NATIONWIDE & INTERNATIONAL 12-11-23 by Top Agent Magazine

NATIONWIDE & INTERNATIONAL EDITION

SMALL YARD? BIG STATEMENT:

How to Make the Most How Send Out of to Micro Outdoor Spaces

Smarter Emails

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

CONNECT BEYOND

REAL ESTATE

to Attract Future Clients

EASY BLOG TOPICS

FOR YOUR REAL ESTATE BLOG

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5 Reasons Why You Need a Mentor As great as it might feel to start your own business, and be solely responsible for its success, at some point, every entrepreneur reaches the limit of their potential, and needs a boost that only experience can provide. But how do you get a lifetime of experience when you’re just starting out? Sure you can read countless books, but no book can replace the real life experience and advice of a mentor. Mentors not only provides valuable insights, but they also have access to valuable connections as well. In fact a majority of the 4

most successful CEOs and entrepreneurs in the country have said that having a mentor early on was instrumental in their success. Here are some of the reasons why.

1. They’re able to see where you need improvement, when you can’t When you’re working non-stop to get your business off the ground, you might feel sensitive to any criticism from people who aren’t going through what you are. A good

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mentor knows exactly what you’re going though, and has probably made every mistake. When you’re in the thick of it, you might not be able to see where the problems are. A knowledgeable outsider, who knows exactly where you’re at and has only your best interests at heart is just what you need. When you have a trusting relationship with someone like that, you will be more willing to listen to that brutal honesty, even if that constructive criticism stings.

energy into it. They can see things in a completely logical way and guide you based on the facts rather than emotion. A good mentor helps you work smarter, not harder. They help you focus on your goals and how to get there, as well as setting boundaries for you so you don’t overextend yourself. They teach you how to say no and help you let go when you need to move on from a setback.

2. They will encourage you to think outside of the box

In addition to expertise, building a strong network is something that can only come with time. A mentor will most likely have that already, giving you access to people and resources that would take others years to gain. These connections will lead to opportunities that might never have happened otherwise. It’s also a great confidence boost knowing that your mentor trusts and believes in you enough to invite you into their inner circle.

Years of experience can give someone a great idea of what works and what doesn’t. They’ve seen things first hand, not just in theory. At the same time, mentors recognize the importance of taking chances, calculating risks, as well as cutting losses and moving on. A good mentor isn’t trying to encourage you to be a carbon copy of them, they are trying to create the best ‘you’ possible. That includes encouraging you to take chances, and then being there pushing you to keep going forward if it doesn’t work out. A good mentor knows that even failures can be opportunities.

3. They take the emotion out of decisions and help set boundaries Unlike you, a mentor has no emotional investment in certain business approaches that you might have decided to try. There’s nothing harder than admitting something isn’t working when you’ve put a lot of time and Top Agent Magazine

4. Networking

5. Encouragement At the heart or it all, a mentor offers you encouragement and motivation along the way, in good times and in bad. After a failure, it can be hard to get back on track and keep forging ahead. It helps to have someone who has spent year getting back up after being known down and coming out stronger than ever. It’s during those moments, when you feel alone and isolated, that having someone around offering you advice and positive feedback will be a much needed salve. They’re your cheerleader, they want you to succeed, and hopefully, you’ll pay it forward one day when you become as successful as them.

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CARMEN ANDREW

Carmen Andrew of Bellingham, Washington, combines over two decades of industry expertise with a penchant for organic growth and a sincere dedication to community involvement to lead the iconic Weitzel Home Team. “I just love the people. I got into it because I enjoy helping clients achieve their goals, and now I get to spend almost as much time helping my neighbors and colleagues. Every day I get to be a caretaker and a problem solver at the same time is another day in my dream job.”

for a year and enjoying a successful marketing career, she became a fully licensed REALTOR® in 2006 and signed on as a buyer’s agent. Today in 2023, after two years of partnering with her mentor, Carmen is now the sole owner of the team, which houses four additional agents and two supporting staff members. Collectively they average between ninety and one hundred annual transactions (which includes homes,

Prior to formally entering the industry, Carmen studied Business, Management, and Marketing at Western Washington University. “I was looking for part time work while I was studying in Bellingham,” she recalls. “I went to my Kiwanis club and asked around, and eventually met Chris Weitzel!” Carmen learned from one of the best in the business as a part time administrator for the Weitzel Home Team, and after living in Japan 6

