SEPTEMBER 2023 - BUCKS COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS MAGAZINE

please

nominating

MEET THE BUCKS COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS TEAM

MEET THE BUCKS COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS TEAM

If you are interested in contributing or nominating REALTORS® for certain stories, please email us at josh.buchter@realproducersmag.com

If you are interested in contributing or nominating REALTORS® for certain stories, please email us at josh.buchter@realproducersmag.com

Bryant Sanders Photography

Thato Dadson Thato Dadson Photography

Heather Pluard

Ryan Berridge Berridge Photography

Dave Danielson Writer

Marketing Director

Josh Buchter Owner/Publisher Shy Espinosa Virtual Assistant

Sarah Cosentino Ad Design/Management

Bethany Williams

Bryant Sanders Bryant Sanders Photography

Thato Dadson Thato Dadson Photography

Heather Pluard Writer

Ryan Berridge Berridge Photography

Ruth Gnirk Writer

Dave Danielson Writer

Sara Howanski Marketing Director

Josh Buchter Owner/Publisher Shy Espinosa Virtual Assistant

Miguel Victoria Brand & Marketing Consultant

Sarah Cosentino Ad Design/Management

Bethany Williams Partner/Co-Publisher

Jamie Taylor Writer

This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate a liate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the REALTOR® community!

This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate a liate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the REALTOR® community!

