CANADA 6-5-23

CANADA EDITION

The Daily Schedule of a SUCCESSFUL REAL ESTATE AGENT

Embracing Smart Homes: Does New Technology Really Increase Home Value?

FEATURED AGENTS

Welcome Home: WORKING WITH RELOCATORS IN TRANSITION

ADAM KOUBI DOMINIQUE PATRICE ÉRIC SAINT-JACQUES GEORGE PLESSAS MICHEL NAUD COVER STORY

BARRY KAZANDJIAN

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com http://www.topagentmagazine.com

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Welcome Home:

Working with Relocators in Transition People stage moves for all sorts of reasons.

From the joyous and pre-planned, to the unfortunate and unexpected, new chapters begin with the help of an agent. When you’re working with buyers from a different region, state, or country, the typical complications of a transaction can be compounded. So, what’s a savvy agent to do?

For starters, envision the big picture. Relocators have extra obstacles between them and 4

their dream home. They don’t necessarily know which neighborhoods are ideal for their lifestyle, what they should budget for utilities, what type of homeowner’s insurance is ideal, or how they can tour, let alone close, on a house from afar. All in all, it’s a tall order, but if you can manage a relocation transaction successfully, you could tap into a sizable pool of clientele. Think of it this way: if you’re the shining star of a relocator’s moving process, their word-of-mouth praise could be

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exponential. Likewise, a winning reputation within that client’s corporate sphere could lead to lucrative, stable referrals and partnerships for years to come. Here are a few key ways to help clients navigate the relocation process with minimal stress and maximum results.

Create a full-scale timeline for you and your client that makes expectations clear.

Moving is already one of life’s biggest stressors, but relocations have a dozen more moving parts that your average deal. Consider creating a master-plan of sorts to help you and your client visualize the steps required to achieve success in the midst of a relocation.

Even from afar, your client will be able to refer to the roadmap you’ve set. Likewise, this makes sure you and your client are on the same page regarding expectations, timelines, and checklists. Assemble an articulated, overarching gameplan also helps demystify the process and lower stress. Instead of clients wondering what’s next, what’s needed, who to call, and when to be ready—handy guidelines of your own devising will be at their fingertips.

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Attune your communication style so that nothing goes overlooked or miscommunicated.

Establish early on how your client prefers to communicate and which methods should be excluded. Also, make sure to outline what timeframes are ideal to communicate in, and how often they expect to hear from you with status updates or follow-ups. Some clients might prefer a more hands-off approach that lets you manage most details behind the scenes with updates only when progress is made. Most clients in the midst of a serious relocation, however, will prefer to be in touch more frequently. Customizing is key. If they prefer text messages and emails over calls, that’s a helpful detail to know from the outset. If they prefer face-to-face video chats or can only speak after business hours—those are also key parameters to work within. The less mystery and hassle, the better.

Be a local resource with vetted recommendations and vendors on-hand.

Relocating homeowners may not know the best neighborhoods and their amenities, or where the best school districts are, which areas are high-traffic, or where their dollar might stretch a little further. Identifying your clients’ goals can help narrow this field, but you’ll also want to be careful not to overwhelm them with information. After all, they’re taking on a huge life transition and making a move as an outsider. You’ll want to serve as a onestop-shop who can remove some steps and stress from their organizational obligations.

Have a contractor who can get a head-start on home projects while clients make the move?

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Excellent. Or, perhaps you can provide an out-of-state agent referral so that clients can sell their existing property in a timeline that works in conjunction with their new purchase. Make yourself a community expert and a connector, and you’ve won a client— and their referrals—for much longer than a single transaction.

Think outside the box when weighing variables.

Relocations aren’t your typical transaction.

You’ll need to do a bit more planning to avoid pitfalls along the way. For instance, have you considered how you’ll tour homes with clients if they live hundreds of miles away?

Are there time zone differences to factor in?

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If clients are relocating from another country, are there any special visa or naturalization considerations? How will their belongings travel? Are there pets to relocate? There are plenty of questions to ask and plan for, but the key is to be communicative and thorough up front. The more information and planning time you have, the smoother the transition will go.

