ONTARIO 6-5-23

ONTARIO EDITION

MILLENNIAL BUYERS:

Where They Are & What to Know

COOPERATION, NOT COMPETITION, CREATES MUTUAL SUCCESS FOR AGENTS

FEATURED AGENTS

ABDELLAH MAJD CAPITAL BROKERS GROUP/ CHRISTOPHER BONIL FAIZ TAHIR RUENA CORPUZ REOTUTAR

CONCIERGE CARE:

Services that Lure Clients and Transform Your Reputation

COVER STORY

KYLE SHEWCHUK

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

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Cooperation, Not Competition, Creates

Mutual Success for Agents When people get along during a business transaction, everyone comes out happier. And in a service industry like real estate, agents have the power deliver that happiness. By working cooperatively, sharing advice and helping each other help clients, agents not only enhance their own reputations, but that of real estate in general.

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“Bring everyone together” Matt Kobelski, with Credentials Real Estate Group in Massachusetts, points out that providing good service involves more people than the party you’re representing. “I’m not afraid to bring together all the parties in a deal and say, ‘OK, let’s figure out a solution that works best

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Teaming up with an agent from a different brokerage on a transaction is not as uncommon or complicated as it might seem

for everyone,” he explains. “My goal is to avoid being adversarial.” Real estate, he believes, should always be a field in which each person can win. “It’s about working toward a mutual goal, shaking hands, and walking away happy that a seller sold, a buyer bought and everyone got what they wanted.”

But Is it that simple? Most agents have experienced the ways conflicting personalities and tension during a transaction can heat up even the most cordial relations. In reality, however, it’s more productive to let down your guard and work with others as a team than it is to allow stress and competition to preside. South Florida REALTOR® and broker associate, Risë V. Siegrist, for instance, has zero interest in competing with other agents. “It’s more important to be professional and associate with competent, caring people,” she says. By serving others with a cooperative spirit, experienced agents like Risë set an excellent example for emerging real estate stars. Risë hopes to be a model for the next generation of agents, training people who may one day become part of her team.

Risë’s position on cooperation inspires more reasons for nurturing relationships with other agents. Over the decades, many agents change brokerages several times. Who knows if that agent across the table will one day work at the Top Agent Magazine

same brokerage you do? Perhaps you’ll even have an opportunity to partner on an exciting, future transaction. Good relations keep doors open to endless possibilities.

Co-listing cooperation Teaming up with an agent from a different brokerage on a transaction is not as uncommon or complicated as it might seem. In fact, some agents cleverly capitalize on their collective attributes, rather than competing against one another. South Carolina REALTOR® Kimberly Pannit is a perfect example of the universal benefits of co-listings. Although she has always been an independent agent, Kimberly works hard to form professional alliances that give her business the feel of a cooperative network across brokerages.

This cooperative approach may be nontraditional, but it benefits clients in unique ways. By working closely with agents at other brokerages, she shows how agents can improve client service while helping one another.

Kimberly’s cooperative approach began in her own neighborhood, where an agent friend from a different brokerage also lives. “Several years ago, I approached her because both of us were friends with our neighbors. I asked, ‘Why don’t we give our neighbors superior service and

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co-list together? We both love our area and are passionate about our jobs, the location and schools.’” She also didn’t want to make their mutual friends choose between them when they could work together. “I said, ‘Let’s give them amazing service together!’” With their brokers’ permission, two weeks later the agents co-listed their first home and put extra energy into ensuring uninterrupted client service.

Networking and “Co-opertition” When the ultimate goal is to match a client with the perfect home or create optimal terms of sale for a listings, networking with other agents can facilitate that ideal buyer-seller match.

Nashville REALTOR® and broker/owner Lisa Land embraced every opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the real estate industry and to her local market, even before building her own team. “Agents would frequently ask me for help or advice,” she says, noting that she shares, rather than guarding, the methods she uses to get through difficult or confusing transactions. “I was fortunate to have great mentors when I started in real estate, so I’m always

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willing to offer help, even to agents outside of The Luxe Collective.”

