NATIONWIDE & INTERNATIONAL 12-5-22

NATIONWIDE & INTERNATIONAL EDITION

5 SOCIAL MEDIA MISTAKES REAL ESTATE AGENTS MUST AVOID

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

KELSEY HUDDLESTON KIRSTIE THOMAS KRISTINA IRVINE LAUREL TOKARCZYK MARK GORES TAMAR HOUSE TINA TERADA COVER STORY

JASON OPPENHEIM

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com http://www.topagentmagazine.com

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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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JASON OPPENHEIM

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JASON OPPENHEIM Jason Oppenheim’s talent for real estate is abundantly clear. It’s seen in the way his team works, from their efficient and open communication to their strong negotiations. It’s seen in his ability to put together a transaction in a seamless way and earn the trust of high profile clientele. And it’s seen in the way service, friendship and connection are artfully woven into his business. He makes it look easy, but behind that ease is years of practice and the tireless pursuit of growth.

Real estate comes naturally to Jason partly because of his family’s involvement in it, which spans multiple generations and originates with his great-great grandfather, Jacob Stern. At the turn of the 20th century, Jacob was establishing himself as a prominent real estate entrepreneur in Los Angeles, founding and leading The Stern Realty Co. He acquired some notable properties during his life, including a personal five-acre residence at the corner of Hollywood and Vine.

The horse barn on the property was leased and converted into one of Hollywood’s first film studios in 1913, and is often referred to as the birthplace of the entertainment industry.

Each subsequent generation of the family remained involved in the real estate industry of greater Los Angeles. Receiving his undergraduate and law degrees from UC Berkeley, where he ranked first in his class, Jason initially pursued a career as a lawyer. He joined a prominent international law firm and represented notable CEOs and top corporations, but eventually felt drawn into the real estate world. “After working as an attorney for many years, I wanted to find something I was more passionate about,” Jason explains. It wasn’t long before Jason became a top agent in Los Angeles, building out a team that was recognized as #1 in the West Coast.

Three years later he founded The Oppenheim Group. Known for breaking records, including the largest sale ever recorded and the highest-priced sale per square foot, The Oppenheim Group has captured the attention of the world’s most affluent individuals.

With office locations in West Hollywood and Newport Beach, they’re closing hundreds of millions of dollars in transactions each year.

Their West Hollywood location is familiar to

With office locations in West Hollywood and Newport Beach, Jason Oppenheim’s The Oppenheim Group has recorded the largest sale ever and the highest-priced sale per square foot—capturing the attention of the world’s most affluent individuals.

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While his success in this industry is truly unmatched, Jason never loses sight of what he loves most about his work. “I have the best job in the world.” many who watch Selling Sunset on Netflix, which centers upon Jason’s team. “The West Hollywood location consists of some of my closest friends,” Jason explains. Capturing Los Angeles’ fast-paced market, luxury homes in stunning locations are part of every episode.

Handling these coveted properties requires immense experience and knowledge, something that The Oppenheim Group has in spades.

And while the group helps one another out frequently, Jason remains very connected to his clients. “I’m still personal with them,” he says.

“I only have a cell phone, no office line. And I often communicate with clients myself rather than delegating to other agents.” Maintaining those relationships is one of Jason’s favorite parts about what he does. “Los Angeles is home to some of the best real estate in the world, so we have very interesting clients.”

Delivering the best experience possible to each client is the cornerstone of Jason’s business. He sets them up for success, whether it’s negotiating to get them into the home of their dreams or finding the right buyer for their listing. Utilizing social media, online marketing, print advertising, and word of mouth to spread the word about his properties, Jason is able to close sales quickly and efficiently. Prior to listing a home, he ensures they are looking their best. “We focus on the presentation of a property beforehand, and we even have a concierge service that can help get the home ready for Top Agent Magazine

sale. We really like to have a property looking as new as possible before we photograph and get them to market, so that often means staging, painting, landscaping and sometimes a light remodel.” Then, he makes sure it is listed at an appropriate price, which quickly sparks buyer interest.

Although Jason spends much of his days working, he carves out time for other activities he’s passionate about. “My team and I are involved with a non-profit called Food on Foot, which provides food, clothing, and more to those experiencing homelessness or low income.”

He also loves to travel, collect vintage sports cards, and spend time with his friends and his two beloved chihuahuas.

