MINNESOTA 5-9-22

MINNESOTA EDITION

Is Finding a

NICHE MARKET

ARE YOU DOING BUSINESS AS YOU ON FACEBOOK?

Right for You? How to

FEATURED AGENTS

SPEED UP FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER TRANSACTIONS

JESS BRANDENHOFF BRITTNEY JACKSON MICHELLE E. JOHNSON SAM LEVERSON TAMMY SHADE TRACY UTTLEY COVER STORY

BEN HAHN

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How to Speed Up First-Time Homebuyer Transactions Working with first-time homebuyers can be among the most rewarding real estate transactions an agent can embark upon.

Not only are you helping guide newcomers into the housing market, but you’re also witness to the excitement and triumphs along the way, including handing over those keys for the first time. While 4

helping first-time homebuyers navigate the transactional process can be a reminder of real estate’s benevolent power, it can also come with its own bumps and bruises.

So, what’s the best way to streamline the homebuying process for first-timers, while maintaining the magic and keeping your sanity along the way?

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While helping first-time homebuyers navigate the transactional process can be a reminder of real estate’s benevolent power, it can also come with its own bumps and bruises.

Set expectations upfront and often.

It’s no secret that communication is a cornerstone of a successful real estate practice and client relationship. Amidst a transaction as complex as buying (or selling) a home, it’s important that no wires get crossed, no questions go unanswered, and no information gets lost in translation. To accomplish this, create communication parameters with your clients up front. Inquire about the communication medium they’re most comfortable with—a text, a call, an email, etc.

Then, tailor your outreach accordingly.

Also, consider setting a weekly time to check in, even if no official progress has been made. This helps clients and agents touch base, float questions and concerns, and get ahead of any problems or developments. Another helpful tool is to draft a transaction timeline for your client that outlines the major milestones along the way, what sort of information will need to be gathered, what steps taken, and what outcomes are possible. This might seem like exhaustive work, but in the era of digital research, clients will come to their own conclusions and biases Top Agent Magazine

whether you like it or not. To stay on the same page and timeline, be the foremost resource for your client, and don’t leave their questions up to chance.

Know your first-time homebuyer programs and perks.

There are a variety of national, state, regional, and local grants and programs that aid first-time homebuyers as they pay their down payment, shop for home or mortgage insurance, and otherwise deal with the financial implications of becoming a homeowner. Sometimes these programs are neighborhood-specific in certain cities, with incentives to buy in up and coming areas. In some cases, there are grants that support underrepresented minority communities breaking into homebuying, and these can go a long way in making the burden of a down payment and associated fees doable. In other words, do your research.

The right program or grant could make the difference in nabbing a dream starter home for your client, while setting them up for future financial success.

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Get pre-approved for a mortgage—and shop around for the best rate.

Not all mortgage rates are made equal. As an agent, you likely have good relationships with area lenders that you trust, but it’s still important to complete your due diligence when helping first-time homebuyers find the rate that suits their longterm housing goals. Also remember that first-time homebuyers are new to this process, and while real estate transactions are complex in their own right, the borrowing and lending processes can be alienating in their complexity. As an agent, it’s your job to play intermediary and teacher, ensuring your clients know their options, are prepared to make an educated decision, and

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feel confident that they’ve chosen correctly. Talk with your preferred mortgage partners to best outline options for your clients’ understanding, laying out a framework that’s informative, projected into the future, and allows them to feel empowered by knowledge.

All in all, working with first-time homebuyers can be an exciting and joyous occasion, as long as you’re adequately prepared for some hand-holding and instruction along the way. Aside from the enthusiasm of successful first-timers at the closing table, you’ll also enjoy the lasting benefit of strong referrals to their friends and family, many of whom will be shopping with you for their own first dream homes.

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BEN HAHN

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Top Agent Ben Hahn works with a team who cover the Twin Cities together as they represent buyers and sellers of high-end single family homes in the ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes.’

Looking for a fresh start after years of working in sales in the housewares industry, REALTOR® Ben Hahn decided to take a leap of faith and get his real estate license in 2018.

While the first year was a challenge, as it is for everyone, Ben’s business has been on an upward trajectory ever since he began working as a solo agent at a local office in his hometown of Minneapolis. Today, he works with a team who cover the Twin Cities together as 8Copyright Top Agent Magazine

they represent buyers and sellers of high-end single family homes in the ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes.’

