Illinois 3-12-18 by Top Agent Magazine

ILLINOIS EDITION

1 Billion-Plus Reasons Why YOU SHOULD BE ACTIVE ON FACEBOOK 5 Simple Mindset Shifts that Will Help You ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS How to Throw a CLIENT APPRECIATION EVENT No One Will Forget Your Secret PRESENTATION WEAPON

FEATURED AGENTS

DEAN BISCONTI DAWN BREMER KEVIN KALBACH COVER STORY

CHRISTOPHER McALLISTER

ILLINOIS EDITION

CHRISTOPHER McALLISTER

KEVIN KALBACH

DEAN BISCONTI

DAWN BREMER

CONTENTS

4) 1 BILLION-PLUS REASONS WHYYOU SHOULD BE ACTIVE ON FACEBOOK

17) 5 SIMPLE MINDSET SHIFTS THAT WILL HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS

13) HOW TO THROW A CLIENT APPRECIATION EVENT NO ONE WILL FORGET

20) YOUR SECRET PRESENTATION WEAPON

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1 Billion-Plus Reasons Why You Should Be Active on Facebook By Bubba Mills

The number is staggering and potentially career ending for REALTORS® who ignore it: 1,440,000,000. That’s the total number of monthly active users on the social medium Facebook. That number alone is reason enough to use it regularly in your real estate business. But Facebook can also help turn you into the expert in your community. Just by sharing knowledge and relevant events about the community you can become the go-to source for all things local – a perfect way to capture the attention of prospective buyers. Plus, Facebook advertising also gives you tons of targeting layers like age, location, recent life events and interests. Plus, it constantly adds new targeting filters and functions that help you reach even more niche prospects who closely meet your customer criteria. Talk about pinpointing a target audience. 4

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Another Facebook real estate ad tool is Website Custom Audiences that lets you create Facebook ads that target users who have visited your website. And several apps specifically for Facebook have emerged. Consider these: • Heyo.com: Helps you host contests, showcase promotions and high-

light special offers. • Woobox.com: Let’s you easily create quizzes and other fun tools for engaging content. • Pagemodo.com: Helps you make your Facebook business page both sleek and stylish and tabs allow for easy lead capture. But the latest offering is just as cool. It’s called Facebook Live and it lets you stream live video on the internet. I recently wrote about Periscope, another live video streaming app, but when you use Facebook Live you’re automatically featured at the top of Facebook users’ news feed. What’s more, statistics show that live video is viewed more than recorded video. How can REALTORS® use Facebook Live? Open Houses: Broadcast a walk-through of a new listing

and highlight all the great features.

Webinars: Host live webinars targeted to buyers and sellers. They can sub-

mit questions just like a real-life seminar.

Real Estate Talk Show: Offer the latest news in the industry plus share lo-

cal events and your newest listings. In short, become the Lester Holt or Diane Sawyer of real estate in your town with your own “TV” show! Facebook offers these tips for using Facebook Live: Promote: Tease upcoming Facebook Live broadcasts for more viewers. Plan better: Take time to plan what you want to do in the video, whether

it’s a few key talking points or to have a few questions ready ahead of time in a Q&A, in case incoming comments slow down. Top Agent Magazine

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Invest in some equipment: A shaky live stream turns off viewers so con-

sider a tripod or other stabilizing tools, especially if you’re taking viewers on a tour of an open house. And check the shot before going live.

Get the lighting right: If you’re indoors be sure you have plenty of good

lighting and avoid a lot of light directly behind you because it’ll wash you out.

Sound good: A common mistake for beginners is overlooking sound.

Consider an external microphone to make sure your viewers can actually hear you. And if the live option makes you a little nervous, you can also stream pre-recorded videos. Hey, that has worked like a charm for TV for decades. Some businesses promote their web series to “air” on Facebook Live at a certain time like TV shows. After they are streamed, Facebook Live videos function as normal Facebook videos. Some business owners believe videos may perform better if they begin as live ones. NowThis, a news company that publishes entirely on social platforms, experimented by streaming a 38-minute compilation of its favorite viral videos via Facebook Live. The stream received over 20,000 views and over 500 comments, according to Facebook’s counters. Yes, all the new-fangled internet tools, apps and options for REALTORS® can be a bit overwhelming. Just take it one step at a time and you’ll slowly be right there in the business-winning mix. E-mail me today at Article@CorcoranCoaching.com and I’ll send you more free information about how technology can help your real estate business. Copyright©, 2016 Bubba Mills. All rights reserved.

