NEW YORK MORTGAGE 12-4-23 by Top Agent Magazine

NEW YORK MORTGAGE EDITION

PRODUCTIVITY KILLERS:

DAILY HABITS THAT WILL INCREASE YOUR MENTAL STRENGTH

4 WAYS TO MAKE BETTER USE OF YOUR WORKING HOURS

How to Get the Biggest Recharge Out of Your Lunch Hour

FEATURED LENDERS

Business Growth Hack:

BRIAN MARCHAND CHRIS MADDEN CRAIG GHIO

ABSORB YOUR CLIENTS’ STRESS!

COVER STORY

ANDREW RUSSELL

NEW YORK MORTGAGE EDITION

CHRIS MADDEN CRAIG GHIO

BRIAN MARCHAND Chris Madden’s career journey has New York resident, Craig communication. On top of don’t all thiseve C A longtime 9 16 21 23 been a fascinating one, beginning in made sure to get me the best pos Ghio has always possessed an entrepreto buy a the world of digital marketing after He would begin his career mortgage solution whichmore wasrew m neurial spirit. graduating from college. in Despite his where he further established appreciated. For all these reasons I hic auto sales, on their the communication skills and penchant for achieve th passion for real estate, opportunities in recommend working with Chris.” client service the industry eluded him until he met his that he would later need to asfama loan officer. Soon after relocatOutside then-girlfriend (now wife),excel whose Community is an integral part of Chriso ing to Long to his sup co ily owned a mortgage company. “So I Island, he decided to switch and business. He and his family tracks and Ipursue his mortgage license at ended up leaving the digital agency the Museum of Science andagents Techno at them the recommendation of a good friend he contrib was at and went over to help with through donations and attending f in the industry. In the years since, he has such as to their marketing,” Chris explains. It was raising events. Additionally, he ANDREW RUSSELL BRIAN MARCHAND CHRIS MADDEN CRAIG GHIO gone to author an accomplished career in mortgages, son. While alsothyroid providi time industry. that he “We’re shared hisongoals personal experience with in thethis mortgage pretty excited rchand is an experienced loan offi-during ANDREW RUSSELL establishing a network of satisfied clients that spans rec leagues, he is equall to his become a big powerhouse moving forward tarted his career in real estate saleswith wife’s uncle, who suggested he cer and is involved with various ch making us one of the largest credit unions in “I was representing large-scaleobtain Orange County, Westchester County, Dutchess County, unteering at job fairs thr his license as a loan officer. After a month of events that raise money for cancer research. Durin experience s and new construction projects,” he the country.” With his extensive and beyond. with clients or giving being licensed, Chris was thrust into the world of corre- free time, he’s relaxing with family including hisb “And when the market took a turn and adaptability to change, Brian is well-posivisiting the gym, or enjo wholesaling. having no and their children. In the summer, they enjoy goin tioned tolending help manyand more clients achieveDespite their 008, I decided to look into a newspondent Today, Craig is a Senior Loan Officer with Quintessential with family and friends home ownership and stay close to what I loved.” At thatprior experience, he refinance quickly goals. became a sponge, soaking the lake and during the winter they visit the mount CONTENTS Mortgage Group, where he assists clients throughmily member suggested he up all the knowledge he could from supportive managcareer in mortgage lending, out Westchester County and the surrounding h ers and colleagues. As he grew more comfortable and Growth is on theareas. horizon,Looking as Chrisahead, plansCraig to exp nd was opening a mortgage Combining his elite business acumen with his acute of his business. As hi 4) PRODUCTIVITY KILLERS: 18)® BUSINESS GROWTH competent, Chris began reaching out to REALTORS more in the Tampa region. “My in-laws live down t t First Niagara Bank. Brian knowledge of the industry, he has cultivated boutique growth, he intends on shot, and it ended up4being WAYSand TObuilding MAKE HACK:full-time, ABSORB YOUR so ait’s an area I like to focus on.” Wher hisBETTER business. USE process to meet the demands of any transaction, from scaling his leading stan e best decisions he’s ever his path leads, he plans to enjoy every moment of OF YOUR WORKING HOURS CLIENTS’ nce then, he has completed residential to commercial mortgages.STRESS! truly work for a great He’s now been in the industry for several years, and love educating people, whether it’s real estate agen of mortgages and worked be in the position I’m i with Homestead Funding in Syracuse. Licensed buyers. It’s my favorite part about what I do.” ent companies before 6)setHOWworks TO GET THE BIGGEST At Quintessential Mortgage HOW Group, Craig offers clientsA Mortgage Group. After TO THROW ith a credit union in Albany, in New YorkOF andYOUR Florida, he assists many first22) time RECHARGE OUT a suite of loan products, specializing in everything from strong back office and c k, for the past eight years. NETWORKING EVENT THAT home buyers who need more guidance. “They’re the his credit union merged with Conventional, FHA, VA and USDA loans to Non-QM career. Because of our g LUNCH HOUR ones that value the educational component to it, versus arge credit union, and Brian CAN PUT YOUR BUSINESS options like bank statement loans, DSCR products for work to the next level w a more experienced buyer,”investors, he explains. recentlyloans. No matter the client, to all my clients.” to be part of the blending and He’s commercial 15) DAILY HABITS THAT ON THE MAP at will create a major player had many clients return to when they to to their needs, ensuring he him personalizes his want approach WILL INCREASE YOUR upgrade their house. By providing the best service a seamless transaction catered directly to their best Top Agent Magazine MENTALand STRENGTH supporting themCopyright at every step, Chris thekeeping in touch long after interests. In fact,ensures he enjoys process is smooth and enjoyable. He keeps everyone the deals are done to cultivate an ongoing relationship involved updated, including estate so noare fully satisfied with their andreal make sureagents, his clients one is left in the dark. purchase.