There are certified real estate agent designations you can pursue that set you apart for your experience when it comes to relocations, but in lieu of those—arm yourself with the planning details and methods that will make your client a raving fan. In the process, you’ll up your game, create a happy client, and hopefully field similar business for years to come.

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BARRY KAZANDJIAN

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Operating primarily within central Montreal Island, Top Agent Barry Kazandjian assists all types of clients and price ranges, and has extensive experience handling higher-end luxury properties.

Diving into the world of real estate as prices began to soar, Barry Kazandjian became a force to be reckoned with in the Montreal market. With 17 years of experience under his belt, Barry was inspired by his sibling’s 30-year career and the increasingly sophisticated market. Despite handling high-volume sales – upwards of $50 million per year – Barry 8

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remains a solo agent, intent on providing a personalized experience to each of his clients. Operating primarily within central Montreal Island, Barry assists all types of clients and price ranges, and has extensive experience handling higher-end luxury properties. By concentrating on this central area, he is able to cater to his clients’ evolving needs and budgets as Top Agent Magazine

they transition through different stages of life. A testament to his exceptional service, a staggering 90% of Barry’s clientele is based on repeat and referral business. Though his signages and active listings do attract new clients, Barry consciously limits his marketing to ensure he can remain hands-on with every customer, providing an unparalleled level of service in an ever-changing industry.

What truly sets Barry apart as a real estate agent is his hands-on approach and dedication to providing exceptional service from start to finish. He explains, “I take care of their needs, from A to Z, and I’m present for all the visits, the negotiation of the offers, and finalizing the sale.”

This level of involvement leaves a lasting impression on his clients, which in turn results in repeat business and referrals.

A testament to his exceptional service, a staggering 90% of Barry’s clientele is based on repeat and referral business.

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What truly sets Barry apart as a real estate agent is his hands-on approach and dedication to providing exceptional service from start to finish. He explains, “I take care of their needs, from A to Z, and I’m present for all the visits, the negotiation of the offers, and finalizing the sale.”

He focuses on providing excellent service throughout the entire transaction process, wanting only what is best for his buyers and sellers. His unwavering commitment to his clients is what makes Barry stand out in the competitive world of real estate.

When it comes to marketing his listings, Barry emphasizes the importance of 10

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leveraging key platforms that homebuyers actively use, like social media and the MLS. “Most of the listings that I market are through the MLS,” he says. Barry understands that today’s tech-savvy clients are knowledgeable about where to find homes online and will ensure they’ve explored all options before making a decision.

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Barry is deeply involved in his community, contributing to charities and supporting the local Armenian school.

He believes in giving back to the community that helped shape him and does not hesitate to sponsor local events and organizations. Away from work, Barry

cherishes spending quality time with his children and staying active through sports. He enjoys playing basketball, tennis, and pickleball, participating in these activities four or five times a week.

Not only do these sports provide stress relief and keep him energized, but they

Over the years, Barry has successfully expanded his focus to include higher-end properties in central Montreal, but he delivers the same exceptional service no matter the property type.

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also help him maintain a valuable social network of clients and colleagues who share his passion.

Over the years, Barry has successfully expanded his focus to include higher-end properties in central Montreal.

He recently sold one of the city’s most

expensive homes this year and has multiple listings in Westmount ranging from $6 million to $25 million. But he delivers the same exceptional service no matter the property type. As Barry continues to progress in his career, he remains committed to providing hands-on and personalized support.

For more information about Barry Kazandjian with Remax 3000 Inc Montreal QC H4N 3C9 call 514-802-6789 or email barrykazandjian@gmail.com

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The Daily Schedule

of a Successful Real Estate Agent Everything you do should be intentional. A busy schedule isn’t the same thing as a productive schedule. Sometimes people write things like “find clients” on their to-do list, but finding clients isn’t actually a task. It’s a goal. Your daily schedule should be created with your goal in mind if you want to be a successful real estate agent, but a goal is too broad to add to your calendar.