Bubba Mills is the CEO of Corcoran Consulting and Coaching Inc. (www.corcorancoaching.com/programs, 800-957-8353), an international Real Estate, Mortgage, and Small Business coaching company committed to helping clients balance success in business, while building value in life. Bubba Mills is a nationally recognized inspirational and education speaker, coach and mentor to the top real estate agents and mortgage companies. To find out more about Corcoran Consulting & Coaching, call 1-800-957-8353 or visit us at www.CorcoranCoaching.com. 6

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CHRISTOPHER McALLISTER Top Agent Magazine

CHRISTOPHER McALLISTER A Broker Associate with venerable Chicagoland brokerage, Baird & Warner, Christopher McAllister works all across the city and suburbs. Chicago is a tapestry of neighborhoods, each with its own character, culture and personality. Within each neighborhood are people who are genuine, everyday individuals with extraordinary gifts. Christopher McAllis8 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

ter, who grew up in Chicago and works all across the city and suburbs, personifies the true family man and devoted community member who also happens to be skilled at helping people buy and sell real estate. Top Agent Magazine

A Broker Associate with venerable Chicagoland brokerage, Baird & Warner, Christopher draws nearly 95% of his business from referrals. His reviews portray a man for whom honesty is the most important aspect of a relationship. He is not a “volume” agent. “I don’t try to work with everyone,” he says. “I focus on my sphere, giving excellent customer service and helping people.” Since entering real estate in 2003, he has worked independently and also considers himself fortunate to have excellent support staff in his office. Raised in Chicago, Christopher always appreciated the city as a “cement playground.” Top Agent Magazine

Witnessing the major development of the 1980s and 1990s solidified his interest in building and architecture so much that in the early 2000s he pursued real estate professionally. “I started selling to families and now I’m selling to their kids, nieces and nephews,” says Christopher, who also works on commercial properties. He has built a reputation on candor, integrity, a passion for negotiation, and under-promising and over-delivering. “And I answer my phone!” Doing so is never wasted time, even if the call doesn’t pertain to a pressing issue. “I wouldn’t want Copyright Top Agent Magazine 9

to talk on the phone if I’m with a client, but I’ll shoot the caller a text and say I’ll call them back in an hour, and then I actually do!” Some calls are from clients who perhaps can’t find their settlement statement from the year before and need it for taxes. “I’ll send it directly to their accountant; they love that!” Simple courtesies speak volumes about Christopher’s dedication to others. “It’s fun to meet people and learn about families, lifestyles and traditions,” he adds. One day he may be helping someone find a home and the next he’s at their first barbecue. “Clients become family,” he says, reiterating his desire to keep his client base personal, not anonymous. 10Copyright Top Agent Magazine

“I’m not an uber-salesman with uber-sales pitches,” says Christopher. People come to him because he is real and represents their best interests. In his first four years of real estate, for instance, the market was booming as he sold new construction before the market imploded around 2010. “I had just had my son, who was a blessing, but suddenly I was working twice as hard for half the pay.” He made his way, not by trying to close more deals, but by educating clients on smart real estate decisions. “I focused on finding investment opportunities.” Working several short sales and foreclosures, the people who trusted in him did very well. “People still remind me how I helped them or their family make good money on their investments!” Top Agent Magazine

Christopher McAllister is not a “volume” agent. “I don’t try to work with everyone. I focus on my sphere, giving excellent customer service and helping people.” His promise helps ensure success. “If I think a place is not worth it or it’s not going to increase in value, I’ll say it’s better to wait.” He also writes contracts that help sellers look favorably on a buyer. And with sellers, Christopher invests in professional photography plus heavy online and social media advertising. “When you’re sitting in a doctor’s office, you’re on your phone or a tablet, not reading a magazine; so, that’s where we advertise. I Top Agent Magazine

stay on top of all the new technology and use it to stay above the rest.” With thoughtfulness and knowledge, Christopher built a business on personal referrals and the loyalty of clients who return to him for the guidance they need. As business grows, Christopher wants to do more training and management work, helping other brokers while holding ethics and integrity above Copyright Top Agent Magazine11

everything. He will also branch into more new construction and luxury markets, but keep his client base manageable. Meanwhile, he also thrives when helping commercial businesses grow and expand to new locations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love entrepreneurs and helping business owners find

the perfect space for their business or network and find a loan.â&#x20AC;? Businesses and families, after all, are the stuff of neighborhoods and community, where roots are established and futures are built. Given his values, Christopher is right at home in real estate.