Jason sees his business growing organically with each passing year, and his goal is to maintain a steady upwards trajectory. “I would consider opening another office, but right now I am not trying to expand too quickly,” he explains. “I want to keep our level of service as high as possible, and my top priority is making sure I have time for my clients.”

While his success in this industry is truly unmatched, Jason never loses sight of what he loves most about his work. “I have the best job in the world. The people I get to work with and the people that I represent are what makes it all worthwhile.”

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For more information about Jason Oppenheim and The Oppenheim Group, please email jason@ogroup.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 12

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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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KIRSTIE THOMAS

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KIRSTIE THOMAS

Having grown up around real estate, Kirstie Thomas always knew she would go into the industry. With her father as a REALTOR® and her uncle as a broker for 40 years, she received a lot of guidance about real estate before getting licensed 3.5 years ago. Now working as an independent agent in both Iowa and Nebraska, Kirstie has built a strong reputation as an agent who goes above and beyond for her clients. Whether working with first-time homebuyers or families looking to move neighborhoods, Kirstie provides expert guidance to get homes bought and sold quickly.

referral clients who either want to work with her again or know someone who had a great experience. She is also always on the look out for networking opportunities to reach more people and grow her business.

To market her listings, Kirstie stays very active on social media. She likes to do creative

At the beginning of every new relationship, Kirstie gets to know her clients and establishes a strong connection with them. As a result of the level of care she puts into each transaction, around 80-85% of her business comes from repeat and 16

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giveaways where she asks questions that engage her audience. “I want to keep a presence in my clients’ lives and being active online is one of the easiest ways to do that,” she says. Another unique marketing effort that Kirstie undertook this year was being on HGTV’s House Hunters. In the episode, she was featured as both the REALTOR® and buyer. Being both allowed her clients to see all the details she considered when personally choosing a home. “It was a great experience to be on the show. My father and brother were also involved, which was really fun and good exposure for them as well.”

When she’s not working, Kirstie splits her spare time between volunteering and hanging out with friends, family and her two dogs, a Toy Australian Shepherd and a Pomeranian. She is a member of Women With Voices, which is a womenonly business networking group in Omaha.

“I’ve loved being a part of this group.

We meet once a month to connect with other successful women in business,” she explains. She recently spoke at one of their events, sharing her experience in real estate as a means of inspiring other women.

Kirstie has sold 42 houses this year and has a goal set to do just under $10 million in individual sales by the close of December.

As she heads into the new year, she is planning to focus on generating new business by coming up with creative ways to attract clients. “I stay really motivated because there’s something new and exciting to do every day,” she explains. “The pace of real estate is very fast and there is never a dull moment.”

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To learn more about Kirstie Thomas, please call 712-370-2779 or email kirstieannthomas@gmail.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 17

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 18

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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MARK GORES

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MARK GORES

Mark Gores’ fascination with real estate stems from childhood, when he would attend his mom’s open houses. “She worked as an agent throughout my entire life, so I got to see the business from a unique perspective,” he explains. “When I graduated from college, I knew I wanted to become a REALTOR®, because I knew how rewarding it could be.” Today he’s been licensed for nearly two decades, and is currently part of the Minnesota Real Estate Team, the top RE/MAX team in the country. Serving the greater Minneapolis area, much of his business derives from repeat clients and referrals. Mark goes above and beyond to meet their needs, only wanting what’s best for them. He gets to know his buyers and sellers on a deep level, understanding exactly what they’re looking for so he can help them achieve their goals.

level of service, which has allowed him to serve generations of families. “I’m now assisting my clients’ kids, so it’s been really rewarding to receive those phone calls, knowing they can trust me.” At all steps of the process, Mark is informative, supportive and encouraging. He ensures they understand every aspect of the journey, and is always ready to answer questions. For his buyers, he talks in-depth with them about what they

“I want all my clients to win,” he explains. Mark provides an exceptional 22

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want, narrowing in on ideal properties. This has helped him stay competitive in a buyer’s market with little inventory. “Once we’re clear on what we’re looking for, I set out to find it, whether it’s on the market or not,” he explains.

“I will go door knocking and start cold calling until we have an offer accepted.”

Sellers enjoy thorough marketing of their homes with Mark, as he advertises listings on radio shows every week. “We’re the only team that does print, radio, online and social media ads, there’s really nothing we won’t do in terms of spreading the word about our homes,” Mark says. “The sky is the limit.”

