Arizona Covers lookbook by Top Agent Magazine

Chris Pendleton Shannan Marty

“It’s all about taking care of our clients,” Shannan Marty explains, while discussing what drives her and Chris Pendleton. Shannan and Chris have been working in real estate as a team for the past six years. The idea to start a team came when Chris retired from the fire department after a 28-year long career. Working his way up from a volunteer firefighter Copyright Top Agent Magazine

to the Fire Chief of Rural/Metro Fire Department, he originally obtained his real estate license in 1986, but did not pursue it as a career. Once he retired, he relicensed himself and started building his business. Shannan, who went to law school and started her own company, was looking for a new career path after selling it to a Fortune 100 company.

She started flipping and selling homes before there were television shows about doing that. A career as an agent developed from that work. They quickly joined forces, each with their unique backgrounds and skills, to form a solid and powerful team. Also joining them is Ana Holcomb, who works as the Transaction Manager and as a buyer’s agent.

With TierraAntigua Realty, they serve Tucson and surrounding areas, including Oro Valley, Marana, Sahuarita and Vail. They work with buyers and sellers of all price ranges, utilizing their business-oriented minds and superior communication skills to deliver exceptional service. What sets them apart in this industry is a myriad of unique talents, business Copyright Top Agent Magazine

knowledge, negotiation expertise and is a semi-professional photographer, shooting with a Canon 5D Mark III focus on relationships. with a 14 mm tilt shift lense. “It is One of their stand-out strengths is the cat’s meow for architecture and a comprehensive custom marketing real estate,” Chris explains. He has plan they have developed to sell developed a technique for capturing properties for the most amount of awe-inspiring nighttime glow shots, money, in the least amount of time, which includes combining up to 50 with the least amount of hassle. No different exposures in PhotoShop. agent that they know of does as On top of that, he is a commercial much to sell a property than they pilot, allowing him to offer aerial do. A cornerstone of their marketing shots of a property. Recently, Chris plan is awesome photography. Chris has added a drone to offer unique

marketing materials to help sell a home. Chris and Shannan are Certified Negotiation Experts, and both have extensive experience negotiating in their past careers. Working as a Fire Chief, Chris negotiated labor and service contracts. Owning her own business, Shannan also frequently negotiated contracts. “We find that to

be one of the most successful factors in moving our business forward,” they say. They have numerous other designations such as Accredited Luxury Home Specialists, Accredited Buyer Representatives, and Certified Distressed Property Expert.

“We are always there for our clients.” Communication is one of their main focuses; they are very rigorous about phone calls and staying on top of their transactions. “We are always there for our clients,” Chris explains. Because they have done so many renovations and flips, they also offer a concierge service to clients that want to fix up their homes. “We have a whole team of people that we have personally used throughout the years, so we can refer trusted contractors and even assist them with overseeing the project” Chris says. Copyright Top Agent Magazine

Aside from their dedication to real the Board of Trustees for Arizona estate, they are also dedicated to Sonora Desert Museum, the Board the community. Chris is involved of Directors for Tucson Botanical Garden and Board of Directors for Desert Angels, a Tucson based “It is so great to venture capital organization.

work with clients. They become our friends and we have become their family real estate agents.”

on the Board of Directors and is past Chairman for Handi Dogs, an organization that provides service dog training for seniors and people with disabilities. He was also on the Tucson’s Children’s Museum Board. Shannan is a member of

Chris and Shannan are extremely happy to have found their second career paths in real estate. They have achieved great success in the industry, and are looking forward to years of continuous growth. “It is so great to work with clients. They become our friends and we have become their family real estate agents. They say they would not consider using anyone else. It’s a responsibility that we take seriously, and one that is truly an honor for us.”

For more information about Christopher Pendleton and Shannan Marty of Tierra Antigua Realty in Tucson, please call 520-275-1663 or email chris@tucsonrealpros.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine

2012

CHUCK & ANGELA FAZIO

Sometimes, the path to success lies down a different road than the one everyone else is taking. As owners of West USA Realty Revelation, Chuck and Angela Fazio do things their own way, and have had nothing but success when following that ideal.

Chuck started out in the nightclub business in New York, and decided he wanted a total change of pace—a new career, new surroundings, everything. He moved to Arizona and opted for a career in real estate. “I work hard, and if I’m going to work hard, I want to choose a career where I’ll be rewarded for that work,” he says. He started out with a large, international brokerage. Here he met Angela, his future wife. They partnered and were selling so little, they almost left real estate altogether. Instead, they moved to

a different company with different principles that more closely matched their own. There, they found nearly boundless success. “We were broke and almost got out of the business in January 2001, and by the end of that year, we had closed $17.5 million in sales,” he says. Within three years, they were in the top one percent of agents in the nation, and were running one of the top teams in the country. Angela comes from a teaching background, which positions her perfectly for working with her husband to lead their brokerage. The key to their financial success is in how they interact with people on a personal level. They are genuine, open and generous, and at the core of all this is their faith. Their spiritual principles are the impetus for every decision they make and the

ON SOLID ROCK

reason behind every word they speak. Chuck and Angela Fazio are a prime example of people who walk what they talk.

In 2005, Chuck and Angela took a team of 15 agents and opened a new branch in the developing East Valley. In 2009 through 2011, the relatively new upstart office ranked number one in production for the Southeast Valley. The Fazios attribute their success to the fact that they don’t seek recognition for themselves, but glory for God. Toward that end, they treat their agents with compassion and care.