To learn more about Christopher McAllister, visit christophermcallister.bairdwarner.com https://www.facebook.com/christopher.s.mcallister or go to Facebook here email brokerchris51@yahoo.com or call 312-593-6996 12Copyright Top Agent Magazine

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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 estateâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;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 youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 champion14

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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KEVIN KALBACH Top Agent Magazine

KEVIN KALBACH Kevin Kalbach got his first taste of the real estate industry more than twenty-nine years ago. Back then, he was working as a 911 operator before transitioning to real estate for a year. Ultimately, he decided to pursue other passions— attending seminary school and heading a career as a firefighter before an injury on the job sent him in search of new horizons. Then last year, he returned to his roots in real estate, reestablishing his license and setting out to fulfil his lifelong calling of serving others. Today, Kevin is in the process of carving out a sterling reputation for people-driven service that delivers results. As a result, he recently earned his office’s 2017 Top Salesman position. Primarily serving southern Lake County and northern McHenry County in Illinois, Kevin works solo, with the support of an administrative assistant who recently joined his roster. To date, 20% of his business is generated by referral clientele—a robust figure for a relative newcomer in the industry. At the root of Kevin’s strong start is a commitment to serving his clients’ needs above all else, fulfilling the role of advocate while building relationships that are both deep and lasting. “It’s all about communication—getting to know people and making relationships,” he explains. “We also attend all the training and education we can get, including all the seminars, conventions, and events where we can continue to learn and share that knowledge with our clients.” Aside from his proactive, can-do attitude, Kevin is adept at comprehensive marketing and client relations. Though keeping in touch with his network is often an organic process—from sending out cards on birthdays and anniversaries, to catching up naturally once becoming friends—Kevin also leverages new technology to streamline his business. This means managing a contact management system that secures him top-of-mind status with clientele. This systematic method also informs his approach to marketing. In that arena, Kevin utilizes top placement on the leading digital

listing platforms, social media, and targeted ads that source the ideal buyer. What’s more, he makes use of print and in-person publicity through billboards and ads that raise awareness of his services. Kevin also nurtures a well-established presence in his community, which makes sourcing new clients, keeping in touch, and publicizing listings an optimized process. While he’s been able to make an impact on the local real estate scene in only a year’s time, Kevin never forgets the personal commitment to service that inspired his career in the first place. “It’s about helping people,” he reflects. “At the end of the day, if you’re not helping people then you’re not doing anything worthwhile.” To direct that spirit of service toward his community, Kevin is involved in a variety of charitable and civic causes. At his church, he serves as a Youth Group leader, and as part of the First Impressions and Wellness teams. As part of the Wellness Team, Kevin reaches out to community members experiencing illness, sharing a meal and checking in on their health and wellbeing. He’s also involved in the area’s mobile food pantry, which hosts annual events to reach out and supply those in need. To support his professional community as a businessman, Kevin is involved with the McHenry County Chamber of Commerce, as well as the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce. In his remaining free hours, he most enjoys time spent with his family and loved ones, playing board games or enjoying boating and fishing out on the water. Looking ahead, Kevin has plans to continue building his business and expanding his industry knowhow through professional development and ongoing education. He also fosters a goal of opening a satellite office by 2020—all with the aim of serving more members of his community on the path to homeownership. Now, with an optimistic and ambitious eye ahead, the many years to come are sure to be promising for Kevin Kalbach. “We set ourselves apart by going the extra mile for our clients,” he says. “Beyond closing a deal or moving in to a new home, we want people to feel good about themselves and help them grow their families and lives through homeownership. It’s our passion to help our clients feel inspired by where they are in their lives.”

To learn more about Kevin Kalbach visit OurCommunityAgent.com, e-mail callkevink@gmail.com, call (708) 277 – 3913, or visit hishttps://www.facebook.com/Our-Community-Agent-1015561841844586/ Facebook page here. www.