Last year, Ben’s repeat and referral clients totaled 95% of his business, showing how much people enjoy working with him. He has in-depth knowledge of the marketplace that is hard to find in less experienced agents, plus he knows how to make people feel at ease. “I treat Top Agent Magazine

people like family,” he says. “We’re in a sellerstressed market and there are just not enough homes available. Being able to help my clients navigate this chaotic time has a lot of value and they appreciate it.” To keep in touch with Top Agent Magazine

everyone, Ben makes phone calls, sends emails and works with a social media management company. He believes in the small gestures, like sending a handwritten note or holiday card to show people that he is still present in their Copyright Top Agent Magazine9

Ben founded an initiative called Local Roots Real Estate that donates 5% of their commissions to local businesses and residents facing homelessness. “ lives. Going above and beyond for his listings, Ben works with The Uncommon Creative Studio to “light stage” homes to help clients visualize what it would be like to live there.

While Ben’s team brings in 8-10 million in volume each year, his greatest accomplishment is something far more valuable to him. He founded an initiative called Local Roots Real Copyright Top Agent Magazine 10

Estate that donates 5% of their commissions to local businesses and residents facing homelessness. “Local Roots gives me something else to wake up to beyond buying and selling houses,” Ben says. “At the end of the day, we all want people to have a roof over their head and a safe environment to live. Getting behind the mission of Local Roots has actually helped my business grow because there is a strong Top Agent Magazine

motivating reason behind why we do what we do — we’re working to build the community from the ground up.”

Unsurprisingly, Ben’s schedule is busy, but he makes time to visit his favorite shops and Top Agent Magazine

restaurants in the Twin Cities when he can.

From the famous white cheddar popcorn of PoppedCorn to DelSur Empanadas, the area has a lot to offer foodies like Ben. He supports both of these businesses as well as a local brewery called Unmapped Brewing Co., using Copyright Top Agent Magazine 11

all three to cater housewarming events and gift clients with treats.

As his career progresses, Ben hopes to build out his team by adding five to ten more agents to work together as a co-operative. “It’s an opportunity to combine forces, collaborate, and help

each other if someone is out of town,” he says.

“Having flexibility is the biggest blessing about being in this business, and work is even more manageable when you are sharing it with others.

Ultimately, I just love waking up in the morning to new surprises around every corner. You just don’t get that in any other industry!”

To learn more about Ben Hahn and Local Roots Real Estate, Call 612-859-8944, Visit localrootsrealestate.com or Email Ben@localrootsrealestate.com www.

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SOCIAL MEDIA MISTAKES

Real Estate Agents Must Avoid There is perhaps no greater marketing tool for agents these days than having a large presence on social media, but there is more to social media marketing than just opening an account and gaining followers. A lot of agents forget the social part of social media. It’s all about engagement, but it needs to be the right kind of engagement. This can often be the first impression potential clients or industry peers have of you, so make it count. There is no second chance to make a first impression, and that is especially true for real estate agents. Here’s just a few things you want to avoid.

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1 Using it to Vent

Social Media is a great place to complain and commiserate about things, but save that for your personal page. A real estate transaction is already a stressful ordeal, the last thing anyone wants is someone who seems like they’ll bring a negative energy to the process. Even worse?

Bad mouthing other Realtors® or listings. You’re selling yourself and your skills, so don’t sell anything that shows you in a bad light. Much like marketing a property, everything you put out should be professional and inviting.

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Lack of Consistent Branding

Yes, social media is about social engagement, but it’s also about creating brand recognition. While you don’t want it to be purely promotional, you are running a business, so create a consistent branding across all social media platforms. If you can afford a professional graphic designer to help you out with this, that’s great. But at the very least, have the same profile pic, cover image and highly visible contact information, across the board. And don’t forget to share links to your other accounts, some people prefer different social media applications.

3Not Posting Enough

It’s good to create a schedule of how many times you’ll be posting per day and to pick times when you might have the most engagement.

Don’t over do it, but three posts a day at the right time, tends to be a good goal. There are numerous tools on Facebook, for example, that

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can let you see when interactions are the highest.

Stick to your schedule and adjust accordingly.

It’s also important to not just post your listings.

Be a resource for people who follow your page.

Post community events, or other informative articles that are relevant to home ownership.

Be a page they want to follow even when they aren’t buying or selling a property. They’ll remember you when the time comes.