Phone 310-734-1440 | Fax 310-734-1440

After working together, buyers to Craig spreadhastheearned a fantastic reputation Over thelove years,

mag@topagentmagazine.com | Chris. www.topagentmagazine.com word about their time withthroughout OneNew recently York said, among clients and colleagues

wasbeextremely and helping No portion of this“Chris issue may reproduced helpful in any manner whatsoever without prior of coming the publisher. alike, withattentive, the vast majority of hisconsent volume fromTop Agent me purchase myPublications first home. Since it was or my first time Magazine is published by Feature GA, Inc. Although precautions are taken tocompleted ensure the accuracy repeat clients referrals. Having 30 mil- of published Contact For more about Chris Madden materials, Top Agent Magazine acannot be held responsible for opinions expressed facts supplied byinformation its authors. purchasing home, Chris made sure I in understood lion in volume, 2022 alone,orhe remains focused on please call 315-436-4342email c To subscribe or change tothe mag@topagentmagazine.com. every address, step ofsend theinquiry mortgage process andthat answered core values set him apart. “At the end of the Published in the all U.S.my questions. He was day, or visit or email cmadden@homesteadfunding.com very Iquick reply to any he says. love to helping people,” “Many clients

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Productivity Killers: 4 Ways to Make Better Use of Your Working Hours

Even on the busiest of days, it can be hard not to get distracted by social media, smartphones, chatty colleagues, or personal to-do list items. So how do you keep your professional blinders on and power through your tasks with efficiency? Practice these four tips and witness your productivity skyrocket—easing stress and bringing renewed energy to your daily duties. 4

1. Create a sense of peace and quiet The office may not be your idea of a tranquil oasis, but for most, focus requires quiet and calm to best lend attention to the task at hand. If you find yourself seated next to talkative coworkers or in the center of a bustling office atrium, consider noise can-

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celing headphones, earplugs, or carving out an empty conference room for your work day. Turning the volume down creates fewer chances for disruption, allowing you to make the best use of your time.

4.Take your smartphone off the table

2. Organize your workspace A messy work area breeds anxiety and distraction, but a clean and organized desk inspires efficiency. If you’ve got a busy day ahead, take fifteen minutes and organize your workspace: gather miscellaneous papers into their proper place, dispose of out-of-date or unnecessary documents, or give your keyboard a dusting. Not only does cleaning and organizing your workspace prepare you for the work ahead, it also helps you transition to a productive, goal-oriented mindset.