condominiums, and lots), making them the top team in RE/MAX Whatcom County. “We don’t really track dollars or price tags,” Carmen exudes, “but we do keep track of the number of families and people that we help. That’s always been our goal.” This disposition helps the team maintain a book of business that is over eighty-five percent repeat and referral clients who come back for professional photography, industry expertise, and most of all, “The hand holding! We like to tell our clients that we’re going to hold their hand through the entire process – taking the stress and pressure out of the experience makes a huge difference.” In addition to supporting her clients, Carmen and her team go to great lengths to champion their extended community. Every season affords them an opportunity to host a different event: partnering with their local church to help with Easter Egg Hunts, creating regular movie nights, or sponsoring a Breakfast With Santa. Their efforts have recently been recognized with the Community Service Award in their RE/MAX brokerage. “Everyone on the team right now is a dog owner, so that’s become a big part of our culture. We started running Yappy Hours at the local bark park – having that work-life balance is important to me personally, so I want that for the rest of my team as well.” As Carmen grows alongside her blossoming community, she’s excited to welcome two new agents onto the team, and hopes to pave a pathway to specialized success for every client and colleague. The recent and unexpected death of her father-in-law has her doubling down on the value of estate planning, and she’s discovered a thin silver lining during this tumultuous experience. “I want to help others in a loving way. Plan for the worst, hope for the best!” Top Agent Magazine

For more about Carmen Andrew, please call 360-393-0767 or email CarmenAndrew@remax.net Copyright Top Agent Magazine 7

Easy Blog Topics for Your Real Estate Blog Today, blogging looks a lot different than it did back in 2007, when the platform was just beginning to take off. Successful bloggers don’t choose blog topics on a whim. They think strategically and develop pillar content that their target audience will come back to again and again. Real estate bloggers should be less concerned with whether the same post already exists (it does) 8

than with how they can be more informative and helpful than their competition. Your personality is likely the thing that your clients connect with, and your blog is another place where you can let it shine. Pillar content refers to those evergreen posts that never get old because they are always timely. Think about those questions that you’ve had to

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

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

Evergreen Content

Your clients are likely new to the area. Inform them about upcoming community events or mom-and-pop shops they may have never heard of. Are there hiking trails or parks nearby? What’s the best place to grab a cup of coffee before work or a beer after? You can spotlight these places regularly as a monthly series.

This should really make up the bulk of your content. The possibilities are endless, and you could easily come up with an entire year’s worth of content with only a few hours of brainstorming. Here are some examples: You could provide your readers with a list of questions they should ask when interviewing a realtor, the steps to becoming a real estate investor, real estate facts all first-time homeowners should know, steps new parents should take to prepare their home for a baby, recommended vendors for home maintenance, or common real estate terms defined. You could explain to your readers what they need to know about home staging, which home renovations add the most value to their home, how to research schools or crime rates in specific neighborhoods, what a home association is, or how to start flipping houses and buying foreclosures.

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

Stay Local

There are plenty of real estate news outlets that will be posting about the state of the market—but they won’t be talking about your specific community, and that’s where your blog comes in. Of course, if you only blog about community functions or properties on the market, then as soon as that event is over or that listing is sold, your content ceases being useful. The best real estate blogs balance their content by posting a little about all the above. Maintaining a high-quality blog means your prospective clients don’t need to visit several websites to have their questions answered because you’ve done the work for them. It’s a tool that helps you make a great first impression. If you still need help coming up with blog topics for your real estate blog, consider sending a survey out to your clients. You can send it via email and post it on social media. Ask your clients what real estate problems they need help solving and write your content with their responses in mind.

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JANENE PARHAM

Janene Parham’s journey in real estate was sparked by both her mother’s home purchase and a REALTOR® friend’s influence. This blend of personal and professional inspiration fueled her decision to dive into real estate classes, marking the beginning of a career that would grow into a profound passion. Initially navigating the market solo, Janene recently embraced collaboration, co-founding a team at Red One Realty last year, expanding her reach and impact. Known for her deep commitment to community work, particularly in affordable housing, Janene has become a pivotal figure in various neighborhoods from Reynoldsburg, Whitehall, Franklinton, Linden, Southside, Urbancrest, and Central Ohio areas. Her business thrives on trust and satisfaction, with a staggering 95% of her business stemming from repeat clients and referrals.

work, she takes an educational approach, ensuring her clients are well-informed about the process and potential future prospects, like building generational wealth. Maintaining a close relationship with her buyers and sellers, Janene celebrates milestones like house anniversaries and birthdays. Her personalized approach includes hosting or contributing to housewarming parties, complete with cakes featuring images of their new homes. This attention to detail and celebration of personal