Each property is captured in its best light, with high quality photographs, drone footage and walkthrough videos.

Once the transaction is complete, clients never hesitate to leave Mark glowing reviews. One recently said, “I have worked with Mark a few times, both selling and buying a home.

Always a pleasure to work with him. He is knowledgeable about the Prior Lake/Savage area and willing to seek additional information about the homes you are interested in. Good at negotiating with other agents and setting a reasonable sale price so that your home has lots of activity and will sell quickly for the most amount of money.”

Throughout the year, Mark and his team give back to the community. They choose an organization to donate to every quarter, and recently helped victims of Hurricane Ian. During Mark’s free time, he enjoys playing hockey, golf, watching movies and relaxing with his family.

As Mark’s career continues to flourish, he plans to keep providing outstanding service to every client he serves. “Our whole motivation is to provide a world class real estate experience.”

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For more about Mark Gores, please call 612-201-5447 or email mark@walgrave.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 23

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 Top Agent Magazine

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 Top Agent Magazine

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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KRISTINA IRVINE

With a passion for helping others and a love of people, Kristina Irvine discovered her talent for sales after attending college for accounting. “I got into a car wreck that changed my entire life,” she explains. “I ended up taking an outside sales position after that, and I didn’t really know what to expect. But I did really well with it and built my career over a decade running sales teams.”

One day she woke up and decided to switch gears, wanting to pursue real estate full-time. So Kristina earned her license in 2018 and hasn’t looked back since. Today she has one buyer’s agent and an assistant, and is slowly building her team. She serves a large territory in Illinois, which spans about an hour radius outside of Naperville. Most of her business is based on referrals from past clients, as those who work with her are blown away by her superior service.

ter their experience level, to make sure we’re all on the same page,” she explains. “Expectations are clear and upfront, and communication and follow up are a huge deal for us.” Kristina tries to make it fun for her buyers and sellers, alleviating stress and making it a memorable journey. “I always tell my team, it’s important to be good REALTORS®, but it’s also important to make the process enjoyable,” Kristina says. “We know they stick with us because it’s fun, and it feels good. So that’s one of our main goals.”

Over the last few years, Kristina has developed strong internal systems and processes to help her business run smoothly. This creates a seamless experience for her clients. “There are certain things we do with every single client, no mat26

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Marketing is another vital aspect of Kristina’s work, as she spreads the word far and wide about her listings. She will film short video clips of her properties and compile them into an exciting YouTube video. “We will also post them on our Instagram stories,” she explains. Kristina also keeps in mind who the ideal buyer is for each home, and centers the property description and marketing around that person. This results in listings selling quickly and for the highest amount possible.

Clients leave 5-star reviews about their time with Kristina. One recently said, “Kristina is a gem to work with! She goes above and beyond for her clients. She is incredibly professional and makes the home buying process as painless as possible.

Kristina’s attention to detail and responsiveness to questions are second to none. She is genuinely passionate about what she does and it shows.

I met Kristina because she was recommended to me and I am so grateful because while I’ve found my perfect home, I’ve also made a lifelong friend. She’s truly the best.”

Throughout the year, Kristina volunteers at various events through her brokerage. They give back to the local food pantry regularly. Kristina also gives each of her clients a children’s book she wrote about the moving process. “I wrote a children’s coloring book about my nephew’s moving story, because it can be a scary time for kids. So this book is full of his experience when his family purchased their new home, and the goal of it is to help kids transition through the moving process.”

Looking ahead, Kristina plans to keep growing her business and reaching new heights. She can’t wait to see where her path leads. “Real estate gives me the opportunity to continue meeting people and inspiring them to be their best selves.”

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To learn more about Kristina Irvine, please call 630-945-4962 or email kristinairvine@johngreenerealtor.com 27

Creative Ways to Say Thank You

Most top real estate agents find ways to welcome their clients to their new home. A common theme is a bottle of wine and some wine glasses for that first post-threshold toast, or a bouquet of flowers to brighten up that empty living space until the furniture arrives.

But are you truly being as creative as you can with your appreciation? Here are some innovative gift ideas that will truly keep you front of mind with your valued customers and assure their gratitude and repeat business, not to mention a slew of referrals.

