Colorado 6-4-18

COLORADO EDITION

Are You a VALUE-ADDED AGENT? Tips on Breaking into the LUXURY MARKET

How to Overcome Your WORKPLACE FEARS Tough Prospecting Environment Creates Need for NEW SOLUTIONS

COVER STORY FEATURED AGENTS

LINDA CLURE CHADD ZIEGLER

MIKE MacGUIRE

COLORADO EDITION

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MIKE MacGUIRE

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LINDA CLURE

LINDA CLURE CONTENTS 4) ARE YOU A VALUE-ADDED AGENT?

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CHADD

Growing up in t in the Vail Valle commanded an his hometown a Valley in 1986 a hotel chain. He w live in Paris and Train as part of a started out in re CHADD ZIEGLER while also pursu business. In 2002, he became General M and helped develop a renowned Fraction Soon enough, he recognized the limitless made a leap of faith, transitioning to th 2007. Since then, Chadd has established the greater Vail community’s real estate built a steadfast reputation for personaliz community-centered outlook that delivers

17) HOW TO OVERCOME Serving Vail Village, the Vail Valley, YOUR WORKPLACE FEARS

an region, Chadd is part owner of Christian a small, dynamic team. There, he’s built a 13) TIPS ON BREAKING 20) TOUGH PROSPECTING repeat and referral clientele—a sizable co INTO THE LUXURY ENVIRONMENT reliabilityCREATES and staying power as an agent. detail and creative problem-sol MARKET NEED FOR attention NEW toSOLUTIONS drivers of his success to date. Considering resort management, he’s long cultivated his needs, and bring a concierge-level service t “A client gave me feedback recently that $300,000 deal or a $15 million-dollar dea Phone 888-461-3930 | Fax 310-751-7068 level of detail and integrity,” he explains. “ mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com to have figured out that niche in life where No portion of this issue may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior consent the publisher. everyofday.

WhetherTop I’mAgent working with a fir Magazine is published by Feature Publications GA, Inc. Although precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy of published a multi-million-dollar property, I love help materials, Top Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. ria, and negotiating a great deal for them.”

To subscribe or change address, send inquiry to mag@topagentmagazine.com.

Published in the U.S.

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To keep in touch with his clients, Chadd’s and organic. In addition to keeping in touc terly newsletters adsMagazine on local televisi Topand Agent relationship with his clientele that lasts l

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com

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Are You a Value-Added Agent?

I’ll bet if I asked ten real estate agents, all ten would answer ‘yes’ to that question. Yet, when I ask agents how they are value-added, they say things like: • I communicate regularly with my clients.

• I have a written listing presentation.

• I am honest.

• I am trustworthy.

Are these ‘value-added’ attributes? Or, does the client expect these attributes and services?

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Are these exceptional services or average services? I’m writing this article at the beginning of a New Year. It’s a perfect time to re-assess your professionalism and master being that ‘value-added’ agent.

Client Expectations are Higher than Ever Unfortunately, too many real estate agents assume they are ‘value-added’ because they are providing the services they want to provide— Top Agent Magazine

the services they think the client values. However, there’s a real client out there, and the client has different expectations. How do I know that? Because so few agents regularly survey their clients. In fact, when I’m speaking to an audience, I survey them, and find that less than 25 percent gather after-sale surveys! So, the majority of agents don’t know if the services they are providing are average or exceptional.

Why Bother Being Exceptional?

• Because you want to set yourself apart.

• You want to create client loyalty.

• You want to create at least 50 percent of your business from client referrals (the latest National Association of Realtors survey Profile of Members found that the average Realtor got only 18 percent of their business from referrals. That’s a hard and expensive way to run a real estate business!

• Because you want to run a more pleasant, profitable business.

Four Actions Value-Added Agents Take How can you identify value-added agents? By their actions. Here are four actions I believe show agents that are above just ‘average’. The principle here is:

Watch the actions, not the words.

If I were a manager, or a seller or a buyer, and I wanted to find a value-added agent, here’s what I would look for: Top Agent Magazine

1. Has a database and populates it This agent is committed long-term to his clients and to his business. He uses a contact management program (CRM) to manage ‘leads’, so none are lost — and clients do not feel neglected. After all, it takes much longer today to convert a ‘lead’ to a sale than it used to take.