5 Simple Mindset Shifts That Will Help You Achieve Your Goals

Everyone knows that a positive attitude is one of the key steps to achieving success. It’s very easy to let negativity bring you down and oftentimes, people end up quitting at the first set back. Even if you don’t think of yourself as a negative person, you’re probably doing numerous things you don’t even realize are holding you back. Recognizing these negative mindsets, and then implementing simple mindset shifts, are sure to help you not only create a more positive outlook, but a more successful outcome to whatever goal you’re trying to achieve. Top Agent Magazine

Turn jealousy into admiration

It’s very easy to look at someone who has what you want, and feel envious, which quickly turns into criticism and excuses about why you weren’t able to get what they seemed to get with ease. This is something successful people never do. Instead, they recognize that the only thing keeping them from success is themselves. If you want what someone else has, you should look to them as a role model. What

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are they doing that you aren’t? There’s probably more to their story than you’re giving them credit for. Someone else’s success doesn’t hinder your ability to do the same, but constantly having a ‘life’s not fair’ attitude definitely will.

Tackle the things you dread doing first

We all procrastinate to some extent. Usually it’s things we don’t want to do. But when you put something like that off, it creates a serious cloud over your whole day. Experts recommend getting those things out of the way first. Not only do get it crossed off your list, but you will feel energized by your accomplishments and tackle the day with even more force.

Don’t make decisions based on emotion

Reaching goals, especially long term ones, can have a lot of ups and downs. The key to achieving them is to stay level-headed during setbacks, really focusing on your plan and how the setback fits into your long term vision. If you have a solid plan in place, you could be destroying months of hard work with one rash emotional decision, that is probably coming from a place of panic. When you’re feeling emotional...wait. It really is that simple. Wait it out until 18

you’re back in a rational state of mind and take it from there.

Learn to love feedback

It’s very easy to be thrown off by negative feedback or constructive criticism. No one likes it. But when it comes to achieving your goals, you need to be able to hear it, assess it and then make an unemotional decision about what it means to you and your success. In fact the business world’s most successful leaders are there because they not only take in that feedback, they actually constantly ask for it. Fresh perspectives on what you’re doing are always valuable. When you’re in the thick of it, it can be hard to see what needs improvement. Asking a trusted peer or advisor can be instrumental in keeping the momentum on reaching your goal going.

Replace a fixed mindset with a growth mindset

You might be wondering what the difference between the two are. A fixed mindset thinks that growing intelligence or skills is impossible, while a growth mindset thinks those things can be developed. People with a growth mindset are more likely to expand beyond their comfort zone, since they really believe almost anything is possible with hard work. And if it isn’t? They’re willing to give it a try. Being willing to try and fail, is a key element to reaching even the most lofty goals.

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DEAN BISCONTI Broker and Top Agent Dean Bisconti of RE/MAX Professionals Select in Naperville, Illinois has built a stellar reputation as a Realtor who can be trusted to provide each and every one of his many grateful clients with exceptional customer service. Building relationships with clients – past and present – is of the utmost importance to Dean, and he works hard to establish and maintain trust not only during the transaction, but long after the closing table is a thing of the past. Dean began his journey in real estate following a decade of owning an online college textbook store. He established that business in 2002, immediately following his graduation from the University of Illinois, Chicago. “In 2012,” says Dean, “I had already owned some real estate, and I loved being a landlord; I loved owning real estate. I figured it would be awesome to help other people buy and sell real estate and become investors, too, and share in some of the excitement and benefits of doing so.” Though technically a solo agent, Dean is quick to praise the group of trusted professionals he has come to rely upon for support, which includes lenders, home inspectors and attorneys. “That’s what I call my team at this point,” he explains. “They’re the people I trust and work with, and who share the same values that I do, who help my clients.” With nearly 70% of his business based on referrals from satisfied customers, Dean is clearly doing something right. When asked to account for this incredible level of client loyalty, he replies: “I think I’m really able to relate to my clients. Everyone has a story to tell, and I love listening to them and really hearing them, whether it’s about where they came from or where they want to go. And obviously, that’s where I come in and help people accomplish their goals.” The appreciation his clients feel for him is probably best illustrated by his perfect five-star rating on Zillow, where he is a Premier Agent. While there are scores of glowing testimonials to his exceptional