“We don’t exactly fit the norm,” Angela says. “We are very hands on, and we really are like a big family. We do everything we possibly can to help our agents succeed.” One of those tactics

include running a leads department that nurtures leads, and weeds out those that would prove to be time wasters for the agents. “Most agents don’t understand how to incubate leads, and that’s one of the reasons there is such a high fail rate in this industry,” Chuck says. “So I help do it for them. We created something that no other company has. The leads they get are expecting to be contacted by an agent.” What they are doing is working well, there’s no question.

“We are number one in production in the East Valley because our agents are doing business and we are committed to helping them do even more,” Angela says. This support system engenders mutual respect between agents and brokers, and leads to financial success on both sides of the equation. As a result, people at West USA Realty

“You just do what’s right, and things work out. Whether other people are watching or not is irrelevant.” Revelation like their jobs and believe in their coworkers. “That loyalty is gained in part by us living what we believe,” Angela says. This is not to say that West USA Realty Revelation is a wholly Christian company—there are people of varying faiths working in the firm. But the Fazios take great comfort in knowing that they are presenting a kind, compassionate view of Christianity to their agents and to the world. They are also showing that people can be true to their faith and still make a good living. The key is putting others first, they say. You reap what you sow.

“The Bible is our handbook on how we run our company,” Chuck says. “God calls us to be servant leaders, and our staff holds those same beliefs. Servant leaders are not supposed to be put on a pedestal. We’re supposed to be out there working hard, helping others.” Chuck doesn’t even have his own desk, preferring instead to work alongside the other people in the office. At press time, the Fazios were preparing to take the entire office staff on a cruise to Mexico as a fellowship and team-building experience. Downtime makes for happier people, Copyright Top Agent Magazine

and ultimately higher productivity. “We want people to work to live, not live to work,” Angela says. “There will always be stress in life, but we want people to enjoy their work.”

At USA West Realty Revelation, the motto is, “Where success breeds success.” It has proven true, and shows no signs of stopping. “You just do what’s right, and things work out,” Chuck says. “Whether other people are watching or not is irrelevant. We are always striving to create new tools and training to keep our company and our agents at the top. Our success is no accident.”

Chuck & Angela Fazio Owners of West USA Realty Revelation Chandler, AZ (480) 570-8020 chuck@realtyrevelation.com www.AgentSuccess101.com

CONNIE THOMPSON

“My clients understand

that I really know the market; I’ve been a Phoenician for 50 years and an agent for more than 30!”

CONNIE THOMPSON

I’ve been a Phoenician for 50 years and an agent for more than 30!” In fact, it wasn’t long after earning her broadcasting degree from Arizona State that she quickly surrendered her plans of being a reporter in favor or the personal and financial excitement of a real estate career.

Area expertise, an eye for design and passion for navigating people through the smartest decisions for their particular needs have driven Connie Thompson’s 33 years in real estate success. Born in Chicago and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, since the age of four, Connie considers herself “practically a native.” She therefore brings market insight to both buyers and sellers, whether they are new to the area or have lived there for decades. “I have lived in all of my primary areas, such as North Central, the Biltmore, Arcadia, Moon Valley, and 32nd Street and Shea, and I can help anyone with all the neighborhoods around Phoenix,” she says. “My clients understand that I really know the market;

Passionate about helping Millennials discover the value of homeownership, Connie likes meeting newcomers and young people at open houses. “They’ll ask about certain communities or the schools, or the restaurants and I can help them immediately,” she says. With younger buyers, she enjoys listening and educating them. “I want Millennials to know that even if they’re worried about taking care of a house, there are many programs that can help them with financial assistance and the lowest interest rates,” she says. As the mother of three children of home-buying age, she understands these buyers’ mindsets. “I like showing them how smart it is to take advantage of low rates while they can, rather

than putting all your money toward rent.” She also enjoys showing them her favorite places around town that meet their needs. Her buyers and sellers appreciate the patience Connie brings to the real estate process. “They remember that I save them money,” she says, with a light laugh, adding that, “In a multiple-offer situation, I pride myself on being the victor!” Throughout each transaction, she leverages her longtime relationships with the best vendors to help people with specific aspects of their purchase or sale, including financing. “I have one client who was able to

buy using the down-payment assistance program twice; he was so happy to get a home the first time with free money and then sold that house and did it again.” She also makes herself available and responsive, taking calls any time of day. With listings, Connie customizes her marketing system to each property. “I enjoy decorating, so I conduct light staging before bringing in my excellent photographer who captures the homes beautifully,” she says. “I also use coming-soon marketing online to gauge interest in the house based on the price.” Copyright Top Agent Magazine

“I want Millennials to know that even if they they’re worried about taking care of a house, there are many programs that can help them with financial assistance and the lowest interest rates.” In doing so, Connie often receives calls of interest before the home is on MLS. Additionally, through HomeSmart Elite Connie can directly access hundreds of agents who monitor each other’s upcoming listings on behalf of their buyers. A passionate resident of Phoenix, Connie also prides herself on staying active locally, whether frequenting restaurants with friends and family, hiking at places like North Mountain, or giving back wherever possible. “Over the years, I’ve been, PTA Vice President, volleyball coach, and held various positions with my kids’ schools,” she says. “I am also on the HOA board for a community where I own an investment condo. But what I really enjoy Copyright Top Agent Magazine

is mentoring new agents with HomeSmart, teaching them the tricks of the trade.” In the near future, besides earning her broker’s license, Connie plans to launch a collaborative effort with other agents who also enjoy home staging. “I’m in the beginning stages, but I’d like to get some kind of warehouse, with sev-

eral of us contributing items,” she explains. Through a co-op of sorts, agents would be able to conduct staging at a much lower cost than hiring independent stagers. Innovative thinking like this distinguishes Connie’s service-minded approach to real estate. “I love using my local expertise, negotiation skills and creativity to help people through any situation.”