Actively using and maintaining a CRM means the agent is committed to forming long-term professional relationships over time.

Other demonstrable actions concerning the agent’s CRM are: • Has a rapid-response method to deal with Internet inquiries and other inquiries via email. (The average client expects a response within eight hours—but a recent survey showed the average agent responded in 50 hours!).

• Has a method to follow up on all leads until they ‘buy or die’. As a client, that means I won’t get lost. As a seller, it means my agent will follow up with all leads and give it 100 percent to sell my home.

2. Invests in the technology and follow-up pros have This agent makes every decision based on their vision of their career at least three to five years in the future. For example, instead of selling someone a house anywhere just to get a sale, my value-added agent sells only in an area they define as their ‘target area’. That way, they’ll get known, and can build on their reputation.

The value-added agent has the ‘guts’ to turn down business! Because they care more about the well-being of the client than getting one grimy commission check, they learn to 5

‘tell the truth attractively’, and work harder to retain the client than to make one commission.

Adding those Client Benefits to your Dialogue

3. Works for referrals, not just sales I said the agent learns to ‘tell the truth attractively’, even if the buyer or seller may not want to hear it. For example, if it’s in the best interests of the seller to list their home at a lower price, the value-added agent has the strategies and the statistics to prove that the seller won’t be well served by pricing higher.

Of course, it’s not enough to actually take these actions. You need to explain to the client why these actions are in their best interests, and how you stand apart from most agents by employing them. Why? Because your client won’t know you run your business so professionally.

And, the client probably doesn’t know most agents don’t run their businesses this way!

And, this value-added agent has the intestinal fortitude to walk away if they know the home will not sell at the client’s desired price (but doesn’t have to too many times because they create a stellar reputation amongst their clientele).

TIP: Always show your clients, don’t just tell them. You do have a Professional Portfolio and evidence on your website, don’t you?

4. Keeps the buyers and sellers’ best interests in mind Our value-added agent makes every decision to grow trust, not just to make a fast buck. For example, the agent sits down with a prospective couple and finds out they can’t purchase right away and creates a plan with them to save for their down payment. Then, the agent keeps in touch over a period of months, offering helpful information and market updates.

Put Yourself to the Test

How many of these actions P. S. Managers and team leaders—two tips do you exhibit?

What do you want to work on to become a true 1. Call each of your agents’‘value-added’ phone mails.

What’s the impre agent?

Are they professional? Do they state the company n TIP: represent your culture and image?

Managers, give your agents a 2. Create a quick class in phone messaging using the ‘test’ on these four points.

In other words, this agent practices seller or buyHow many pass? this blog. er agency representation, not ‘agent agency’!

Copyright ©, 2016 Carla Cros

Carla Cross,CRB, CRB, MA, is theoffounder andSeminars, president Carla Cross & Carla Cross, MA, President Carla Cross Inc.,ofand Carla real management and sales.

Herspecializing internationally s Crossestate Coaching, is an international speaker in realbest-selling estate management and Running business planning for all professionals. agents, Up and in 30 Days, is real nowestate going into its 5thHer edition sevenexperience internationallyas published books, including Up and Running in 30 Days , vast a top-selling agent and award-winning manage and 20 agent and management programs have helped thousands of real sales podium, blending her musical background with her proven estate professionals to the greater productivity and teaches profitability.someone Reach Carla strategies (she uses piano AND even to at play—f 425-392-6914 or www.carlacross.com. and practical). Find out more at www.carlacross.com.

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MIKE MacGUIRE 7

Top Agent Mike MacGuire leads a tightknit team of Real Estate Brokers in Colorado Springs, serving the greater Colorado Springs region—from Woodmoor to Broadmoor and everything in between.

MIKE MacGUIRE A Colorado Springs native, Mike MacGuire, a Partner/Owner of The Platinum Group, Realtors, has built a twenty-seven-year career in real estate. After transitioning from his work with finance, Mike sought a high-energy field that would challenge his entrepreneurial spirit while allowing him to serve others.

Naturally, real estate made for an ideal fit.

