COLORADO 7-17-23 by Top Agent Magazine

COLORADO EDITION

6 Things You Need to Do to

BE A GREAT MENTOR FEATURED AGENTS

BREEYAN EDWARDS PAIGE MCLAUGHLIN ROBIN WOOD FEATURED LENDER

MACK HUMPHREY

COVER STORY

BRANDY BROWN

The Daily Schedule of a SUCCESSFUL REAL ESTATE AGENT

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

Welcome Home: WORKING WITH RELOCATORS IN TRANSITION

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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. Top Agent Magazine

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?

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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BRANDY BROWN Top Agent Magazine

B RANDY B ROWN

“I’m here to help people achieve their dreams. Whether it’s a career in real estate or purchasing and selling a home, I’m the expert in Colorado Springs who can guide you through the process.” Overseeing 23 agents from an office based in Colorado Springs, Broker/Owner of EXIT Realty Mountain View, Brandy Brown sets an example for everyone she works with as to how to treat clients with respect. Since she started her career in 8

real estate in 2005, Brandy has earned a strong reputation for her tenacity and hard work ethic, which have helped her build her company. A veteran and a mother, she is uniquely qualified to assist the military community and their families, Top Agent Magazine

whether they are moving for a short or long period of time.

your clients and making sure they get what they want.”

After many years in the real estate industry, Brandy’s business is almost entirely referral-based. She attributes this to her high quality of service and strong network of military peers. She also adheres to different systems of ideas that help her continue to grow in real estate, from Brian Buffini’s inspiring lessons to the Ninja Selling approach. “These are two different but similar ways to do business,” she explains. “What they boil down to is the importance of fighting for

In addition to her own marketing, Brandy takes advantage of EXIT Realty’s extensive resources, including their research and ad center. “We do everything from print advertising to open houses,” she says. This includes sending out a hundred postcards for each listing, investing in photography and drone footage, posting on social media and syndicating listings to all the major websites. “We take a risk which means we must sell the homes quickly,” she explains. “I want to make

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sure my clients can move into their next journey as soon as possible.” While she stays very busy, giving back to her community is a high priority for Brandy. She is actively involved in the Colorado Association of REALTORS® and supports women entrepreneurs throughout the state. Through her office, Brandy also donates a portion of the proceeds from every sale to the nonprofit, Angels of America’s Fallen. When she has a minute to spare, Brandy loves to read, go to concerts, travel, and spend time with her children.

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Last year, Brandy’s Brokerage helped 88 families find their dream homes. She’s using her success as further motivation to keep building her brand and brokerage. At the moment, she is planning to grow the business to around 45 agents. By hand-selecting talented agents with a like-minded approach to business, Brandy is paving the way for a lot more growth in the near future. “I’m here to help people achieve their dreams,” she says. Whether it’s a career in real estate or purchasing and selling a home, I’m the expert in Colorado Springs who can guide you through the process.” Top Agent Magazine

For more information about Brandy Brown, call 719-373-9864, email brandy@exitrealtymtview.com, or visit welcomehomecs.com www.

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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. Top Agent Magazine

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.

.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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BREEYAN EDWARDS Breeyan Edward’s journey in real estate reads like an adventure novel set against the picturesque backdrop of Northern Colorado. Her career was born out of a decade-long immersion in property management, where she honed her skills managing 32 unique on-site properties in a resort destination. A pivotal shift occurred when the business she was part of changed hands, guiding her towards the thrilling path of real estate sales. Now, almost five years on, she confidently leads her own firm, First Colorado Realty, as the broker-owner, having bought the enterprise from her former mentor. Operating with a licensed assistant, she heads an efficient team of ten. The firm’s focus lies in the enchantingly beautiful region of Estes Valley. Most of Breeyan’s clientele consists of repeat or referral clients. However, Breeyan continues to cast her net wide, driving robust lead generation and brand awareness campaigns for the firm. With every transaction, she continues to reinforce her standing as a leading name in the real estate landscape of Northern Colorado. With a solid reputation for providing superior service, Breeyan stands out thanks to her local expertise, deeply rooted in her love for Estes Park. As she describes it, “We pride ourselves in being knowledgeable.” Breeyan and her team are not only working in the community but actively serve within it, ensuring that their knowledge goes beyond transactional insights. They offer comprehensive, full-service assistance that extends from property staging and estate sales coordination to providing a free moving van for clients and community members. “From the day we provide an analysis,” she says, “all the way through making sure that the firsttime homebuyer has a way to move into their first home, we aim to be the local expert.” This all-encompassing approach to service, paired with deep community roots and a desire to exceed expectations, sets Breeyan apart as a real estate agent. Breeyan brings a fresh, innovative approach to marketing her listings. Rather than relying solely on the

