Nationwide & International 2-3-25

NATIONWIDE & INTERNATIONAL EDITION

How to

SPEED UP First-Time Homebuyer Transactions FEATURED AGENTS

BRANDON NUNLEY CHARLIE BANFIELD CHARLIE KRIEGEL GINNY PARKS JAMES CLARK JENNY PALM KATIE BURTON MARCUS & HELEN IBRAHIM MONTE REYMENT YVONNE GALLEGOS

AGENTS WITH HEART BE THEIR REALTOR® FOR LIFE:

How to Build a Relationship with Your Clients that Will Last a Lifetime

MY CRYSTAL BALL: You CAN Predict You’ll Be Successful Selling Real Estate

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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GINNY PARKS

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GINNY PARKS

In the tight-knit region of Yolo County, Calif., Ginny Parks has carved out a reputation as a dependable and tenacious REALTOR®, deeply rooted in her community. Real estate is in Ginny’s DNA. “My grandfather was the president of a title company, and my mother worked on the escrow side,” she says. “But for me, I just couldn’t imagine myself being trapped behind a desk all day long.

Sales seemed more suited to my personality.”

recalls. “I was eating humble pie, but it got my foot in the door. A few weeks in, one of the top agents noticed my work ethic and asked me to join her. It was everything I’d hoped for.”

Fast forward 13 years, and Ginny has built a successful, largely independent business. With a partner who is semi-retired, Ginny’s service area centers on Davis and Woodland, the communities

Ginny’s entry into the industry came shortly after graduating from the University of California at Davis. With an economics degree in hand and big dreams, she approached Coldwell Banker. “I walked in one day and asked if there was any work I could help with while getting my license. Unfortunately, no one bit— but the marketing manager noticed me and offered a one-day-a-week receptionist position.” It was far from glamorous work for a freshly minted college graduate, but Ginny didn’t hesitate. “It was tough,” she 8

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she knows best. “I grew up in Woodland, a small agricultural town, and went to college in Davis.

This bubble has been good to me,” she explains.

Ask Ginny what makes her successful, and her answer is refreshingly simple: relationships and trust. “I’m in the business of relationships and customer service,” she insists. “My clients know they’ll get honesty and transparency from me, and quick communication.” When it comes to marketing, Ginny’s approach is equally conscientious. She works with professional photographers and creates high-quality brochures for all her listings—whether the home is $400,000 or $2 million. Social media, she adds, has been a game-changer. “Being visible in multiple places adds legitimacy,” she notes.

Ginny’s dedication to her community is just as strong as her commitment to her clients. She is active with the Yolo Crisis Nursery and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate), which support children in need. “I see the world differently now,” she says, since the birth of her two young children. Ginny even helped start a PTA for preschoolers and personally donated $10,000 to improve their playground.

Looking forward, Ginny envisions growth but not at the expense of quality. “I’d love to find someone I can mentor the way I was mentored,” she says, adding, “I’m not looking for a big team. Quality over quantity is my mantra.

I want to keep providing top-notch service and stay hands-on.”

Ginny’s formula for success is straightforward: hard work, authenticity and a relentless focus on her clients’ needs. As she puts it, “Real estate is a relationship business, and I love every part of it. From helping clients make one of the biggest decisions of their lives to getting a home market-ready, it’s a privilege. I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.”

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For more about Ginny Parks call (530) 908-8264, email ginnylparks@gmail.com, or visit ginnyparks.com www.

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My Crystal Ball:

You CAN Predict You’ll Be Successful Selling Real Estate ►Carla Cross, CRB, MA

You can predict if you’ll be successful in real estate. It’s not what you think, either.

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Grab the best business start-up plan you can find and start the plan. Find someone to coach you to the plan.

What New Agents Expect From my survey of hundreds of agents under three months in the business, I found that more than 1/2 of them expected a sale the first month of the business.

What does that mean? When do they have to start looking for leads? That first week in the business! Yet, how many new agents start lead generating even in the first month? How long have you been in the business?

When did you start lead generating on purpose? Or, have you started? That’s why my book, Up and Running in 30 Days, now in its 6th edition, has you lead generating in week one. It’s your assurance plan you will get a sale fast and will stay in the business.

Expecting ‘Dumb Luck’ to Carry You to Success Inevitably, there is a new agent who has an Aunt Martha in his back pocket. That is, Aunt Martha wants to buy a home, and has told nephew Tommy she’ll wait until he gets his license to purchase from him. Ca-ching. Dumb luck. Tommy concludes that’s how the business goes. You just wait for someone to find you and Top Agent Magazine

sell them a home. We know that’s not the norm, though.

Unfortunately, Tommy’s going to wait a long time for that next transaction! The ‘dumb luck’ approach to the business results in low results. Since the ‘dumb luck’ agent isn’t doing a business start-up plan, we have no way of predicting results, because we can’t measure businessproducing activities. We can only measure other ‘dumb luck’ agent incomes. That’s way too late to actively coach–or to terminate with purpose.

Your Manager Could be a ‘Dumb Luck’ Manager– Pardon the Expression…

Dumb luck managers just look at results; sales and listings sold. So, they are not aware that agents may be failing for months. If new agents expect to make a sale in month one, how many months do you think it takes for them to get dis enheartened? 2-3? Not long. So, once new agents are mentally and emotionally out of the business, they will resist any help from managers. They’ve decided they can’t make it in the business. They’ll stay awhile, though, for ‘dumb luck’ transactions.

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Are You Lead Generating on Purpose?

Are you working a specific, prioritized lead generating plan? Is it made up of prioritized lead generating activities? Does it have ratios of activities to results, so the new agent knows whether he is on track to his goals?

Here are my activity ratios from Up and Running that will result in 8-12 transactions the first year in the business: • 20 contacts to get one buyer or seller lead • 8 times of putting people in the car to sell someone a home • 3 listing appointments to gain one marketable listing

• 80% of listings sell • 80% of transactions close What are the ratios in your office? Do you know? Do you know the work it takes to consistently generate the income you want to generate? Or, are you counting on ‘dumb luck’?