Since earning his license, Mike has carved out an impressive track record, last year generating $43 million in production. Over the course of his multi-decade industry tenure, he’s established a proven reputation for honesty, follow-through, and value that lasts long after the closing table.

Today, Mike leads a tightknit team of the top Real Estate Brokers in Colorado Springs. His 8Copyright Top Agent Magazine

team caters to the greater Colorado Springs region—from Woodmoor to Broadmoor and everything in between. Mike consistently manages to drive roughly 90% of his business through repeat and referral clientele—a tribute to the authentic relationships he forges along the way. In measuring his success thus far, Mike’s professional style is driven by patience, integrity, and forthright communication. “It is truly all about looking out for my clients’ best interests ahead of my own,” he explains. “I never have an expectation of time, because it’s all about the timing that makes my clients most comfortable. I’m honest and direct. I never push or rush—but I always make sure my clients are well prepared. I don’t see what I do as sales. I consult and advise and help people make educated decisions.”

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To keep in touch with his wide network of past clients, Mike stays connected through traditional means, like birthday cards, but also makes an effort to add value to his relationships for the long haul. To accomplish this, he sends out a vital, informative newsletter to continue educating clients on market trends and relevant data. He also remains a resource for buyers and sellers long after the transaction is complete. From advising on renovation options to suggesting vetted contractors, Mike continues to fulfill his role as trusted advisor.

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When it comes to listing properties, Mike’s marketing efforts are comprehensive and speak to his attention to detail. “Buyers are using technology to eliminate and select, but more often than not—to eliminate,” he says.

“That’s why you can’t cut corners. You’ve got a split second to catch a prospective buyer’s attention.” To make the most of those first impressions, Mike enlists professional staging services, professional real estate photography, and drone video work to ensure that listings are immersive and striking in their clarity.

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Likewise, he ensures that online access to listed properties is straightforward and easily accessed so that no buyers are deterred.

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To give back to his hometown community, Mike is involved in a variety of local charitable efforts, including the Colorado Springs Rescue Mission, Catholic Charities, and Marion House. He also plays an active role in Peak Producers, a group of the top 10% of area brokers who focus on collective giving—from completing clean-ups along roadways and sponsoring families in need, to volunteering at the local soup kitchen and donating to charities that provide assistance to community Top Agent Magazine

members facing hardship. In his remaining free hours, Mike most enjoys fly fishing, the occasional round of golf, and exploring Colorado’s rugged mountain communities. “Being outside and taking in the all the sightseeing and history of our state is my absolute favorite pastime,� he says.

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Looking toward the future, Mike plans to continue growing his imprint steadily, with hopes to build on existing relationships and use his role as an agent to serve his community at large. Now, with twenty-seven years of intrepid experience behind him and a mindful eye on the path ahead, Mike Copyright Top Agent Magazine 11

MacGuire considers the aspects of his career he values most. “Every real estate transaction is as unique and different as the people involved,” he reflects. “I love the challenge of finding new ways of doing what we do, but most of all it’s important to recognize

that 95% of what we do as agents is manage one of the most stressful, emotional times in a person’s life. Being there to guide my clients through, so that when we close they’re grateful we were by their sides—it’s so rewarding.”

To learn more about Mike MacGuire email Mike@BuyWithMike.com, visit BuyWithMike.com, www.

https://www.facebook.com/Tara-Garkowski-Realtor-277067815654179/timeline/ call (719) 660 – 6793, or visit his Facebook page here.

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Tips on Breaking Into the Luxury Market So, you’ve been doing residential real estate for a while and you’re looking to up your game. A lot of people consider going into the luxury market at that point. Or, maybe you started in the business always intending to specialize in luxury properties and were just learning the ropes before you tackled one of the industry’s most lucrative specialties.

No matter the reason, the luxury market is a whole new ballgame and you don’t want to go into it unprepared. First impressions are everything in this business, especially when you’re dealing with wealthy clients and investors. Here are few things to consider if you’re thinking of going from starter homes to estates.

LEARN HOW THE LUXURY MARKET AND CLIENTELE ARE DIFFERENT As experienced as you might be in traditional real estate, the luxury market is almost like starting at ground zero. Everything from the buyers, to the sellers, and obviously, the properties themselves, will take a new approach.

