About Us

Daniel R. Smith

Founder

Born in Ohio and raised in San Diego, Dan returned home in 1978 after working on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. A second-generation real estate investor, he bought his first residential property in Allied Gardens in the early 1980s and founded El Dorado Properties in 1986. Through four decades of hard work, patience, and vision, he has grown the portfolio to more than 300,000 square feet of commercial and residential property.

Dan stepped down as President and CEO in 2015. He remains active in passive real estate investing and brokerage, and he is still El Dorado’s most knowledgeable land use consultant.

Known to many as “Mr. Grantville,” Dan has served the Navajo community for more than 25 years on planning groups, committees, and land use projects. His two children, Danielle and David, both work in the family company as brokers and principals. Dan lives in Allied Gardens and enjoys traveling, body surfing, good food, and the great outdoors.

David S. Smith

President and CEO

David is President and CEO of El Dorado Properties and serves as general partner to numerous real estate investment entities. He oversees the company’s day-to-day operations, including construction, leasing, financial underwriting, and land use consulting. A third-generation real estate professional and licensed broker since 2011, David leads El Dorado’s land use consulting practice along with its business and property development efforts.

David earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance, with an emphasis in real estate, from San Diego State University in 2011, and completed a minor in International Studies through the University of Virginia in 2009. He is a 2021 graduate of the Global Leadership Housing Academy and is currently pursuing his CCIM and CPM designations.

From 2017 to 2024, David served as Chair of the Navajo Community Planning Group, advising the City of San Diego on land use and capital infrastructure projects in the Navajo community.

A native San Diegan, David loves the ocean, golf, and the outdoors. He lives in La Mesa with his wife, Jennica, and their two daughters.

Danielle Smith

Chief Operations Officer

Danielle joined El Dorado Properties in 2006 and brings nearly two decades of experience in real estate management, financial oversight, and business operations. As Chief Financial Officer and Senior Property Manager, she oversees the company's financial operations, client accounting, and contract administration.

With extensive knowledge of California real estate practices and landlord-tenant law, Danielle combines industry expertise with a strategic approach to property management. Her leadership, sound financial judgment, and commitment to operational excellence have played a key role in the company's continued growth and strong client relationships.

A third-generation real estate professional and licensed California Real Estate Broker, Danielle brings a longstanding family legacy in the industry to her work. She continues to expand her expertise through ongoing professional education and industry seminars.

Outside the office, Danielle enjoys cooking and entertaining family and friends, as well as traveling and exploring new destinations. She resides in Allied Gardens with her husband, Paul.

Krystle Abele

Executive Assistant

Krystle joined El Dorado Properties five years ago and serves as Assistant Property Manager and Client Relations Specialist. She has been instrumental in rolling out new company technology and supports the team across a wide range of administrative functions.

Krystle’s attention to detail, positive attitude, and eagerness to learn have made her a valuable member of the team. She holds a California real estate agent license.

A proud mom of two sons, Krystle lives in Tennessee with her husband. She enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, and making memories with family and friends.

Guillermo Hernandez

Lead Field Technician

Guillermo is the Lead Field Technician for El Dorado Properties' maintenance division and has been with the company for six years. With a strong work ethic and a solid construction background, he overseas all tenant improvements, facilities maintenance, and emergency services.

Guillermo is working towards his California Class B General Building Contractor license while continuing to build his expertise across the construction trades. Guillermo lives in Santee with his wife, Guadalupe, and their two sons. He enjoys playing soccer, cooking seafood, and spending time with his family.