Best Advice to Create your Assurance Plan Grab the best business start-up plan you can find and start the plan. Find someone to coach you to the plan. Analyze your numbers frequently. You’ll stay on track AND assure your success.

https://carla-cross.com In the real estate business for over 3 decades, Carla Cross is an international speaker, trainer, and coach for real estate. She specializes in career development, business planning, leadership, and instructor development.

She’s won numerous sales and leadership awards in each area, including being named as a National Realtor Educator of the Year. A popular international speaker, Carla has spoken on leadership and training topics for 16 years at national Realtor conventions.

Author of eight books on real estate sales, her wildly popular book, Up and Running in 30 Days, is used by hundreds of thousands of new agents internationally to start their careers right.

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JENNY PALM

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JENNY PALM

When Jenny Palm embarked on her real estate journey nine years ago, she wasn’t just starting a new career—she was merging more than 20 years of marketing and sales expertise with her passion for helping people. “I’ve always had a strong connection to supporting others in achieving their goals, and I recognized the significance of a home purchase as a major life milestone,” Jenny explains.

“Whether buying or selling, I wanted to be there to guide and help others realize their dreams.”

Today, Jenny is a top-producing agent in Rhode Island, with an impressive record of closing more than $20 million in volume in 2024 alone. Throughout her career, she has consistently ranked among the top one percent of agents in production, making her a trusted name in the industry.

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Her success stems from her ability to streamline complex transactions while providing top-tier service. “My team is built on a network of the best professionals in the industry, ensuring that every aspect of a real estate transaction is seamless and successful,” says Jenny. Acting as a project manager, she coordinates a dream team of lawyers, lenders, appraisers, home inspectors, photographers, videographers, home stagers, marketing assistants and contractors. This comprehensive approach ensures her clients receive exceptional support and peace of mind from start to finish.

Jenny can’t sing the praises of her home state enough. “I had the opportunity to live anywhere in the country, and after thorough research, my family and I chose Rhode Island for countless Copyright Top Agent Magazine

reasons,” she says. “From the vibrant culture and day-to-day lifestyle to the excellent schools, stunning beaches, memorable summers and, yes, even the winters, Rhode Island captured our hearts.”

When it comes to marketing her listings, Jenny goes above and beyond. “Every property receives a customized strategy tailored to its unique features,” she explains. Leveraging her affiliation with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, she utilizes advanced tools such as 3D virtual tours, interactive floor plans and predictive analytics. Jenny also taps into Berkshire Hathaway’s global network, ensuring her listings reach audiences in more than 50 countries.

For Jenny, real estate is about more than transactions—it’s about building lasting connections. “While many agents have stopped attending closings since COVID, I take the opposite approach. To me, the true relationship with my clients begins at the closing table,” she says. Jenny’s dedication to her clients doesn’t end when the paperwork is signed. “I strive to be not only their forever agent and a trusted resource but also a genuine part of their lives. My clients become friends who feel like family, and I cherish the connections we build along the way.”

Looking to the future, Jenny’s focus is on growth and innovation. “As a top producer, my plans for the future of my business also focus on delivering even greater value to my clients,” she notes. Jenny is committed to mentoring the next generation of real estate professionals and expanding her market presence through advanced technology and enhanced digital strategies. Yet, her unwavering priority remains her client-first approach. “My ultimate goal is to build a legacy of trust and success, remaining a resource for my clients long after the deal is closed and continuing to be their go-to agent for life.”

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For further information about

JENNY PALM, please call 401-824-9074 or email jennypalmrealtor@gmail.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 15

How to Get the Biggest Recharge

Out of Your Lunch Hour When things get busy, it’s typical to find a grab-and-go lunch and keep plugging away on the tasks at hand. While some days demand this kind of hustle, your lunch hour can be a valuable window in which to recharge and set the tone for the latter half of your day. In fact, taking a mindful break at midday can create 16

mental space for extended productivity and provide the morale boost necessary to take on a new task for the afternoon.

But how do you maximize that hourlong reprieve amidst a busy schedule?

Here are a few ideas for inspiration, no matter what your tastes or preferred habits may be.

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Taking a mindful break at midday can create mental space for extended productivity and provide the morale boost necessary to take on a new task for the afternoon.

GET MOVING Just ten minutes of light exercise can get your blood pumping and your energy renewed.

Step outside and take a brisk walk around the block, or walk to your favorite sandwich shop instead of hopping in your car. Find ways to incorporate light exercise into your lunch hour routine and you’ll not only enjoy a chance to stretch your legs and get your eyes off of screens, but you’ll also reap the health and mood benefits of endorphins. Even extended stretching or mild calisthenics can provide rejuvenating relief in short order.

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PLAY CATCH UP Sometimes catching up with an old friend or family member can brighten your day and give you a morale-boosting outlet beyond the office. During your next lunch hour, why not combine a jaunt around the block with a call to catch up with your sibling or college buddy? Shifting your focus from work and centering instead on a comforting interpersonal relationship can really boost your mood and reinforce your personal values.

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CHANGE YOUR TUNE

SOAK UP THE SUN If you’re tempted to eat your lunch at your desk while staring into the same computer screen that you’ve been working on for hours—think again. Sure, a busy schedule sometimes means making that sacrifice, but when your schedule and weather permits, try to take your lunch outside and disconnect from your office setting. Soak up the sun, feel the breeze, and lift your gaze to the horizon instead of toward your phone or computer screen. The mood-boosting benefits of time spent recharging outside are well-documented, and a change of scenery can give you the boost you need to power through your afternoon to-do list.

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Use your lunch hour to treat your senses. As you eat or get active, try queuing up your favorite music or the latest episode of your favorite podcast. If you focus on the same tasks and stimuli for too long, your brain will fatigue and your focus will erode steadily over time. Shift gears and treat your mind to some music or stimulation outside of your daily tasks. You’ll help yourself relax, recharge, and create a natural transition point for your ensuing afternoon workflow.