Meanwhile, on Cape Cod in Massachusetts, Janet Leigh Scott describes the climate between agents as relaxed and professional. “While the real estate market is highly competitive, we’re truly a ‘co-opertition’ market; agents work together and a have greater sense of community than you might experience in off-island brokerages,” Janet says. “If I have buyer coming into town, I’ll reach out to agents I’ve done transactions with to ask if they have anything coming up that might not be on the market yet.”

Even in hot, competitive L.A. real estate, independent agents such as Andrej Nagy of The Agency RE knows the importance of receiving and providing professional mentorship.

“My relationships with clients are extremely important,” he says. “But my relationships with agents on the other side of a deal are also important.” For REALTORS® like him, working smoothly with other agents is a privilege.

Doing so builds rewarding relationships while ensuring win-win transactions for everyone at the closing table.

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KYLE SHEWCHUK

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Top Agent Kyle Shewchuk has become a specialist in assisting buyers and sellers transition from the bustling Greater Toronto Area & surrounding suburbs to Northern Regions, Towns and that sweet country life.

In the fast-paced world of real estate, one agent stands out with a unique background and an unrelenting drive to succeed. Meet Kyle Shewchuk, who took the plunge into real estate at the age of 25, armed with a competitive sports background with his most dominant sport being in Judo for 17 years, 8 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

where he would compete against international judoka’s from many other countries and at tournaments such as Canada Cup, Ontario Winter Games & Canadian Nationals. Judo taught him discipline, focus, developed him into the person he is today, and helped him continue his athletic achievements into his Top Agent Magazine

life and business. As an agent, he runs a oneman show, taking care of everything from A to Z, ensuring his clients receive the best service possible. Kyle has become a specialist in assisting buyers and sellers transition from the bustling Greater Toronto Area & surrounding suburbs to Northern Regions, Towns and that sweet country life. He does it all from city to country. As the cost of living in the city soars, Kyle expertly guides his clients through the process, helping them find their perfect homes and adapt to their new surroundings.

Kyle’s approach to real estate sets him apart from other agents, as evidenced by his 90% repeat and referral business rate. Clients

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appreciate his unyielding honesty and integrity; even if his advice isn’t what they want to hear, they know they can trust him to guide them in the right direction. “I always tell them what I truly think, even if it means telling them that it’s not the right time to buy or sell,” he explains. Kyle’s dedication to his clients also extends beyond the transaction. He maintains relationships through social media and hosts an annual contest that rewards his clients with a chance to win a $5,000 vacation. The contest not only creates excitement but also serves as a way for Kyle to give back to his buyers and sellers, thanking them for their continued support.

“I try to make it fun and give back to my clients,” he explains.

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With videos showcasing not only the home but also the neighborhood, community, and lifestyle, Kyle is able to “wow” potential buyers online and reinforce their impressions during in-person viewings.

With most home purchase journeys starting online, Kyle knows that effective marketing is crucial to selling a home. His strategy revolves around digital marketing, with a strong focus on high-quality video production. “My videos are not just a slideshow, it’s a full video production with drones, high cinematic interior, and exterior,” he 10Copyright Top Agent Magazine

explains. By showcasing not only the home but also the neighborhood, community, and lifestyle, Kyle is able to “wow” potential buyers online and reinforce their impressions during in-person viewings. Harnessing the power of social media and targeted marketing, Kyle leverages video content to captivate his audience, as he recognizes the Top Agent Magazine

increasing importance of this medium. His innovative approach has paid off, allowing him to successfully close approximately over 142 units per year, a testament to his marketing prowess.

When Kyle isn’t working, he’s staying active in his community through the Elevation Church. During his free time, he spends time with his growing family, and staying fit with at-home training.