Clients consistently return to Janene, drawn by her honesty and trustworthiness. She is not just thorough in her 10

moments fosters a deep, lasting bond. “It’s the little things you do that keep that relationship going,” she says. Janene becomes a cherished part of her clients’ lives, often being invited to their family functions. Her approach to marketing her listings is deeply intertwined with her active involvement in community organizations and events. Janene’s focus is on making homeownership accessible, especially through affordable housing. “A lot of my listings are affordable, where people don’t have to spend four or five hundred thousand for a brand new build,” she explains. This emphasis on affordability opens doors for many who are seeking quality homes without the hefty price tag, catering especially to those with budgets starting around the $150,000 mark. She is a familiar face at numerous local gatherings, from health walks to church events, ensuring her listings reach a wide and diverse audience. “I’m very big on going to different community events...whether it be a New Build seminar or if the church is having something,” she says. A notable aspect of her community work includes supporting various organizations in Columbus, a city where these groups have a significant presence. This approach not only markets her listings effectively but also reinforces her commitment to and connection with the community she serves. As her career progresses, Janene can’t imagine herself in any other field. “It’s rewarding,” she reflects, particularly when helping first-generation homeowners achieve their dreams. This aspect of her career, more than any financial gain, is what she finds most gratifying, exemplified by heartfelt moments like receiving thankful calls on New Year’s Eve from clients. Looking ahead, Janene is focused on expanding her team and mentoring new agents, guiding them through the fluctuating tides of the real estate market. Janene also enjoys spending time with her family and going to sporting events. Janene is a big Ohio State and Bengals fan! Top Agent Magazine

For more about Janene Parham, please call 614-795-9979 or email janene_parham@hotmail.com

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 12

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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JOCELYN O'ROURKE-SHANE Jocelyn’s enthusiasm for real estate started as a young child while growing up in Western Maine. “When I was a little girl riding in the backseat of my parents’ car, I would look out the window and see dilapidated homes,” she recalls, “and in my mind, I would envision how I could fix them up. I went away to college and earned a bachelor’s degree in Business, but my passion was always real estate.” After college, she began pursuing her love for real estate by purchasing and renovating foreclosed homes. As a young adult, Jocelyn decided to move back to Maine to pursue her career as a fulltime real estate agent by joining a local real estate agency. From the moment Jocelyn stepped into Real Estate, she has been a top producer! After more than 20 years in the business, that passion is still alive. Today she is a broker/co-owner at Maine Real Estate Choice in Naples, Maine, a small rural community that is the heart of the Lakes Region on the western side of the state. It’s a beautiful area with a causeway between two lakes and is home to the Songo River Queen. Jocelyn’s availability to her clients is enhanced by her team. She has a buyer’s agent who is available to clients for showings as well as a full-time assistant who is in the office. Past clients and referrals will generate the bulk of that business. One of the things that keeps her clients coming back is her integrity, which governs the way she does business. “The biggest thing for me is being honest and trustworthy,” she says. “Integrity is everything. You have to have a good name and communicate well. No sale is worth losing your reputation.” Jocelyn publishes a monthly newsletter to keep clients informed and on top of current market conditions and developments. “Communication is a huge thing,” she

says. “If a home sells in the neighborhood of a past client I will call the client and let them know what it sold for, to keep them informed about what’s going on in their area.” Each of her listings has its own website, and she utilizes all of the social media outlets to market them, including Linkedin, Twitter, and YouTube. However, she still sees value in running print ads in local newspapers and magazines for the visitors coming into town! Being active in the local community is a priority with Jocelyn. “I have been President of the Western Maine Council of the Mountains to Shore Board of Realtors for the past three years,” she says proudly. “We give back to the community by doing a lot of fundraising. Last year we raised more than $6,000 to provide heating assistance for local residents. This year we’re sponsoring live auctions featuring big-ticket items like boat rentals, ski passes, and getaways.” Outside of real estate, Jocelyn has a love for volunteering her time with the local elementary schools and recreation programs. Jocelyn enjoys spending her time with her husband Ted and their two boys. “My favorite pastime is spending time with my family,” she insists. “We are a big hunting family. We go fishing and boating in summer, and we go skiing and snowmobiling in winter.” It’s important to Jocelyn that her business stays on the cutting edge when it comes to marketing. “I am always looking for innovative ways to market my business,” she says. “I like going to real estate conventions so we can learn new marketing techniques and strategies. I always want to know what to do and how to do it. That’s what keeps us on top.”

For more information about Jocelyn O’Rourke-Shane, call 207-838-5555, email jocelyn@hancockpondrealestate.com, or visit mainerealestatechoice.com www.

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JOSEPH & BRENDA MARINELLI Meet East Coast agents Joseph and Brenda Marinelli, who work as a dynamic husband-wife duo serving the greater Philadelphia region of Pennsylvania. Joseph got started in real estate two years after Brenda became licensed, and they have been dominating the market of Philadelphia as a team ever since. For this power couple, the world of real estate is their oyster, with their diverse experience in new construction, land development, traditional resale properties, and more. As their business roars, the couple also shares a vision of excellence and unwavering determination to service their clients in the Philadelphia region. Although steadily increasing yearly, Joseph and Brenda have earned a repeat and referral business of roughly 50%. The cornerstone of Joseph and Brenda’s success lies in their distinctive approach to building lasting relationships. Proudly, they refer to themselves as “generational agents,” a testament to their capacity to service their clients but also to become the trusted agent for generations to come. They often represent entire family lineages, seamlessly guiding each member through the intricate homeownership process. Aside from their word-of-mouth business, Joseph and Brenda market listings on the MLS and maintain a robust social media presence. In a fickle market where the inventory is low, Joseph and Brenda stand incredibly resourceful as they specialize in new construction and represent fifteen different builders. Additionally, their expertise extends to home resale, apartment