One of the key ways it is different is that the feeling of exclusivity truly matters. You will be doing more targeted marketing through high-end networking groups as wealthier clients tend to be more comfortable when Top Agent Magazine

you come recommended by people they trust to have the highest standards. There are no mass-marketed open houses. It’s all about private showings. Although professional, one-on-one service is key in this business no matter what the price point, wealthier buyers are accustomed to concierge-style service, and the way to stand out from the rest is to provide service that goes above and beyond what even they expect.

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LOOK THE PART If you’re thinking of going the luxury route, creating high-end branding and marketing yourself properly is of the utmost importance.

That includes your own personal look. You and your business will need a total makeover, or at least a major upgrade. It might even be time to buy that new car you’ve always wanted. It is also key that all of your marketing materials are high end. So start gathering a stable of highly-trained professionals,

photographers, and stagers as every aspect of the service network you’ll be providing complements the brand that you’re selling.

It’s well worth the time to get all of this nailed down and seamless before you even think of entering the luxury market. Another good investment? You want to have an indepth knowledge of all the latest real estate technologies and innovations. Don’t just look the part, actually be on the cutting edge.

SELL THE LIFESTYLE Yes, you’re selling a home, but you’re also selling a lifestyle, which in luxury is almost more important. When someone is spending millions of dollars on a home, they want to see the fabulous life they will be living in their new digs. Really highlight amazing party spaces, unique one of kind features,

and amenities. As with anything of value, things that make a property rare, will automatically make it more appealing to people who can afford the best. It also helps people connect more emotionally with a home, giving it even more value than if you just try and sell it as a good investment.

NETWORKING, NETWORKING, NETWORKING Networking is an important aspect of this business at every level, but it a vital tool in the luxury market. Most of your referrals and targeted marketing will be done through luxury agent exclusive networking groups. In addition to that, it is even more important in this segment of the business to be actively

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involved in your community through volunteering and supporting local charitable events. You will not only build a stellar reputation, but you’ll also be giving back to the community you represent, and ultimately, integrity is what it’s all about in this business.

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LINDA CLURE

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LINDA CLURE After moving from Boston to Colorado, Linda Clure was on the hunt for a career that would allow her to balance family life with her passion for working with people.

She’d grown up in a family of self-made retail entrepreneurs, and she’d long been interested in real estate for its limitless potential. After earning her license, she began honing her skills part-time before transitioning to a full-time role as agent. “Twenty-three years later, here I am,” Linda says. Over the course of her ensuing enterprise, Linda has amassed a warm reputation for her passionate work ethic and authentic investment in her clients’ successes. She’s also earned a range of designations, including as a Relocation Specialist, Broker, Certified Negotiation Expert, Seniors Real Estate Specialist, and as an Accredited Buyer’s Representative. Last year, she generated over $17 million in production, making her a prestigious SMDRA Diamond Circle Award winner.

While she primarily serves the southern Colorado region of Douglas County, Linda specializes in relocation and prefers to go wherever clients may lead. Today, she spearheads her work solo with support from an assistant and a social media specialist. All told, Linda has managed to drive 50% of her business from repeat and referral clientele—a significant margin that speaks to her staying power as an agent.

In considering her professional philosophy, Linda credits lasting relationships and a personal touch as some of the foremost drivers of her success thus far. “To me, real estate is more than just a job,” she says.

“I care and I have a passion for working with clients, guiding them through the process of buying or selling a home. I especially enjoy working with first-time homebuyers and seniors and really believe in my slogan: No Dream Too Big - No Home Too Small.”

Linda’s even-handed approach to real estate has served her well over the course of her career. Likewise, she makes an effort to stay engaged with her network of past clientele, reaching out systematically throughout the year to offer useful information on the market, or to catch up on time gone by. “I always try to reach out to my past clients and keep in touch,” she explains. “Maintaining that communication

and trust is a big part of the reason why people come back and trust me with helping their family and friends. Relationships matter, and I take the time to reach out.” In fact, responsivity and communication are central tenets of Linda’s working style, and she goes above and beyond to ensure all parties are well-informed, while staying accessible for questions or as a resource.

When it comes to listing property, Linda’s approach is multifaceted.

To make a strong first impression, Linda ensures that all listings are primed through professional staging and high-quality photography.