1. How about a streaming video device, like a Roku

or Amazon Fire Stick? There’s a good chance your clients will not have their cable service up and running for a few days, and this is an excellent way for them to enjoy their television before they get that connection going. Bundle it up in a basket with some DVD’s for the kids, and don’t forget all necessary cables.

2. Matching bathrobes and Bath kits: Fleece or ter-

rycloth bathrobes and a basket filled with highend his and her body scrubs, bubble bath and other luxurious pampering items can make the first night in a new home feel like a check-in at a fabulous resort and make the memory of that first night one to cherish. Again, don’t forget the kids!

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3. Arrange a catered meal from a local vendor. As-

certain in advance dietary preferences and restrictions, and have a wonderful, healthy meal delivered on move-in night. To complete the magic, provide brand new plates, silverware and glassware to serve it all on.

4. For homes with swimming pools or Jacuzzis, a

stack of fluffy pool towels is always appreciated and will be used by family and friends for years to come. Additionally, acrylic stemware for celebrating safely can be provided alongside them.

5. If it’s winter time and the home has a fireplace, make sure there’s plenty of wood to burn. Some fireplace accessories and a log holder will certainly make your clients appreciate you on every chilly night to come.

So when it comes to gifting your buyers, the trick is to be creative. A bottle of wine lasts one night, and the flowers wilt in a few days. Try coming up with something a little more creative that will remain with your clients in their day-to-day lives and remind them of you consistently. The little bit extra you spend to show your gratitude can reap huge dividends when it comes time for your client to purchase a second home or refer a friend.

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LAUREL TOKARCZYK Raised in the Bridgeville area, Laurel Tokarczyk has always been passionate about empowering those in her community. After graduating from PennWest California with her BA in Creative Writing and minor in Sociology, she would pursue a career in education, developing curriculum for one of the nation’s leading online learning companies. Over time, though, she found herself seeking a new opportunity that better spoke to her entrepreneurial spirit, which led her to switch tracks and go into the service industry as the manager of a popular bar in Bridgeville. Along the way, she would take an interest in real estate, drawing from her cherished memories of watching the Howard Hanna Sunday Showcase of Homes with her family, which inspired her to pursue her license and launch her career as an agent in 2020.

Leveraging her strong roots in the region with her background in sociology and business management, Laurel went on to build a far-reaching network of satisfied clients and colleagues. Today, she is a REALTOR® with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, where she assists clients throughout Pittsburgh, all of the surrounding areas, and many neighboring counties. There, she has cultivated a distinct workflow to meet the needs of any transaction—from residential real estate to commercial properties, land development, and luxury homes.

When listing a property, Laurel is there for her clients each step of the way. “Education is key. For me, it’s not just explaining what I can do, but why.” Along with helping them prepare for the current market and sharing their listing via a highly targeted blend of digital campaigns, she leans on her extensive sphere of influence and proven resources like postcards to the surrounding neighborhoods to ensure a seamless transaction throughout.

Laurel is just as attentive when assisting her buyers, thoughtfully guiding them to the right investment to best meet their individual needs. “You can never be too honest in our business,” she says. “Above all, I believe in being true to who I am so I can not only best represent my clients, but also give them the tools they need to fully understand every piece of the transaction. Rather than treating them like numbers, I treat them like friends, first and foremost. Trust is everything in this business.”

Now on pace to exceed $3 million in volume in 2022, Laurel attributes her success to her deep ties within her community. “Because I manage a bar in Bridgeville, I have an opportunity to connect with so many people in our area. Through the years, I’ve even navigated deals for my former high school teachers and classmates, and no matter the client, it’s so gratifying to establish these lasting bonds over the course of a transaction.”

Real estate further embodies the core values that were deeply woven into Laurel’s upbringing. With her father having passed away this past year, she now views the industry as an inspirational platform for elevating her family’s vision of compassion and communal action, with plans to deepen her engagement in the area in the coming months. “My father always wanted me to succeed, and to best honor him I work as hard as I can for myself and for my clients. I just want to make him proud.” In the meantime, though, she looks forward to all the new connections that await as she scales her model of boutique service throughout Pennsylvania.

“Real estate gave me back my passion,” Laurel says. “At the end of the day, every transaction offers me a chance to truly help my clients accomplish their goals while leaving a positive impact on our community. For me, there could be nothing more rewarding.”