To learn more about Connie Thompson, visit iknowphoenixhomes.com or facebook.com/connie.p.thompson.94 email conniethompson@hsmove.com or call 602.738.0421 www.

www.

Daniel Barraza

Daniel Barraza Daniel Barraza never planned on a career in real estate. Instead, his entrance into the industry came about as the result of people he cared about needing his help. A former Youth Pastor, helping others through extending his hand to those in need has been a way of life for Daniel for as long as he can recall. Yet, it was when he needed help on his own, that the first stones of career in real estate were being laid down, though he didn’t know it at the time. “When the economy crashed, my business failed,” he says. “I had a high end cookware business. It was a really difficult time, and I need a loan modification for my home,” he adds. Armed with an incredibly strong work ethic passed on by his father, Daniel sought out and secured his own loan modification as difficult as it was. Soon, he had family members and friends who needed the same kind of help. “I started helping everyone I could to Copyright Top Agent Magazine

get their loan modified,” he says. However, the recession persisted and many of those who Daniel helped to successfully modify their loans were still upside down on their homes, and came to Daniel for help. “I decided to

get my license, and help with short sales,” he says. Noting that some people thought he was crazy for launching a real estate career focused on short sales, Daniel ignored their objections and trusted his gut. “I wasn’t doing this for me. People were

practically banging down my door for help. That is who I was in this forthose who needed my help. I was doing the deals that nobody else wanted,” he says. Suffice to say, there were a lot of Copyright Top Agent Magazine

“I’m thankful, grateful and humbled, because people needing Daniel’s help and by 2012 he’d been named one of the top 100 real estate agents in Arizona. He also grew the Phoenix based Barraza Team from 3 agents in 2012 to 18 team members today. And 2014 is definitely looking up as well, as his business is up more than 200% over last year. But Daniel takes no credit for his success. “The same core group of people who I was able to help, have now helped Copyright Top Agent Magazine

me. They referred me to their friends, and their families,” he says. To that end, Daniel focuses on investing in his repeat and referring clients. “When I first got started in real estate I listened to everyone’s advice. They said invest in marketing, so I did, sometimes $10-$15,000 each month. But when I ran my numbers, I saw that 60% of my business was coming from past clients. So I learned

I get huge satisfaction out of helping people.” that I only want to take advice from agents who are actually successful, and I started investing more of my efforts into my past clients,” he says. By way of example, last Christmas Daniel and his team hand-delivered cookies to each of his past clients’ doors. “It took two weeks,” he says with a laugh before adding, “The response has been terrific.” As the market began to stabilize

Daniel recognized that he needed to adapt with the times as well. Once again, his past clients served as a strong base of business. “Many of the people who I helped with short sales began calling and asking if their 3 year seasoning was over because they wanted to buy a home again,” he says. Daniel was once again there for them, and today, 60% of his business now comes from traditional buyers and sellers. Copyright Top Agent Magazine

Daniel really couldn’t ask for anything more. “I used to be the Youth Pastor for 8 of the 18 agents on my team. We served on missions together. They all share the same passion for helping others that I do. I’m still not sure how this success happened. The posture of

my heart is to help people, and even though I really thought I was going to become an ordained minister, God opened the door and showed me this path. I’m thankful, grateful and humbled, because I get huge satisfaction out of helping people,” he adds.

For more information about Daniel, visit www.barrazateam.com, call 602-441-3702 or Email@DanielBarraza.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine

DANNY ROTH

DANNY ROTH Danny Roth is much more than a REALTOR®. He’s an innovator, a consultant, a creative strategist, a published author, a mentor, an educator and an advocate for everyone involved in home buying and selling. “I care about our industry having a better name,” says Danny, an Arizona Keller Williams billion dollar producer and the CEO of Designated Real Estate Consultant, a national designation for REALTORS®. Copyright Top Agent Magazine

While he laments recent changes he has seen in real estate, including an influx of less experienced and less prepared agents, Danny and his team pride themselves on their expertise, experience and enterprising service. “We provide an unmatched level of service and we’re consultants by design,” he says. “That means that when you work with anyone on our team you get a full suite of services, unrivaled insight and an unprecedented process.”