From there, Just Listed postcards create a local buzz, while targeted exposure across social media and the leading online listing platforms generate ultimate visibility. In fact, Linda often garners 1,400 unique interactions through her Facebook marketing alone. “When I take on a listing, even in a seller’s market, it’s still so important to do the marketing we’re trusted with,” Linda explains. “There are no shortcuts.” Beyond her results-driven practice, Linda most enjoys making connections with new people out in the field and playing a pivotal role in one of life’s most daunting transitions. “I love working with people,” she reflects. “I get so excited when I have a new client and a new challenge. Most of the time, we even remain friends after the transaction. That’s always my goal.”

To take part in the local charitable and civic landscape, Linda participates in a variety of causes and organizations. She is a member of the Castle Pines Chamber of Commerce and is an avid animal lover who contributes regularly to the Denver Dumb Friends League, a local animal rescue and adoption group, and to the National Mill Dog Rescue organization. In her remaining free hours, Linda most enjoys time spent with family and loved ones, hiking, staying active, and venturing out with her newly rescued pup.

Considering the future, Linda shows no signs of slowing down and even hopes to add new members to her team in the future. For now, she’s content to continue her service of the Colorado community she calls home, while forging new connections with aspiring buyers and sellers. “I’m really passionate about what I do,” Linda finally reflects.

“I’m blessed with my career, I serve the best people, and I truly love my work.”

To learn more about Linda Clure email lindaclure@hotmail.com, visit LindaClure.com, call (720) 849 – 6678, or visit her Facebook page here. www.

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How To Overcome Your Workplace Fears Fear is something that can help protect us from danger, but it is also something that can be a hindrance to us in our lives, especially when it keeps us from potentially thriving and growing as a person. This is especially true in the workplace. Here’ a look at some proven ways to overcome common workplace fears.

your head, what exactly you’re feeling and why, it can help deflate the fear. Think of it as releasing some of the fear into the ether.

Yes, you’ll still be nervous about your presentation, but a lot of what was holding you back is gone. You’ll feel lighter, and hopefully have just enough butterflies to make your soar.

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Really owning the emotions that are putting you in a place of fear, is the first step.

By just naming it and then talking it out in

Nothing can make you feel more isolated than going down the path of “This is something that only happens to me.” Trust me,

ASSESS THE FEELINGS BEHIND THE FEAR

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TALK ABOUT YOUR FEARS WITH A TRUSTED CO-WORKER

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it doesn’t, and you might be surprised to find out that some people have had it even worse. Talking to someone you trust and admire, hearing their own fear horror stories and how they overcame them, will help normalize what you’re feeling. Releasing yourself from the idea that it’s something about you, will be an enormous relief.

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THINK OF THE WORST CASE SCENARIO

Although it might seem counter-productive, truly assessing what the worse outcome of the situation you’re afraid of serves two purposes. It might lead you to realize the worst case scenario isn’t that bad after all.

Of course it could also lead you to a really uncomfortable thought, you could lose your job. As bad as that is, it also gives you an opportunity to start focusing on what really matters, and how you might grow from the experience and possibly end up better off.

Countless people in their dream jobs now, were once fired and thought it was the end of the world. Hopefully, that won’t happen to you, but learning to have confidence in your abilities to always find a way, will be a great tool in overcoming fears.

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COMPARTMENTALIZE

If you’re a super-organized type, you might try actually setting aside time in your day to focus on your fears. It might seem odd, but it will let you NOT focus on your fears during the other hours of your day. Think of it as a task, you aren’t just sitting there worrying, 18

Start thinking of fears as challenges.

As scary as it might seem to face them, for the most part they are things that can be fixed.

you’re taking in your fears and figuring out ways to overcome them.

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START THINKING OF YOUR FEARS AS OPPORTUNITY FOR GROWTH

Start thinking of fears as challenges. As scary as it might seem to face them, for the most part they are things that can be fixed.

A lot of fear is based on inexperience which leads to a lack of confidence. A common fear is workplace evaluations. Instead of looking at it as hearing everything that is wrong about you, think of it as an opportunity to see where you can improve. Going into it with a positive attitude rather than a defensive posture, will make the whole thing better for both parties.