complexes, industrial, and collaborating alongside investors and house flippers. Their versatility throughout the industry has made them a driving force in the real estate landscape. Joseph and Brenda’s focus on new construction has been nothing short of a success, where the year 2023 marked a pinnacle in their careers, achieving over fifteen million in sales. Despite their financial achievements, Joseph and Brenda most enjoy working jointly as a team and overcoming any obstacles that arise in the home-buying process. To give back to the community that has embraced their services, Joseph and Brenda invest their time and resources in the local schools and their community church. When they are not working, they love unwinding and spending time at their mountain house near the New York border. Anticipating an abundant future, Joseph and Brenda will strive to double their numbers and expand their network of builders. Despite their current expansive reach among the local real estate community, they will continue to diversify their skillset and network. Together, they are not just growing as a business; they are evolving alongside each other, welcoming the challenges and victories that come their way. As they continue to build their legacy, Joseph and Brenda are an inspiring testament to the strength of partnership and determination in the ever-changing world of real estate. Their story is not just one of professional success but also of the lasting bond that fuels their journey, making them an unstoppable force in the Philadelphia region.

To learn more about Joseph and Brenda, please call (484) 942-8166, or email joemarinelli12@gmail.com or marinelli.brenda@gmail.com

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

your head, what exactly you’re feeling and why, it can help deflate the fear. Think of it as releasing some of the fear into the ether. Yes, you’ll still be nervous about your presentation, but a lot of what was holding you back is gone. You’ll feel lighter, and hopefully have just enough butterflies to make your soar.

Really owning the emotions that are putting you in a place of fear, is the first step. By just naming it and then talking it out in

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

ASSESS THE FEELINGS BEHIND THE FEAR

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TALK ABOUT YOUR FEARS WITH A TRUSTED CO-WORKER

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

THINK OF THE WORST CASE SCENARIO

Although it might seem counter-productive, truly assessing what the worse outcome of the situation you’re afraid of serves two purposes. It might lead you to realize the worst case scenario isn’t that bad after all. Of course it could also lead you to a really uncomfortable thought, you could lose your job. As bad as that is, it also gives you an opportunity to start focusing on what really matters, and how you might grow from the experience and possibly end up better off. Countless people in their dream jobs now, were once fired and thought it was the end of the world. Hopefully, that won’t happen to you, but learning to have confidence in your abilities to always find a way, will be a great tool in overcoming fears.

COMPARTMENTALIZE

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

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

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

START THINKING OF YOUR FEARS AS OPPORTUNITY FOR GROWTH

Start thinking of fears as challenges. As scary as it might seem to face them, for the most part they are things that can be fixed. A lot of fear is based on inexperience which leads to a lack of confidence. A common fear is workplace evaluations. Instead of looking at it as hearing everything that is wrong about you, think of it as an opportunity to see where you can improve. Going into it with a positive attitude rather than a defensive posture, will make the whole thing better for both parties. Overcoming fears is oftentimes about a simple attitude adjustment. Like anything it takes practice, but the results of that practice will lead to a life that you’re able to thrive in both personally and professionally.

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MAUREEN CULP Nobody knows Harbor Country, Michigan better than Maureen Culp, a broker associate who has been helping luxury buyers find the vacation properties of their dreams for 20 years. Eager to improve and enrich the lives of her clients, her education, track record and negotiation skills set her apart and make her a valuable asset to both buyers and sellers in the competitive real estate industry. Prior to working in real estate, Culp owned and managed a successful lumber company where she honed her business and managerial skills, leadership capabilities, intuition, and compassion for others. During this time, she also gained a great understanding of home construction, which was further expanded when she and her husband designed and built their own home in Harbor Country. These skills, along with her knack for problem-solving, responsiveness and strong communicative abilities, have allowed her to master the best practices used by top agents across the country. After moving into what was their second home, Maureen immediately began the arduous process of deciding on her second career. “I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted a career without employees,” she recalls. “A friend selling homes in Northern Michigan suggested real estate. She said it would be perfect for me.” Two decades later, Maureen is a Broker Associate for RE/MAX Harbor Country in Sawyer, Michigan and is consistently in the top 3 in her market. It appears her friend was right. A diligent and tireless worker, Culp has earned several designations in the last 20 years, including Accredited Buyer’s Representative, Certified Residential

