LATE SUMMER

Four Corners community events

Prepare a budget that includes closing costs to prevent sticker shock.

Four Corners Real Estate is published by Ballantine Communications.

P.O. Drawer A Durango, Colorado 81302 advertising department (970) 375-4582

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Carrie Cass chief executive officer

Jamie Opalenik director of multimedia sales

Tad Smith manager of creative services

Hunter Harrell special sections editor

Gabriel Glenn graphic designer

Kelly Ozier

Gayle Vitarius sales operations

Kelly Bulkley

Joe Nelson

Carter Reed

Shell Simonson

Michele Wayne sales representatives

Choosing to reface or replace can determine a renovation timeline.

Where did you grow up?

Born and raised in Aztec.

How long have you lived in the region, and what do you like most about living in the Four Corners?

I love that no matter the season or the weather, there is always something to do.

Tell me a little bit about what your life looks like with friends and family.

I have the best friends and family. Whether it’s helping at the farm, riding side by sides on our many trails or hanging out by the water, it is sure to be enjoyable.

Switching gears to career, how many years have you worked in the industry?

Six years, total. I have been licensed for four years as a realtor and worked behind the scenes for two years prior to that.

What is your day-to-day like? What do you enjoy most, and what challenge does the career offer?

The best part of my job is seeing the joy of families at the closing table. There are different challenges everyday, making the day to day very unique. One day I may be helping a first time home buyer navigate the process, and the very next day helping an investor sell off their portfolio.

Do you represent buyers, sellers or both? What is your approach to helping each?

I get to help both buyers and sellers. The approach is very similar in that I want their experience to be one of the most exciting, stress-free transactions they have been a part of.

How can you help potential buyers or sellers compete in this market?

With buyers, we make a plan of action with their wants and needs in their home, and we work around their budget to find the perfect place. The best way for buyers to be competitive is to make sure they have a clear understanding of the whole process. With sellers, I talk about their next-step goals, competitive pricing and how to best advertise to make sure their property is at the top of their respective market.

Any advice to offer all new residents to the area?

Take some time to explore to find what you love about the area.