Instead, you can break your goal down into projects, break those projects down into tasks, and schedule time in your calendar to complete each task. You’ll find that some of these projects will have an immediate impact on your business, and that those are the tasks that should be completed first.

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The fact is that as a real estate agent you can set your own schedule—if you’re not productive until 10am, then you don’t have to start your day until then. But having a daily schedule means that every day you have a running start on all those other agents who just “wing it.”

You don’t want to feel burned out and busy but like you’re simultaneously not getting a whole lot done. You can only keep up 70+ hour weeks for so long before your body breaks down and both your performance and income drop as a result.

Since every real estate agent’s operating hours look different, the following daily schedule is broken up by the suggested amount of hours you

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should spend on each task rather than specific times of day. However, certain tasks, like prospecting, appointments, and listing presentations should be performed at times when it’s most convenient for clients. If you’re an agent who likes to end their workday at 5 o’clock, remember that this is also the same time your clients are likely ending their day, meaning you might be unavailable for showings during the only time their schedule allows.

3.5 hours – This is that time of day that you should schedule all your appointments and listing presentations. If you are a newer agent, you might use this time instead to do more prospecting and appointment setting.

1 hour – Spend this time waking up, exercising either at home or at the gym, and eating breakfast.

2 hours – Now it’s time to unwind. Use this time to have dinner and spend time with you family. If you have children, this is usually the time of day when they are wrapping up homework assignments and getting ready for bed.

It’s important that you make time for these moments the same way you make time for your work.

2 hours – Use this time before you head to the office to develop a morning routine, if you haven’t already. You can meditate, journal, practice affirmations, or read personal development books to prepare for the day ahead.

1 hour – Once you’re at the office, spend this time to review the day’s schedule, catch up with your assistant or other colleagues, and check the latest industry news. This is also the time of day that you can role play to prepare for appointments.

1.5 hours – Spend this time prospecting and appointment setting.

1 hour – Now it’s time for a lunch break. If you’re a multitasker, you can also use this time to prepare for the afternoon and any meetings you have scheduled or connect with followers on social media.

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.5 hours – Look over the day’s schedule again and ensure you’ve checked every task off your to-do list. While you’re at it, be sure to review tomorrow’s schedule and goals too.

2 hours – Spend these last couple hours before you fall asleep to have quality time with your spouse or perform your self-care routines.

8 hours – Now it’s time for sleep—getting a full night’s rest is crucial if you want every day to be productive.

As you can tell, there’s still some wiggle room left in this schedule, but the important thing is to block out time every day so you can achieve your goals and help your clients.

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Laughs!

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Embracing Smart Homes:

Does New Technology Really Increase Home Value?

Technology and innovation move at a lightning-fast clip, so it can be hard to keep up with all the smart-home trends sweeping the market at a given time. From smart thermostats to security systems accessed through an app on your phone—there are endless options to customize and update your home for the modern era. But which, if any, of these smart home products add 16

value to property in a significant, worthwhile capacity? Especially with new generations of the same products released in quick succession, it can be hard to determine whether it’s worth it to take the plunge. With that in mind, we’ve conducted a deep-dive into the smart home options out there that make the most sense for your bottom line and real estate investments.

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Smart home amenities range in price and return.

There are certain smart home products that won’t break the bank while still adding lovely touches and time-saving features to your space. For instance, a smart thermostat may not run more than a few hundred dollars, but it can take so much of the guesswork and analog nuisance out of programming your home’s internal environment. That said, buyers selling properties with mid-range amenities like this can’t expect a windfall in return. While smart home features can certainly lure buyers and give the sense that a home is attractively modern (and thus move-in ready), it doesn’t mean that you’ll be reaping a sizable monetary reward for your foresight. Conversely, this reality doesn’t mean those smart options

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are without value entirely; it just means that the value of smart home options may be apparent in a different capacity, like luring a particular buyer or creating a desirable, sleek image for a property headed to market.