Specialist, Resort & Second Home Property Specialist, Certified Luxury Home Elite Marketing Specialist, ePro and Certified Negotiation Expert. Her hard work has also earned her many awards. For the last three years, she was selected as one of RealTrends America’s Best Real Estate Professionals and as HomeSnap’s Top 5% of Realtors Nationwide. Though 80% of her business comes from referrals, she has an enormous database of clients and potential clients to draw from. Her connections to real estate agents in Chicagoland enable her to send new listing notices immediately and expedite the buying and selling process. She uses social media and professional photography to showcase her listings and cast the surrounding community in a favorable light. Her secret weapon is her property book, a customized promotional piece buyers can see, touch, and take home. In Maureen’s words, “It helps reinforce the dream.” When she isn’t working, Culp can be found volunteering with the Chikaming Open Lands, Neighbor by Neighbor, Fernwood Botanical Garden, and the Michiana Humane Society. When it’s time to relax, Maureen enjoys traveling with her husband and hiking with her black Labrador Retriever on the beaches of nearby Lake Michigan. When the Culps need their own getaway, they retreat to their second home, a 1920s bungalow in Northern Michigan that they recently purchased and renovated. In the meantime, she will continue selling luxury homes on Michigan’s western shore. “I love providing the place where people can bring their families and create lifelong memories,” she gushes. “That’s the very best part of my job.”

For more information about Maureen Culp, please call 269-759-9994, email maureen@maureenculp.com, or visit mymichigangetaway.com www.

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MISTY BACON RENNER Misty Bacon Renner of Houston, Texas, combines a penchant for interpersonal networking with an artistic flair and an unwavering dedication to service to fuel her thriving real estate business. “I love this industry. We get to help people make sound decisions and interpret challenging information like market data and big trends. But I also get to be a powerful networker – even for things not traditionally real estate related. If someone moves to the neighborhood and they need a doctor, or a new job, or even a haircut – I just love solving problems and bringing people together!” Prior to formally entering the industry, Misty attended Stephen F. Austin where she earned a BA in Communications for Radio, Television and Public Relations. She went on to serve as GM of an executive suite, where she was challenged to branch out into adjacent opportunities. “One of my clients was a lender,” she recalls. “And she kept hounding me to at least take the classes. I always had it in the back of my mind, but while the ship was sailing smoothly I didn’t want to make any sudden transitions.” In 2007, amidst a divorce, Misty decided to take the plunge and become a REALTOR®. During this tumultuous private experience paralleling the ensuing housing crisis, Misty cut her teeth as an agent serving the Southeast Quadrant of Houston, including Galveston County and Harris County. Her passion for client satisfaction and candid communication helped her establish a book of business that, to this day, is over ninety percent repeat and referral clients.

“I like bringing that personal touch to the experience,” she exudes. “Whether it’s a handwritten note for a home anniversary or a drive by Christmas stocking delivery – I want my clients to see that it’s more than just Facebook posts or TikTok reels and email blasts. I do those things too, everybody does; but the faceto-face makes all the difference.” After becoming a Broker in 2015, Misty launched Bacon Realty Group LLC in 2017, a boutique brokerage which currently houses two additional specialized agents. Her target market ranges from $250,000 to $550,000 (including investment properties), and each listing receives a white-glove level of polish before being taken to market. “I’m working on a commission piece right now for a friend of mine, and every time I go visit a listing I bring something new to decorate!” Her capacity to see the potential in herself and her houses is a hallmark of her creativity, and alongside launching her business, Misty is also the author of Hope Rising, a tale of transformation and healing. In addition to growing her enterprise and supporting her agents, Misty goes to great lengths to champion the extended Houston community. She currently sits on the Board of Directors for two separate nonprofits: the Community Real Estate crew, which supports local firefighters, police departments, and EMS employees in La Porte and Deer Park; and an organization which advocates for those aging out of Child Protective Services. She also acts as co-chair of a real estate committee that rallies sponsors and speakers to hold monthly seminars and presentations!

For more information about Misty Bacon Renner, please call 281-770-8665 or email misty@thebaconrealtygroup.com 20

CONNECT BEYOND

REAL ESTATE

to Attract Future Clients What kind of content are you sharing on your blog, website, and social media? Does most of it have something to do with buying or selling a home? While sharing the latest market information or tips on how to qualify for a mortgage, or when someone should buy or sell is important and demonstrates your value as a REALTOR®, it shouldn’t be the only subject you cover. If you only focus on real estate, you’ll be missing the chance to connect with future clients that might not be ready to move just yet. By sharing a lot

of industry-heavy content, you are only going to appeal to those who are currently in the market rather than a broad base of potential clients. To pull in those other future clients you want to provide fresh, interesting content that will appeal to those possible future clients that aren’t quite ready to move yet. However, you also want to still tie this content back into your business goals. So, how do you share content that will speak to a wider audience, but also still be relevant to your business?