It was his desire to have a family that led Danny to real estate more than 20 years ago. As a sophomore in college, Danny opened his first restaurant. Every year thereafter he added a new one until he owned four and had become a master chef. “My wife and I wanted to start a family and I was trying to figure out what line of family-friendly work I could transition to,” he says. “At the time, I was planning to sell my house. Our choice of REALTORS® ended up

being one of the worst experiences I’ve ever had,” Danny says. “I immediately knew I could do a much better job for people.” As a rookie, Danny sold 60 homes during his first year while still runn ing his restaurants. Having the vision to see a real estate collapse, Danny help start a private equity firm and from 2006-2012 was instrumental in the aquisition and disposition of over 4500 homes from Maine to Hawaii. Copyright Top Agent Magazine

Danny has now closed more than $1 billion in gross real estate sales totaling more than 8,600 properties. But improving the real estate sales process for everyone involved is of even greater importance to Danny than his numbers. Danny’s passion for real estate ex tends far beyond making sure every buyer or seller has a phenomenal experience. “I recently developed an online course for training REALTORS® as consultants,” he says, Copyright Top Agent Magazine

explaining that REALTORS® who qualify for and complete the course gain the Designated Real Estate Consultant (DREC) distinction. In earning that distinction, explains Danny, “they become experts in many of the fastest-growing aspects of real estate, including the aging population and aging homes.” The DREC curriculum also includes Right Sizing Made Simple for seniors and Flip The Home You Own, which shows sellers how to improve

and get more value from their home with no money out-of-pocket. The group’s book, Life Planning Guide, offers guidance for people at any stage of life in preparing and guaranteeing protection of their real estate and financial legacies. “REALTORS® and insurance agencies, banks, title companies and other businesses give our book to clients as a thank-you gift. It is also one of the best lead generation sources that I have ever used,” says Danny.

Vital to Danny’s success are top notch agents Michele Flynn and Dora Elias. Michele, who has worked with Danny for over 19 years, is skilled in all facets of real estate. “Michele’s business development and marketing skills and her ability to manage people is second to none. says Danny. Meanwhile, Dora, who earned her real estate license eight years ago after a successful career in title and escrow, provides inside knowledge of the of closing process. “Her honesty and top-notch Copyright Top Agent Magazine

communication with all parties involved in buying and selling really distinguishes her from the rest,” says Danny. With the experience of Michele and Dora, Danny is able to provide a higher quality of service and expertise to all of their clients.

Danny will escalate the quality of REALTORS® around country while helping the aging population experience better lives. The programs will increase the values of homes across the US.

A devoted professional, Danny makes a point of devoting leisure time to his family. “I’m always home for dinner and my wife and I have a standing weekly date night.” His 15-yearold daughter, Ashtin Roth, spent a good deal of time on TV recently. As dancer, she auditioned and won a spot on the reality show, “Dance Moms”, Danny says. “She and my wife were on seasons five and six.” His 17-year-old son plays baseball on the #1 High School team in the state. Elijah will be attending the University of Arizona.His four-year old daughter Jewels recently started dance, joining her sister Ashtin at a new Tucson studio Danny was instrumental in opening, called BC Dance. Jennifer, Elijah, Ashtin, Jewels and their three Labs are Danny’s world and drive him to succeed at a high level. To learn more about Danny Roth, visit http://dannyroth.com and www.DREConsultant.com email Danny@dannyroth.com or call 520.490.4000 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

JOSH RANDALL

“I really treat my client’s assets and money like it is my own. I think they sense and know that about me. There are times I’ve sat down with a seller and advised them not to sell. I’m willing to walk away from a possible commission.”

Josh Randall, Branch Manager at Keller Williams Realty East Valley and Team Owner of Valley Home Pros in Phoenix, Arizona has found stellar success in the real estate industry through a combination of hard work, negotiation skills, intensive knowledge through investment experience, and a dedication to providing his many clients with the very best in customer service.

In 2006, I decided to get my real estate license, since people started asking me if I could help them make decisions on their primary residence purchases. They also liked my marketing ideas for getting their home sold and I really enjoyed the personal relationships and friendships being built. From that point on, I decided to focus on becoming a top real estate agent and my business grew quickly from there.”

“My original background was as real estate investor,” says Josh. “I started buying homes that needed a bunch of work, and then I would remodel and sell them.

It’s that investor background that Josh believes sets him apart from his fellow real estate agents. “I would say that is the biggest separator,” he says. “It’s my being

able to help my clients from an investment standpoint, especially when buying a primary residence or deciding what to do to maximize their home’s sale value.” Much of Josh’s business comes from referrals from satisfied clients, or via the cutting-edge, high tech marketing he and his team employ, including social media marketing. “Doing a really good job marketing a listing will create more business,” he says. “It helps our sellers maximize their home sale value which earns referrals to

help other sellers as well. Plus, even when the potential buyer finds that the property doesn’t quite work for them, they find that they like what we have to offer in helping them find a more suitable property.” What keeps his clients coming back, Josh believes, is the personal investment he makes in each of them. “I think being genuine helps. I really treat my client’s assets and money like it is my own. I think they sense and know that about me. There are times I’ve sat down with a seller and Copyright Top Agent Magazine

Josh has kept Valley Home Pros relatively small mainly because he enjoys the personal interactions he is able to maintain with his clients. advised them not to sell. I’m willing to walk away from a possible commission, whereas another realtor might have pressured them to sell.” One of the reasons Josh has kept Valley Home Pros relatively small is because he enjoys the personal interactions he is able

to maintain with his clients. “At one point I had a larger team than I have now,” he says, “and I really missed sitting down with my clients at their kitchen table and finding the best solutions for them and building that relationship. So many of my clients have become friends, and I missed being able to be with them and help them make the big decisions.” Copyright Top Agent Magazine

Josh is adamant about giving back to his community, and is involved in helping multiple non-profit organizations grow. He also enjoys coaching his kids in multiple sports and helping in the community sports programs to see kids learn life skills and lessons through sports. Josh also credits his wife Karen for

her consistent support and encouragement in helping his business grow and succeed. As for the future, Joshâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan is to continue to grow his business with exceptional and personal client service that has become his trademark.