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traditional MLS route, she’s been increasingly exploring the creative avenues of video. “We’ve been playing with video a lot, looking at how to turn slideshows and videos into online advertising,” she reveals. While Breeyan acknowledges the value of print advertising, both local and regional, she emphasizes the critical role of online visibility. As she notes, “98% of our clients are finding us and our listings online first.” This adaptive strategy is clearly paying off, with her brokerage handling a considerable volume of business. “Right now, we’re sitting at $45 million under contract or sold,” she says. Last year, despite the challenges of the real estate frenzy, the firm impressively closed just under $94 million in volume. When she’s not fully immersed in real estate or community service, Breeyan enjoys the adventures of family life. A mother of three and married to her high school sweetheart, she cherishes the years of her children’s adolescence and takes delight in teaching them to drive. “We love to be outside, hiking, and walking and just soaking in the mountains,” she says. Owning a property on the side of a mountain, the family often indulges in the outdoor life, truly embodying the spirit of their Colorado home.

For more about Breeyan Edwards, please call 970-646-6555 or email breeyan@firstcoloradorealty.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 15

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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MACK HUMPHREY From the football field to owning his own mortgage brand, Mack Humphrey’s journey into real estate was anything but ordinary. After a chance meeting with the owners of a mortgage company while working at a fitness center, Mack, an ex-football player, was handed an unexpected opportunity that reshaped his career. The owners saw his natural talent for working with people and decided to give him a shot in their company. That decision took him to an office in Solana Beach where he realized he could make a living while enjoying the ocean breeze. From an entry-level position, Mack climbed the corporate ladder, going from a loan officer to area vice president, before deciding to venture out on his own. He’s now the proud owner of his boutique brokerage firm, Game Changers Lending Team, overseeing a team of six and prioritizing client service over the numbers game. Mack’s company name was the perfect choice, as he and his team aren’t just loan officers, they’re game changers. With over two decades in the business, Mack’s experience spans across various loan types, but he has a soft spot for VA loans, where he gets to work with veterans. He’s helped create the ‘Hero Home Program’, a custom-designed initiative catering to the specific needs of each client. What truly sets Mack apart, however, is his devotion to exceptional client service. About 95% of his business comes from referrals, an impressive testament to the positive experiences his clients have. He guarantees this by offering a unique ‘Perfect Mortgage Promise,’ where he checks in with clients every three months to ensure their satisfaction. “Our main goal is to make sure everyone involved knows what is going to happen next,” he explains. “We play everything out for you before it starts, so you understand each step.” This high level of communication and hands-on service makes his clients

feel at ease, even when they’re navigating the often daunting mortgage process. As Mack says, “My referral partners are the lead singers, and I’m the drummer, making everything sound great and keeping it all on beat,” he says. His love for serving others extends beyond real estate, evident through his substantial involvement in the community. For every loan he processes, he donates up to $500 to suicide prevention and mental health awareness initiatives, particularly working with NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness). Recently, they successfully raised about $1500 in a walkathon. Starting in September, Mack is sponsoring host homes for adults with disabilities, even renting out one of his personal homes for this noble cause. During Mack’s free time, he can be found coaching his daughter in soccer, going to the beach, bike riding, hiking, hosting his podcast, and cross-training. He’s a loving husband and father of two girls. Mack’s future vision for his business is exciting and ambitious. He’s taking steps to diversify and expand his offerings by starting an insurance company, Black Knight Insurance, which aims to further streamline his clients’ experience. He’s also focusing on growth, with a goal to onboard approximately 90 new loan officers within the next year and a half. But this growth isn’t just about numbers. It’s about embedding the ethos of Game Changers Lending in each team member to ensure consistent and exceptional service. “I love educating people on the value of homeownership from a generational wealth perspective,” he explains. Mack wants people to associate his business with a feeling of care, trust, and satisfaction. “When people think about our team, I want them to automatically feel positive emotions, and remember what a great experience they had.”