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n Talk About Your Philanthropic Activities

The philanthropic work you do to support your community says a great deal about who you are as a person. Many people will be attracted to working with you because of the charitable works you are involved with. While you may be hesitant to share these efforts because you feel it may come across as bragging, you also need to remember that sharing information about the charitable organizations you support will actually help those organizations. Many of them have small marketing budgets, so any free exposure you can give them helps to promote their cause. In fact, they want and need you to promote them. And you can promote them without coming across as a braggart. Focus your content entirely on the organization. Talk about why you support them, how they help the community, and how others can also get involved. This turns what could have been bragging into something that benefits everyone. n Your Local Community

We humans are connected to each other through our community – our local sports teams, parks, churches, schools, and much more. What better way is there to connect with people in your community than to talk about your community? Demonstrate that you are an expert on your community, and bring that community to your followers. Share information about a local event; perhaps even share the actual event through live-stream video. Interview city officials to get the low-down on the latest development project. Share information with your followers about things they didn’t know about their community. Consult with local historians or the historical society to share interesting information about your community that your followers will want to read. You could even turn it into a series of podcasts or videos. n Use Your Creativity to Connect

Find creative ways to engage your followers on the topic of real estate. Try engaging your followers in an interactive project such as posting photos of interesting front doors. Doors are the entry point into our homes as well as our private lives. The way we adorn our front door can give someone a sense of our style and personality. Ask followers to submit photos and choose one to post each Friday. Make sure to watermark each photo with your logo at the bottom and include an inspirational quote that ties back to the importance of home. You could also ask your followers to provide a little story or caption to go along with the photo that tells something about them and their home. These kinds of projects are interesting and unique, and clearly connect back to your business. n Share Your Hobbies

Are you an adrenalin junkie who has bungee jumped from some of the tallest bridges in the world? Are you a foodie that grows your own organic vegetables and fruit? Do you have a 22

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secret passion for photography? Everyone has hobbies that they enjoy outside of work. When you look past the surface people become quite interesting. People also happen to find interesting people interesting, and tend to remember people based on their distinctive traits. We humans love discovering a person’s behind the scenes story, the mind behind the face. While you don’t want to talk too much about yourself, sharing pieces of your personal life and things that interest you can be a great way to connect with followers. By sharing interesting facts about your life, you will find that many followers will feel a strong, personal connection to you based on your hobbies and personal interests. n Divulge Interesting Experiences

This is somewhat similar to the idea of sharing your hobbies. Sharing some of your more interesting personal experiences such as a fateful conversation with a stranger or an exciting adventure you had while in another country can be a great way to connect with followers as long as it also relates to some kind of life or business lesson. Talk about experiences you’ve had with clients or purchasing your own home. Experiences that relate to your business are great ways to connect with future clients in a manner that goes beyond the world of business. n What and Who Inspires You

No matter what you’ve chosen to spend your life doing, you didn’t get there alone. You may have had a mentor that made a special impact on your life or someone already in the business that you looked up to and who perhaps inspired you to get into real estate. You may have found inspiration through a love of architecture or design. People want to know why others do the things they do. Sharing who or what influences you in your personal and business life is a great way to connect with followers. Recognizing that you didn’t get to where you are now by yourself shows humility, and talking about those people that had an influence on you shows others that you stay connected to the world and people around you. Connecting with potential clients is something that is essential to any REALTOR’S® business. If you’re doing the work to create interesting blog posts and make those connections, you want to make sure that you’re sharing the right kind of content to draw in those future clients. It takes a lot more than simply providing the latest market news. To get the most out of what you share, you need to provide a wide array of interesting content

that will draw in a broad range of followers. Providing the right kind of content can make all the difference when it comes to connecting with future clients and building the right kind of relationship with them right from the start. Connecting through your website or social media and sharing more than just real estate advice will help you build confidence and trust with future clients before you even meet them.

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Laughs!

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Small Yard? Big Statement: How to Make the Most Out of Micro Outdoor Spaces When house-hunters compile their lists of musthave home items, a dreamy backyard space is often near the top. After all, who doesn’t want an outdoor oasis of their very own? From summer barbecues to open space for your dog to frolic— everyone has their own aspirations when it comes to creating the perfect backyard paradise. But as homebuyers seek properties deeper within city limits, and Millennials opt for properties with 26

urban amenities and access, home-connected outdoor spaces are becoming a bit smaller in stature. Of course, size isn’t everything when it comes to outdoor space. Even balconies, rear patios, and ultra-tiny yards can provide homebuyers with the outdoor reprieve they crave—even on a smaller scale. For a few ideas that can help you envision all the possibilities of a micro outdoor space, read on for inspiration.

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Think vertically. When space is at a premium, think up instead of out. In other words, make the most of small spaces by capitalizing on your backyard, balcony, or patio’s overhead height. Mood-setting string lights, hanging pocket or wall gardens, floating shelves, and modern overhead hangings can create a sense of privacy and luxury without cluttering the square footage on the ground.

Soothing sounds set the mood.