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Not interacting With Your Followers

It’s called social media for a reason. The more you engage with your followers, the more they see you as a real person, and not just a marketing tool. Not only do you get to know your past clients and potential clients, on Facebook, engagement actually will make your posts seen by more people. So it’s a win/win.

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Not Sharing or Linking to Others

It might not seem like a good idea to not promote the blogs, pages or listings of other people, but it’s not only an excellent way to build goodwill, it will also increase your own presence when they reciprocate. So make a point to share posts and links for local businesses and even the blogs of your peers, if it’s a post that offers valuable insight into an expertise you don’t have. That will encourage them to share your posts and even your listings, which will increase your potential buyer pool. This is another incentive to create your own blog. Unique informative content is always of value, and more likely to be shared than promotional links.

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TAMMY SHADE Top Agent Magazine

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TAMMY SHADE

A Twin Cities resident for over 20 years, Tammy Shade has always possessed an entrepreneurial spirit. She first took an interest in real estate while authoring a successful, 12-year career in property management, where she developed acute insights into the local market. Drawing from these foundations, she was later inspired to pursue her real estate license—and the rest is history. Since launching her career as an agent, she has gone on to build a network of satisfied clients and trusted colleagues that spans her home state.

Today, Tammy is a Real Estate Advisor with Engel & Völkers, Lake Minnetonka, where she assists clients throughout the West Metro area of the Twin Cities of Minnesota. In combining her market expertise with her penchant for client service, she has established strong roots in the region, capable of showing any buyer, seller, or investor all that the Twin Cities have to offer.

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When listing a property, Tammy leverages the extensive resources available through Engel & Völkers to give her clients an added advantage.

Starting out, she helps them fully prepare their home for the market, providing them with a suite of professional staging and photography services.

From there, she broadcasts her listings to a worldwide network through Engel & Völkers, as well as her own far-reaching sphere of influence.

Elsewhere, Tammy is just as attentive when assisting her buyers, drawing from her years of experience

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in property management and residential real estate to uncover the right property for their best interests. More than anything, she is excited to welcome them to her Twin Cities community—from its scenic parks and trails to its lovely restaurants on the lake.

In fact, Tammy enjoys keeping in touch with her clients long after the deals are done to provide them with ongoing contractor referrals and serve as their home advocate for years to come. “Real estate is my lifestyle,” she says.

“Because of that, I offer my clients a full toolbelt of resources. Not only do I work with the best of the best here at Engel & Völkers, but I also know a plethora of stagers, designers, architects, and professionals whom I know will get the job done.”

Over the years, Tammy has earned a fantastic reputation throughout the Twin Cities, with the majority of her volume coming from repeat clients and referrals. Now averaging close to 40 annual transactions, she remains committed to the proven model of service that continues to set her apart in her community.

For the past ten years, Tammy has served on the Southwest Metro Chamber of Commerce, and is currently Chair of its Board of Directors.

Moreover, she has spent just as long on the Global Outreach Board at her church. When she’s not supporting local businesses or serving on nonprofit boards throughout the year, she can be found spending quality time on the lake with her husband and family.

As for the future, Tammy has strong plans for her business. As her volume maintains its steady growth, she looks forward to all the new clients and connections that await. “If I sell 50 homes in a year, that’s an opportunity to touch 50 more lives,” she says. “At the end of the day, I love what I do—from meeting new clients to helping them realize their goals in our thriving market.”

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To learn more about Tammy Shade please call 612-386-6775, email tammy.shade@evrealestate.com, or visit tammyshadegroup.evrealestate.com http://

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Laughs!

Graham Harrop Graham Harrop Cartoons Cartoons

Putting the power of humour to work for you!

Putting the power of humour to work for you! grahamharrop.com

grahamharrop.com 18

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JESS BRANDENHOFF What are the main keys to selling real estate for a REALTOR®? Well, among many, there’s reputation, a proven track record of success, number of repeat and referral clients, and, naturally, personal branding. And a good portion of the latter is achieved through visibility in the community. For Jess Brandenhoff, an Associate at RE/MAX Preferred in Prior Lake, Minnesota, that’s like having a whole second career when it comes to her devotion to helping people in her surrounding area.