Your lunch hour isn’t just about being purely functional. If you want to maintain a steady rate of productivity and leave the office satisfied by the progress of your day—use your lunch hour wisely. As important as it is to nourish your body, also consider nourishing your mind. No matter what your chosen outlet may be, don’t overlook the power of a well-spent lunch hour and the positive benefits that are sure to follow.

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MARCUS & HELEN IBRAHIM Top Agent Magazine

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MARCUS & HELEN IBRAHIM

For Marcus and Helen Ibrahim, real estate is about more than transactions—it’s about trust, relationships, and delivering unparalleled service. Since starting this endeavor together in 2015, the husband-and-wife duo have been on a mission to blend two essential qualities: integrity and expertise.

“In this environment where it’s hard to find people you can trust, we highly value character and integrity,” Helen explains. “Our clients can rest assured and trust that we’re going to do what’s best for them.”

The Ibrahims’ journey into real estate began with a leap of faith. After leaving their previous jobs, they took six months to reflect on their next steps.

During that time, Marcus received a newsletter from a church friend who was thriving in real estate. “The newsletter said, ‘Praise God, we closed six deals this month,’” Marcus recalls. “I thought, ‘If he can do six deals in a month, so can I.’ ” They joined their friend’s team with the goal of learning the ropes of real estate. Within six months, the Ibra-

Marcus agrees, highlighting the balance they strive for: “In our experience, you often have a sharpshooter agent, but you don’t know if you can trust him. And then you’ve got an ‘Honest Harry,’ who’s just a blabbermouth and can’t get a deal done for their clients. We really try to bring those two qualities together. We try to work with such high integrity that our clients can let their guards down and trust that we know how to get the job done for them with the highest level of expertise.”

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hims began generating their own referrals and spun off to form their own team. Today, they lead a team of six, serving clients in Greater Los Angeles, focusing primarily between Pasadena and Glendora.

For Team Ibrahim, real estate is deeply personal.

A high percentage of their business comes from repeat and referral clients—a testament to their relationship-driven approach. “We really try to be very authentic and genuine with our clients,” Marcus explains. “When clients work with us, they feel that they are working with true professionals who are very relatable and not just putting on a show for them.” The couple stays in touch with past clients through annual events like private movie screenings and pickleball outings, sending occasional gifts, and even attending life events like birthday parties and housewarmings.

When it comes to listings, the Ibrahims leave no stone unturned. “Oh man, what are some ways that we don’t market our listings?” Marcus jokes. Their approach includes everything from SEO-rich MLS listings, open houses, custom postcards and brochures to drone photography, HGTV-style video walkthroughs, social media reels and targeted YouTube ads. “We really try not to discriminate,” Marcus says, emphasizing their commitment to giving every property the attention it deserves. Looking ahead, the Ibrahims are focused on growing their team while maintaining the quality of service they’re known for. “Our vision is to give the highest quality service to our clients,” Marcus says. “When you provide high-quality service, you end up getting more business.”

With their combination of integrity, expertise, and authenticity, Team Ibrahim is setting a new standard in real estate—and they wouldn’t have it any other way. “We love Southern California,” Marcus says. “It’s a great place to live. We’ve got beaches, mountains, desert, cities, and great communities of people. It’s a really cool place to live.”

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For further information about Marcus, Helen, or Team Ibrahim, call (626) 605-1840, email marcus@teamibrahim.com, or visit their website teamibrahim.com www.

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Be Their REALTOR for Life: ®

How to Build a Relationship with Your Clients That Will Last a Lifetime In the world of real estate, an agent’s relationship with their clients can make or break their career. This industry revolves around working well with people, and being able to develop a strong relationship with your clients is the foundation that you business is based upon.

Just like with a house, if that foundation is weak, the rest of the structure is also going to be unsteady and fragile. The mark of a good REALTOR® is their ability to build up a good referral network and following of loyal clients. This isn’t something that just happens by accident. Building healthy, strong relationships with your clients takes work and knowing how to gain another person’s trust, respect, and friendship. Here are some ways to make sure you are building the right kind of relationship with your clients.

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1. Use Your Friendliness and Optimism to Win Them Over: No one wants a pushy, overly confident salesperson for a REALTOR®. Clients are much more inclined to put their trust in the hands of someone who is friendly when it comes to one of the biggest financial transactions of their lives. A pleasant, outgoing disposition will win you more clients as well as friends. You want to establish rapport in the first few minutes of first meeting prospective clients. Rather than starting with business right off the bat, begin your meeting with some small talk such as similar interests, hobbies, and family life. This will immediately help to put your clients at ease, and show that you are not simply trying to “sell” them something.

People also respond well to optimism. During what can be a very stressful time, clients need someone to help them stay positive when a situation looks difficult and challenging. Optimism also tends to radiate charisma, and people want to be around and do business with charismatic people. You want to learn how to understand, motivate, and inspire people.

2. Be an Inquisitive Learner and an Empathetic Listener:

On the other side of this coin is knowing how to listen empathetically. Empathy involves actually putting yourself or your mind in their shoes so you can genuinely understand their concerns, needs, and opinions. That understanding and empathy is then reflected in your conversation with that client. Your clients want to know that you care about their situation, and that they’re not just another sale for you to make. People are much more willing to put their trust in you when they can sense that you are actually making an effort to feel what they feel in order to understand their situation.

Showing your interest through questions, and then thoughtfully listening goes a long way towards gaining trust. Showing empathy and acknowledging the feelings and emotions involved in your clients situation helps build a relationship founded on genuine care and trust.

3. Watch for Nonverbal Clues:

Don’t be afraid to show your curiosity and ask your clients a lot of questions. Some of these questions may even be difficult and uncomfortable. You want to discover and learn as much as you can about your client. Don’t make the mistake of jumping straight into the role of the know-it-all. Every different client has unique needs, so you want to learn as much as you can about their specific situation before trying to propose a solution. You want to uncover their primary motive for buying or selling, and flush Top Agent Magazine

out any potential concerns they might have.