services, this one stands out as an exemplar: “Mr. Bisconti assisted my wife and I in our first-time home search. From the very beginning he was a consummate professional, exhibiting ample knowledge of the area and necessary processes while displaying convincing negotiation tactics as well. However, one of the ways Mr. Bisconti stood out the most from other realtors was the fact that he simply listened to us and our needs, wants, and desires, regardless of any personal opinions on taste and what was “realistic” in our price-range and market. He not only knows his business, but he knows how to treat people with respect and dignity, too. We would do business with him again in a heartbeat. Mr. Bisconti rises above it all to perform his duties honestly and thoroughly, and we thank him for his help.” Relationships are important to Dean, who points to his Greek/Italian heritage as a possible influence for his penchant for having drinks and dinner with his clients, and his desire to maintain contact with them through a variety of methods. “It’s really about building relationships with your clients and being supportive of them throughout the entire home buying or selling process,” says Dean. “It’s been key to my business that my clients feel comfortable working with me, and that they know they can call me anytime for advice on anything they might need. I’m a people person, and my clients feel that I’ve looked out for their best interests, and cared about their well-being. I like to make it an exciting experience to buy or sell a home.” When he’s not working, Dean loves spending time with his wife and two children. Traveling is a particular passion, and he has made it a goal to visit someplace new each year. Dean is also adamant about giving back to his community, and to that end he supports multiple charities, including Wounded Warriors and the Children’s Miracle Network. As for the future, Dean’s plan is to continue growing his alreadythriving business. Already firmly ensconced among the top percentage of RE/MAX agents in Northern Illinois, he is on track to receive that company’s Hall of Fame Award. “There’s never a dull moment in real estate,” says Dean. “Every day there’s something new to be learned. I absolutely love what I do.”

For more information about Dean Bisconti, please call 630 - 205 - 5701 or email DeansMyRealtor@gmail.com Top Agent Magazine

Your Secret Presentation Weapon by Rich Levin

You are at a listing presentation, and Agent: “Do you know the number you know the seller is interviewing one complaint owners, like you, have other agents. Would you like to about their present REALTOR®? distinguish yourself as the best? Here’s how. “The agent doesn’t communicate or loses touch. It’s one of the simplest This is on an age-old and proven things and one of the most sales concept that is taught in high- important. I know some of the best level sales training in every major agents in town who sell a lot of corporation. In real estate, it is a homes and have the best intentions, subtlety that most agents simply but they just don’t follow up like don’t build into their skill set. Those they should, and you fall through who learn and use this skill stand out the cracks. and win against the competition. “I set aside an hour each day just for Have you ever lost a listing and staying in touch with my clients.” could not figure out why? The seller says that they had more confidence “You don’t want to be in the dark, in another agent. This skill is the uncertain and uncomfortable. I reason they will choose you. They want you confident that we are both may not recognize why; they just doing everything we can to get your have more confidence in you. property sold for the most money in the shortest time. “I like to make Sample Seller Script these calls between eleven and Here’s an example. After, I’ll break noon on Thursday mornings. What it down for you so that you can is the best number to reach you at apply it for yourself. that time?” 20

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Robbins was a twinkle in his AABC: The Breakdown There are four steps to this mother’s eye. Most agents miss the presentation skill. They are subtle mark on this in today’s competitive and easy to learn. You must practice real estate market. To hit a bull’s to be natural with this skill, which I eye, use AABC as your secret weapon. You will begin to notice call AABC. sellers and buyers having more • Step one is the Action you take. In confidence in you, relaxing with the example above, it’s communicating you, and trusting your judgment. regularly. Sample Buyer Script • Step two is the Advantage you “Would you like to have the bring that differentiates you. In the advantage of seeing the newest example above, it is setting aside an properties on the market, every day?” hour each day. A – The Action: “Every day—often • Step three is the Benefit to them. twice a day—I will search for propIn the example above, it is making erties that are new to the market.” them certain, comfortable and A – The Advantage: “In our area confident. there are nearly three thousand real • Step four is the Close, which is estate agents. Every day, some of asking for a decision. In the them are placing new property on example above, it is asking for the the market. Within hours, often less, specific number to be reached on a I make sure that you are aware of any and every property that even specific day and time. remotely matches your desires.” AABC B – The Benefit: “You’ll have the Action: What you do. best opportunity to find the property Advantage: Your distinction. that has the most of what you want Benefit: What’s in it for them? before you are in competition for it, Close: Asking for a decision. and you often get it at the best price. This has been taught by Fortune 500 Each year, many of the homes I sell Companies decades before Anthony are those fresh listings that have Top Agent Magazine

only been viewed by my buyers. It’s fun for me. It’s the best way to give you the competitive edge.” C – Close: “Do you want me to contact you each day as soon as we become aware of any property in which you may be interested? If I call during the workday with an excellent choice—something that looks perfect—would you be able to come fairly quickly to see it?” You will find AABC is your secret weapon. While other agents present their same old way, the buyers and sellers to whom you present see, hear, and feel something different, something more. They will more easily sign exclusive contracts with less commission challenges. They will trust you and make your job with them easier, because they strongly believe in your efforts on their behalf. A Few Subtleties I like to start with a question. Do you know? Have you heard? Would you like? The Action can be very simple. It is your Advantage—the way you do it differently—that makes the distinction. 22