To learn more about Laurel Tokarczyk, please call 412-628-9907, email laureltokarczyk@howardhanna.com or visit howardhanna.com www.

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KELSEY HUDDLESTON Born and raised in the Marble Falls area, Kelsey Huddleston has always been passionate about empowering those in her community. She would first take an interest in real estate through her mother, Zina Rodenbeck, an award winning Broker in the region. After learning the business from the ground up while serving under Zina as her assistant, Kelsey was inspired to pursue her own license and join her team as an agent in 2016. In the years since, she has found quick success, leveraging her roots in the region to establish a network of satisfied clients and colleagues that spans the Texas Hill Country.

Today, Kelsey is a REALTOR® with Zina & Co. Real Estate, where she assists clients throughout the entire Highland Lakes area. Combining her acute knowledge of the region with her outgoing personality, she has cultivated a boutique process to meet the needs of any buyer or seller.

When listing a property, Kelsey draws from the diverse resources at Zina & Co. Real Estate to give her clients an added advantage. Starting out, she helps her sellers fully prepare their home for the market, providing them with a suite of professional photography services. From there, she captures a robust sphere of influence through six regional MLS systems and a targeted blend of digital and social media campaigns, all in the leadup to the standout open house showing. Moreover, she utilizes proven outlets like print campaigns and virtual tours to ensure a seamless transaction.

Elsewhere, Kelsey is just as attentive when assisting her buyers, thoughtfully guiding them to the right investment for their needs. In fact, she keeps in touch long after the deals are done through frequent check-ins and even gifts

during the holiday season, all to make sure her clients are thriving in their new homes.

“Having spent most of my life in the Marble Falls area, I love helping my clients find precisely what they’re looking for,” she says. “Beyond that knowledgeability, I provide them with the best customer service possible—no matter what.”

Over the years, Kelsey has earned a fantastic reputation throughout the Hill Country, with the majority of her volume coming from repeat clients and referrals. Having completed 30 transactions and over $8 million in volume in 2021 alone, she remains committed to the lasting standards that continue to set her apart.

Outside of real estate, Kelsey is dedicated to her community. Alongside her colleagues at Zina & Co. Real Estate, she sponsors a variety of events and organizations surrounding the Highland Lakes region, including Pink Out Breast Cancer Awareness, Teacher Appreciation at local schools, Spicewood PTO, local youth sponsorships, CASA of Highland Lakes’ Christmas for Kids events, youth softball, and many more. When she’s not with clients or giving back, she can be found traveling, spending time with friends and family, taking her dog for a walk, or enjoying all the lovely scenery the Hill Country has to offer.

As for the future, Kelsey has strong plans for her business. Having already exceeded last year’s volume in 2022, she looks forward to scaling the compassionate approach that brought her to real estate in the first place. “In our business, you meet someone new every single day,” she says. “But that’s what keeps our work so exciting and interesting: Every day is different, and every transaction is an opportunity to learn something new while helping my clients realize their dreams.”

For more about Kelsey Huddleston, email realtor.kelsey@gmail.com, visit Kelsey.zinasells.com or call (512) 265-4455.

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9

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.

1

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

6

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.

3

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.

5

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.

7

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

8

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.

9

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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TAMAR HOUSE Driven by a desire to go above and beyond for clients and educate them about the buying and selling process, Tamar House truly sets herself apart in Southern California real estate. Since taking her real estate course in 1994 at her father’s suggestion, Tamar has had a passion for helping clients achieve their real estate goals. Almost three decades later, it’s that passion and dedication that translate into results for Tamar’s clients.

Tamar owns three businesses that service her clients’ needs. In addition to Team House Real Estate, Inc., she is the Broker at Cornerstone Realty Advisors, Inc., working alongside her husband Ryan and their oldest son Jordan. Tamar is also in the process of starting Southern California Property Management Company, Inc. to handle residential property management for her clients.

With her main office located in Santa Clarita, Tamar serves an area that stretches from Antelope Valley in the north all the way down to San Diego County, and as far east as Victorville and Apple Valley. At least 75% of Tamar’s business is based on repeat and referral clients, an impressive feat that demonstrates the trust and confidence she inspires. With close to 200 5-star reviews on Zillow, Tamar says, “Our customer service at Team House has always been top notch. We put our clients first and treat them like family.”