After you’ve gained as much information as possible, you can then gauge their interest in your possible solutions by asking “what if” questions. Being inquisitive also demonstrates to your clients that you are genuinely interested and invested in their situation.

Most communication happens nonverbally, so knowing how to interpret your client’s body language can be incredibly helpful. Here are a few things to pay special attention to: Eye contact: Be careful with the level of eye contact you use with clients when first meeting.

Too much and too little eye contact can send the wrong impression. You want to try and maintain eye contact around 70 percent of the time. That is the amount that most people are comfortable with. Pay attention to your client’s level of eye

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contact to determine how comfortable they are.

When someone avoids eye contact that could mean they are not engaged in the conversation.

A good way to quickly build a feeling of rapport when first meeting clients is to make eye contact when you first meet them and then start nodding yes to what they’re saying. If the client reciprocates the eye contact and nodding, you’ve established a connection.

4. Prove your honesty and credibility:

Choose the right handshake for each client: One handshake does not fit all people, and that first handshake can be crucial to making a good first impression. The way to do a good handshake for each client is to try and mirror the other person’s handshake in strength, keep your shoulders aligned as you are preferably standing when you shake hands. While you shake your client’s hand make sure you make eye contact and give them a sincere smile.

Showing a little weakness can actually be to your advantage in this situation, and will actually make others more inclined view you as honest. You don’t want to come across as too good to be true. When revealing this weakness, however, the key to coming out on top is turning what sounds like a weakness into a strength. For example, your service may be more expensive, but that’s because you offer more personalized and extra services than your competitors.

Honesty and integrity are the two traits that 98 percent of buyers and sellers report are qualities they consider “very important”. The thing is you can say you have these traits all you want on your website, bio, etc., but trust has to be earned, and the only way to do this is to prove your credibility.

Here are a few tips for how to sound more credible:

When you talk to your clients avoid using filler words such as “um” and “uh”, which can decrease your credibility. You also want to watch the tone of your voice. People tend to translate a deeper tone as sounding more credible.

You want to develop a relationship to last a lifetime when interacting with your clients. There are many things you can do to accomplish this, and using these tips can take you from getting just a few referrals and repeat customers to gaining a loyal client following. Taking the little extra time to make sure you are projecting the right attitude and making sure that you are doing things to gain your client’s trust can make a world of difference for your business.

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YVONNE GALLEGOS

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YVONNE GALLEGOS

Yvonne Gallegos of Fort Myers, Florida, combines industry versatility and consistent transparency with her insider’s expertise to fuel a blossoming real estate business in Southwest Florida. “I just focus on building strong relationships with people – helping others achieve their dreams is what I love most about this job, and sometimes it takes two or three years for a conversation to turn into a sale or a referral. And that’s a good thing – I want people to feel confident in the timing. Everything happens for a reason and we all get to where we’re supposed to be.”

REALTOR® serving Alva, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral as a solo agent.

Today in 2024, Yvonne is one-fifth of Top Agent Team Florida with John R. Wood Properties, where she averages between $7 and $8 million in annual sales volume, bolstered by a book of business that is over sixty percent repeat and referral clientele.

“I make it a point to be responsive and available for everyone I know,” she exudes. “I like solving problems for people and being detail-oriented.”

Prior to formally entering the real estate industry, Yvonne pursued a career in healthcare. “I was a full-time nurse for over ten years,” she recalls. “But I have been buying and selling property privately since I was twenty-three. I have a lot of experience with the waterfront markets here, and I started investing from an early age.” After her son was born in 2018, Yvonne decided to leverage her experiences to become a licensed 26

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This attention to minutiae has helped Yvonne cement herself as a trusted fiduciary, and over the course of the past six years, she has seamlessly gravitated toward the luxury markets in her geographic territory.

Yvonne has married her strengths as a disciplined advisor with the robust digital footprint at John R. Wood Properties., which is a member of Christie’s International Real Estate – the only brokerage holding that affiliation for the area, which was distinguished as the Affiliate of the Year! “We have so many tools available to us – marketing firms, social media platforms, industry pipelines – everything. I use high-resolution photography, videography, and detailed descriptions to get as many eyes on our properties as possible.” These virtual efforts amplify Yvonne’s local expertise: as a native of Fort Myers, she helps clients carve out the ideal location for their perfect piece of sunshine – particularly those who are looking for waterfront getaways or rental investments. “I grew up here, and I know every sandbar, river, and restaurant there is to know. I like sharing my hometown with others!”

In addition to her clients and colleagues, Yvonne is excited to share her city with her sixyear-old son. She and her husband take every possible opportunity with their son to go boating together, explore nearby beaches, and tackle every little league sport imaginable. They also make time to travel the world: whether it’s island hopping in the Caribbean, hiking mountains out west, or touring the Italian Riviera, Yvonne is as well-traveled as she is hard-working. “It can be a lot – spending so much of your life with a child – but it connects you with your community in ways that you didn’t think were possible. As much as I enjoy sharing the history of this place, I also have a lot to look forward to, and I’m always meeting someone new. Every story is different; it’s what I love most about this profession!”

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For more information about YVONNE GALLEGOS please call 863-517-1500 or email yvonne@topagentflorida.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 27

Laughs!

Graham Harrop Graham Harrop Cartoons Cartoons

Putting the power of humour to work for you!

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

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AGENTS WITH HEART A pivotal question we pose to featured agents in Top Agent Magazine is, ‘Tell us about your community involvement.’

This query holds immense significance, not only as a benchmark for nominees but also as a crucial factor contributing to the success and prestige of top agents.

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Top Agent Magazine defines community involvement based on three key factors: Events, Associations, and Charities.

Beyond serving clients, top agents demonstrate an outstanding commitment to their communities and the place they call home.

Their measures involve volunteering time,

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Community involvement is not just an extracurricular activity for top agents; it’s an essential element that molds their individuality and professional ethos. financial contributions to organizations helping those in need, and active participation in community events. This distinctive trait is a testament to how their generosity extends beyond clients, enhancing the lives of those in their surrounding communities.