On the other hand, larger scale smart home amenities that are being left behind for the buyer—like a smart refrigerator or wired sound throughout the property—may be able to lure particular buyers who value high-end details. While it can be difficult to state definitively the value of smart home options, the rule tends to be that the more you put in, the higher the likelihood you’ll reap the investment you sow. Focus your smart home options on home appliances first, then work your way toward security, thermostat, and entertainment options.

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Smart home amenities capture the attention of buyers

Agents must know how to pitch the value of smart home options

Even if you have mostly opted for small or mid-range smart home options, you can still benefit from their presence in a property—even if they don’t inflate your bottom line as a result. Smart home amenities have the power to focus the attention of buyers, sending a clear signal that the previous owners were tech-forward and made an effort to upgrade the property for the contemporary era. Millennial or Gen Z buyers especially value these up-to-date modifications, and the presence of these desirable gadgets can create added interest and drive up value naturally. Likewise, featuring these options in listing photography can also drive interest from younger or high-end buyers looking for move-in ready spaces.

Remember that smart home features are relatively fresh to the market. While some new construction properties are equipped with these smart amenities, just as many homes on the market don’t offer these upgrades and modern flairs. This means that many buyers, of all ages even, aren’t familiar with the benefits and perks of these options, let alone how they’re operated. Before you can derive value from a smart home or smart home features, you’ll need to understand a product’s proper usage, cost, and benefits. Do your homework regarding what smart home features can offer in terms time or cost savings, and be able to show prospective buyers how easy these objects are to use, as well. Do both, and you’ll be in proper command of what smart home features can offer buyers and pitch them accordingly.

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ADAM KOUBI Building and growing an entourage in the pulsating global real estate market is what drives Adam Koubi. After working in commerce, financial services in the private sector, followed by esteemed jobs with the government for seven years. He decided after his last assignment working with the diplomatic area, to have more freedom in his work and lifestyle. That burning desire for greater autonomy led him to a full-time immersion in the captivating realm of real estate. He obtained his license in 2018 and hasn’t looked back. I wanted more shaking hands, more meeting people face to face,” he explains.

“Being an entrepreneur has given me more time to build the business I am passionate about.” Adam is associated with eXp Realty, which he describes as “the disruption of the real estate industry and its natural evolution.” He discovered the brokerage during his business trip in Mexico, where he initially planned on staying for three weeks, yet that quickly turned into a year. “I love Latin America. I love doing business with people from different parts of the world.”

Within the model of eXp, Adam says it’s helping him as an entrepreneur to develop his business globally. He adds “In my previous brokerage, I had a lot of limitations. I wanted to develop my brand worldwide and that is very complicated in a traditional brokerage”. Now that I found this brilliant model “I am developing a Club of elite brokers and agents in twenty-six countries,” he says.” For him, the notion of entourage takes on new meaning—a carefully cultivated alliance of individuals with a shared vision, fueled by ambition and the pursuit of excellence and success. Located in Gatineau/Ottawa, Adam serves his region, Québec markets with his team, as well as operating in Mexico through agreements with business partners. His repeat business ranges between 60-70%, and his referral at 70-75%—an impressive feat considering he rarely advertises.

“The unique thing about me is my clients I help and the partners I work with,” Adam explains. “They trust me. They like how I do business. Adam strives to attain

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excellence through his business and his sphere loves his values. Adam says “I have at heart helping individuals & entrepreneurs we connect with, achieve the ideal of sovereignty. Not in the pursuit of money but in the pursuit of abundance in meaningful work and meaningful worldwide relationships.” His extensive knowledge in marketing is another key asset to his business.

While working with the government, Adam expanded his proficiency in digital marketing, a skill he continues to cultivate even when he’s not working. “I love different marketing strategies, planning for projects, and photography,” he says. “You know you’re doing something you love when you’re not feeling the time passing. His involvement in the community is a direct tie to this. “My purpose is to help entrepreneurs achieve their ideal freedom. I help them to be independent,” Adam says. “Striving to be elites in the industry, and the best way to do this is to remain an international community. Be strong together.”

As for his future, Adam is going to stay on course and continue to build the Club and connections he worked so hard to reach. By using his reputation, resources, and his partners’ experiences, he is confident to build one of the best communities globally.