CHARITY / FUND RAISING

CHARITY / FUND RAISING

Happy Smiles Inc

Happy Smiles Inc

Carlo Vitale (609) 751-8048

Carlo Vitale (609) 751-8048

happysmilesfoundation.com

happysmilesfoundation.com

CLEANING SERVICE

CLEANING SERVICE

JC Latimer Cleaning LLC

JC Latimer Cleaning LLC

Katrina Green (215) 671-6882

Katrina Green (215) 671-6882

www.jclatimercleaning.com

www.jclatimercleaning.com

CREDIT REPAIR

CREDIT REPAIR

Trinity Solutions USA Drew Smith (888) 391-3387 trinitysolutionsusa.com

Trinity Solutions USA Drew Smith (888) 391-3387 trinitysolutionsusa.com

CUSTOM BOUTIQUE AND GIFTS

CUSTOM BOUTIQUE AND GIFTS

Savvy Custom Swag

Savvy Custom Swag

Katie Taylor (610) 427-8142

Katie Taylor (610) 427-8142

katie@thesavvygiftgiver.com

HOME INSPECTION

HOME INSPECTION

Vitale Inspection Services LLC

Vitale Inspection Services LLC

Carlo Vitale (732) 221-4711

Carlo Vitale (732) 221-4711

www.vitaleinspection.com

INSURANCE

INSURANCE

Goosehead Insurance

Goosehead Insurance

Eric Frain (267) 760-3389

Eric Frain (267) 760-3389

THT Powered by Movement Mortgage

THT Powered by Movement Mortgage

Je Tinney (718) 483-6421

Je Tinney (718) 483-6421

www.vitaleinspection.com

HOME STAGING

HOME STAGING

StagingCraft, LLC

StagingCraft, LLC

Nancy Vander Zwan (215) 262-7306

Nancy Vander Zwan (215) 262-7306

www.StagingCraft.com

www.StagingCraft.com

HOME WARRANTY First American Home Warranty

HOME WARRANTY

First American Home Warranty

Mike Cono (267) 642-3630 mikecono@fahw.com

Mike Cono (267) 642-3630 mikecono@fahw.com

www.goosehead insurance.com

www.goosehead insurance.com

INSURANCE / LIFE / FINANCIAL

INSURANCE / LIFE / FINANCIAL

GE Insurance for Life

GE Insurance for Life

Glenn Eckstut (215) 421-4555

Glenn Eckstut (215) 421-4555

www.geinsurance forlife.com

www.geinsurance forlife.com

MOBILE LED BILLBOARD ADVERTISING

MOBILE LED BILLBOARD ADVERTISING

Direct Ad Network

Philadelphia (215) 266-9403 DirectAdPhilly.com

Direct Ad Network Philadelphia (215) 266-9403 DirectAdPhilly.com

je .tinney@movement.com

je .tinney@movement.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHY

Berridge Photography, LLC

Berridge Photography, LLC

Ryan Berridge (267) 930-1857

Ryan Berridge (267) 930-1857

ryan@berridgephotography.com

ryan@berridgephotography.com

Bryant Sanders Photography

Bryant Sanders Photography

Bryant Sanders (267) 230-5488

Bryant Sanders (267) 230-5488

www.bryantsanders.com

www.bryantsanders.com

Kevin York Photography

Kevin York Photography

Kevin York (484) 390-2820

Kevin York (484) 390-2820

kevinyorkheadshots.com

kevinyorkheadshots.com

katie@thesavvygiftgiver.com

MORTGAGE LENDER

MORTGAGE LENDER

Advisors Mortgage Group

Advisors Mortgage Group

Carmella McGonegal (215) 901-8083 www.advisorsmortgage.com

Thato Dadson Images

Thato Dadson Images

Thato Dadson (302) 521-3014

Carmella McGonegal (215) 901-8083 www.advisorsmortgage.com

Contour Mortgage

Contour Mortgage

Meredith Smalley (610) 585-4082 contourmortgage.com

Meredith Smalley (610) 585-4082 contourmortgage.com

Lending Capital Group

Lending Capital Group

Susan Terra-Podio (267) 767-5759 stpodio.com

Susan Terra-Podio (267) 767-5759 stpodio.com

Princeton Mortgage Corporation

Princeton Mortgage Corporation

Frederick Lahm (609) 737-4365 fred.princeton mortgage.com

Frederick Lahm (609) 737-4365 fred.princeton mortgage.com

Prosperity Home Mortgage

Thato Dadson (302) 521-3014

www.tdadsonimages.com

www.tdadsonimages.com

REMODELING

REMODELING

J. Level & Square Remodeling LLC

J. Level & Square Remodeling LLC

Jay Salloom (484) 381-0070

Jay Salloom (484) 381-0070

jlevelandsquare.com

jlevelandsquare.com

SOCIAL MEDIA CONSULTING

SOCIAL MEDIA CONSULTING

Buxmont Social Media

Buxmont Social Media

Amy Berridge (267) 689-7505

Amy Berridge (267) 689-7505

buxmontsocialmedia.com

buxmontsocialmedia.com

TITLE INSURANCE

TITLE INSURANCE

Innovation Title Inc.

Innovation Title Inc.

Yara Chamas (646) 645-8700

Yara Chamas (646) 645-8700

www,innovationtitleinc.com

Prosperity Home Mortgage

Alex Lubo (267) 303-3368

www.AlexOnline Application.com

Alex Lubo (267) 303-3368 www.AlexOnline Application.com

Quaint Oak Mortgage

Quaint Oak Mortgage

Patrick Lopez (267) 800-2132 plopez@quaintoak.com

Patrick Lopez (267) 800-2132 plopez@quaintoak.com

www,innovationtitleinc.com

Title Family of RockStarClosers

Title Family of RockStarClosers

Nicole Malcom (215) 579-8800

Nicole Malcom (215) 579-8800

nicoel@deedsearchers.com

nicoel@deedsearchers.com

home design

home design

Written by: Nancy Vander Zwan, ASPM®, CEO @stagingcraft

Written by: Nancy Vander Zwan, ASPM®, CEO @stagingcraft

HOME PREP MISTAKES

HOME PREP MISTAKES AVOID THESE

HOME PREP MISTAKES AVOID THESE

HOME PREP MISTAKES

Experienced home staging professionals like to think we are miracle workers, and in many cases we are! Time and time again, we help Realtors achieve well above the asking price for their sellers.

Experienced home staging professionals like to think we are miracle workers, and in many cases we are! Time and time again, we help Realtors achieve well above the asking price for their sellers.

But we don’t have a magic wand, and there have been instances lately in which even professionally staged residences may sit on the market. There are very good –and avoidable –reasons for this rare phenomenon. If you plan to have your sellers get their listings staged by an accredited, experienced home stager, then here are the top six issues that challenge even the best home stagers:

But we don’t have a magic wand, and there have been instances lately in which even professionally staged residences may sit on the market. There are very good –and avoidable –reasons for this rare phenomenon. If you plan to have your sellers get their listings staged by an accredited, experienced home stager, then here are the top six issues that challenge even the best home stagers:

Home staging works best when home sellers invest in the repairs we recommend before we “do our thing.”

Home staging works best when home sellers invest in the repairs we recommend before we “do our thing.”

#6 The exterior must still have great curb appeal, with clean/power-washed walkways, driveways without cracks, roofing and siding that isn’t stained, on-trend exterior lighting, and wellkept lawns and garden beds.

#6 The exterior must still have great curb appeal, with clean/power-washed walkways, driveways without cracks, roofing and siding that isn’t stained, on-trend exterior lighting, and wellkept lawns and garden beds.

often the single best investment a seller will make in-home preparation (other than hiring StagingCraft, that is!).

often the single best investment a seller will make in-home preparation (other than hiring StagingCraft, that is!).

#5 Before we arrive to stage, sellers should have already addressed unfashionable wall colors and flooring, wallpaper, and old lighting fixtures, all of which are buzzkills in MLS pics.

#5 Before we arrive to stage, sellers should have already addressed unfashionable wall colors and flooring, wallpaper, and old lighting fixtures, all of which are buzzkills in MLS pics.

#4 Speaking of MLS pics…Realtors must invest in professional photography. Cell phone photos never do a listing justice and tell potential buyers that sellers and their Realtors are willing to cut corners.

#2 Sellers need to rely on your and our advice on odors in the house, including pets. Sellers often no longer notice smells in their own houses. We home stagers are reluctant to place our inventory in properties in which sellers haven’t corrected litter box or dog issues, fry food or cook with pungent spices, etc.

#2 Sellers need to rely on your and our advice on odors in the house, including pets. Sellers often no longer notice smells in their own houses. We home stagers are reluctant to place our inventory in properties in which sellers haven’t corrected litter box or dog issues, fry food or cook with pungent spices, etc.

Realtors tell me they’re being squeezed by their sellers to list for an unreasonable amount–and then they plead with me to “make the house look more expensive.” We’re happy to do our level best, but even great home stagers don’t have enough fairy dust to turn a $750K property into a $1.2M listing.

Realtors tell me they’re being squeezed by their sellers to list for an unreasonable amount–and then they plead with me to “make the house look more expensive.” We’re happy to do our level best, but even great home stagers don’t have enough fairy dust to turn a $750K property into a $1.2M listing.

#4 Speaking of MLS pics…Realtors must invest in professional photography. Cell phone photos never do a listing justice and tell potential buyers that sellers and their Realtors are willing to cut corners.