Take Cindy Ambuehl, a former actress and model who has evolved into one of LA’s most sought-after luxury real estate agents, gracing the cover of Top Agent CINDY AMBUEHL Magazine. Cindy passionately supports PS Arts, a foundation reinstating arts education in schools. Through events and fundraising initiatives, she’s contributed to maintaining art education for an entire year to 30,000 students.

Consider Josh Flagg, whose enormous rise in real estate landed him a spot on Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing and a cover feature in Top Agent Magazine.

Despite his stardom, JOSH FLAGG Josh travels throughout America, mentoring brokers, agents, and students, sharing insights on achieving success. He finds fulfillment in transforming lives through his career and shares, “The 30

most fulfilling part of my career is knowing that I will change somebody’s life.”

These examples are just a peek at how agents engage with their communities. Whether gathering Christmas gifts for underprivileged children, supporting children’s hospitals financially, advocating to end homelessness, or volunteering at local animal shelters, these agents extend their reputation beyond transactions. They’re known not only for their professional success but also for their unwavering support of community causes.

Community involvement is not just an extracurricular activity for top agents; it’s an essential element that molds their individuality and professional ethos. In the real estate landscape, where relationships and integrity are central, active participation in the community builds credibility and fosters meaningful connections. Beyond boosting their reputations, community involvement mirrors a profound commitment to the areas they serve. Agents invested in their communities acquire a deep understanding of local needs and through active engagement, these agents become vital parts of the social tapestry, earning the regard and trust of the community.

“Agents with Heart” displays how top agents have left a mark on the real estate landscape by imbuing their work with heart and soul, influencing lives outside of transactions.

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BRANDON NUNLEY Brandon Nunley of Atlanta, Georgia, combines his unparalleled business acumen with a commitment to candor and a penchant for connecting to people from all walks of life to fuel his thriving real estate business. “I love having the opportunity to build lifelong relationships with new people.

Some of my best friends today are people who came to me for help, or were referred to me after an experience – having that kind of impact on others and working hard for them is the absolute best thing about this job.”

Before entering the real estate industry, Brandon enjoyed a sixteen-year career as a consulting manager. “I was the Southeast Regional Consulting Manager for Caremark,” he recalls. “I was building my private portfolio purchasing properties and turning them into rentals. I decided to obtain my license to facilitate those transactions, and my old mentor at Keller Williams convinced me to take the leap of faith, so here I am!” After becoming a REALTOR® in 2016, Brandon launched a meteoric career that immediately landed him a spot as one of Atlanta’s Top Producers.

Today in 2025, Brandon is consistently celebrated as one of the Top 20 International Luxury Listing Agents as the owner of Property Guys Atlanta Real Estate Team, and he is the team owner and team lead of The Nunley Group. His geographic territory extends well beyond Atlanta into Kennesaw, Buckhead, Marietta, and Mableton; and he also works in Fernandina Beach, Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Ponte Vedra Beach. “I like having a larger area as a solo agent,” he exudes. “It lets me work with various demographics

and different kinds of people, and being connected in their neighborhoods makes me feel like a part of the entire state. It’s a privilege of the profession, and it’s just more fun that way!” Brandon’s interpersonal networking is the foundation of his book of business, which is currently one hundred percent repeat and referral clientele.

As Brandon travels to serve people across Georgia, he seeks opportunities to support communities across the state, including neighbors in his hometown of Smyrna. “I have a nine and ten-year-old, so I always love to sponsor King Springs Elementary, Griffin Middle, and Campbell High School. We also help with the winter coat drive and sponsor a Parents Night Out. We’re a partner with Smyrna Is Fabulous – we give back to the community any way we can, especially supporting the public school systems. I believe every kid deserves access to a great education.” This spirit of collectivism is one of the key reasons why Brandon was recently selected from a pool of several hundred applicants to become a member of the Atlanta Real Estate Association Leadership Council.

As he steps into a year full of leadership opportunities and shifting market landscapes, Brandon plans to double down on his tried and true approaches. “I’ve been a top producer every year since I started – it just comes naturally to me. Real estate is my life; it’s what I do, it’s what I love. Whether I continue as a solo agent or eventually become a broker, I’ll be doing something related to the industry for as long as I possibly can!”

For more information about Brandon Nunley, please call 404-783-3311 or email brandon@propertyguysatlanta.com Top Agent Magazine

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CHARLIE BANFIELD When you ask Charlie Banfield about his real estate success, he’s quick to deflect praise to his team. “It wouldn’t be possible without our team,” he insists. “It takes a village to do what we do, and the three of us are a great team. Together, we’re a super agent.” Charlie, Brenden Banfield and Stephen Sutton make up the powerhouse behind the Banfield Real Estate Group, a boutique agency transforming the way real estate is done in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. Their collaborative ethos, creative deal-making and hands-on approach have made them stand out in a market often defined by its laid-back pace.

Charlie grew up in a construction family and joined a real estate firm 20 years ago to help on the management side, overseeing three Keller Williams offices with more than 600 agents. Eventually, he turned to sales, but his shift to Palm Springs wasn’t initially career driven. “We semi-retired out here, thinking we’d slow down. But business thrives here if you just answer your phone,” he says with a laugh. “We brought our work ethic with us. Over the last four years we’ve consistently averaged $18 million in sales.” That’s a noteworthy number, Charlie points out, since the average home price is around $550,000.

Initially branding themselves as “Three Bears Realty,” a trademark issue led to a rebrand. “We transitioned back to Banfield Real Estate Group. At first, it felt like a setback, but the community’s support made it a blessing in disguise,” Charlie recalls. “Our logo is now recognizable all over town.” What sets the team apart is its focus on community. “We’re firm believers in selling the community more than the house,” Charlie explains.

“If we can identify the perfect quarter-mile radius for

someone—where they can walk to their favorite grocery stores, restaurants and amenities—we’ll make it happen.”