“One of the things I love most about real estate, in addition to the relationship-building and helping people buy and sell homes, is that it has allowed me the financial freedom and the time I need to be really involved in my community… because that is really what my true passion is at the end of the day,” said Jess. Her business is almost entirely made up of repeat and referral clients that accounted for nearly $10 million in volume last year. In addition to having three of her own children, Jess and her wife are licensed to do foster care in Dakota County; she is on the booster club at Gentry Academy, where her oldest daughter goes to school and plays hockey and is involved in the Parent-Teacher Organization where her two younger children go to elementary school; she led a group of friends and neighbors to raise $9,000 last year for families who lost their jobs due to COVID which helped provide emergency funding; and she is involved in several local non-profits that serve underprivileged women and children.

Somehow, she still sells a copious amount of real estate, ever since getting into the business as a real estate assistant in 2004. As a solo agent with an “amazing” administrative assistant, Jess works mostly in Dakota and Scott counties. The top-notch school districts in the area are a huge draw for families, and you will likely find Jess meeting with clients at Lakeville Brewing Company in Downtown Lakeville.

“I’m just super fortunate because I get to work with people I enjoy. I’m now helping clients’ kids buy their 20

first home. I love being a part of someone’s family. The one thing that I do a little bit differently than other people is my commitment to earning my client’s trust and friendship,” Jess said. “It’s important that your clients trust you and know you’re really looking out for their best interests. I’m not just trying to sell you a house; I am really trying to figure out what the best plan is for you, your lifestyle and your family. I want to set you up long-term to be successful.”

Speaking of success, Jess said another thing she loves about the business is that is it always changing and challenging her to grow and evolve. She has worked thorough the highs and lows and is now getting licensed in the neighboring state of Wisconsin to market cabins and other vacation investment properties. It’s just another avenue to take for someone who has been in the top 5 percent of volume each year with RE/MAX Preferred and has been one of the Minneapolis-area’s ‘Super Agents’ many times over the years.

Jessica’s very first Broker told her, ‘If you want your clients to trust you, you can’t expect them to do that while they watch you act unethically. Take care of them, and they will take care of you.’ “That always kind of stuck with me,” she said, “and that’s how I’ve always operated my business.”

Jess Brandenhoff can be reached at 952-769-3551 or through email at jess@preferredhometeam.com Her website is jessbrandenhoff.com and you can check out Jess’ profile at Realtor.com https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/59c963dfe078310011449846 www.

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Is Finding A Niche Market Right for You?

A lot of Realtors® take the ‘jack of all trades’ approach to their businesses, and some are extremely successful with doing it all and doing it well. But taking that approach can also make it hard to stand out if there are a lot of agents in your area taking the same approach.

If you’re looking for a way to stand out from the rest, finding a niche market might be the way to go. Although it might sound limiting at first, with the right branding and marketing, your specialty and expertise may help you lock up a market after you become well known for being the ‘go to’ Realtor® in a certain demographic. Having a niche helps you target your marketing, making it more effective, until eventually people are seeking you out as you build your reputation as the foremost expert in your particular niche.

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Despite the benefits of taking on a specialty, it’s still something that only a small percentage of Realtors® do, which means you have a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor in your area by being ahead of what is sure to be a looming real estate trend.

You want to claim your stake on the niche that best fits not only your passions, but something that fills a void in your market.

If this all sounds good to you, the next step is finding your niche! Here are a few things you need to consider:

There are two approaches to having a specialty, one that is truly your all-consuming passion or a sort of revolving niche, one that changes with the market 21

In addition to creating a thriving business, finding a niche may even unlock a hidden passion. Does your area have a large historic home inventory? Are you passionate about helping first time home buyers realize their dreams?

Having a personal connection to what you specialize in is always a great way to start out. If you’re passionate about something, you’re almost guaranteed to have the work ethic it takes to have success in a niche market. Once you hone in on a niche, make sure the market data backs up your focus.

Another approach is changing with the market. If you’re truly an expert in a few areas of the business, it might be good to have sort of a revolving niche. In a down market you might specialize in short sales and foreclosures.

When things pick up, you may take your innovative approaches and start applying them to luxury homes.

Whether you take the consistent niche approach or the flexible one, it’s really all about figuring out what best suits you and your market.

Fill a void in your market Maybe you don’t have an instant passion for one particular niche. In that case, there are several areas you can consider. A lot of it will start with really researching and analyzing your market and having a good eye for what future trends will be. Is there a certain demographic that is surging in your area? Cater your business to serve them. Maybe you are fluent in Spanish and your area is seeing a rise in a Latino population, who are emigrating from other countries. Or perhaps, you live in an area that has a larger retirement population. There 22

are numerous demographics that truly need expert real estate advice. Be the one to fill it.