3.Create a goal-oriented reward system Coffee breaks, coworker catch-up, and social media check-ins tend to break up our workflow on an hourly basis. Instead of trying to go cold turkey on these workplace routines, reframe them as rewards. For every to-do list item you complete, allow yourself a fives minute treat, whether that’s a fresh cup of coffee or a walk around the block. Not only will creating a reward Top Agent Magazine

system help you stay motivated throughout the day, it will also provide you with much-needed mental breaks that actually boost long-term productivity.

The number one productivity killer in this day and age? Smartphones. With access to endless social media portals, web browsing, text conversations, and games, smartphones are one-stop shops for distractions. While you may not want to delete apps from your phone, try leaving your smartphone in a locked desk drawer until your next break, or safely in your car. By simply putting your smartphone out of your line of sight, the impulse to distract yourself is muted. Even though technology and the modern office create ample opportunity for distraction, making these few small adjustments can go a long way in safeguarding your productivity. After all, a productive day allows you to enjoy your time at home and outside the office, without the worry of incomplete tasks and looming deadlines darkening your day. Keep these productivity tricks in mind as you mount your daily to-do list and you’ll be thanking yourself tomorrow.

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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 6

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. Top Agent Magazine

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. 8

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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ANDREW RUSSELL

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AN DREW RUSSELL

Andrew was recently recognized at the 2022 NAMB Awards in Las Vegas as the mortgage broker of the year for the northeast, and he was named to the prestigious Inc 5000 list of fastest growing private companies in the nation. Andrew Russell, founder of RCG Mortgage in Hauppauge, New York, fuels his enterprise by combining loan diversity with deep interpersonal relationships, nimble business approaches, 10

and a foundational background in human psychology. “‘Pivot’ is the key word for us right now. I’ve been pivoting since day one, and I’ll never forget how many people around me weren’t ready, or weren’t Top Agent Magazine

willing, to make those kinds of changes. Right now there are two types of mortgage companies: those who are going to downsize or close, and those who are going to double down. We’re the latter – we feel like we have the key to success for growth and servicing the communities we work with, and so far, we’ve been able to bring value to everything we touch.” Before entering the mortgage industry, Andrew received his Masters in Psychology. “I worked as a guidance counselor doing a leave replacement role,” he recalls, “and the education field

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didn’t let me apply my knowledge the way I was hoping. Luckily, someone I had gone to school with was in the mortgage business, and they encouraged me to give it a shot.” After working in the field for a little over a month in 2008, the market experienced a memorable downturn. “In hindsight, it was a silver lining, because a lot of people working then were used to the boom – I had to learn how to adapt during periods of volatility and uncertainty.” As a result, Andrew was forced to familiarize himself with every loan imaginable, and he was well equipped to assist clients during

that period of unease. “Lots of people I worked with were scared or nervous – being able to treat clients as a human being, and not just another loan, turned out to be my biggest asset.” Since then, Andrew has steadily built RCG Mortgage on this bedrock of empathy and client satisfaction. In 2017, he founded the business as the sole owner and had only two employees to start, and at the present time of writing in 2023, he employs over forty individuals. He was

recently recognized at the 2022 NAMB Awards in Las Vegas as the mortgage broker of the year for the northeast, and he was named to the prestigious Inc 5000 list of fastest growing private companies in the nation. “The numbers speak for themselves – but this year so far has seen a completely different kind of growth. When mortgage revenue goes down, you need to grow by being proactive rather than reactive. It takes more than answering the phone and receiving referrals – thankfully I have some amazing mentors

“We feel like we have the key to success for growth and servicing the communities we work with, and so far, we’ve been able to bring value to everything we touch.”