Their creative approach extends to their transactions. “Many of our deals are complex, with multiple domino transactions,” Charlie says, adding that 100 percent of the team’s business comes through referrals. “We recently coordinated a deal involving a lease option, a leaseback and a $3 million sale—all hinging on a bridge loan. It’s exciting because everything has to land perfectly.” The key to their success? A handpicked team of affiliates who understand their high standards. They’ve built a network of escrow officers, title agents and lenders who work seamlessly together. Everyone knows their role, Charlie adds, and communication flows like a well-oiled machine.

The Banfield Real Estate Group operates with a single email, one logo and shared responsibilities. “We’re a unified force,” Charlie emphasizes. “We don’t promote ourselves with our faces. Our brand is like the Nike swoosh—it speaks for itself.” The team’s connection to the LGBTQIA+ community is another cornerstone of their business, from sponsoring the annual International Bear Convergence to participating in local Pride parades.

While the group is considering adding another agent, for now they’re focused on what’s in front of them. “We’re all about the hustle and making sure every client’s transaction closes smoothly,” Charlie says. For the three team members, the real estate game isn’t just about selling houses—it’s about creating a community and delivering excellence. With their creative problem-solving and unwavering commitment, the Banfield Real Estate Group is redefining the market in Palm Springs.

For further information about the Banfield Real Estate Group, call (310) 975-9401, email info@banfieldrealestate.com, or visit banfieldrealestate.com https://

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6 Things All Successful Negotiators Do If you think about it, you’ve been negotiating your whole life. As a kid you negotiated constantly with your family, your teachers, and your classmates. If you’re a parent, you’re negotiating probably more than you ever have in your life. But it’s one thing to negotiate staying up late on a school night, people oftentimes have trouble translating those real world negotiation skills into the business world. But the truth is there are a lot similarities.

Expert negotiators all have skills and techniques they bring to the table. It’s quite possible you also have them, and don’t even realize Top Agent Magazine

it. Here’s a look at some traits that are common among expert negotiators.

1. They keep emotion out of the process It’s very easy to feel frustrated, angry and defensive during a negotiation process. But when emotions run high, it’s often difficult to respond with logic and reason. This can be especially difficult if the person you’re negotiating with tries to escalate the situation. As the saying goes, keep calm and carry on. You

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have an end goal in mind, and getting heated won’t help you meet it. If things don’t go your way, remember it’s not personal. Best to leave the table with no hard feelings. Hopefully even though you may not have gotten what you’ve wanted this time around, you’ve established a foundation for success at your next try.

2. They’re reasonable If you don’t ask for what you want you’ll never get it, but at the same time, you need to be reasonable about what you’re asking for. Yes, ask for a little more than you want, so you have some wiggle room to compromise. But if you ask for too much too soon, you might shut down the person you’re negotiating with from the start, or even worse offend them. No one wants to feel like they’re being taken advantage of. Ask for what you deserve and you’ll never go wrong. At the very least you might start the conversation on how that might be possible down the line, if it isn’t just yet.

3. They’re well-prepared Part of being reasonable is being well-prepared. One of the biggest mistakes novice negotiators make is showing up over-confident and under prepared. Have the research and facts to back up what you’re asking for. Show your negotiation partner evidence of why what you’re asking for is not only fair, but necessary. Facts are hard to shoot down. This will also give you the confidence to really push for what you want. It’s not just something you think, it’s something that’s undeniable true. If you go in unprepared you’re more likely to flounder, which will damage your credibility going into future negotiations.

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4. They always strive for a win/win solution for everyone Yes, negotiations are about getting what you want, but as the old saying goes, you get more flies with honey than vinegar. Your negotiation partner might also have reasonable requests that you need to consider. Ultimately, successful negotiations are about compromise on both sides, and ending up with an outcome that benefits everyone.

5. They’re creative Problems and conflict are a natural part of any negotiation. One surefire way to impress, is to head off any impending roadblocks, by coming up with creative solutions. It’s easy to point out problems and be negative. Truly expert negotiators think outside the box, and dazzle with innovative concepts and ideas that leave everyone excited about the process.

6. They’re good listeners Listening in order to really understand where your negotiation partner is coming from is important for two reasons: you not only want to make them feel heard, but knowing what they want is invaluable information you can use to get what you want. At the start, you’re gathering information by asking questions and really hearing what they say, which includes picking up on body language and nonverbal cues as well. This is part of being well-prepared, using every possible thing you can to have an advantage.

Being in control of the situation, and then leading everyone to a successful conclusion all around is what great negotiation is all about.

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CHARLIE KRIEGEL Charlie Kriegel of Houston, Texas, combines the work ethic of a collegiate athlete with a robust understanding of institutional acquisition and a passion for standing at the vanguard of technological developments to fuel his thriving real estate business. “At this point in my career, my favorite thing is coaching new agents. Helping to give people a sense of direction and become accountable to themselves, and watching them chase their own horizon while improving their family’s lives – that’s the best feeling in the world.”

As a junior in college, Charlie was employed during the summers renovating houses and repairing properties. “I made more money flipping one property than I had the rest of my life until then,” he recalls. “I was addicted to the investment side of real estate.” After working for State Farm for three years, Charlie decided to become a licensed REALTOR®, and in his first year working in luxury real estate, he proved himself to be a top producer in the industry.

Today in 2025, Charlie is the Broker Owner of WinHill Advisors-Kirby, which houses eighty-two licensed agents (most of whom have been with the brokerage for over four years) in their primary office in Houston, with an additional thirty agents in the DFW Arlington branch. Their geographic territory extends well beyond Houston, including Galveston, Conroe, Willis, and everything in the greater Dallas Metroplex. While they handle every facet of real estate, WinHill Advisors specializes in the luxury market, and Charlie has over two

decades of experience helping institutional investors and developers. This breadth of geographic territory and expertise helped the brokerage clear $250 million in collective volume this past year.

On January 21st, 2025, Charlie’s expertise was codified in his most recent book: “Build to Rent: A How-To Guide for the Institutional Investor.”