For more information about

JOSH RANDALL

Contact him directly, please call 480-635-2148 Email him at josh@valleyhomepros.com Visit his website at www.valleyhomepros.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine

NINA CIMINI

Nina Cimini is amongst the Top 1% of Realtors Nationwide, the Top 1% of Arizona MLS Agents, and the Top 1% of HomeSmart Agents.

Nina Cimini got her start in real estate energized by the challenge of launching a new career. Looking to utilize her degree in business and marketing, she thought the real estate industry would be the perfect avenue to do just that. Now, with fifteen years of hard-won experience, Nina has never looked back. Today, she serves her clients with a comprehensive approach, incorporating her tailored expertise at every step of the process. Since launching her career, Nina’s dedication and consistent performance has earned her numerous designations. She is amongst the Top 1% of Realtors Nationwide, the Top 1% of Arizona MLS Agents, and the Top 1% of HomeSmart Agents, to Copyright Top Agent Magazine

name a few. She has also appeared in Homes & Land magazine and in total has sold over five hundred homes—with no end in sight. Nina works with HomeSmart, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. She serves the Phoenix metro region specializing in Scottsdale, with an emphasis on the downtown area. Nina is the main point of contact throughout every transaction, complemented by a support staff to ensure transactions progress as smoothly as possible. Her extended team consists of licensed agents with niche specialties, title and lending experts, and a professional photographer. Her all-inclusive service model inspires confidence in her clients, from their very first phone call all the way to closing. With a robust rate of repeat and referral clientele—amounting to

an impressive 75%—Nina’s compassion and accessibility keeps business steady. “I am there for my clients through the entire transaction,” Nina explains. “I clearly present all the options available so the client can decide what is best for them. I am their advocate, and as a result, people feel protected. To me, it isn’t just another transaction.” Noting that acquiring new clients is instrumental to overall growth, Nina generates new leads that account for the remaining 25% of her business. Drawing on her professional knowledge of marketing, Nina provides clients with a tailored and comprehensive strategy. Providing an initial consultation with staging advice ensures that each property is shown at its best.

From there, she utilizes a strategic cross-marketing model which includes professional photography, prominent signage, maximum global internet exposure, targeted web ads, traditional direct mail and an open house presentation. Leaving no stone unturned, each impeccable home listing reaches the widest possible audience both locally and beyond. Nina takes the time to forge a bond with each client she serves, therefore staying in touch comes naturally. In addition to touching base by phone, Nina also make it a point to meet face-to-face now and again, as well. Likewise, Nina remembers important milestones in her clients’ lives and sends celebratory cards accordingly to mark birthday, anniversaries, and special occasions. What’s more, many of her clients become lifelong friends, Copyright Top Agent Magazine

“I am an advocate, and as a result, clients feel protected. To me, it isn’t just another transaction.” returning to her time and again over several transactions, ultimately passing along other family members and friends. Lending her spirit of service to her community, Nina is engaged in a variety of civic and charitable efforts. Not only is she a member of the Phoenix Association of Realtors,

but she also makes a concerted effort to attend local events to support her peers. Within her larger community, Nina has volunteered her time with a local assisted living facility, and supports charities for animal rescue and adoption agencies— and she has even adopted four rescue pets herself. Copyright Top Agent Magazine

In her time away from the office, Nina loves to travel both internationally and domestically, and enjoys spending time with her husband trying new restaurants, cooking, and going to the occasional art museum. As for the future, Nina has plans to continue to expand her business to other geographic areas, eventually

bringing on a dedicated team of professionals to further enhance her offerings and best serve her clients. With more than fifteen years of professional insight and a culture decidedly fixed on client-centric care, the future is sure be filled with sustained promise for Nina Cimini.

To learn more about NINA CIMINI,Â visit ClassicScottsdaleHomes.com, e-mail Nina.Cimini@cox.net, or call (480) 251- 5914 www.

Patti Thomas

Everyone dreams of having a job that isn’t work. Being able to get up every morning and make a living doing something you love is a pipe dream for many, but not multi-million dollar producing real estate agent, Patti Thomas. After leaving a management position with American Express to raise her son, Patti decided to try something different and re-entered the workforce in 2006 as a part-time House Flipper. By 2009, she loved helping people so much she made Real Estate not just her full time job, but her passion. With the kind of know-how that comes from years of successfully selling real estate, Patti can handle the most complicated real estate transactions. Patti is a dynamo, working full time (plus) at her profession. Clients can always reach her easily and count on a quick response.

“I love everything about real estate!” exclaimed Copyright Top Agent Magazine

Patti, a CDPE and CIAS certified agent. “I really can’t pick one thing. The people, looking at properties, matching buyers with sellers…I love and respect it all! I even enjoy the flexibility in the market. It gives you the ability to re-create yourself and your business.” I have a great team of industry experts and that makes it a pleasant experience for my Buyers and Seller.

To do an even better job for her clients and to stay ahead in a very competitive field, Patti continues to attend real estate seminars and classes. She holds the prestigious CDPE designation, placing her in the top 3% of REALTOR’S® nationwide.

People trust me with their single largest asset. “It’s a responsibility I take very seriously. I give 110% because I know their success is ultimately my success.”

“I love everything about real estate. The people, looking at properties, matching buyers with sellers…I love and respect it all!”