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and coaches in my life, and they’ve helped me get the best people on the bus in the best possible seats, so to speak.” His willingness to learn and adapt has Andrew and RCG poised to continue their trajectory into 2023 and beyond, and he’s excited to lean into the world of marketing to extend their digital footprint. “Ninety percent of our business last year originated in New York, but we’re licensed in lots of growing territories – Connecticut, Colorado, Florida, Texas – we’re a mortgage broker company; we can get people the best rates and services Top Agent Magazine

anywhere. We’re going to take better advantage of that.” In addition to growing his business, Andrew looks forward to hanging out with his amazing wife, his daughters (six and four), and step children (ten and six). He loves creating content with them for his various social media platforms. “My favorite thing in the world is my family. You need to have that balance – work and family. And I guess I balance my business success by being a sicko Jets fan. That’s my obsession outside of work. Season tickets and everything!” 13

To learn more about Andrew Russell, email andrew@rcgmortgage.com, or call 855-325-5363. You can also visit rcgmortgage.com or find Andrew on all social media @IAmAndrewRussell www.

http://www.justingrable.com 14

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

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

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

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

BE MORE POSITIVE

BE WILLING TO LEARN

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

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

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BRIAN MARCHAND

Brian Marchand is an experienced loan officer who started his career in real estate sales in 1993. “I was representing large-scale developers and new construction projects,” he explains. “And when the market took a turn in 2007-2008, I decided to look into a new career but stay close to what I loved.” At that time, a family member suggested he explore a career in mortgage lending, as his friend was opening a mortgage division at First Niagara Bank. Brian gave it a shot, and it ended up being one of the best decisions he’s ever made. Since then, he has completed thousands of mortgages and worked for different companies before settling in with a credit union in Albany, New York, for the past eight years. Recently, his credit union merged with another large credit union, and Brian is excited to be part of the blending process that will create a major player 16

in the mortgage industry. “We’re pretty excited to become a big powerhouse moving forward making us one of the largest credit unions in the country.” With his extensive experience and adaptability to change, Brian is well-positioned to help many more clients achieve their home ownership and refinance goals.

Serving the entire state of New York, Brian is able to offer a wide variety of loans. Much of Brian’s business consists of repeat clients and referrals, as he provides superior service at every step and eases buyer’s nerves. He’s known for his responsiveness, even answering texts late at night and getting out of bed to make sure tasks are handled in a last-minute emergency. “Some bankers would choke at the idea of ever doing that, but I love what I do, I love helping people,” Brian explains. He stays in touch with his real estate agent partners, maintaining long-lasting relationships so they know he is always there for them. Having worked as an agent himself, he knows what it takes to be successful in this field. “I sold well over 800 properties, so I understand that side of the business, which really helps me all the time because real estate issues do pop up while we’re completing things on the mortgage side. His experience has also taught him how important it is to explain every step thoroughly. “I take the time to educate my clients on what to expect,” he says. His experience in helping so many families over the years puts people at ease. “I just choose to do what I would expect someone to do for me, and it’s never done me wrong.” Brian is committed to working hard in the next ten years to grow his business even further. “I don’t think I’ll ever fully retire, but for the next decade for sure I will be doing what I love every day…helping people.” In Brian’s spare time he enjoys going to the gym, vacationing in Florida, working on house projects, cooking, and spending time with his wife Jennifer, and their 4 boys Johnathan, Christopher, Ethan, and Nicholas. Top Agent Magazine

For more information about Brian Marchand, please call/text 518-396-7392 or email bmarchand@homeownersadvantage.com

Business Growth Hack: Absorb Your Clients’ Stress! Your business coach or a CRM software sales rep has probably described a number of products or services to help you grow your business. But sometimes the easiest way to increase the deals you’re closing is to simply be present for your clients. In doing so, you’ll find have the power to decrease the stress they feel. And when you decrease their stress, you increase your value to them, leading to new referrals and organic growth. 18

You may be thinking, “I have enough stress; how can I find the emotional bandwidth for other people’s stress?” But consider this: As their day-to-day point of contact in this life decision, you are already a strong presence in your client’s lives. Why not allow yourself to be the only seemingly calm part of this process? By asking them what’s on their mind, by truly listening, by showing that you truly understand and even by rolling up

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your sleeves to relieve some of their grunt work, you’ll prove yourself invaluable. Think of yourself as the equivalent of an anti-anxiety pill to your clients. All you have to do is form a few easy habits.