For more information on Adam, call him at Gatineau: 819-303-0995; Ottawa: 613-263-8227; Mexico WHATSAPP: +52-984-136-8006; or email him at adam@adamkoubi.com 19 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

DOMINIQUE PATRICE In the high-energy world of real estate, Dominique Patrice’s unique background gives him an edge. Swapping his nightlife management job for a career in real estate 19 years ago, Dominique successfully balanced both roles until he could fully commit to his newfound passion. His dedication and drive have carried him through nearly two decades of the real estate hustle, earning him a formidable reputation in the industry. Dominique's team provides support, allowing him to focus on the face-to-face interactions that he excels in. He's known for his impressive work ethic, like knocking on 70 doors in a single day and generating leads through his proactive approach. Serving the Outaouais and Quebec region, Dominique prides himself on his local expertise, specializing in townhouses, bungalows, and larger homes.

His dedication even extends to a willingness to cover a wide territory to accommodate clients' needs. In this ever-evolving market, Dominique's adaptability and commitment are just what today's homebuyers and sellers need.

Dominique's exceptional service sets him apart as a real estate agent. With a staggering 47% of his business coming from referrals, he's truly made an impact on his clients. “You only buy a house a few times in your life, it’s one of the biggest steps you can take, and I love guiding people through this time,” he explains. He focuses on truly understanding his clients' needs, even in complex situations, and goes above and beyond to help them find the perfect home.

But Dominique's commitment to providing value extends beyond just finding the right property; he also carefully evaluates potential issues to ensure that his clients make informed decisions. He doesn't shy away from tough conversations and offers full transparency. His high-level client care, trustworthiness, and dedication are the foundation of his thriving referral-based business.

Actively involved in his community, Dominique 20

supports various charitable initiatives. For over a decade, he participated in the "Drop Zone" fundraising event, raising money for summer camps dedicated to helping children with physical and mental disabilities.

This allowed parents to have some respite and provided a fun, safe environment for the children. He has also personally visited the camps, sharing heartwarming moments with the kids and witnessing the difference that his efforts make. Outside of charity work, Dominique enjoys small acts of kindness, such as sending money anonymously to people across Canada, hoping to brighten their day. He also occasionally covers a part or the entire bill for other diners at restaurants, without them knowing who paid. Dominique cherishes the freedom his job provides, allowing him to take vacations with his family and manage his time as he pleases.

Dominique's plan for the future of his business is to double his income and improve his work-life balance by investing in himself, expanding his team, and increasing their skillset. He aims to focus on repeat and referral business from existing clients, putting his resources in the right place to attract more customers and foster strong relationships.

For more about Dominique Patrice, please call 819-790-8830 or email dominique.patrice@videotron.ca Top Agent Magazine

Easy Blog Topics for Your Real Estate Blog Today, blogging looks a lot different than it did back in 2007, when the platform was just beginning to take off. Successful bloggers don’t choose blog topics on a whim. They think strategically and develop pillar content that their target audience will come back to again and again.

Real estate bloggers should be less concerned with whether the same post already exists (it does) Top Agent Magazine

than with how they can be more informative and helpful than their competition. Your personality is likely the thing that your clients connect with, and your blog is another place where you can let it shine.

Pillar content refers to those evergreen posts that never get old because they are always timely.

Think about those questions that you’ve had to

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answer a hundred, if not thousands of times— that’s your pillar content. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could direct your clients to a blog post or, better yet, they discovered the answer on your website rather than you having to constantly repeat yourself?

Or maybe you helped a client sell their house for much more than they were expecting by conducting a series of small and inexpensive renovations. Tell your readers how you did it.

Evergreen Content

Your clients are likely new to the area. Inform them about upcoming community events or mom-and-pop shops they may have never heard of. Are there hiking trails or parks nearby?

What’s the best place to grab a cup of coffee before work or a beer after? You can spotlight these places regularly as a monthly series.