Though she primarily focuses on the luxury residential and personal investor segment of the market in the North Scottsdale and Fountain Hills area, Patti’s passion will take her throughout the Valley of the Sun if need be. A perfect example of this is when a retired military person, frustrated that he and his wife could not find an agent, turned to Patti to help them find a home.

“He lived on the west side and an injury had left him unable to drive,” Patti recalls. “I was so moved by his call that I took the time to help them find a home. What a humbling and rewarding experience.” That wasn’t the first time, nor would it be the last time Patti would help a soldier. An avid supporter of our troops, she donates a percentage of every sale she makes to Sentinels for

Freedom, a charity that supports military personnel when they come home.

Regardless of her client’s circumstances, Patti goes that extra mile to serve them. Her background with American Express makes for a good relationship with investors, and her years of flipping properties allows her to advise buyers of a home’s true potential.

“I can see from both sides (buyer and seller),” she says. “and I bring a wealth of knowledge.” She loves working with first time Buyers and helping them choose that first home. She feels protective and wants the purchase to be a positive experience.

In addition to her brainpower, Patti isn’t afraid to roll up her sleeves and get involved in repairs, if

necessary. She always makes sure to listen to her clients and treats each client as if they are her only client, even going as far as buying each one a meaningful house-warming gift they can use. It’s all part of what she calls the “best customer service in the industry.”

With both local and international buyers clamoring for her assistance, Patti uses multiple outlets to connect with her valued clients. Her website, pattithomassellsazhomes.com, offers listings and helps her quickly get information out there to the masses. She also utilizes QR codes, TourFactory.com to showcase homes virtually and has even been featured on the television

show “House Hunters.” With referrals being a big piece of her business, Patti is happy for the personal contact, loving the face-to-face time.

With a small team consisting of herself, an assistant and transaction coordinator, Patti has managed to be a 100% Club Member every year. In five years, she would like to expand on that success and add a couple more agents that are positive and know the appraisal process, while also keeping the same boutique work environment.

While real estate isn’t everyone’s dream job, Patti says it’s everything to her. “I love real estate,” she says. “It is the perfect career for me. It’s not a job!”

Patti Thomas ReMAX Excalibur Realty | Scottsdale, AZ (602) 538-0106 pattithomassellsazhomes.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine

FEBRUARY 2012

Scott Grigg

Scott Grigg For Scott Grigg of Realty Executives, real estate isn't just about the signing of papers or the transfer of keys. Because it affects people's lives so deeply, it is personal in a very tangible way.

He values technology and is a whiz at internet marketing, but he knows that it all comes down to one on one interaction. “People still buy homes from people they like,” he says. After earning a degree in business from Arizona State, Grigg embarked on a career in which he sold liquor to high-end resorts. It included two things he enjoyed—sales and interaction with people - but it lacked something. “I learned that I needed the freedom to determine my own destiny,” Grigg says. “Family and friends had encouraged me to get into the real estate industry. I had always Copyright Top Agent Magazine

enjoyed working with people, so I tried it, and I discovered I had a real passion for it.”

After receiving his license in 2004, Grigg started to climb the mountain and hasn't stopped since. In spite of the stalled economy across the nation, Grigg and his team logged $7 million in sales in 2009, and $14 million in 2010, and $28 million in 2011. Grigg attributes his continued success in part to his outlook and attitude. “I was fairly young for the real estate industry, and I think I bring a fresh, new look to it,” he says. “I look at things a little differently.” Among those innovations are increased use of targeted websites, social media and other technological advances that increase the efficiency of the advertising he does for clients.

Making a Connection Some things, though, are too valuable to forsake or change. “Integrity will always be extremely important, as will customer service,” Grigg says. Treating every client like he's the most important person in the world is good business and makes good sense. “We roll out the red carpet for our clients,” Grigg says. “Because of this, they refer us to their friends and family, and it just trickles on down.”

Grigg is a firm believer that personal contact says a lot about a real estate agent. He writes five thank you notes every day. Whether they go out to clients, to prospects or to fellow agents, they make a statement about who he is and what he values. His integrity, along with his mix of youth with old-fashioned good manners, cause clients

from all walks of life to trust him with their homes and money. He has diversified into all market segments, including short sales, land, investment properties and new builds. His bread and butter, though comes from the luxury market. Grigg and his team represent a builder in Paradise Valley, and they staff the subdivision seven days a week. The homes feature the Savant system, which utilizes wall mounted iPads and iTouch units to allow homeowners to control virtually everything in their homes remotely. They can close the garage door from miles away, or control the temperature from across the country in preparation for their return home. “They can be at the airport in New York and

“We roll out the red carpet for our clients. Because of this, they refer us to their friends and family, and it just trickles on down.” heat or cool the house,” Grigg says.” They can turn on the Jacuzzi or heat the pool so that everything is ready when they arrive.” The technology is included in the base price of the homes, and has been incorporated into every home in the subdivision, where the median price is $2 million. Although these homebuyers are looking for luxury and convenience, the basics still matter.

“What it really comes down to is finding out what's important to them,” Grigg says. “It saves their time and ours, because we can narrow things down and only show them homes that fit into their proper criteria.” In the end, whether it's $200,000 or $2 million, it's the relationship that Copyright Top Agent Magazine

counts. “They want someone they can trust and feel comfortable with,” Grigg says. “We're helping them with the biggest decision of their lives.”