You can also focus on a particular neighborhood or gated community. Helping people navigate the ins and outs of a particular HOA can be a lifesaver.

Are you already serving a niche?

Of course, sometimes you may already have a niche and are unaware of it. Maybe you are already dealing with a lot of first-time homebuyers. Look over your sales records and see what might already be there, then make it official.

Figure out why you’re drawn to that area and then nail down the reasons you’ve excelled with that niche and use it to create a marketing plan and branding.

Find ways to really sell your expertise Once you figure out your niche, get the training, designations, and certifications that will enhance your expertise. Another way to let it be known that you are the ‘go to’ Realtor® in your particular niche is to become a resource online. Create a website with informative blogs and marketing information. Make a mark on social media where you can link back to your site, so potential clients can actually interact with you.

There is a lot to consider when you’re thinking of going the niche market way with your business, but if you consider everything carefully and focus in on something you can be passionate about, the rewards could be a major win for you and for your clients.

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BRITTNEY JACKSON Throughout her life, Brittney Jackson has always been drawn to real estate. Growing up surrounded by open houses, real estate conversations, and discussions of the latest trends in interior design, she was inspired both by her mother, who held her degree in interior design, and her grandmother, a successful REALTOR® herself.

Above all, Brittney would never let go of the excitement she felt about the industry. Graduating from college, she built a successful career in human resources; however, following a chance meeting with a new construction specialist, she would pursue a new opportunity as a Sales Manager for a luxury builder in the Twin Cities, selling million dollar homes. Inspired by this experience, she decided to launch her own business as a full time REALTOR®—and the rest is history.

Today, Brittney is a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Realty, where she assists clients throughout the Northwest Metro and surrounding areas of Minnesota. There, she has authored an award-winning career, possessing the integrity, expertise, and compassion needed to meet the needs of any buyer or seller.

When listing a property, Brittney is there for her clients each step of the way. Starting out, she helps them fully prepare their home for the market, providing them with a suite of professional photography services. From there, she utilizes her strategic approaches specific to each client’s needs to broadcast her listings to a targeted blend of social media campaigns, as well as her own extensive sphere of influence. In the meantime, she leverages proven resources like mailers to the surrounding neighborhoods, all to give her clients an added advantage.

Elsewhere, Brittney is just as thorough when assisting her buyers, drawing from her acute knowledge of the region to uncover the right property for their best interests.

Having also served as a licensed mortgage lender, she is more than capable of guiding her clients through all the nuances of their purchase—from beginning to end. “At the end of the day, I believe in being understanding and transparent with my clients,” she says.

“That means viewing them as people, not a number or a transaction.”

Over the years, Brittney has earned a fantastic reputation throughout the Twin Cities, with the vast majority of her volume coming from repeat clients or referrals. But more than anything, she enjoys welcoming new clients into her thriving Minnesota community—from its top ranked school system to the diverse culture at the Arbor Lake shopping center. “By the end of our transaction, my clients often feel as though they have become a part of my family. At the same time, I feel as if I’ve become a part of theirs.”

Outside her career, Brittney is president of an area nonprofit resource group, which cultivates growth among leading entrepreneurs in the area. On top of serving as secretary of her local Rotary Club, she also sponsors various causes and organizations throughout the year, such as Family Youth Community Connections. When she’s not with clients or giving back, she can be found spending quality time at home with her husband and their two children.

Having completed 18 transactions in 2021 alone, Brittney has exciting plans for the future. As her volume maintains its steady growth, she intends on scaling the core values that have consistently set her apart in the region, living up to her time-tested tagline: “New Doors. New Beginnings.” “Real estate offered my family and me a fresh start,” she says. “Today, we want our clients to get their own new beginnings, just as we got ours.”

To learn more about Brittney Jackson, email Brittney.Jackson@CBRealty.com, visit NewDoorsNewBeginnings.com or call (763) 568-2126 Top Agent Magazine

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MICHELLE E. JOHNSON With a name like Maple Grove, there’s no question that this Minnesota town has endless appeal. Specializing in the Central Park area, Michelle Johnson loves to help people reach their real estate dreams here. Central Park has 44 acres of green space and amenities, offering year round activities. In the winter, the ice loop supplies an 810 foot long and 20 foot wide ice skating trail. When the weather warms up, families love to enjoy the playgrounds, play bocce ball, picnic or relax in the sun. “Everything is centered upon being outside,” Michelle explains. There are also exceptional restaurants and bars, including Michelle’s favorite Malone’s Bar and Grill. “It’s American food with lots of TVs, so it’s a great place to watch sports or enjoy a nice meal.” With a variety of homes, from apartments and townhouses to single family residences, there’s something for everyone in the Northwest Metro area of Minneapolis.