Overcoming fears is oftentimes about a simple attitude adjustment. Like anything it takes practice, but the results of that practice will lead to a life that you’re able to thrive in both personally and professionally.

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Tough Prospecting Environment Creates Need for New Solutions

By Richard Weylman

Agents at all levels of experience in the industry continue to have a difficult time gaining access to qualified prospects on a favorable basis. The negative image that has been portrayed of the industry together with the general cynicism of the population has translated into more and more barriers being erected to close out sales people of all types.

The evidence of this continues to mount. Inquiries as well as questions at my various speaking engagements at industry functions indicate a general frustration with the state of the marketplace and the difficulty agents and managers are facing.

Today’s prospecting environment requires new solutions to old problems. No longer does “make more calls, see more people” address or solve the problem. Specific relational strategies and tactics are needed to gain access to qualified prospects.

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Here are just a few of the questions I’ve received recently from advisors and managers: Q: “Voicemail is everywhere. How can I get people to return my calls?”—Stephen G., Chicago, Illinois A: People return calls based on prioritization of the other calls they’ve received. People return calls for reasons of urgency or reasons of benefit. I would suggest that you write out very specific messages that you’re going to leave for your prospects. These messages should be laden with benefits, i.e., positive reasons that the prospect should return the call. As an example, “Mr. Donovan, this is Stephen G. As a teacher, you create lesson plans. As an advisor, I specialize in working with teachers to create a financial plan. Please call me at your earliest convenience.” Devise several of these messages specific to the market that you’re working so that Top Agent Magazine

Today’s prospecting environment requires new solutions to old problems.

each of them sounds different and gives people specific reasons to return your call. Review the to be sure they are relevant and speak the language of the market. If in doubt, create 5-10 messages and ask clients to select the ones they like and to which they would respond.

Q: “How can I get CPAs and attorneys to work with me? I want them to refer their clients to me.” — George A., New York, New York

food industry. You find them by asking current prospects and clients who their attorneys and CPAs are and then meeting with them. Ask your clients to introduce you if necessary.

When you meet, give them specific reasons to work with you. As an example, by pointing out the financial knowledge and services you have available which could enhance the value they bring to their clients that will motivate them to act as a center of influence for you. They are in a competitive environment also, and the good ones are seeking to increase client value. In addition, when meeting with CPAs and attorneys, let them know of your long-term interest and that you will respect the relationship that they have with their clients. As a value-added asset, you can create a consistent prospect flow.

A: CPAs and attorneys particularly like to stay in control of their clients and the decision-making process. For this and other reasons, CPAs and attorneys are not highly motivated to help you build your business by using them as the source of new prospects.

However, positioned as a valueadded asset, you can succeed here. As an example, if you are targeting a Q: “I’m targeting executives of specific market in the food industry, major companies here in Rochester. align yourself with CPAs and How can I best get their attention?” attorneys who are also working in the —Bob J. Rochester, New York Top Agent Magazine

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In today’s environment, only a systematic approach to relational marketing and prospecting will keep you in sales.

A: To reach executives effectively, keep three things in mind. First, you have to relate to these individuals.

Two, you need to speak their language.

Third, you must recognize that they are typically screened from any unwanted calls and/or mail. The best way to get their attention is to involve yourself in the activities and organizations that they support. As an example, the Senior Vice President of Marketing will most likely be involved in the American Marketing Association. The CFO will be involved in the CFO Society, heads of communication in IABC, etc.

belong to, ask executive clients to have or refer to Gale’s Encyclopedia of Associations regional edition (1800-877-GALE).

These questions represent a larger problem. In years past, the industry was focused on sales and transactions.

Not a great deal was done to enable the development of the local sales agency into a marketing and prospecting organization. Advisors were expected to simply sell their friends and neighbors. Today’s marketplace, however, is significantly different. In the past, sales kept you in business; in today’s environment, however only a Getting involved in these organization systematic approach to relational will allow you to reach these exec- marketing and prospecting will keep utives and, most importantly, position you in sales. yourself as a resource to them. By serving on committees and activities C. Richard Weylman is an expert in that they’re involved in and support- marketing, selling and communicating to ing the causes to which they are affluent and high net worth people. He is drawn, it will position you as a the author of “Opening Closed Doors, Keys resource to them, someone who is a To Reaching Hard-to-Reach People," as caring and credible individual. If well as numerous sales, relationship and you’re having difficulty determining marketing and management audio and the organizations that these executives video education programs.