Laura and Raj, their agent and their loan officer soon came to learn that Laura’s 80-year-old mother may eventually move in with the family. This news not only helped the agent best meet Laura’s and Raj’s needs for a new home; it gave both the agent and the loan officer opportunities to go above and beyond for their clients. Their REALTOR® connected Laura with a senior services nonprofit near Laura’s mom’s current home that may be able to assist the family. And their loan officer outlined various, detailed options to Laura and Raj make smart, long-term financial decisions. Meanwhile, the agent and loan officer earned the trust of Laura and Raj, who felt less worried about the future.

Listen – really listen – with patience Behind every home purchase or sale is a person or a family with a uniquely complex set of needs, motivations, objectives and priorities. Asking the right questions and truly listening to the answers are the easiest ways to learn how to make clients’ lives easier. In doing so, you not only show that you’re interested in them as people, but you help yourself discover ways to surprise your clients with service. Take “Laura and Raj,” for instance – a couple in their 30s who wanted a larger home because their family of five outgrew their first home. By patiently getting to know Top Agent Magazine

Empathize Don’t be afraid to describe your own personal experiences as a homebuyer or seller, explaining how you felt at the time; let your client know you “get” it. The agent who is willing to open up and let buyers and

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sellers know that they personally understand their needs and concerns will connect with clients quickly, break down barriers and help the process move smoothly. Chayan Alavi, Broker/Owner of Alavi Agency in Long Beach, California, challenges himself and his team to ensure that every action of every day serves others. “If we can put ourselves in other people’s shoes with empathy, then we become stellar professionals and great human beings, too,” he says. “I like knowing that we remove the sales pitch from real estate and make it all about the customer.” Chayan and his team focus on customer advocacy and building trust. But they don’t take trust for granted. Instead, they know trust must be earned and nurtured over time.

Roll up your sleeves “You can’t be afraid to do anything!” says Matthew Todd of d’aprile properties in the Chicago area. “People know there’s nothing I won’t do to get the job done.” He has 20

mowed clients’ lawns, walked dogs and personally cleaned someone’s 8,000-squarefoot, $2 million home for a showing one day after his seller left the house. Two days before another closing, Matthew’s client was unable to move large amounts of unneeded furniture out of the house he sold. No problem! Matthew joined or created five online garage sales; sold or gave away most of the client’s belongings and had the remainder hauled away before cleaning in time for the closing. “The first time I sit with a seller on listing presentation or the first day I take someone on a buyer’s tour, they know I’m ‘all-in.’” Meanwhile, in the Cincinnati area, Aaron Denton of Summit Funding considers himself and his team members to be concierges for their borrowers. “We’re like personal assistants,” says Aaron. “People are happier when you remove the stress.” Included in their standard services are researching moving quotes; arranging and organizing movein day; scheduling utility transfers; assisting with children’s school registration paperwork; and even connecting buyers with local resources like daycares. If “rolling up your sleeves” isn’t your strongest skill, then an easy alternative is to get to know professionals in your area who can do these tasks for you. In the end, remember that by listening with patience, empathizing, and being willing to go the extra mile, you have the power to remove the stress your clients would experience without your help. When clients feel cared for, they remember the agents and partners who helped them.

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CHRIS MADDEN Chris Madden’s career journey has been a fascinating one, beginning in the world of digital marketing after graduating from college. Despite his passion for real estate, opportunities in the industry eluded him until he met his then-girlfriend (now wife), whose family owned a mortgage company. “So I ended up leaving the digital agency I was at and went over to help them with their marketing,” Chris explains. It was during this time that he shared his goals with his wife’s uncle, who suggested he obtain his license as a loan officer. After a month of being licensed, Chris was thrust into the world of correspondent lending and wholesaling. Despite having no prior experience, he quickly became a sponge, soaking up all the knowledge he could from supportive managers and colleagues. As he grew more comfortable and competent, Chris began reaching out to REALTORS® and building his business. He’s now been in the industry for several years, and works with Homestead Funding in Syracuse. Licensed in New York and Florida, he assists many first time home buyers who need more guidance. “They’re the ones that value the educational component to it, versus a more experienced buyer,” he explains. He’s recently had many clients return to him when they want to upgrade their house. By providing the best service and supporting them at every step, Chris ensures the process is smooth and enjoyable. He keeps everyone involved updated, including real estate agents, so no one is left in the dark. After working together, buyers love to spread the word about their time with Chris. One recently said, “Chris was extremely helpful and attentive, helping me purchase my first home. Since it was my first time purchasing a home, Chris made sure I understood every step of the mortgage process and answered all my questions. He was very quick to reply to any Top Agent Magazine