The work outlines pieces of Charlie’s journey and shares insights regarding the shifting landscape of real estate across the nation. “We created proprietary software years ago that analyzes the entire MLS,” Charlie exudes. “We’ve cornered the market on acquisition for our dedicated clients, and we manage dispositions across the entire state.” This technology, paired with digital tools like Canva, and the social media AI platform Rechat, has helped Charlie lead his team of agents and investors into an era of prosperity.

With Charlie stepping into the year as a newly published author, he is excited to spread his knowledge and spirit of collectivism across all of Texas (and the rest of the world, when he, his wife, and his French bulldog are traveling!). WinHill Advisors regularly supports the Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity, and Charlie is always seeking opportunities to improve as an athlete and a mentor. “This is a year of growth for all of us – I don’t play as much football as I used to, but I’m getting pretty good at pickleball, and I will always have the heart of a coach. I want to see more agents grow and prosper alongside us, and share that growth with the rest of our neighbors.”

For more information about Charlie Kriegel, please call 832-496-2614 or email charliekriegeljr@gmail.com Top Agent Magazine

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JAMES CLARK James Clark of Atlanta, Georgia, combines a lifetime of professional customer service expertise with an unparalleled dedication to integrity and ethical business practices to fuel his thriving real estate enterprise. “I value relationships over everything else. I want to continue growing and refining my business, and I keep people at the center of everything I do. My family, my friends, and the clients I help – that’s what sits in the center of my life.”

For James, real estate is as much an inherited vocation as a career of passion. “My dad was in the construction business,” he recalls. “He taught me how to appreciate and identify good craftsmanship, and how to make the most of the space you’re living in. By no means am I an inspector, but I bring a trained eye into every home that I work with.” Today in 2025, James is an avid woodworker; in addition to remodeling his own homes, he leverages his expertise to manage the renovation operations with his colleagues at Watkins Real Estate Associates. By combining his architectural know-how with the business acumen earned over twenty years of working in the insurance industry, James has successfully launched his second career with Watkins Real Estate Associates.

In just two and a half years as a licensed REALTOR®, James has managed to clear nearly $9 million in collective volume serving everything in a sixty-mile radius of Atlanta. “I really enjoy working with firsttime home buyers,” he exudes. “Teaching people about their homes and showing them the ins and outs of the process. Introducing the world of homeownership is

a tremendous responsibility, and setting them up for success is one of the privileges of this profession.” By pairing his interpersonal candor with the robust digital footprint afforded him at Watkins, James organically builds his book of business while garnering competitive offers for each and every listing. “I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for the mentorship of Shannon Watkins and the support I get from the rest of the team. My colleagues really helped me get up and running in the industry.”

When he is not busy educating his clients or renovating homes, James and his wife go to great lengths to support their local and extended communities. They are a constant presence at their local church, and James regularly volunteers with his fellow agents on the Shannon Sells Team to champion Rachel’s Gift: a nonprofit that supports families experiencing infant bereavement.

“I’m not much of a runner anymore, but I like to help orchestrate the 5Ks that raise money for a good cause.

We’ll do anything that gets us out of the house and supports our neighbors!”

As he steps into the new year, James plans to double down on the tried-and-true business practices that have helped him establish his enterprise. “I’m in the grandparent stage of my life now, so the most important thing in my life is my relationships. Keeping my mind busy and my hands occupied is a bonus – we’d like to steadily increase the number of renovations we do each year. Most of my work is about responding promptly, educating clients, and being up-front and honest with everyone I meet!”

For more information about James Clark, please call 678-435-6284 or email james@shannonsellsteam.com

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How to Throw a Networking Event

that Can Put Your Business on the Map It’s hard to argue with the benefits of attending networking events—you make new connections, enjoy industry skill-building conversation, and expand your reach in the local business community. However, have you ever considered the benefits of hosting a networking event?

Instead of attending as a guest, you’ll be the wizard behind it all. Throwing a networking event can position you as a local business leader, and you’ll be able to curate the experience to your tastes and goals. This idea may be tempting, but how do you pull it off? Review some Top Agent Magazine

of our tips and tricks below and you’ll be more than ready to throw a networking event that’ll put you on the map.

MAKE IT EASY FOR YOUR GUESTS TO SAY YES. From the outset, try to keep things as simple as possible for your guests. This means that e-invites should be structured, yet conversational.

Include a link to register online so that arriving to your event is seamless and requires no signup sheets or stuffy check-in procedures. Select a venue that’s relatively well-known and central

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Throwing a networking event can position you as a local business leader, and you’ll be able to curate the experience to your tastes and goals. to your area. It should also have easy-to-access parking so that attendance is streamlined and hassle-free. Also consider sending an automated event reminder the day before and the day of the event—that way you’ll set guests up for easy attendance that they don’t have to debate.

CREATE A THEME. Capitalizing on a holiday or local event is a great way to drive attendance to your networking function. While getting to know area professionals is a worthy reason to meet up, you’re likely to engender a livelier ambiance if you incorporate a holiday or theme. This will inspire comradery among your guests, in addition to giving your event a natural focus. Major sporting events, a Thanksgiving themed pie bakeoff, or a spring cleaning themed community volunteer day can generate more interest than your average mixer.

GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR GUEST LIST. While you may be trying to keep your invite list industry-specific, you may benefit from casting a wider net. Invite area entrepreneurs, young professionals, collegiate professional organizations, and even friends and family. You never know what sort of connections will be made, and high attendance is key to keeping the energy of your networking event at a high tier. Don’t worry about only collecting info from realtors or brokers or mortgage pros. Instead, create a 38

sense of community so that opportunities flow naturally and conversation remains diverse.

