, making her an invaluable asset in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.

Testimonials

“Genuinely good people with a real commitment to their clients and their business. We were a few days away from closing escrow on a house in Big Bear when we started looking for property management companies. Based on the 100% positive yelp reviews and great initial conversation with Miguel, we decided to go with CA Mountain Rentals to help us manage the property. Immediately paid off. The day after we signed paperwork with him (which was also the day we were to transfer the funds and close escrow on the house), Miguel decided he wanted to stop by the new place to check it out (a testament to his thorough nature... we didn't ask him to stop by, he just did). When he did, he noticed something that our realtor, property inspector, and seller/sellers agent all failed to mention or notice... the fact that both the parking spots and a decent portion of the stairs were built on city property, meaning it would not be allowed in the vacation rental program (a big part of the equation for us), and the city could tell us at anytime that we needed to rip the stairs down and move THE MOUNTAIN about 12 feet back, probably a 6 figure, months long project! After confirming this with the city (also coordinated by Miguel), we were able to get our deposit back and walk away. We were roughly an hour from going to the bank to wire the money when Miguel called to let us know. Major bullet dodged. Original real estate agent fired. Enter EXP realty. Working with Miguel & Amber on the real estate purchase side was equally fruitful and easy. They were incredibly responsive & insightful about the local market, introduced us to contractors, and even went by the local Spectrum office for us to help get internet setup when the corporate office was being uncooperative! We just closed escrow on a new (and much nicer) house 60 days later and couldn't be happier. Needless to say, they've gone above and beyond and it's been a pleasure to work with them. We couldn't recommend them highly enough, and look forward to doing business with them for a long time.”
ANDREA L.Miguel & Amber are fantastic!

“This was life changing! I spoke with Miguel on Friday, scheduled for Saturday the next day but I missed the appointment. I reached out again that same afternoon to schedule for the following day Sunday. He got appointments for all the homes I asked for the same day. The Mortgage Broker: “I found my home i wanted and that same Sunday evening I started speaking with a great Mortgage Agent Dante that Miguel referred me to. He is the best and was such a pleasure to also work with, he made the who process very simple and quick. Miguel and Dante answered evey single question, responded to every single text and email in minutes! We were out of my price range a little bit. I was advised the offer might not be accepted. I spoke with Miguel early Wednesday morning, the seller accepted my offer and we opened Escrow on August 14th 2024. I got my keys September 13th 2024. I was in such a joyful shock I don't know how else to explain it, such joy, happiness and disbelief I paid for appraisal it was more than $100 dollars less. With the mortgage company I saved over 1.25% on my rate compared to the previous company. I also saved $1000's on closing costs thanks to Miguel's negotiating. “ The Home Inspector: “Inspection was more than $400 less than my previous inspection that was only about 45 minutes long. This inspection was performed by Miguel's wonderful wife Amber who happens to be a home inspector with Beyond the Surface Home Inspections. Amber was very flexible with scheduling and did a very detailed thorough inspection she went above and beyond to make sure my home was safe. I know everything about this home and its condition. The detailed inspection made me more confident with my purchase and the safety of my family. “ There is so much more to share about my experience that i want to add but this is so long already, so I'll end it here. I can't say enough great things about my life changing experience with Miguel, Amber, Rod, Dante and the Escrow company. I'm a homeowner now!! I highly recommend Miguel Gonzalez with EXP Realty of California and his entire team. Everyone on his team is phenomenal. Thank you, Miguel, for everything 🙏”
LENA V.I was about to give up on searching for a home for a while I was exhausted, when I found Miguel and his wife Amber.

“The connection with them was and is great and always made us feel like family. Communication level was 💯 percent. They go above and beyond, working with them is a blessing. My husband and I look forward to continuing business together and building our friendship with them, they are so enjoyable and fun to be with, thank you 🙏🏻 and many blessings always.”
YOLANDA P.It has been amazing to work with Miguel and Amber, very committed to us, always on top of the transaction and very knowledgeable.

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Work With Gonzalez Big Bear Group

If you are interested in buying or selling to Big Bear, please reach out to me any time! I would be honored to help you in any way.