This should really make up the bulk of your content. The possibilities are endless, and you could easily come up with an entire year’s worth of content with only a few hours of brainstorming.

Here are some examples: You could provide your readers with a list of questions they should ask when interviewing a realtor, the steps to becoming a real estate investor, real estate facts all first-time homeowners should know, steps new parents should take to prepare their home for a baby, recommended vendors for home maintenance, or common real estate terms defined.

You could explain to your readers what they need to know about home staging, which home renovations add the most value to their home, how to research schools or crime rates in specific neighborhoods, what a home association is, or how to start flipping houses and buying foreclosures.

Case Studies Sometimes realtors work with a client for years before they are ready to buy a home. Personal finance blogs are a thing for a reason. People want to see exactly how someone else achieved a shared goal. If you have a close relationship with a client who you helped become a homeowner, consider interviewing this client and writing up a case study that shows exactly how the two of you worked together to achieve this goal.

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Stay Local

There are plenty of real estate news outlets that will be posting about the state of the market—but they won’t be talking about your specific community, and that’s where your blog comes in.

Of course, if you only blog about community functions or properties on the market, then as soon as that event is over or that listing is sold, your content ceases being useful.

The best real estate blogs balance their content by posting a little about all the above. Maintaining a high-quality blog means your prospective clients don’t need to visit several websites to have their questions answered because you’ve done the work for them. It’s a tool that helps you make a great first impression.

If you still need help coming up with blog topics for your real estate blog, consider sending a survey out to your clients. You can send it via email and post it on social media. Ask your clients what real estate problems they need help solving and write your content with their responses in mind.

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ÉRIC SAINT-JACQUES Since getting his start in real estate 19 years ago, Éric Saint-Jacques has distinguished himself as a trusted and knowledgeable guide for buyers and sellers alike.

Éric serves the Laurentian Mountains in Quebec, outside of Montreal. “This area is growing fast, and the population has tripled in the last 20 years,” Éric says.

“It was previously known primarily as a destination for skiers, but now people are living permanently here more and more.”

The area still boasts fantastic skiing and natural beauty in addition to its proximity to Montreal.

An impressive 90% of Éric’s business comes from repeat and referral clients, a testament to the strong relationships he builds. “Clients keep coming back because of the quality of my service,” Éric explains.

“Every client I have who has worked with other brokers before comes away impressed with the difference in my service. I put all my energy and efforts towards meeting and exceeding their expectations.” Éric invests time and effort into maintaining those relationships, staying in touch via email and phone calls to let them know he’s thinking of them. “I also send them presents after the transaction,” he adds. “I feel it’s part of my duty to keep in touch with my clients, and that’s why I get their referrals.”

When it comes to marketing his listings, Éric uses a comprehensive approach that ensures optimum exposure. “I work with excellent photographers and have well-written text to go along with the listings,” he says. He promotes his listings on Facebook, as well as emailing and calling his extensive list of contacts to get the word out. “All those things combine together to bring results for my clients,” Éric says.

The results bear this out, and Éric averages about 40-50 transactions a year.

Looking toward the future, Éric says, “I want to start building a team. Right now I’m at the maximum of my capacity working alone with one admin. I want Top Agent Magazine

the team to remain small so I can preserve the quality of the service I’m giving. I’ve seen people go with bigger teams, and they lose that characteristic of the service that they’re giving. I don’t want to do that; I want to have a small team so I can be hands-on all the time with my clients.”

When he’s not working, Éric enjoys skiing and playing guitar in a band.

Above all, Éric looks forward to continuing to connect clients with the real estate solutions that are right for them. “I love helping people and interacting with them,” Éric says. “Real estate is a lifestyle, and I love helping people achieve their dream.”