When it comes to marketing her listings, Tamar draws on her extensive social media footprint to ensure optimum exposure. As the owner of SCV Homes for Sale on Facebook, she promotes her listings to thousands of followers. Tamar also owns SCV Rentals and Leases, where similarly she reaches close to 17,000 members.

Tamar is a Premier Agent on Zillow, further cementing her reach.

Giving back to her community is important to Tamar. She is an active member of the SCV Sheriff’s Foundation, Top Agent Magazine

and a past president of the Santa Clarita Women’s Council of REALTORS®.

She has also sponsored the SCV Chili Cookoff. When she’s not working or giving back, Tamar enjoys traveling with her family.

Looking toward the future, Tamar is excited to launch her new property management venture. “With this changing market, it’s time for us to get back into residential leasing and management,” Tamar says. “There are a lot of people who need to sell their home now but are not ready to buy, because they want to wait until prices come down. A lot of our clients are reaching out to us for help finding a rental, which are few and far between right now. So that will be our focus over the next few years.”

Above all, Tamar looks forward to being of continued service to her clients in all aspects of their real estate journey. “I love seeing the smile on my client’s face when we close escrow,” she says. “Whether they’re purchasing, selling or even renting, it’s so satisfying to hand them the keys and know that they get to go make a place their home now, or to know that their home served its purpose and now they are financially secure. On closing day, everybody is happy.”

Contact Tamar at 855-HOUSE-05, email tamar@teamhouserealestate.com, or visit TeamHouseRealEstate.com www.

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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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TINA TERADA A longtime Washington resident, Tina Terada has always been drawn to real estate. After graduating from USC with her MBA in Organizational Development and HR, she would go on to author an accomplished career in the tech space, serving as a business strategist at Microsoft, where she helped drive corporate strategy through the office of its CEO. Over time, though, she found herself returning to her lifelong passion for real estate and investment properties in 2006; and since getting her start as an agent, she has found rapid success, later earning Homelight’s 2018 Sells for More Award and 2019 Top Negotiator Award, which place her among the top 5% of agents in the nation for selling homes above their asking price and saving buyers more money.

Today, Tina is a REALTOR® with Windermere Bellevue Commons, where she assists clients throughout Seattle’s Greater Eastside and its surrounding areas. Leveraging her elite foundations in business with her penchant for client service, she has cultivated a boutique process to meet the needs of any buyer or seller.

When listing a property, Tina prefers a comprehensive strategy. After helping her clients fully prepare their home for the market, she shares it via a highly targeted blend of digital and social media campaigns, all in the lead-up to the standout open house showing. Along the way, she is there for her sellers as a proven negotiator, utilizing her foundations in business management to ensure a seamless transaction. “I’m also diligent about pricing a property right,” she says. “That way, I can get my clients the most for their money while bringing in multiple offers to generate a more successful sale.”

Elsewhere, Tina is just as attentive when assisting her buyers, thoughtfully guiding them to the right investment for their best interests. More than anything, she enjoys welcoming newcomers to her thriving Seattle community and its booming tech economy, which includes leading-edge corporations like Microsoft, Top Agent Magazine

T-Mobile, Google, and Amazon. For this compassionate approach, she has earned a fantastic reputation among clients and colleagues alike.

Outside of real estate, Tina is dedicated to her community. On top of serving as Vice President of Seattle Kumamoto Kenjinkai, she volunteers with the Community Emergency Response Team of the City of Mercer Island and King County 4x4 Search and Rescue. When she’s not with clients or giving back, she can be found spending quality time with her family and friends, finding adventures, enjoying church, or producing lighthearted real estate videos for her popular Facebook page. She also enjoys exploring the various cultures of the world, having visited India, Korea, Japan, Europe, and countless other destinations over the years.

As her volume maintains its steady growth, Tina intends on building her team while scaling her mentorship work within her office. Along the way, though, she looks forward to all the new connections that await. “I’m truly blessed to serve in this industry,” she says. “There’s nothing more rewarding than helping a client find the right fit for their needs. As much as I want their heart to pound when they walk in the door, I also want the transaction to make sense in their head. That way, I can make sure they’re satisfied not only when they buy, but also when they sell—no matter the market.”

Contact Tina Terada at (425) 681-7061, email tina@nwrealtyconnection.com, or visit nwrealtyconnection.com www.

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