Upgrade the look of structural components. Not in love with your patio pavers? Don’t have the sweetest view off your balcony? Whatever your small backyard living space gripe may be, there’s always a solution if you go back to the basics. Consider the structural components of your outdoor space that you aren’t in love with and there’s likely an affordable, eye-pleasing solution. For instance, plenty of home goods Top Agent Magazine

retailers make a variety of punchy or luxe outdoor rugs that can disguise stained or lackluster outdoor flooring. Power-washing is another great solution for old grime and dirt that’s an eyesore. Don’t have a great view? Planting ivy on bare walls, installing adjustable mood lighting, or hanging planters can create a more inviting ambiance.

While there may not be room for a swimming pool or pond in a micro yard or balcony, you can still bring the calming presence of water to your outdoor oasis. Fountains run the gamut in sizing and price, making this amenity an easy acquisition. What’s more, a running fountain not only adds a soothing sound to your space, but it also helps drown out noise from the street or the neighbors—making your space entirely your own and stress-free.

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Don’t compromise on your culinary dreams. If you love to entertain in outdoor spaces or relish the chance to man the grill—small outdoor spaces don’t have to trip you up. Grill options (both propane and charcoal) come in a range of sizes, many of which can be outfitted securely to balcony posts or be tucked away and out of sight when out of use. Consider nesting tables or those with a removable leaf to adjust your seating and dining options depending on company.

Another trick? A small, oscillating fan can keep air flow moving in a small space during grill season—and can be easily affixed to walls or posts, as well. Don’t let yourself or clients be discouraged by spaces with more limited square footage in outdoor areas. Furniture and design trends have already begun shifting toward providing better small-space options, and at the end of the day, a backyard space is all about providing an area for relaxation. With a few well-placed, strategic choices, you can still have it all.

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NIKKI RITTER Nikki Ritter is one of those rare people who knows exactly when to go with the flow—and when to step in and take action. It’s an art that she’s perfected in the last decade as a busy working mother. Nikki’s been on a whirlwind ride ever since she graduated from college, got hitched, and moved out of state. “One week after we got married, my husband told me he’d gotten a job in North Dakota. The agent we used to purchase our home there asked if I’d ever thought about going into real estate,” she recalls. “I just dove right in. It was crazy. I was thrown into it from day one working with multi-million-dollar properties.” After five years out West, the couple decided to go back to their roots in the Midwest to raise their family. Now Nikki serves buyers and sellers at RE/MAX Advantage Plus, covering both Minnesota and Wisconsin along the St. Croix River. With her sales and marketing background, she keeps a close eye on market trends and makes adjustments to her business strategy as needed. “I focus my marketing dollars on what’s selling. For example, right now new construction is slow because of interest rates being higher—but it’s still a great time for first-time home buyers.” On the other hand, Nikki also enjoys the cycles when new construction is booming. Her adaptability allows her to thrive in nearly any market condition. Unlike sales of existing homes, where buyers typically complete a transaction in a month or two, new builds allow for deeper connections. “I love new

construction because you’re working with clients for a year or longer, which really gives you the chance to build meaningful relationships over a much longer period of time.” Another strength that differentiates Nikki from other agents is her commitment to responding immediately to client needs and concerns. She follows up and circles back, on everything. “You have to do what you say you’re going to do. Even if it’s something small, like a client asks you to put them in touch with a moving company—you do it!” Being proactive on the client’s behalf is also very important to her. In one recent listing situation, the client had already vacated the property. Nikki had a hunch that having the laundry room upstairs was the blocker that was keeping the house from selling. “I told my husband that we had to move the washer and the dryer downstairs. We moved it, did some modification to the staging, and it sold. I’ll do whatever I have to do to sell a house. Unfortunately, that sometimes involves him,” she adds with a laugh. Nikki appreciates the fact that her career as a realtor syncs up perfectly with her roles as a mother, wife, and community volunteer. “I can be at the football field and a mom will come up to me and say, ‘My mom wants to sell her duplex, can you help her?’ It’s so great how if you stay involved in your community and be a good person that eventually everything comes full circle. It’s how I’ve built my business for the last 10 years—and it’s working.”

Nikki Ritter can be reached at 701-609-7835 or visit her website or Facebook or Instagram https://www.remax.com/real-estate-agents/nikki-ritter-eagan-mn/102086667

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Daily Habits That Will Increase Your Mental Strength When it comes to building physical strength, the solutions are obvious, but keeping up your mental strength isn’t as easy as going to the gym. Although physical exercise does help clear your head and relieve stress, there are other things you can do daily that will help your mind be as strong and flexible as your body after a workout. Here’s just a few things you can do to help clear your head and make you more productive.