For more information about Mack Humphrey, please call 720-961-2151 or email mack@edgehomefinance.com

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PAIGE McLAUGHLIN Residents of Franktown, Colorado, Paige McLaughlin and her husband Douglas are co-owners of the Mile High Living team with RE/MAX Alliance. They serve the luxury real estate market focusing mostly in the South Metro Denver area by specializing in land acquisition, custom home development, and systematic marketing strategies that leave a robust digital and physical footprint. “I love the people, and I love the process. I get to find these big parcels of land and craft a story for an entire neighborhood. Then we create opportunities for buyers to walk the land so they can get a feel for their future home, meet their builders, and eventually make memories with their families.” Prior to formally entering real estate, Paige studied psychology at Azusa Pacific University before enjoying an eleven year career in financial services. “Every step of my education and previous career has prepared me for what I’m doing today,” she recalls. “This is a highly emotional process – whether it’s a developer with millions invested or an individual buyer, I bring something unique to the table.” Today, she serves as the Head of Business Development for the Mile High Living team, and she oversees the construction, design, and marketing efforts for custom homes and neighborhoods, including the Fox Hill community in Douglas County. In addition to her education and financial background, Paige attributes the bulk of her success to her dedicated team and interpersonal marketing approach. “I have two outstanding gals working for me,” she exudes. “A fulltime project manager and a part-time marketing and sales reporter. We get to do a lot of forward-thinking marketing by presenting at our local DMAR and Development Insider. Being in front of hundreds of REALTORS® at a time is exciting, and we travel out to other brokerages to foster the relationships we establish.” This approach, bolstered by traditional social media advertising on Facebook and Instagram, helped Paige clear $65 million in volume in 2022. 20

Paige is excited to continue designing and developing neighborhoods as the burgeoning luxury market around Denver blossoms. “We’re seeing a lot of growth in Elizabeth and the rest of Elbert County. We plan to host more community events – pictures with Santa, hops harvesting parties, movies on the lawn – anything to foster a greater sense of community. As long as we keep our eyes and ears open, we’ll find those opportunities.” The team has several development projects to look forward to in the Douglas and Elbert Counties, and Paige is aiming to extend her expertise as a consultant for aspiring agents. “It’s not very often that REALTORS® get into the development space. I’d like to coach people through that process – it’s a lot to tackle, but incredibly rewarding.” When she’s not actively building her business, Paige spends time with her husband and three daughters. They enjoy traveling, being outdoors with their two dogs, and volunteering with the neighbors who have helped them create a successful family enterprise. “My husband and I are actively involved in our church and our girls are involved in youth group – they keep us pretty busy. They’re learning how to golf and experience the outdoors, so we are always meeting new people and learning new things!”

Contact Paige at 303-620-6677 visit her website: milehighliving.com, or email paige@milehighliving.com https://

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. Top Agent Magazine

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 champion22

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.

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ROBIN WOOD Robin Wood of Denver, Colorado, fuels a successful real estate enterprise by combining her widely celebrated maternal instinct with a personalized approach to marketing and a business philosophy grounded in relationships. “This isn’t just business for me – it’s personal. Most of my clients become my friends, and I’m lucky that I get to lead a life full of birthday parties, weddings, and goodie-bag-drop-offs for everyone I interact with. Sure it’s a serious business, but I can handle the serious stuff – anyone can do paperwork. I help people enjoy the entire experience, and that’s what keeps them coming back.” Twenty-one years ago, Robin moved home to Denver from Hawaii, and found herself seeking a career that afforded both success and flexibility. “I was a single mother when I moved back from Maui,” she recalls, “and as soon as my son was old enough, I was able to balance a full time job while becoming a REALTOR®; and with my wonderful brother promoting me I was up and running in no time.” After working with Metro Brokers for nine years, Robin was encouraged by her mentor to strike out on her own, and she eventually founded Robin Wood Realty. Today in 2023, Robin proudly serves everything within an hour radius of Denver, and gladly travels to greater lengths to help her repeat clients transition to the next chapter of their lives. “I wish I could say it was all because of my stunning personality,” she reflects, “but I give them a significant listing discount. I love being able to revisit those homes and those people – it’s worth the extra effort.” This strategy has Robin boasting a book of business that holds steady at ninety-five percent repeat and referral clients, and keeps her phone ringing off the hook. With her clients constantly returning to list their homes, Robin has recently decided to invite her friends to Top Agent Magazine

personalize the tried-and-true methods for digital advertising. “We’re getting ready to do a video series with one of the guys from the news station,” she exudes. “A lot of my clients want to participate in their walkthrough videos, and it’s always so fun and moving to hear people talk about why they love their own home.” She aims to bolster this experimental approach with traditional print and virtual advertising, which supplements her constant presence at brokerages, banks, and client’s homes. “When I hired my son to be my assistant he doubled my business. Now I’ve got a full time transaction coordinator so that I can be out and about doing what I do best – meeting people!” Despite having over two decades in the industry, Robin is excited to pursue the next chapter of her career. “I’m going to leave Colorado with a bang – set everyone else up for success before I go. I’m working with two women to help me figure out how to set up a military spouse co-op real estate company, and a new broker joining me who will be my partner in Senior Real Estate. Whether that’s South Carolina, or, if I can talk him into it, Hawaii, I am going to get licensed in a new state and start all over again!”