BE THE BOSS. As host, it’ll be your job to play matchmaker and drive conversation at your networking event. This means that you’ll get to know more people, but it also means you’ll be able to create connections between different professionals and businesses. You can maximize your matchmaking abilities by planting a few socially-minded friends around to drive additional conversations. Your goal is to keep people talking and to be outgoing. It should also be your goal to follow-up once the event is complete. Use this as an opportunity to continue to connect different people you met, or to follow-up with coffee or lunch with someone you found interesting. Try sending out a group thank-you e-mail to your guests after the fact, telling them to keep an eye out for your next event, or to get in touch with you for any questions or contact information of fellow attendees.

While it may feel like a risk to throw a networking event, it’s a risk worth taking. By positioning yourself as the host of your event, you’ll drive awareness to your business and brand, and build up the local professional community in a way that’s sure to draw good will your way.

Keep these ideas in mind as you go about planning a memorable networking event of your own, and above all—have a good time and others will follow suit.

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KATIE BURTON Katie Burton’s path to becoming one of the most recognized real estate agents in her Illinois market began with a commitment to service. A former activeduty military member, Katie moved to her current hometown shortly after her military service ended. A chance meeting with her now-husband—a contractor—set the wheels of her real estate career in motion. Katie and her husband quickly noticed the abundance of homes in their community that had potential but desperately needed work.

“We didn’t want these homes to just get worse and worse and end up being torn down,” she recalls. “So, we bought our first property in 2020, fixed it up, and decided to sell it. That’s when we realized we didn’t know how to navigate the sale process.”

Katie embraces opportunities to engage her community. Open houses, which some agents dismiss, have been a big hit in her market. “People love them in our area,” she says. “They come to get ideas or see what’s out there, even if they’re not actively shopping.”

Beyond digital efforts, Katie and her agency make a point to be visible in the community. They sponsor many fundraising events for veterans, sponsor scholarships, and are active in the local Chamber of Commerce. “We support the community, because the community supports us,” says Katie. “It all comes ‘full circle.’” On weekends, you’ll find Katie in church and enjoying time with her three children.

Determined to tackle the challenge, Katie got her real estate license in September 2022. What began as a practical step to sell their investment properties quickly evolved into a thriving career. In her first year, she sold $5 million worth of real estate, making her the second-highest-selling agent at Full Circle Realty in Effingham, Ill. Katie covers a territory spanning multiple counties. “I’ll go wherever they need me,” she adds.

Katie’s love for real estate is evident in every aspect of her work. “In rural areas like ours, people want movein-ready homes, and they’re hard to find. We have subdivisions, beautiful homes, and lakefront properties, but we also have dying towns where houses are falling apart. I want to help revitalize those areas.”

She’s already taking action on that passion. Katie and her husband recently purchased 25 acres of land to develop a subdivision, a first for them. “It’s a big goal, but I’m excited to make it happen.”

Her ability to connect with people has been a key driver of her success. In the early days, she hit the pavement, finding for-sale-by-owner signs and knocking on doors to offer her services. Now, with less than three years in the industry, Katie’s business boasts a mix of repeat clients and referrals. “One client has bought four properties through me already,” she notes. “It’s been amazing to build those relationships so quickly.”

In addition to her real estate career, Katie helps run two businesses—a home repair company and a rental business—and works full-time as an executive secretary for the Illinois Department of Transportation. “I thrive on getting things done,” she says with a laugh.

“I love being able to help people, whether it’s finding their dream home or taking the burden off during a tough time. That’s what makes this all worth it.”

For further information about Katie Burton, please call (217) 663-9095, email hkburton@yahoo.com, or visit fcril.com www.

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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 40

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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MONTE REYMENT Monte Reyment of Green Bay, Wisconsin, fuels his real estate business by blending a spirit of generosity with a keen corporate mind and unwavering attention to holistic entrepreneurial practices. “I love watching other people grow and thrive. Originally it was helping my clients turn their dreams into addresses, but today I get to watch newly minted agents step into my office and embrace the freedom and flexibility that this profession has to offer. Helping someone chase that horizon is the biggest source of motivation for me.”

Before formally stepping into the industry, Monte pursued a career in the corporate sector. “After ten years I had burned out climbing the corporate ladder,” he recalls. “I was dabbling in real estate and had learned a lot buying a duplex and completing a flip of my own.

Seeing the joy radiating from the family who bought that renovated home changed my life – I wanted to make my life about that feeling.” Under the tutelage of a broker who worked out at his gym, Monte began studying to obtain his real estate license, and in 2020 (shortly before the COVID-19 outbreak) Monte took a leap of faith and became a full-time REALTOR®.

While his inauguration was uncertain, Monte managed to leverage his expertise and launch a meteoric trajectory as an agent. Today at the start of 2025, he is celebrating a calendar year with over one hundred total transactions, and Monte is slated to become the top-rated agent in his geographic territory on Rate My Agent. “I couldn’t have done any of this without my team,” he exudes. “It takes a community of dedicated

professionals to make this happen, and the most important thing we can do is put the spotlight on others. We have a strong team of agents, contractors, electricians, and renovators who make it possible.

We also just hired a mental health coach for the brokerage – I call him our brain wizard. He’s a game changer.”

This spirit of collectivism permeates all of Monte’s enterprises, and as the Broker/Owner of Take Action Realty Group, he is constantly seeking the next opportunity to share his knowledge and prosperity. The team currently houses fourteen agents who serve everything within seventy-five minutes of Green Bay, Wisconsin, and their geographic flexibility is paired with professional breadth. They have grown to embrace several tangential endeavors, including home renovation, real estate investing, and even an entertainment business that has transformed office space into a popular event venue. “We’ve worked with Big Brothers Big Sisters, hosted an NFL draft party, and we’re getting ready to host a blood drive in a couple of weeks. We have a lot of irons in the fire right now – we’re excited to see where 2025 takes us!”

As Monte and his team step into the new year, they are doubling down on their core strategy while they continue to broaden their endeavors. “We strive to support other people – whether we’re bringing the spotlight to a local business or finding a new way to support our clients. We lend out our own moving truck and we have a free tool rental shed – if you have an idea about how to make someone else’s life easier, I want to hear about it!”

For more information about Monte Reyment, please call 920-680-8532 or email monte@tarealtygroup.com

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