DON’T WASTE YOUR BRAIN POWER That might seem obvious, but think about how much mental energy you might use up worrying about negativity or things you have no control over. Instead of focusing on problems, focus on solutions. This actually take a lot of effort, we’re all conditioned to let worry paralyze us sometimes. Try and catch yourself when you’re wasting time thinking about about past mistakes or current dilemmas you don’t have the power to stop. You really only have so much mental energy, and if you have kids and an especially stressful work situation, that might be even less than normal. Start treating your brain like the precious resource it is. You don’t want to be running on empty when it really matters.

STEP OUTSIDE YOUR COMFORT ZONE A lot of mental energy can go to dealing with anxiety. One way to deal with that is by forcing yourself to try new things and take on new challenges, that you might normally avoid because they make you feel unsure or scared. Challenge yourself daily, even with small things. This is definitely something that becomes easier with practice. Start small, and in no time you’ll be taking on things you never thought were possible. The simple task of trying something new every day will have you feeling energized and put you on the path to self-growth.

BE SELF-AWARE Your emotions affect everything you do, even if they’re not at the surface. Recognizing and labeling them is key. A lot of the above exercises require self-reflection. It’s okay to have the emotions you have, understanding why and where those emotions come from allows you to focus on dealing with them rather than just wallowing in them. Being self-aware is also about self-care. Know the things that help relax and rejuvenate you. That way you can handle everyday stresses and remain calm even during the most turbulent times.

BE MORE POSITIVE

BE WILLING TO LEARN

Eliminating negative thoughts is essential to increasing your mental strength. Carrying around negativity is like swimming with all of your clothes on. You might be okay at first, but eventually you’ll feel like you can barely stay afloat. Don’t drown in negativity, use positive thoughts as a lifesaver. This doesn’t mean you should ignore things you need to improve, just approach them with solutions rather than beating yourself up. Constant monitoring of this is important since it’s really easy to slide back into negative thinking.

A lot of people are still hung up on the idea that learning is a boring and tedious process, but you aren’t in junior high anymore. You can find something you’re actually interested in and immerse yourself in it, which engages your mind like nothing else. Whether it’s learning a new technology that will improve your business or something that will make you a more well-rounded person, the learning process keeps you engaged and open to new ideas. A curiosity about the world and new things is something that all mentally strong people have in common.

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REBECCA HAMEDA Coming from a career as an occupational therapy assistant, Rebecca Hameda never thought she could find a job that fit well with being a new mother and matched the level of help and support that her other job provided. But when she took the leap into real estate, she realized she had found its equal. “I’m amazed to be able to continue to help people like I did in my previous career,” shares Rebecca, who is entering her fifth year in real estate serving nearly the entire state of Indiana. “I can really help people in such big, big ways, just like my heart desired with my previous medical career. It’s been a blessing for our family.” Rebecca’s real estate odyssey began when she was going through the home-buying process. Her fascination with organization and time efficiency found a new outlet in real estate. She travels all over Indiana to serve her clients, also serving as a reliable and trusted presence in the Amish community. “Anywhere clients need me to go, I have gone,” she proudly states. In addition to the Amish, “a difficult community to gain trust in,” she says, but where many have become lifelong friends, Rebecca also serves veterans. Her experiences with often-challenging VA loans showcases her ability to navigate unique situations for her clients. What sets Rebecca apart in this competitive industry? It’s a combination of motivation, empathy and out-of-the-box thinking. “Surprises in real estate are unavoidable,” she admits, “but I’ve learned to successfully manage those issues with grace and motivation. A significant portion of Rebecca’s business, more than 75 percent, comes from repeat and referral clients, a testament to the trust and satisfaction she instills in those she serves.

Rebecca is also a community advocate. She passionately supports initiatives like the Mooresville schools’ “Students in Need” program, which raises funds to help kids with lunch money, hygiene supplies and more while their families are getting back on track. “There was a time where there was a similar program that really helped me as a single mother of two boys,” she recalls. “I promised myself I would do whatever I could to give back and remember how beneficial that was for my family.” When it comes to marketing listings, Rebecca’s creativity takes center stage. She leverages social media to highlight homes, injecting personality and flair into the process. “I don’t get embarrassed very easily,” she laughs, highlighting her video walkthroughs that not only benefit sellers but also captivate potential buyers with their warmth and humor. With a sales volume exceeding $5 million per year, Rebecca has her sights set on the future. “I’m definitely looking to start building a team,” she reveals, expressing her desire to share her knowledge, experiences and unique way of thinking with like-minded agents. In a world where real estate transactions can be stressful and impersonal, Rebecca Hameda stands out as a beacon of compassion, dedication and genuine care for her clients and community. “There are a lot of sharks out there in the real estate business,” she admits. “But I really do think it’s possible to change that, one agent at a time. When you have a transaction with another agent and they say, ‘This has really just been a joy,’ I say, let’s keep that going.”

For more about Rebecca, call 317-946-4944, email rebecca@thestewarthomegroup.com, or visit thestewarthomegroup.com/hameda-realty www.

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