The Benefit is always more money, the best time frame, and/or more ease and convenience. That is WIIFT: What’s In It for Them. The Close is critical. In addition to confirming their agreement, it makes them an active participant in the process. In my work, I occasionally accompany Agents on listing presentations—Agents who take over a hundred listings a year. Once they begin to apply AABC, they immediately express that they feel, hear, and see the difference in the way their clients responded to them. This is an advanced skill that raises your effectiveness and enhances your relationships and your results. It requires preparation and practice. It is a secret weapon that can shift your work and your career into the next gear.

Rich Levin is one of the most successful Real Estate coaches in the nation by virtue of the measurable results of his clients and creator of the Real Estate Hierarchy of Success, a working model for understanding and planning your business. Copyright©, Rich Levin. All rights reserved. Top Agent Magazine

DAWN BREMER Dawn Bremer fell in love with real estate during the thirteen years she spent working “behind the scenes” in the industry. “I realized that on top of loving it, I was really good at it, which is always a great way to start a career,” she says with a smile. So she decided to take the plunge and study for a real estate license. Two years ago, she started her career as an agent with immediate success. After her first year she won a Five Star Rising Star Award and she’s been in the top twenty percent of her market center two years in a row. She spent seven months as an interim team leader, and has helped many families buy and sell homes. Currently Dawn works with Keller Williams, leading The Bremer Team of four agents. Dawn and her team serve all of Lake and McHenry Counties, as well as parts of Cook County. What sets Dawn apart from other agents in her area? Her abundant energy! She’s an amazing multi-tasker and she treats every single client as if they are part of her own family. “When you have a genuine love for your job, you can’t go wrong,” she says. Her team members share both her enthusiasm for the work and for providing excellent service to clients. Dawn’s fantastic attitude and expertise has resulted in a staggering 92% referral rate. Her clients are thrilled to rave about her to their friends and family. What keeps her clients coming back? “Our service and availability,” she says. “My team and I know that buying and selling a home can be one of the most terrifying things, and we help clients through every single step. We not only hold their hands, but we educate them. I think education is the key.” Dawn and her team also offer a free, personal concierge service that helps clients with utilities, movers and any other needs they may have.

Staying in touch with past clients comes naturally to Dawn. After a closing, she checks in to ensure they have all needed support and vendor contacts. She sends thoughtful cards, reaches out via social media, or pops by with a small gift. She and her team held a Thanksgiving Pie Day where they gave out pies to their clients. One of her favorite parts of the job is to stop in a few months after a client has settled in to their new house to see what they’ve done to make their dream home their own. To market listings, Dawn and her team use social media, “coming soon” email blasts, private listing networks, the Keller Williams mobile app and website, and hosts open houses. They also spread the word throughout the neighborhood where the listing is located. Dawn is currently taking a class to become a certified stager, so she’ll soon be adding that to her repertoire of marketing tools. Dawn’s favorite part of her job is getting to know her clients and helping them with what can be the biggest financial decision of their lives! “It’s an incredible gift and one that I take very seriously,” she says. To give back to her community, Dawn acts as the Chair of the Keller Williams Culture Committee, leading her area Red Day—Keller Williams’ annual day of service. She’s the Secretary of the McHenry District 156 High School Board of Education, past PTO President and Treasurer of her children’s elementary school. She’s a Kiwanis member, President of McHenry Chamber Marketing Group Five, and Chair of Landmark Community Organization’s biggest school fundraiser. “Giving back to my community is a huge part of who I am,” she says. In her free time, Dawn loves to spend time with her children and she relaxes by painting-by-numbers. For the future, she plans to continue learning, growing and educating herself so she can build a business that lasts and be of service to her community!

To find out more about Dawn Bremer, email bremerteam18@gmail.com or call 847-456- 6334. You can also check her out online at bremerteam.com www.

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