#3 Sellers should move o site any furniture that’s noticeably out of date or too large for the sizes of the rooms, such as large sectional sofas; old, upholstered reclining chairs; dining room sets with enormous china cabinets; TV screens so large that they’re visible from outer space, etc. A two-month rental of a 10 X 10 rental storage unit is

#3 Sellers should move o site any furniture that’s noticeably out of date or too large for the sizes of the rooms, such as large sectional sofas; old, upholstered reclining chairs; dining room sets with enormous china cabinets; TV screens so large that they’re visible from outer space, etc. A two-month rental of a 10 X 10 rental storage unit is

And….the #1 factor that’s causing even the most updated, expertly staged houses to sit on the market? It’s overpriced. As you know too well, some sellers are insisting on higher list prices because of recent comps in their own neighborhoods and the COVID- and post-COVID-era craziness. I’ve had

And….the #1 factor that’s causing even the most updated, expertly staged houses to sit on the market? It’s overpriced. As you know too well, some sellers are insisting on higher list prices because of recent comps in their own neighborhoods and the COVID- and post-COVID-era craziness. I’ve had

The purpose of home staging is to enhance the best features of a house while minimizing the negatives and to create an emotional connection between buyers and properties. I love to partner with Realtors who recognize the power of e ective home prep prior to professional staging, and I’m here to “tag team” with you to educate your sellers so that your listings are properly prepared, well priced and staged, and attractive to buyers in every sense of the word.

The purpose of home staging is to enhance the best features of a house while minimizing the negatives and to create an emotional connection between buyers and properties. I love to partner with Realtors who recognize the power of e ective home prep prior to professional staging, and I’m here to “tag team” with you to educate your sellers so that your listings are properly prepared, well priced and staged, and attractive to buyers in every sense of the word.

Nancy Vander Zwan is owner and CEO of StagingCraft home staging services, serving the Bucks/Montco/Philly/Chester County/Lehigh Valley region. She loves educating Realtors on the power of home staging as a key marketing tool in moving properties. Call her at 215-262-7306 to set up a free presentation to your sales team–she brings food!

Nancy Vander Zwan is owner and CEO of StagingCraft home staging services, serving the Bucks/Montco/Philly/Chester County/Lehigh Valley region. She loves educating Realtors on the power of home staging as a key marketing tool in moving properties. Call her at 215-262-7306 to set up a free presentation to your sales team–she brings food!

StagingCraft Sees What’s Possible

Keller Williams Real Estate - Newtown

COHEN AND ASSOCIATES

Keller Williams Real Estate - Newtown

COHEN AND ASSOCIATES

teamwork makes the dream work

teamwork makes the dream work

Written by: Jamie Taylor

Photography by: Berridge Photography

Jamie Taylor Berridge Photography

As the founder of Alexis Cohen and Associates (with Keller Williams Newtown), Alexis Cohen is proud to have created a team that is committed to reaching new heights together. With a motto of “connecting heart to home,” Alexis and her crew understand the importance of bringing genuine concern for their clients’ well-being to every deal, and this simple principle has propelled them ever-forward on the path of success.

As the founder of Alexis Cohen and Associates (with Keller Williams Newtown), Alexis Cohen is proud to have created a team that is committed to reaching new heights together. With a motto of “connecting heart to home,” Alexis and her crew understand the importance of bringing genuine concern for their clients’ well-being to every deal, and this simple principle has propelled them ever-forward on the path of success.

she wanted to find a career that incorporated her love for home design, investing, and DIY projects, Alexis took a chance on real estate, and though she completed the coursework required to enter the field, she ultimately decided not to sit for her exam. The knowledge gained from her studies still o ered a timely relevance, however, as she was able to apply a lot of what she learned to her first home purchase, at the age of 21.

she wanted to find a career that incorporated her love for home design, investing, and DIY projects, Alexis took a chance on real estate, and though she completed the coursework required to enter the field, she ultimately decided not to sit for her exam. The knowledge gained from her studies still o ered a timely relevance, however, as she was able to apply a lot of what she learned to her first home purchase, at the age of 21.

Alexis attempted her first foray into the housing industry at the young age of 19, and, like most of her contemporaries fresh out of high school, she was mapping out a professional journey

Alexis attempted her first foray into the housing industry at the young age of 19, and, like most of her contemporaries fresh out of high school, she was mapping out a professional journey

Switching gears from her real estate pursuits, Alexis went on to attend college as a business marketing major while working as an o ce manager for a psychology practice and, later, in sales for a packaging distributor. After meeting her husband, Jack, life took a new turn, and Alexis made a big move from Arizona to Jack’s home turf in Newtown. The relocation turned out to be a positive

Switching gears from her real estate pursuits, Alexis went on to attend college as a business marketing major while working as an o ce manager for a psychology practice and, later, in sales for a packaging distributor. After meeting her husband, Jack, life took a new turn, and Alexis made a big move from Arizona to Jack’s home turf in Newtown. The relocation turned out to be a positive evolution, and she immediately fell in love with Bucks County.

With a new town came the potential for fresh opportunities, and Alexis seized the moment to reinvent herself through interior design. She started with small steps, taking related classes and trying her hand at creating murals and decorative paintings for her nieces. As word spread about her abilities, her e orts morphed into a bona fide business, and she began receiving increasingly elaborate service requests, which included personal shopping, color consultations, window treatments, and, eventually, kitchen and commercial designs.

With a new town came the potential for fresh opportunities, and Alexis seized the moment to reinvent herself through interior design. She started with small steps, taking related classes and trying her hand at creating murals and decorative paintings for her nieces. As word spread about her abilities, her e orts morphed into a bona fide business, and she began receiving increasingly elaborate service requests, which included personal shopping, color consultations, window treatments, and, eventually, kitchen and commercial designs.