Michelle started her journey in the real estate industry after working for a well-known tax preparation company. “At one point, I was made manager and had to start doing taxes, which was not my cup of tea,” she explains. After passing a grueling IRS exam to become certified, Michelle started having second thoughts about her career. “I was thinking, ‘why am I not doing what I want to do? Why am I not going after my dream?’ So that day I decided to get my real estate license,” she explains. “I haven’t looked back since.” Michelle hit the ground running, growing and learning as much as possible. Today she’s a solo agent with nearly half of her business deriving from repeats and referrals. Providing exceptional customer service to all she works with, Michelle has become a go-to agent in the region. Her knowledge is extensive, with ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative) and SRS (Senior Real Estate Specialist) designations. Patient and personable, Michelle makes the process easy to understand and eliminates stress.

“I’m known for being able to talk to my clients in plain speak, and not making it complicated.”

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Word spreads quickly about her work, with one recent client raving, “Michelle helped me and my husband downsize into a lifestyle we love! We met at an open house my husband and I attended just to get an idea of what the market was like. Right off the bat, we connected with Michelle. We could tell she was knowledgeable, thorough, energetic, and friendly. She sold our home quickly, helped us navigate a new build, and has subsequently helped many family members with their real estate needs, too!”

Passionate about her community, Michelle runs two Facebook pages for Maple Grove, where she shares neighborhood information and oversees member posts.

She was an active PTO member for several years when her children were little, and volunteered at the school multiple times a week. During her free time, she is relaxing with family and friends and enjoying everything her area has to offer.

In the next few years, she plans to keep on her current path and provide the same excellent service to each client she encounters. Detail-oriented, organized and eager to help people, she is excited to go to work every day. “It is just so rewarding in so many different ways.”

For more about Michelle E. Johnson, please call 763-232-8738 or email michellejohnson@edinarealty.com Top Agent Agent Magazine Magazine Copyright Top

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Things the Best Leaders Never Say

As Spider-Man’s Uncle Ben said, “With great power, comes great responsibility.”

Being the boss is a great thing, but there’s a reason the ‘bad boss’ is common stereotype. Some people tend to use their power in destructive ways and that isn’t good for anyone. You might not even know you’re being a bad boss, it can be subtle sometimes.

There are common traits among great leaders, if you want to be a boss that operates with integrity and is respected by everyone

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you work with, make sure you don’t say any of the following things.

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I’M THE BOSS

Stating a fact that should be obvious is always a sign of weakness, and when you are the boss, strength of leadership is THE key component.

It also may indicates a stubbornness that is the death knell of a healthy work environment.

Your job as a leader is to bring everyone to your level of success, not to create a larger rift.

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2

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I’LL DO IT MYSELF

Being a good leader is all about delegation. If you are hiring people who are professional and trustworthy, then this should be a no brainer. It is your job as a leader to get the right people for the job and then lead them in away that means success for everyone.

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THAT WASN’T MY FAULT

There’s an old saying “The Buck Stops Here.” and that is still true today. Good leaders take responsibility for what happens. They don’t blame others or make excuses. They take the hit for the team and then find the solution to make it better. Not only does it show they have integrity, but it also fosters a warm team environment that makes all players feel like their boss has their back.

4

I’M SORRY TO ASK YOU TO DO THIS

Treating your employees with respect is mandatory, at the same time there is no reason to be sorry when you ask people to do their job. Leadership is strength and confidence. Expecting your employees to put in the same work ethic as you is your job.

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I ALREADY KNOW THAT

Having a ‘know-it-all’ attitude isn’t pleasant coming from anyone, but the last thing you need to do as a boss is shut down the people working for you. If you give them the impression that you’ve thought of everything, why should they bother giving potentially valuable contributions?

Make people feel good about all input, even if you don’t think it will work or have already thought of it. Open flow of communication and ideas is key to a successful team.

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THAT’S NOT THE WAY WE DO IT HERE

Well, why not? Being a successful leader means always being open to change and improvement.