Scott Grigg and The Grigg’s Group Realty Executives 3950 Lincoln Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253 (480) 540-5479 azfineproperties@cox.net www.ArizonaFineProperty.com

Shelby DiBiase

needed to be in real estate, so I took his advice, got licensed and started working at a model home center A master at serving her clients with where I met new people and starting her exceptional customer service building my client base.” skills, Shelby DiBiase got her start in real estate at the suggestion of After several up and down cycles one of her regular customers while of the market, Shelby is still in waiting tables. “I got married at a business and thriving, thanks in part really young age and had to drop to her ability to adapt to any type of out of college so I could work,” re- market. “I started with RE/MAX in calls Shelby. “One of my regular 2005, just before the market crash customers always asked what I was and I went into a little bit of a panic doing waiting tables. He told me I because, at that point, I was doing

Shelby DiBiase

really well, but I got lucky enough to get into REO’s working for Freddie Mac,” says Shelby. “Now, when a market changes, I really try to stay ahead of it. Anyone can sell real estate in a great market, but it takes a lot of hard work and persistence to get through the tough times. You have to be able to see the change and be willing to go with it.” Today, as the leader of the DiBiase Team at RE/MAX, Shelby serves primarily the North West Valley, such as Arrowhead, Glendale and Peoria, and has achieved great success over the course of her long career. “I’m extremely hard working. I’m always the first to show up and the last to go home,” says Shelby. However, it’s not just a strong work ethic that’s helped her rise to the top, but her

fierce negotiating skills, as well. “I know when to push for things or when to let it go. I like to put on my poker face and play hard ball anything to save my clients some money!” Shelby says. “I’m really good at it. I treat my clients’ money as if it were my own, so I go above and beyond to make sure they feel good about every decision in the transaction. I’m not satisfied with everything until my clients are.” One of the most rewarding aspects for Shelby is meeting new families and having the privilege of assisting them in one of the biggest transactions of their life. “I love meeting new people and really getting to know them. Being invited into their homes and seeing how they live is really exciting for me. It’s not just the same mundane Copyright Top Agent Magazine

thing day after day,” says Shelby. Outside her job in real estate, Shelby is a single mom of four kids and spends most of her free time hanging out with them and taking them to fun places, in addition to running and exercising. Shelby is also dedicated to giving back and donates a portion of every transaction to the Children’s Miracle Network. “I know what it’s like to lose a child and go through a hard time, so I’m very happy to give to that organization.”

As for the future of her business, Shelby says, “I’m almost where I want to be, but I’m working toward backing out of the listing side of it to be more of a mentor to the agents. I’ve got the structure down, I just want to perfect things and add to the team.” Shelby’s come a long way since her days of waiting tables but is grateful for the opportunity she had to finetune her customer service skills. “I came from basically nothing, with no college degree. I’m really proud of where I am today.”

For more information about Shelby DiBiase of The DiBiase Team, please visit www.dibiaseteam.com call 602.362.3051 or email Shelby@dibiaseteam.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine

TEMPLE BLACKBURN

TEMPLE BLACKBURN Before deciding to become a REALTOR®, Temple Blackburn of Scottsdale, Arizona, received on-the-job training from an elite agent who was among the top 1% producing real estate agents in the 1990s. “I was right out of college with a journalism degree, but decided that wasn’t the route for me,” says Temple. While exploring options for her career, a family friend who worked as VP at a local bank mentioned a client who needed an assistant. Copyright Top Agent Magazine

“She said, ‘I’ve got this really awesome REALTOR® who is looking for someone. I think it might be a good fit for you,’” says Temple, who had just quit her first job cold-turkey. That renowned REALTOR®, Joanne Bradley, had built a reputation for her work with high-end golf community real estate. “I met Joanne and she hired me on the spot,” says Temple. “I started the next day and was thrown right into the thick of it, working exclusively with high-end

clients.” Temple fell head-over-heels in love with real estate. Empowered by a mentor who invested time and resources in her, she set the foundation for 22 years of success to date.

started over, mindset and all.” On an educated prediction that short sales would permeate real estate for some time, Temple started her new business strategy with those types of transactions at its center. The result Following twelve years in high-end was a thriving solo real estate pracreal estate and countless achieve- tice bolstered by a strong reputation ments on other teams, Temple rein- and a deep database which helps vented herself in 2007. “I rebuilt my maintain her drive and focus today. business by myself while a single parent of three kids,” she says. “You “It’s been a blast,” says Temple. “I’ve want to talk motivation! I completely seen the ups; I’ve seen the downs; Copyright Top Agent Magazine

I’ve seen the good; I’ve seen the bad.” Her love of real estate, combined with her high energy level, fun personality and focus on each client’s unique needs are the ingredients of Temple’s ongoing success. “I’m a by-referral agent,” says Temple, who works primarily in North Scottsdale, Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Carefree, Cave Creek and Glendale. “Many of my referrals date back to doing short sales for so long,” she says. “I keep in touch with everyone I’ve worked with for 22 years.”