Contact Robin Wood at 303-668-5584, email robinwoodrealty@gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/RobinWoodRealty/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-wood-11141625/ or visit her Facebook or LinkedIn 23 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

6 Things You Need to Do to Be a Great Mentor

Everyone reaches the point in their career where they feel they have gained enough experience and wisdom about business and what it takes to succeed, to actually help someone else achieve the same. Although you may have trained or given advice over the years, taking on the official status as a mentor to someone is a whole new ball game. 24

Although mentorship is an unpaid endeavor, you’ll be surprised to find out how much you’ll gain from the experience. You’ll also grow as a business person through the process of teaching someone else. It’s also an endeavor that many will pay forward one day, creating a business atmosphere that is based more on mutual success than competition, which is better for everyone.

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If you were mentored, you may already have an idea of what it entails, and what you liked or didn’t like in your mentor/mentee relationship. Although it is a personal relationship that will need an individual approach, there are certain things that are key when it comes to being a great mentor: 1. Be a good listener

est about your own failures. It can be a huge relief to find out someone they look up to has gone through similar experiences and still managed to come out on top. As we all know, oftentimes the greatest lessons come from failures, which can be times when our character is truly tested. Building trust through mutual respect and honesty will make every aspect of your mentorship more effective.

You’re basically a sounding board who needs to hear your mentee’s ideas, plans and goals in order to advise them. Strong, constant and clear communication is key to any successful mentoring relationship. Sometimes just letting them talk things out with you, will lead to them to discovering the solution they were looking for. 2. Set expectations and goals at the start When listening to your mentee in your first meeting about the potential relationship, it’s important to establish the parameters of what that relationship will be: What can you give them? What do they need or expect from you? Once the terms are agreed upon, you may want to set specific goals you’ll be working on together so that there’s a defined plan of action, timeline and result you can both expect. 3. Be honest This is important when it comes to offering them constructive criticism or tough love, but more importantly, you need to be honTop Agent Magazine

4. Get them to think, don’t make decisions for them Sometimes being a mentor is being a bit like a psychologist. By asking certain ques-

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tions you can lead your mentee to their own conclusions about their business dilemmas and strategies to reach their goals. Being a mentor is all about guidance. Build confidence by drawing out the best in your mentee rather than just presenting them with solutions. 5. Look at the situation objectively One of the key strengths you offer your mentee is a complete emotional detachment to their business. You have no sentimental attachment to doing things a certain way or working with an incompetent vendor because you ‘go way back’. Your only motive is what’s best for your mentee and their business. Although emotions cans still get in the way sometimes, having a detached perspective on hand to guide you is invaluable. 6. Don’t just offer constructive criticism, be supportive Yes, being a mentor is sometimes advising your mentee that he’s doing something ineffectively, but your main purpose is to alway approach everything like cheerleader. You need to let them know that through it 26

all, you are a reliable support to them and have a complete belief in their abilities. Make sure to always praise their accomplishments. Remember: your job as a mentor is more about guidance than constant feedback. Your goal is to help someone become the best they can be, not someone who just does everything the way you do it. You’re helping them build confidence in their own intuition, which will hopefully lead to a lifetime of success, and one day, they too might be a valuable resource to another mentee down the road.

Top Agent Magazine

Laughs!

We’re still here!

Making the workplace happy is what we do. A Graham Harrop Cartoon can enhance ofﬁce materials, training manuals and add zing to that worrying power point presentation.

Graham Harrop Cartoons

Companies large and small call on award-winning cartoonist Graham

the power Harrop to create unique, funPutting and of humour to work memorable cartoons especially for them…

for you!

Working with you to highlight aspects of your organization or celebrate that special someone, Graham is just an email away! gtoonist@shaw.ca

grahamharrop.com

Top Agent Magazine

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com

Top Agent Magazine