No great leader is ever accepting of the status quo. It’s not only lazy, it’s uninspiring and usually leads to a work environment that is stagnate. Yes, keep things that work going, but nothing should ever be untouchable. Creative thinking should never be faced with constant roadblocks. A good option is to always ask for more information. Let your employee show you why they think their way might be better. This gets them energized and excited to approach you with more in the future.

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I’M NOT HERE TO MAKE FRIENDS

This is a workplace, not a reality show competition.

Good leaders know that building strong workplace relationships, with employees, vendors and peers, is the foundation of a successful business

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DON’T BRING ME BAD NEWS

No true leader avoids bad news. They confront everything head on because as we said above, they know that ultimately everything is their responsibility, and ignoring a potential problem will most likely end up being worse down the road. Good leaders want to know bad news right away, and the last thing you want is to foster a work environment where employees feel like they have to lie to you.

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YOU JUST DON’T GET IT.

You’re the boss. If someone who works under you is having trouble understanding something, it’s on you to make it clear to them. Getting frustrated makes them less likely to ask for help in the future.

Sharing your expertise and experience is not only generous, but a necessary tool in the success of your business.

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Top Agent Magazine

SAM LEVERSON interaction to his messaging and the Sam Leverson is a dedicated REALTOR® response has been really positive. When who is living out his childhood dream. marketing a listing, Sam prefers to creComing out of high school, Sam pursued a ate professional videos and walkthrough career in education and then management. videos. “Those have just blown up and However, he knew that real estate offered are probably the reason why I tripled my an opportunity to give him the fulfilllistings last year.” For buyers, he has a ment of teaching while helping everyone large internal networking system which around him to thrive. So he took the proalleviates a lot the stress of having to find verbial leap, shadowed a mentor and has a home on the open market. Sam’s sales been living the dream for the past 5 years. this past year were an estimated $7M-$8M In fact, just a few months ago he started in volume. his own team at Edina Realty® a Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate. Serving the Western Sam is fond of all the relationships that and Southwestern metropolitan areas, © Abundant Grace Photography he’s built while in the business and likes Sam feels that Twin Cities, MN offers a that he has gotten to meet people from all different little something to everyone. For instance, it has seen walks of life these past few years. His LGBTQ busia growing number of micro-breweries and new restauness has exploded and connecting with other people that rants opening to amazing reviews. Sam’s favorite is Pau share the same struggles leads to a better understanding Hana, a restaurant that aims to introduce Minnesotans of each other and just adds another level of comfort to to Hawaiian Regional Cuisine. “Super new restaurant the process. “The lifelong friends that I have made just and they are just killing the game.” makes me so happy.” When not working, Sam loves to entertain at home. Having people over for dinner and At this point in his career Sam’s business is 70%-80% cooking for them brings him great joy. His biggest focus repeat or referral based. He attributes 3 key reasons up ahead is going to be growing his business and his as to why repeat clients love working with him again. agents’ business. Helping his team through any strugFirst, it’s his marketing. Sam feels he has built a solid gles while also expanding by onboarding more agents is brand that is recognizable in his community. Next is his Sam’s next strategy. He’s a person who absolutely loves community involvement. Sam is very involved in the helping others and thrives when his team succeeds. community around him and he is trying to bridge the home ownership gap in Minnesota. Third is his caring nature. Sam has always been the friend- therapist for those close to him and he thinks it’s a really important role right now when clients are stressed and you are able to help them get through an occasionally challenging process. “That just builds really long-lasting trust when you are with them through some of their most vulnerable moments.”

Sam is a huge believer in personalized mail. “I’ve been finding that people just love getting random cards in the mail.” For more frequent messaging he uses Facebook and sends messages for special moments in his clients’ lives because Sam is proud of his clients’ achievements.

He has started sending video texts to add more human Top Agent Magazine

To learn more about Sam Leverson please call (612) 877-1395 email SamLeverson@edinarealty.com, or visit leversongroup.com http://

27 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

Are You Doing Business As YOU On Facebook?

Are you ‘Doing Business As YOU’ on your personal Facebook page? In other words, are you posting your business content from your personal page?

Yesterday a REALTOR® asked us, “Why should I bother with a company Facebook page? Can’t I just post everything from my profile page?”

The answer lies in what we call division of content. As you may be aware, social media began as just that… social. It was never truly intended for business use.

Over time, as businesses began to see the potential in reaching the masses in a new way, they began to intrude on this communication. Today, it is widely accepted that business will be conducted on all social platforms, but the manner in which we do so (and in which we are received) is still a touchy subject at times.