Temple’s greatest passions in real estate are meeting new people and building relationships with them. “I love helping my clients fulfill one of their biggest goals and dreams,” she says, describing the joy of guiding homebuyers through the process and helping them understand their options so they can make wise decisions. “Home buying and selling are extremely emotional and people need to be educated.” Temple possesses the resources, instincts and empathy to educate, inspire and guide them. Copyright Top Agent Magazine

gives homeowners the opportunity to get the most for their property,” she says. “I set high standards for myself, which helps my clients achieve their goals.” Her negotiation skills pay off for both buyers and sellers. “Nothing is better than the smiles and contentment of a client who just closed the sale or purchase of a lifetime.” These efforts have been noticed. Temple is a recipient of the HomeSmart Diamond and Double Diamond Awards and holds designations as a Master Certified Negotiation Expert (MCNE) and Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS). For Temple, the only thing rivaling the excitement of excelling in a fulltime real estate career is raising three daughters on her own. In her community, Temple also works closely with local women’s groups that network with each other, empower one another and give back in significant ways to their communities. “I want With her listings, Temple’s marketing to be a great example for my daughpackage reaches the ideal home buy- ters,” says Temple. “I’m trying to ers through a combination of videos, teach them that if you want it, go virtual tours, online listings and get it and make it happen!” After all, more. “My extensive marketing plan that is exactly what Temple did. To learn more about Temple Blackburn, visit www.TrustTempleHomes.com, email TrustTemple@cox.net or 602.410.1313 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

TIM HALMEKANGAS

“I’m not only a REALTOR®, I’m a principal in a development company here in North Scottsdale,” says Tim Halmekangas, adding that luxury home revitalizations are “the name of the game.”

The luxury home market in North Scottsdale, Arizona, requires not only strategic thinking but comprehensive understanding, unmatched networking and the utmost discretion. Million Dollar Listing Arizona, headed by Tim Halmekangas, provides clients and business partners all of that and more.

TIM HALMEKANGAS Copyright Top Agent Magazine

A consummate entrepreneur who has lived in the area for over 25 years, Tim entered luxury real estate in 2011 after several years of owning a high-end construction firm. “We survived the downturn and witnessed the trends changing,” he says of his time in construction. “I’ve walked through the fire of the last economic downturn and I understand the heartache felt by so many. Now more than ever, I have a deep respect for every dollar a client wants to spend or to retrieve from a home they wish to sell. And we work carefully and closely with

individuals to create the best possible outcome for their situation.” Consistently a Top Agent, the avid entrepreneur considers his deep market knowledge, personal approach and finely-honed negotiating skills to be a powerful resource when it comes to working with clients in DC Ranch, Silverleaf and throughout the Valley. “I’m not only a REALTOR®, I’m a principal in a development company here in North Scottsdale,” says Tim, adding that luxury home revitalizations are “the name of the game.” Working collaboratively, Million Dollar Listing Arizona allows homeowners selling a dated house to take advantage of his partnerships with design-

ers and contractors who can show buyers where a home’s opportunities lie. Together, Tim and his hand-picked team of associate partners create a unique luxury lifestyle network that complements his business model and brings unparalleled service to buyers and sellers. As a brand, Million Dollar Listing Arizona is drawing new recognition from elite clientele. But you won’t catch Tim or his tightly networked associates talking about the people they represent in affluent communities of Silverleaf, DC Ranch and throughout North Scottsdale. “Here we have affluence, including celebrities and sports figures,” says Tim. “Given the clientele we represent, we Copyright Top Agent Magazine

“Given the clientele we represent, we stay relevant, offering services they want and respecting their privacy.” stay relevant, offering services they want and respecting their privacy.” With technology continually changing, Tim and his team identify and provide necessary value that is unique to each client’s needs. Through the trust they build, they receive nearly 90% of their business from referrals. “People know that we’re here for them long after a sale.” Expertise also defines the team’s exceptionally well networked partners. “There are a lot of very good agents out there,” Tim says. “But our hand-picked associates are experienced, tuned-in and prepared to respond to the trends.” Among newer trends is the tendency for savvy young wealthy Millennials to enter high-end markets like Tim’s. “These buyers are seeking transitional living with more contemporary looking homes,” he says. It’s a trend that has ignited the increase in remodels and revitalizations. Copyright Top Agent Magazine

Noting that the remodeling trend will be around for a long time to come, the members of Million Dollar Listing Arizona tailor their services to a need. The result is explosive business growth and unmatched opportunities to provide custom service to buyers and sellers. These opportunities include linking clients to trusted networks of mortgage companies, designers, contractors and more whom Tim calls upon personally to meet his clients’ needs. “Lots of fires can come up; we pride ourselves on being able to temper people’s emotions from contract through closing and making sure they’re happy long after the sale.” For listings, the team provides a marketing package including staging consultations, professional photography and videography, drone video and international marketing online and through high-end publications like the New York Times and the Robb Report. “This area has a lot of seasonal homeowners, so we take a multifaceted approach to marketing.” To recharge, Tim enjoys spending time with his wife and three children whom, he says, “are growing up a lot faster than I’d like!” The future for Tim includes continually redefining his market over the next decade and blending in more lifestyle, design and construction partners to meet the complete needs of his clients. Finally, Tim insists that the team approach is not about him, but enhancing each associates’ strengths. “We complement each other. I want Copyright Top Agent Magazine

to impact their lives so they look back and remember how we all helped each other professionally while also impacting the lives of families who moved in and out of our community.”

Referring to the beauty of North Scottsdale, Tim says with his humble brand of confidence, “This is my backyard. I’ve raised my family here. I will always be here. And I help people by doing what I know I am good at.”

To learn more about Tim Halmekangas, visit MillionDollarListingAZ.com or go to Facebook, email tim@MillionDollarListingAZ.com call 480-440-6610 http://

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