Once her two children were old enough for school, Alexis felt it was time to start a new career adventure – or, rather, revisit an old one. She decided to come back “full circle” to real estate, and, after making the shift,

Once her two children were old enough for school, Alexis felt it was time to start a new career adventure – or, rather, revisit an old one. She decided to come back “full circle” to real estate, and, after making the shift, never looked back. “I found my calling,” she shares.

It’s a definitive statement, and one that is backed up not only by Alexis’s success in the field, but also by her genuine appreciation for the human aspect of what she does. “I get to help people find better solutions for how they live, help them create wealth, and [I get to] make people happy. It is not always easy but, in the end, I truly only want my clients to find what is best for them... If you act in the best interest of your clients, then you can’t go wrong,” she explains.

It’s a definitive statement, and one that is backed up not only by Alexis’s success in the field, but also by her genuine appreciation for the human aspect of what she does. “I get to help people find better solutions for how they live, help them create wealth, and [I get to] make people happy. It is not always easy but, in the end, I truly only want my clients to find what is best for them... If you act in the best interest of your clients, then you can’t go wrong,” she explains.

It’s a mindset that she is fortunate to share with her team (which includes Alysha Brand, Juanita Crain, Jessica Williamson and Remi Stumacher), and she says she feels grateful to have found a brokerage and coworkers who are so in sync with her outlook. “I was with another company for many years where I had great mentorship and friendships, but it was also a

It’s a mindset that she is fortunate to share with her team (which includes Alysha Brand, Juanita Crain, Jessica Williamson and Remi Stumacher), and she says she feels grateful to have found a brokerage and coworkers who are so in sync with her outlook. “I was with another company for many years where I had great mentorship and friendships, but it was also a

corporate mindset. I came to Keller Williams and have learned how to run a business. I am surrounded by people who think big and have the mindset of sharing and growth. Being in that environment pushes me to be better, think bigger, and give more.”

corporate mindset. I came to Keller Williams and have learned how to run a business. I am surrounded by people who think big and have the mindset of sharing and growth. Being in that environment pushes me to be better, think bigger, and give more.”

Of course, as important as being on the same page with your coworkers

Of course, as important as being on the same page with your coworkers

can be, Alexis understands the additional value of identifying and combining individual talents within her team. “[We each have] some other unique connection to real estate. For example, I have the design background; Juanita does staging with a company [that] serves real estate in Bucks County, and she has a great eye for design; Alysha has been in marketing for real estate for many years

can be, Alexis understands the additional value of identifying and combining individual talents within her team. “[We each have] some other unique connection to real estate. For example, I have the design background; Juanita does staging with a company [that] serves real estate in Bucks County, and she has a great eye for design; Alysha has been in marketing for real estate for many years

before getting licensed and is married to an appraiser; Jessica was raised by a home inspector; and Remi helps her father find properties to be rehabbed and flipped... I think each of us having our own strengths and supporting each other makes us better advocates for our clients, better moms for our kids, better partners for our loved ones, and just better humans,” she says, adding that no one can do it all alone.

before getting licensed and is married to an appraiser; Jessica was raised by a home inspector; and Remi helps her father find properties to be rehabbed and flipped... I think each of us having our own strengths and supporting each other makes us better advocates for our clients, better moms for our kids, better partners for our loved ones, and just better humans,” she says, adding that no one can do it all alone.

Clearly, Alexis is passionate about collaboration, and at no point is that passion more apparent than when you ask her about her industry awards. Though she has a slew of them under her belt, she will happily and humbly turn a conversation away from her personal accolades to focus on something that brings her much more joy: the opportunity to help others rise. Through her role as the education chair on her o ce’s leadership committee and an additional role as a

Clearly, Alexis is passionate about collaboration, and at no point is that passion more apparent than when you ask her about her industry awards. Though she has a slew of them under her belt, she will happily and humbly turn a conversation away from her personal accolades to focus on something that brings her much more joy: the opportunity to help others rise. Through her role as the education chair on her o ce’s leadership committee and an additional role as a

transaction coach, she is able to bring valuable training opportunities to her coworkers and mentor newly licensed REALTORS® as they navigate their first years in the business. “The most rewarding honor is being able to teach new licensees... I get to help shape the future of our industry that has pretty minimal standards to get into - but can have lasting ramifications for our buyers and sellers. Ensuring that new agents have the education and support they need to learn the business ethically and professionally and be able to serve their clients best is very fulfilling,” she says.

transaction coach, she is able to bring valuable training opportunities to her coworkers and mentor newly licensed REALTORS® as they navigate their first years in the business. “The most rewarding honor is being able to teach new licensees... I get to help shape the future of our industry that has pretty minimal standards to get into - but can have lasting ramifications for our buyers and sellers. Ensuring that new agents have the education and support they need to learn the business ethically and professionally and be able to serve their clients best is very fulfilling,” she says.

to spend quality time with her sister, who made her own move to the East Coast shortly after Alexis, and her parents, who recently decided to trade in their Arizona roots for a new start in Bucks County, to be closer to their children and grandkids.

to spend quality time with her sister, who made her own move to the East Coast shortly after Alexis, and her parents, who recently decided to trade in their Arizona roots for a new start in Bucks County, to be closer to their children and grandkids.