To find out more about Éric Saint-Jacques, you can reach him at 514-993-0521 or esaintjacques@royallepage.ca 23

GEORGE PLESSAS George Plessas of Montréal, Québec, has established himself in the real estate industry by combining a penchant for education with an unwavering dedication to a pristine reputation amongst clients and colleagues alike. “I’ve done every kind of deal in the industry – commercial, residential, bulk sale, industrial and multi-residential – from $60,000 all the way up to $23 million. I have made a place for myself in the real estate industry and enjoy working closely with my colleagues.” George has many accolades under his belt, including the Master Silver Production Award for 2008, 2016, 2020, and 2021, the Master Ruby Production Award for 2009, 2010, 2014, 2017, 2018, and 2019, and the Master Emerald Production Award for 2011 and 2015. He was also the Centurion Award Winner for 2012 and 2013.

Prior to entering real estate, George enjoyed a six year career in civil service. “I was working for the Sociéte de l’Assurance Automobile to Québec a department of the Ministry of Transport here in Québec,” he recalls.

“I started as a driving examinator and eventually held a position as a director, but I found my true calling in 2007 when I took my real estate courses.” During the class, George met a like-minded rookie broker Aida Nsouli , and the two have built their businesses side-by-side over the past sixteen years. Today, the duo serves the entire Greater Montréal area alongside Century 21 Groupe Kafena Inc., and they average $11.5 million in annual volume servicing a large geographic swathe that includes the north shore and southern territories with an emphasis on metropolitan areas (Montreal, Laval, North-Shore, South-Shore).

George leverages several platforms and tools afforded to him by his brokerage, creating a full marketing campaign for each property that includes traditional and digital pipelines: brochures, open houses, newspaper advertisements

(“Homes & Land” for luxury listings), and social media platforms. Despite this broadly cast advertising strategy, George attributes the bulk of his success to constant mentorship and guidance. “Word of mouth advertising always works best, and the only way to build up a bank of loyal customers is to consistently give proper customer service, guidance, and solid advice.” With nearly two decades in the industry, George has built a foundation of repeat and referral clientele which he regularly contacts through prospecting systems and annual client appreciation events. “I like to reach out to clients for birthdays and holidays, or reminders about mortgage renewals. My favorite part about my work is being able to meet new people, and help them enjoy their new homes.”

George’s passion for sharing his hard earned knowledge and expertise has spurred him toward an additional calling! “Teaching is definitely one of my vocations,” he exudes. “I like teaching and helping rookie brokers coming into the industry. I think it’s important that we assist the younger generation, and since 2019, I’ve taught the real estate program for Champlain College Saint-Lambert.”

While he consistently prioritizes quality service and client satisfaction, George is hoping to expand his impact in the industry by working closely with brokers as a mentor or agency executive officer in his own agency in the near future.

When he’s not growing his enterprise or teaching young brokers, George has served in the past as the President of the Hellenic Real Estate Brokers Association in Québec, and he is a notable figure in the Hellenic Community of Greater Montréal. Two or three times a year, George escapes the busy world of real estate by traveling abroad with his wife, Voula. “Travel is my passion and my lifelong hobby: going somewhere new with my wife and sitting on the beach, just enjoying a good glass of wine and conversation.”

To learn more about George Plessas, email g_plessas@yahoo.com or call 514-998-2871 24

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How to Throw a Client Appreciation Event No One Will Forget Clients are the foundation of any flourishing enterprise, and this is particularly true in real estate—an industry where relationships are central. Demonstrating your gratitude to former and current clientele is a winning way to cultivate your network, while upping your potential referrals and creating face-to-face time with the individuals that make your business tick. Keep in mind a few of the tips below as you stage a client event that will positively impact your brand, while conveying your appreciation to those who have driven your business all year.

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Supersize Your Guest List Inviting former clients to your client appreciation bash is only the first step in crafting your guest list. To really expand your sphere of influence, invite neighbors, local business owners and staff, old friends, family, associates, fellow alumni from your alma mater, and the like. Think of your client appreciation event as a celebration of business bringing people together. Expand your guest list and you’ll create a coveted, in-person opportunity to forge relationships and broaden your reach.

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An appreciation event may be geared toward your clients, but if done correctly it can also provide a fun-filled venue for your employees to enjoy a morale boost.