We believe it’s important to be transparent on social media. Draw the line between communicating as the Person and the Professional. Not only does this help you keep your content separate and appropriate, it also gives the control to your network of family, friends, colleagues, acquaintances and customers.

They get to decide whether to ‘like’ or ‘follow’ your company page. They get to decide whether they want to see your business related posts. User control is the #1 reason you need a business page if you’re conducting business on Facebook. Wouldn’t you rather have a willing and engaged audience over a forced, potentially reluctant one? We have personally eliminated many of the ‘DBA’ offenders from our news feeds and you have likely done the same.

As in all controversial social media topics, there is some gray area. And that gray area is often subjective, so consider this post food for thought and decide for yourself. We try our best to keep professional content on our business pages, with a couple of exceptions: 1. Philanthropic Promotion: We’re in favor of posting anything that will help an organization in need on both your personal and business pages. Nonprofits often have little to no marketing budget and rely on all of us to promote their good works, so we believe that’s a good line to cross (as long as it’s about the organization, and not you).

2. Recognition Tagging: Facebook does not allow you to tag an individual on your business page. Yes, there are some tricky work-arounds, but they are inconsistent at best. So when it’s truly important for us to recognize and tag an individual, especially someone who has done something nice for us (inviting us as guests on their radio show or podcast, for instance), we will generally post that on the business page first, then share it from our personal pages, along with a comment recognizing and tagging the individual(s) or business who helped us.

Either way (personal or business), remember to be true to the social aspect. Our participation on social media should be about giving, helping, recognizing and connecting…especially when it comes to your business.

Tonya Eberhart is the Branding Agent to Business Stars and founder of BrandFace®, LLC. Michael Carr is America’s Top Selling Real Estate Auctioneer & BrandFace® partner. Together, they focus on personal branding and marketing designed to help real estate professionals become the face of their business & a star in their market. BrandFace® for Real Estate Professionals is a book, professional speaking series and an exclusive workshop for agents, and is currently active in 18 U.S. states, Canada and New Zealand. For more information, visit www.BrandFaceRealEstate.com.

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Top Agent Magazine

Top Agent Magazine

TRACY UTTLEY Consider an aging military veteran who fought for the American Dream but never owned a piece of it as a homeowner. Then, on his deathbed, he made his wife promise that she would buy a home, so he would know she was safe. Tracy Uttley is an agent who has helped that veteran keep his promise by securing financing and getting his wife’s offer accepted in this competitive market. “It was a powerful moment for me,” she says. “I like houses, but I love helping people the most. So it brings me much joy to make people’s dreams come true.”

Tracy is a consummate professional who owns hotels and restaurants. At the dawn of the pandemic, she did some self-reflection to pinpoint her passion. “I realized the part that I liked the most about being a business owner was the buying and selling,” she says. So Tracy narrowed her focus to real estate, bringing fierce negotiating, transparent communication, and masterful network building into the field. Her skill set helped her close $7.8 million in sales in her first year.

newsletter and sends quarterly postcards to keep in contact with past clients.

Birthdays warrant a phone call.

Despite her blooming success in real estate, Tracy takes an unassuming perspective to her craft. “I think that I need to earn people’s business and their trust,” she says. “And I don’t have any sense of entitlement that people will work with me other than that I will do an excellent job for them and work hard.” Going forward, she plans to grow her team and strive “to make a lasting contribution to the lives of my customers and their families by helping them achieve a high standard of living.” Having found her passion, Tracy continues to answer the call in service of her clients. “I think it’s an honor to represent buyers and sellers.”

Minnesota’s Twin Cities have a lot to offer homebuyers. With thousands of lakes and a thriving theater district, the region can be an attractive draw for homebuyers. Tracy not only sells the area; she hikes and bikes it. Her market knowledge from years operating businesses sets her apart as a representative for buyers and sellers. Also, her community ties extend into her support for causes against hunger. “I do a lot of food drives because I don’t think anybody in this day and age should go hungry.” Tracy conducts drives quarterly with a recent effort to bring in 800 pounds of food. “People feel overwhelmed by problems in this world. So I wanted to do something to help.”

Tracy’s marketing mix runs the gamut. “I come at it from every angle,” she says. She does email blasts, social media posts, postcard mailings, videos, and networks with other agents. She publishes a monthly Top Agent Magazine

To learn more about Tracy Uttley, please call 651.332.1204 or email tracy@uttleyrealestate.com 29 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com

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Top Agent Magazine