When it comes to fulfillment outside of work, Alexis enjoys gardening (it’s her happy place) and experimenting with home improvement projects, such as painting and tiling walls. She shares her home with Jack (“the most thoughtful and genuine person” she has ever known), as well as the couple’s two beautiful children, Jacob and Livia, who bless the family with their kindness and individual talents. Alexis also enjoys being able

When it comes to fulfillment outside of work, Alexis enjoys gardening (it’s her happy place) and experimenting with home improvement projects, such as painting and tiling walls. She shares her home with Jack (“the most thoughtful and genuine person” she has ever known), as well as the couple’s two beautiful children, Jacob and Livia, who bless the family with their kindness and individual talents. Alexis also enjoys being able

As for the rest of the team at Alexis Cohen and Associates, they, too, cherish time spent with their respective families. Alysha has two children - a daughter and a son; Juanita has four children (two boys and two girls) ranging in ages 13 to 6; Jessica is enjoying newlywed life, having been married just over a year; and Remi is celebrating four years with her boyfriend.

As for the rest of the team at Alexis Cohen and Associates, they, too, cherish time spent with their respective families. Alysha has two children - a daughter and a son; Juanita has four children (two boys and two girls) ranging in ages 13 to 6; Jessica is enjoying newlywed life, having been married just over a year; and Remi is celebrating four years with her boyfriend.

Outside of work and home, Alexis and her team make time to get involved in the community and have donated their resources to many charitable initiatives. A few of their chosen organizations include the Lenape Valley Foundation, Barkann Healing Hearts, and the 100+ Women of Bucks County. Additionally, Alexis promotes civic ties through her website, TheFacesofHolland.com, where she interviews and features local community members and business owners.

Outside of work and home, Alexis and her team make time to get involved in the community and have donated their resources to many charitable initiatives. A few of their chosen organizations include the Lenape Valley Foundation, Barkann Healing Hearts, and the 100+ Women of Bucks County. Additionally, Alexis promotes civic ties through her website, TheFacesofHolland.com, where she interviews and features local community members and business owners.

Whether she’s finding joy in giving back to her community, o ering her time to newbies in the field, or helping clients realize new possibilities, it’s clear that Alexis’s heart for service drives her to focus on all the positive things she can put out into the world. Those who have been impacted by her real estate talents will likely agree that Alexis has landed in a role perfectly suited to her strengths… and that her 19-year-old self had the right instincts all along.

Whether she’s finding joy in giving back to her community, o ering her time to newbies in the field, or helping clients realize new possibilities, it’s clear that Alexis’s heart for service drives her to focus on all the positive things she can put out into the world. Those who have been impacted by her real estate talents will likely agree that Alexis has landed in a role perfectly suited to her strengths… and that her 19-year-old self had the right instincts all along.

I AM SURROUNDED BY PEOPLE WHO THINK BIG AND HAVE THE MINDSET OF SHARING AND GROWTH. BEING IN THAT ENVIRONMENT PUSHES ME TO

I AM SURROUNDED BY PEOPLE WHO THINK BIG AND HAVE THE MINDSET OF SHARING AND GROWTH. BEING IN THAT ENVIRONMENT PUSHES ME TO BE BETTER, THINK BIGGER, AND GIVE MORE.

Written by: Jamie Taylor

Photography by: Thato Dadson | Dadson Images

Written by: Jamie Taylor

Photography by: Thato Dadson | Dadson Images

THOMAS

Zillow, Facebook, and Google. What do these platforms have in common?

Zillow, Facebook, and Google. What do these platforms have in common?

A lot of things, actually. But for RE/MAX agent Tom Ruhfass, their most significant similarity just might be the collection of stellar reviews left on their pages in his honor. As a REALTOR® of 24 years, Tom has never received an online ranking below five stars - a testament to the extent that his “do unto others” outlook and no-pressure vibes resonate with both buyers and sellers.

A lot of things, actually. But for RE/MAX agent Tom Ruhfass, their most significant similarity just might be the collection of stellar reviews left on their pages in his honor. As a REALTOR® of 24 years, Tom has never received an online ranking below five stars - a testament to the extent that his “do unto others” outlook and no-pressure vibes resonate with both buyers and sellers.

Tom’s a nity for real estate began at a young age, with his fascination originally revolving around his family’s vacation home at the New Jersey Shore. “[It] always interested me because we used to rent the house out... and I was intrigued

Tom’s a nity for real estate began at a young age, with his fascination originally revolving around his family’s vacation home at the New Jersey Shore. “[It] always interested me because we used to rent the house out... and I was intrigued

by how people were paying for what we got to [own] and enjoy. The investing end of it sparked my interest,” he shares.

by how people were paying for what we got to [own] and enjoy. The investing end of it sparked my interest,” he shares.

Despite feeling that early pull, Tom did not throw his hat into the real estate ring at the start of his career, choosing instead to pursue an engineering vocation that ended up spanning twenty-plus years. On and o , during that time, he did side work with his father, who was well-rounded in all aspects of construction (including plumbing, framing, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, and additions). This gave Tom the opportunity to dip his toe into the realm of real estate from a home improvement standpoint, and he was lucky to hone his skills under his father’s tutelage.

Despite feeling that early pull, Tom did not throw his hat into the real estate ring at the start of his career, choosing instead to pursue an engineering vocation that ended up spanning twenty-plus years. On and o , during that time, he did side work with his father, who was well-rounded in all aspects of construction (including plumbing, framing, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, and additions). This gave Tom the opportunity to dip his toe into the realm of real estate from a home improvement standpoint, and he was lucky to hone his skills under his father’s tutelage.

It wasn’t until his employer started proceedings to relocate o ces that Tom seriously considered making a full-time move to the housing industry, in a REALTOR capacity. “I called a buddy of mine who I actually went to high school with, and he happened to know the broker at RE/MAX. I asked him how real estate was doing,” he recalls, adding that his friend encouraged him to make the leap and promised to see if he could pull some strings and open some doors.