Consider A Sponsor Client appreciation events shouldn’t skimp on the details, but you don’t want to break the bank, either. To defray the cost of a client appreciation event, consider enlisting local businesses as co-sponsors. Not only does this approach ease the price tag of throwing a party, but it also creates an easy partnership between you and other entrepreneurs—widening your database and making for a memorable and generous event.

ship, or the Super Bowl is coming up quick, tailoring client appreciation events to already-established happenings can create an organic tie-in and boost your attendance numbers in the process. Throw a gingerbread house decorating party during the holiday season, or throw a barbeque during the Fourth of July. Capitalizing on a naturally occurring theme creates the opportunity for comradery between you and your guests.

Apply A Personal Touch

Don’t Forget To Reward Your Employees An appreciation event may be geared toward your clients, but if done correctly it can also provide a fun-filled venue for your employees to enjoy a morale boost, as well.

By encouraging your employees to cut loose at this celebratory event—instead of having them run interference all night—your team will feel appreciated and validated, too.

Theme Your Event Whether the area’s high school sports team has made it to the state champion26

Invitations may seem like a small detail, but they shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all. Consider handwriting some of your invitations for the clients you remember well, or for business associates who you regularly partner with. Personalizing invitations to key players is the surest way to a confirmed RSVP. Cultivating your network of professional connections is an essential part of driving business, and client appreciation events not only create memories between you and your clientele, but also inspire your to step back, reflect, and give thanks to those who keep your business booming.

Top Agent Magazine

Top Agent Magazine

MICHEL NAUD Michel Naud of Mont Tremblant, Québec, has built his legacy by offering a highly customized white-glove service to the luxury markets in the ski town that is regularly voted as the premier resort in North-East America. He combines a professional athlete’s drive and dedication with formal business education and over thirty years in real estate.

“I can’t take too much credit, because I offer a beautiful product. A lot of people want to live here, or want a second property here – it’s the go-to place from Montreal and Ottawa. It’s a ski season place, a golf membership place, and I’m a big believer that what my clients are really buying is not just a home – it’s a lifestyle.”

Prior to formally entering the world of real estate, Michel was a hockey player with the Ottawa University program and was previously recruited by the Montréal Canadiens. “I reinvented myself in 1996 while working as a golf instructor in Mont Tremblant,” he recalls.

“A woman I knew was in marketing, and she said they were looking for real estate salespeople. I had my own private investments since 1991, so it seemed natural.”

Since then, Michel has grown a book of business that is over fifty percent repeat business, and he leads Groupe Naud of Engel & Völkers using a structure that is 100% commission based, with a full-time executive assistant and three qualified brokers (one of whom is his son, who already has near ten years of experience). “They make use of my mentorship, but we all take our own listings and occasionally co-list. I feel like I’m only forty-two, so I plan to continue on for quite a while because I love what I do, but one day I aim to hand things off to them.”

Michel prioritizes relationships and experiences above any quantitative metrics, but his penchant for organic advertising sees him clear roughly sixty transactions annually. In addition to purchasing the center spread in his local newspaper every month, and leveraging Top Agent Magazine

the robust digital footprint of his team members, Michel grounds his business practices in an interpersonal networking strategy. “I believe in a kind of subliminal publicity. We do newsletters and social media postings, but mostly I’m involved in the community. Whenever I go out at the golf club or into a restaurant, many of the people there have bought from me at some point in time. It’s not a very big place – my golf club is a kind of second office during the summer.”

This combination of local notoriety, daily rigor, and pristine track record of client satisfaction has earned Michel a place in Engel & Völkers’ selective Private Office Club as one of the most productive real estate brokers in Engel & Völkers’ worldwide network, and one of the twenty-five best brokers in all of Québec across all brokerage firms. “I don’t really need to work anymore, but I like to meet new people and be in the marketplace. It keeps me active and outdoors, plus it’s such an exciting product and I like to maintain my reputation. I am working on one of the most important listings in Canada: Mario Lemieux has elected to sell his $25 million castle with me. So I still have plenty to do and a lot to look forward to.”

For more about Michel call +1 819-429-0674, email michel.naud@evrealestate.com or visit his website: michelnaud.com https://

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