communication. On top of all this Chris made sure to get me the best possible mortgage solution which was much appreciated. For all these reasons I highly recommend working with Chris.” Community is an integral part of Chris’life and business. He and his family support the Museum of Science and Technology through donations and attending fundraising events. Additionally, he has personal experience with thyroid cancer and is involved with various charity events that raise money for cancer research. During his free time, he’s relaxing with family including his wife and their children. In the summer, they enjoy going to the lake and during the winter they visit the mountains. Growth is on the horizon, as Chris plans to expand more in the Tampa region. “My in-laws live down there full-time, so it’s an area I like to focus on.” Wherever his path leads, he plans to enjoy every moment of it. “I love educating people, whether it’s real estate agents or buyers. It’s my favorite part about what I do.”

For more information about Chris Madden, please call 315-436-4342 or email cmadden@homesteadfunding.com 21 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

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 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 sign-up sheets or stuffy check-in procedures. Select a venue that’s relatively well-known and central 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 bake-off, or a spring cleaning themed community volunteer day can generate more interest than your average mixer. 22

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 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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CRAIG GHIO A longtime New York resident, Craig Ghio has always possessed an entrepreneurial spirit. He would begin his career in auto sales, where he further established the communication skills and penchant for client service that he would later need to excel as a loan officer. Soon after relocating to Long Island, he decided to switch tracks and pursue his mortgage license at the recommendation of a good friend in the industry. In the years since, he has gone on to author an accomplished career in mortgages, establishing a network of satisfied clients that spans Orange County, Westchester County, Dutchess County, and beyond. Today, Craig is a Senior Loan Officer with Quintessential Mortgage Group, where he assists clients throughout Westchester County and the surrounding areas. Combining his elite business acumen with his acute knowledge of the industry, he has cultivated a boutique process to meet the demands of any transaction, from residential to commercial mortgages. At Quintessential Mortgage Group, Craig offers clients a suite of loan products, specializing in everything from Conventional, FHA, VA and USDA loans to Non-QM options like bank statement loans, DSCR products for investors, and commercial loans. No matter the client, he personalizes his approach to their needs, ensuring a seamless transaction catered directly to their best interests. In fact, he enjoys keeping in touch long after the deals are done to cultivate an ongoing relationship and make sure his clients are fully satisfied with their purchase. Over the years, Craig has earned a fantastic reputation throughout New York among clients and colleagues alike, with the vast majority of his volume coming from repeat clients or referrals. Having completed 30 million in volume, in 2022 alone, he remains focused on the core values that set him apart. “At the end of the day, I love helping people,” he says. “Many clients Top Agent Magazine

don’t even realize they have the ability to buy a home. For me, there’s nothing more rewarding than helping them work on their credit and position themselves to achieve the American Dream.” Outside of mortgages, Craig is dedicated to his community. Alongside his fellow agents at Quintessential Mortgage Group, he contributes to a variety of area causes, such as toy drives during the holiday season. While also providing support to local schools and rec leagues, he is equally committed to his industry, volunteering at job fairs throughout the year. When he’s not with clients or giving back, he can be found traveling, visiting the gym, or enjoying a relaxing day at the beach with family and friends. Looking ahead, Craig has exciting plans for the future of his business. As his volume maintains its steady growth, he intends on further building his team while scaling his leading standards throughout the region. “I truly work for a great company,” he says. “I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in today if not for Quintessential Mortgage Group. After all, it’s crucial that you have a strong back office and company supporting you in your career. Because of our group, I’ve been able to take my work to the next level while providing excellent service to all my clients.”

Contact Craig at 914-653-6182, email craig@qmgllc.com or visit his website: QMGLLC.com www.

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