It wasn’t until his employer started proceedings to relocate o ces that Tom seriously considered making a full-time move to the housing industry, in a REALTOR capacity. “I called a buddy of mine who I actually went to high school with, and he happened to know the broker at RE/MAX. I asked him how real estate was doing,” he recalls, adding that his friend encouraged him to make the leap and promised to see if he could pull some strings and open some doors.

At the time, agents were required to have seven years of related experience, so Tom’s prospects were not promising, to say the least. Luckily, the broker at RE/

At the time, agents were required to have seven years of related experience, so Tom’s prospects were not promising, to say the least. Luckily, the broker at RE/

MAX had generous leanings, and he was willing to give a newbie a break. “... I always say he gave me an opportunity of a lifetime. I was the first one who came in with no experience. I was almost the guinea pig to see if that kind of thing was going to work,” Tom explains. And work it did. He has spent the entirety of his real estate days at that very same brokerage, which, for RE/ MAX, has undoubtedly been a nice return on an investment of chance.

MAX had generous leanings, and he was willing to give a newbie a break. “... I always say he gave me an opportunity of a lifetime. I was the first one who came in with no experience. I was almost the guinea pig to see if that kind of thing was going to work,” Tom explains. And work it did. He has spent the entirety of his real estate days at that very same brokerage, which, for RE/ MAX, has undoubtedly been a nice return on an investment of chance.

“It’s the best thing I ever did by far,” Tom says of the career shift, referring not only to the financial success he has enjoyed throughout his agent journey, but to the feel-goods along the way

“It’s the best thing I ever did by far,” Tom says of the career shift, referring not only to the financial success he has enjoyed throughout his agent journey, but to the feel-goods along the way

as well. “I love helping people find their dream home, their investment properties, and especially working with first time home buyers. What I like about it, too, is I become friends with all my clients long term, so I’m getting invited to weddings, parties, graduations. I love that part of it. I love seeing people happy,” he shares, adding that he is often called upon to serve in a consultant role for his buyers, even after their closing. “I’m always there to answer questions. I get calls years after a sale. I alwayscused approach, Tom also brings value to homebuyers by putting on his metaphorical contractor cap.

“I have over 30 years construction

home to a client, I educate them on the HVAC systems, the windows, et cetera... I like to give [them] a

seek him out as their agent.

replace in the future.” It’s insight strangers at open houses who later seek him out as their agent.

“People come back to me and say, ‘Hey, I met you at that open house. You gave me a lot of great [information], and I loved your soft approach and would love your help in finding our next home.’”

“People come back to me and say, ‘Hey, I met you at that open house. You gave me a lot of great [information], and I loved your soft approach and would love your help in finding our next home.’”

Insider intel aside, Tom has his clients’ backs when it comes to peace of mind as well, and he o ers a very generous closing gift along those lines. “I buy all my buyers a one-year home warranty out of my own income. This way, if something breaks the first year, they’re fully covered,” he explains.

Insider intel aside, Tom has his clients’ backs when it comes to peace of mind as well, and he o ers a very generous closing gift along those lines. “I buy all my buyers a one-year home warranty out of my own income. This way, if something breaks the first year, they’re fully covered,” he explains.

within my community, and supporting local businesses within Bucks County,” Tom shares.

within my community, and supporting local businesses within Bucks County,” Tom shares.

Bronwyn, and grandbaby, Nora. This is Tom’s first grandchild thus far, so Nora is getting her fair share of spoiling, and Tom is not shy about acknowledging the power she wields over the family.

Bronwyn, and grandbaby, Nora. This is Tom’s first grandchild thus far, so Nora is getting her fair share of spoiling, and Tom is not shy about acknowledging the power she wields over the family.

On top of staying busy with work and play, Tom makes time for community-focused events, and he has participated in many local initiatives. He is one of the co-founders of the Falls Soccer Club and cofounder of the LBNA networking group, and he also served on the startup committee for initial phases of Falls Township Community Park. Additionally, he has coached numerous baseball and soccer teams and is always willing to donate his time to sports opportunities for local kids.

On top of staying busy with work and play, Tom makes time for community-focused events, and he has participated in many local initiatives. He is one of the co-founders of the Falls Soccer Club and cofounder of the LBNA networking group, and he also served on the startup committee for initial phases of Falls Township Community Park. Additionally, he has coached numerous baseball and soccer teams and is always willing to donate his time to sports opportunities for local kids.

I LOVE HELPING PEOPLE FIND THEIR DREAM HOME, THEIR INVESTMENT PROPERTIES, AND ESPECIALLY WORKING WITH FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS.

As business continues to boom, Tom has taken steps to accommodate future growth, and he brought his son, Alex, on board a few years back. “He’s been a huge help and has absolutely taken the business to the next level. I just couldn’t do it all myself, but, for a long time, I was trying to. With Alex handling more of the day-to-day side of things, I have been able to spend more time networking, building relationships

As business continues to boom, Tom has taken steps to accommodate future growth, and he brought his son, Alex, on board a few years back. “He’s been a huge help and has absolutely taken the business to the next level. I just couldn’t it all myself, but, for a long time, I was trying to. With Alex handling more of the day-to-day side of things, I have been able to spend more time networking, building relationships

Having extra hands at his disposal not only helps Tom run a tight ship in the o ce, but it also allows him to carve out more time for the hobbies he enjoys, which include snow skiing, golfing, camping, and all things nature focused. Travel also ranks high on his list of preferred pastimes, with Germany being one of his favorite destinations. His parents immigrated to the United States from Munich at a very early age, and with so much extended family still in that province, making time for regular visits to the area is simply a must.