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CHADD ZIEGLER Growing up in the hotel and resort industry in the Vail Valley, Chadd Ziegler has long commanded an in-depth understanding of his hometown area. Chadd arrived in the Valley in 1986 and worked his way up the hotel chain. He was given the opportunity to live in Paris and work on the Orient Express Train as part of an exchange program. Chadd started out in real estate part-time in 1996 while also pursuing his career in the hotel business. In 2002, he became General Manager of a five-star resort and helped develop a renowned Fractional program in Vail Village.

Soon enough, he recognized the limitless potential of the industry and made a leap of faith, transitioning to the role of full-time agent in 2007. Since then, Chadd has established himself as leading player in the greater Vail community’s real estate scene. Along the way, he’s built a steadfast reputation for personalized service, integrity, and a community-centered outlook that delivers results.

Serving Vail Village, the Vail Valley, and the greater Eagle County region, Chadd is part owner of Christiania Realty, and supported by a small, dynamic team. There, he’s built a business generated by 40% repeat and referral clientele—a sizable contingent that speaks to his reliability and staying power as an agent. For his part, Chadd credits attention to detail and creative problem-solving as some of the foremost drivers of his success to date. Considering his background in high-end resort management, he’s long cultivated his ability to serve others, intuit needs, and bring a concierge-level service to his real estate transactions.

“A client gave me feedback recently that whether I’m working with a $300,000 deal or a $15 million-dollar deal, I treat each with the same level of detail and integrity,” he explains. “I love what I do. I’m happy to have figured out that niche in life where I’m enjoying what I’m doing every day. Whether I’m working with a first-time homebuyer or selling a multi-million-dollar property, I love helping people, identifying criteria, and negotiating a great deal for them.”

To keep in touch with his clients, Chadd’s approach is both systematic and organic. In addition to keeping in touch through informative quarterly newsletters and ads on local television, he also builds a natural relationship with his clientele that lasts long after the closing table.

He remains as a resource even after a transaction has ended, offering up advice and vetted referrals for renovations and the like. “I continue my correspondence with my clients by staying in touch with them for whatever they might need,” he explains. When it comes to listing properties, Chadd leverages multilayered exposure and begins by cultivating striking first impressions. “Probably 95% of our market begins with the home search online,” he explains. To account for this, Chadd incorporates high-end, broadcast-level video productions— which also go on to accompany his TV ads—as well as professional photography. After a strong visual debut has been made, Chadd takes to the leading online listing portals to ensure maximum exposure across his market.

Another value that Chadd offers clients is his keen understanding of the Vail Valley region, an area he’s lived and worked in for decades.

Because many of those buying property in the area are seeking second or third homes, he offers a local’s expertise and knowledge base.

Likewise, for those searching for year-round housing, he puts his problem-solving skills to the test to account for every seasonal detail imaginable. “I love the deal and negotiating. I love the puzzle of trying to flush out that property that a client might not have thought about, or helping them understand what they’re looking for—especially in a unique resort town,” he explains. “It’s really rewarding to be able to provide that next level of expertise and guidance throughout the process.”

To give back to his local community, Chadd is a major advocate for bike trail access and maintenance—a favorite pastime and passion he lives out in his idyllic hometown. Beyond the office, Chadd also enjoys travel and adventure in the great outdoors. Every year, he takes a cycling trip to Europe, and he recently returned from a three-week sailing excursion in the Caribbean.

Looking ahead, Chadd has plans to continue growing his business mindfully, maintaining the boutique-style service his clients have come to expect. For now, he’s content to serve the aspiring buyers and sellers of the Vail community he’s long called home. “I really enjoy what I do and I’m happy to continue to be able to serve others in my community,” he reflects. “I’m proud of what I’ve carved out here; I enjoy my community and what I’ve been able to accomplish through real estate.”

To learn more about Chadd Ziegler email ChaddZiegler@gmail.com, visit alltopvailhomes.com, or call (970) 445 - 0122 www.

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