Having extra hands at his disposal not only helps Tom run a tight ship in the o ce, but it also allows him to carve out more time for the hobbies he enjoys, which include snow skiing, golfing, camping, and all things nature focused. Travel also ranks high on his list of preferred pastimes, with Germany being one of his favorite destinations. His parents immigrated to the United States from Munich at a very early age, and with so much extended family still in that province, making time for regular visits to the area is simply a must.

Tom finds it rewarding to have such outlets for giving back to Buck’s County, which he has called home for over 60 years. He can recall when the community was primarily farmland, and with a front row seat to most of the neighborhood development over the decades, he has gained extensive knowledge of the area and knows it very well.

Tom finds it rewarding to have such outlets for giving back to Buck’s County, which he has called home for over 60 years. He can recall when the community was primarily farmland, and with a front row seat to most of the neighborhood development over the decades, he has gained extensive knowledge of the area and knows it very well.

Of course, these pursuits are made all the better when Tom can share them with his tribe, which, in addition to Alex, consists of his wife, Anne, daughter,

Of course, these pursuits are made all the better when Tom can share them with his tribe, which, in addition to Alex, consists of his wife, Anne, daughter,

Two decades in (and counting), Tom has reached a sweet spot in his professional trajectory. The days of gaining his footing have long been replaced with experience and know-how, and though the hustle never ends, there is now time to enjoy the sweeter things in life that such a successful career brings. While these evolutions are welcome rewards for any veteran in the industry, Tom says there is one aspect of his business that will never change – his focus on serving others. It’s a philosophy, by anyone’s estimation, that is certainly five-star worthy.

Two decades in (and counting), Tom has reached a sweet spot in his professional trajectory. The days of gaining his footing have long been replaced with experience and know-how, and though the hustle never ends, there is now time to enjoy the sweeter things in life that such a successful career brings. While these evolutions are welcome rewards for any veteran in the industry, Tom says there is one aspect of his business that will never change – his focus on serving others. It’s a philosophy, by anyone’s estimation, that is certainly five-star worthy.

I LOVE HELPING PEOPLE FIND THEIR DREAM HOME, THEIR INVESTMENT PROPERTIES, AND ESPECIALLY WORKING WITH FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS.

Were you, your broker, or the team featured in an issue of Real Producers? Want a copy of your article or full magazines that you were featured in?

Were you, your broker, or the team featured in an issue of Real Producers? Want a copy of your article or full magazines that you were featured in?

WHY DO I NEED THOSE?

WHY DO I NEED THOSE?

print me more!

print me more!

REPRINTS!

REPRINTS!

What the heck is a reprint?

A reprint is a four or eightpage, magazine-quality grade paper with your full article and photos and you on the COVER of the publication.

What the heck is a reprint? A reprint is a four or eightpage, magazine-quality grade paper with your full article and photos and you on the COVER of the publication.

• These reprints are a professional marketing tool that can help brand you, your team and/or your business.

• These reprints are a professional marketing tool that can help brand you, your team and/or your business.

• Use on listing appointments

• Use on listing appointments

• Send out to friends and family

• Send out to friends and family

• Send to clients with your holiday greetings

• Send to clients with your holiday greetings

• Brokers, use as recruiting tools for capturing new talent.

• Brokers, use as recruiting tools for capturing new talent.

• Use when farming your favorite neighborhood

• Use when farming your favorite neighborhood

WHAT IF I CHANGED COMPANIES OR NEED SOMETHING CORRECTED IN MY ARTICLE?

WHAT IF I CHANGED COMPANIES OR NEED SOMETHING CORRECTED IN MY ARTICLE?

No worries! We can make any changes needed. We send you a proof, you approve, and then they are sent to you via FedEx.

No worries! We can make any changes needed. We send you a proof, you approve, and then they are sent to you via FedEx.

WHO CAN BUY THESE?

WHO CAN BUY THESE?

The REALTOR® that was featured, the Broker, our Partner, or family. Anyone that wants to promote you.

The REALTOR® that was featured, the Broker, our Partner, or family. Anyone that wants to promote you.

HOW DO I ORDER?

HOW DO I ORDER?

Email bethany.williams@realproducersmag.com or give us a call, at 267-216-4181.

Email bethany.williams@realproducersmag.com or give us a call, at 267-216-4181.

preferred partner highlight

preferred partner highlight

Written by: Heather Pluard

Written by: Heather Pluard

Photography by: Thato Dadson | Dadson Images

Savvy Custom Swag

Savvy Custom Swag

It’s often more than the thought that counts. When it comes to business gifts, the whole package matters! From design to delivery, no one does a better job of delighting clients than Savvy Custom Swag. That’s because Founder and CEO Katie Sessegnon Taylor lives to see people enjoy gifts that let them know they are loved. She and her team have spent the last decade elevating the promotional gifting experience and increasing its ROI.

It’s often more than the thought that counts. When it comes to business gifts, the whole package matters! From design to delivery, no one does a better job of delighting clients than Savvy Custom Swag. That’s because Founder and CEO Katie Sessegnon Taylor lives to see people enjoy gifts that let them know they are loved. She and her team have spent the last decade elevating the promotional gifting experience and increasing its ROI.

“Our business is to promote yours through marketing acumen, top-quality swag, and gifts,” Katie says. “We love working with business owners to show them how to strategically use personalized and branded gifts to increase sales, referrals, and productivity. Nothing excites us more than seeing the joy on a client’s face when they see their logo and event ideas brought to life by the quality and creativity of custom-branded swag.”

“Our business is to promote yours through marketing acumen, top-quality swag, and gifts,” Katie says. “We love working with business owners to show them how to strategically use personalized and branded gifts to increase sales, referrals, and productivity. Nothing excites us more than seeing the joy on a client’s face when they see their logo and event ideas brought to life by the quality and creativity of custom-branded swag.”

An entrepreneur herself, Katie has long understood the power of the personal touch. She started her first business at 12, creating custom crocheted slippers in her hometown of Brownsville, PA, and adding a monogram to each pair. Katie sold enough slippers to buy her first computer and treat herself to leather boots. After high school, she attended the University of Pennsylvania, fell in love with Philadelphia, and decided to stay and launch her next business venture here.

An entrepreneur herself, Katie has long understood the power of the personal touch. She started her first business at 12, creating custom crocheted slippers in her hometown of Brownsville, PA, and adding a monogram to each pair. Katie sold enough slippers to buy her first computer and treat herself to leather boots. After high school, she attended the University of Pennsylvania, fell in love with Philadelphia, and decided to stay and launch her next business venture here.

Photography by: Thato Dadson | Dadson Images

“I started my consulting company, Prospecting Professionals, to help business owners increase sales and train their teams,” Katie says. “But after the recession of 2008, I wanted to return to my roots of designing and creating gift items. So in 2012, I launched GetYourGiftHere.com. However, I was working with outsourced vendors and couldn’t control the quality of their work. Needing a more reliable product line, I started handling the bulk of our production in-house. We formed The Savvy Gift Giver, LLC in 2018, and since then, we’ve predominately focused on Business-to-Business gifting.”

“I started my consulting company, Prospecting Professionals, to help business owners increase sales and train their teams,” Katie says. “But after the recession of 2008, I wanted to return to my roots of designing and creating gift items. So in 2012, I launched GetYourGiftHere.com. However, I was working with outsourced vendors and couldn’t control the quality of their work. Needing a more reliable product line, I started handling the bulk of our production in-house. We formed The Savvy Gift Giver, LLC in 2018, and since then, we’ve predominately focused on Business-to-Business gifting.”

Today, Savvy Custom Swag gifts include items such as branded apparel and drinkware, client giveaways, custom business gifts for home and o ce, client and employee awards and incentives, and event banners and signage. They also have a specially curated collection of promotional products and closing gifts designed for REALTOR® partners to make an unforgettable impression on their clients.

Today, Savvy Custom Swag gifts include items such as branded apparel and drinkware, client giveaways, custom business gifts for home and o ce, client and employee awards and incentives, and event banners and signage. They also have a specially curated collection of promotional products and closing gifts designed for REALTOR® partners to make an unforgettable impression on their clients.

For added convenience, the website SavvyCustomSwag. shop allows clients to create and order custom-designed apparel. Savvy Custom Swag also o ers custom online stores that can be made for client re-orders, closing gifts, or custom merchandise to promote their brand.

For added convenience, the website SavvyCustomSwag. shop allows clients to create and order custom-designed apparel. Savvy Custom Swag also o ers custom online stores that can be made for client re-orders, closing gifts, or custom merchandise to promote their brand.

“At Savvy Custom Swag, we embody the possibility of sharing joy, opportunity, and creativity with the world,” Katie smiles. “We aim to move, touch, and inspire everyone we come in contact with through the design, packaging, and shipping of extraordinary gifts. Everything that goes out of our door has an intentional impact.”

“At Savvy Custom Swag, we embody the possibility of sharing joy, opportunity, and creativity with the world,” Katie smiles. “We aim to move, touch, and inspire everyone we come in contact with through the design, packaging, and shipping of extraordinary gifts. Everything that goes out of our door has an intentional impact.”

Impacting others is how Katie describes a life well-lived. “I want to help our sta and colleagues gain opportunities they might not have been able to garner if they hadn’t come through the door of Savvy Custom Swag,” she explains. “I’d like to be known for valuing people, investing in others, and nurturing and cherishing friendships. It makes me happy to see students who interned with us go on to run their own successful businesses and raise a family.”

Impacting others is how Katie describes a life well-lived. “I want to help our sta and colleagues gain opportunities they might not have been able to garner if they hadn’t come through the door of Savvy Custom Swag,” she explains. “I’d like to be known for valuing people, investing in others, and nurturing and cherishing friendships. It makes me happy to see students who interned with us go on to run their own successful businesses and raise a family.”

Family means everything to Katie. She and her husband, Ed Taylor, will celebrate their 16th wedding anniversary in January. The couple has two children. Emmanuel, 25, is a marketing professional in suburban Washington, DC. Minu, 30, is a graphic designer working for an international company with o ces based in Delco.

“We’re delighted to welcome to our family Minu’s fiance, Trevor, as they will be married in August 2024,” Katie says. “Love is the greatest gift.”

Family means everything to Katie. She and her husband, Ed Taylor, will celebrate their 16th wedding anniversary in January. The couple has two children. Emmanuel, 25, is a marketing professional in suburban Washington, DC. Minu, 30, is a graphic designer working for an international company with o ces based in Delco. “We’re delighted to welcome to our family Minu’s fiance, Trevor, as they will be married in August 2024,” Katie says. “Love is the greatest gift.”

To learn more, please visit SavvyCustomSwag.com or call (855) 642-4438.

To learn more, please visit SavvyCustomSwag.com or call (855) 642-4438.

I’D LIKE TO BE KNOWN FOR VALUING PEOPLE, INVESTING IN OTHERS, AND NURTURING AND CHERISHING FRIENDSHIPS.”

I’D LIKE TO BE KNOWN FOR VALUING PEOPLE, INVESTING IN OTHERS, AND NURTURING AND CHERISHING FRIENDSHIPS.”