Kyle plans to continue growing, “I’ve been expanding into an exciting segment of real estate where I assist clients in purchasing

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vacant land and working with custom builders to help clients build their dream home. I also assist clients with purchasing homes in mature areas that require significant updating, additions, and complete a full renovation, and the transformations are incredible. This allows my clients to live in their preferred neighbourhoods with a home customized for them. So I’m expanding into new niches.”

He will never tire of helping people with their real estate dreams. “I just love being able to assist my clients and know that I am giving them the most accurate information to make the biggest decisions of their lives.

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For more information about Kyle Shewchuk, call 905-781-4796 or email kyleshewchuk1@gmail.com

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Millennial Buyers: Where They Are & What to Know Homebuyers and sellers come from all walks of life. If you’ve been an agent for long, you’ve likely worked alongside a wide variety of folks—from first-timer homeowners and down-sizers, to second home searchers and those finally hunting for their dream home. While there is hardly a shortage of diversity in the housing market, there Top Agent Magazine

is one generation that is making big strides in homeownership these days: Millennials.

Millennials can be loosely defined as those between the ages of twenty-two to thirtyseven. As you can see, this constitutes a wide swathe of the population. If you’re an agent who stands to learn a bit more about

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a demographic whose influence and homeownership goals are rapidly evolving, tune in below for a few pointers that can help you expand a segment of your clientele in the process.

Where do Millennials prefer to buy?

Many Millennials came of age during or immediately following the Great Recession, and as such, many of them relocated or returned to mid-size cities and smaller communities where the cost of living was most affordable. Of course, there are countless Millennials that call the U.S.’s major cities home—especially those in the

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tech industry. The good news is that you can court Millennial clientele no matter where you service area is located. That said, community amenities are of great importance to this generation. They value public transportation, green space, and entertainment—from coffee shops and topnotch restaurants to farmer’s markets and boutiques. Emphasizing those attributes will be key in selling to Millennials and locating neighborhoods they’re most interested in.

What sort of communication do Millennials prefer?

Most Millennials are digital natives, or close to. That means they grew up learning

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how to navigate digital spaces, and prefer to communicate through mediums like email, text, and social media. This isn’t to say that Millennials aren’t good communicators, but they’re often on the go, and have learned to research and shop online. To accommodate this, it’s best to build a presence across the most popular listing portals and social media platforms. Although, it’s not enough to establish a site and wait for the calls to come in. Responsiveness is a key factor for Millennials, who expect speedy response times. Make sure you’re checking your inbox frequently, responding accordingly, and engaging with your audience online. This will let Millennials know

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that you’re savvy, available, and understand the value of their preferred method of communication.

Are Millennials ready to buy?

It’s a common misconception that Millennials are uninterested in the rite of passage of purchasing a home. While Millennials maybe waiting a bit longer than their parents did to buy a home, there are good reasons to explain this phenomenon. For starters, Millennials entered the job market during the downturn, which means they are more conservative when making big purchases, and have to play catch-up to reach a sound

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financial position. Likewise, student loan debt has proved a major financial inhabitation for Millennials. Instead of socking away a few hundred a month to save for a home, they’re forking over that cash to pay down their educational loans. How does a Realtor compete with this reality? For starters, a bit of understanding goes a long way. Work with your mortgage partners to find financing possibilities that cater to this younger demographic. Recognize that Millennials—like most buyers—have some trepidations when buying a home.

Also consider fielding Millennial clientele with the long view in mind. You might be 16

courting them for months or more until they’re ready to take the plunge, but they’re also famous for their reviews. When a job is done well, Millennials shout it from the rooftops—or at least share it a dozen time from their phone.

As time passes, Millennials will continue to dominate the marketplace when it comes to buying and selling homes. A little self-education on this powerful demographic can go a long way. If you know your clients and your audience, you’ll be in a far better position to serve their interests and make a customer for life.

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ABDELLAH MAJD Abdellah Majd’s journey to becoming a powerhouse in the real estate industry is nothing short of inspiring.

Entering the world of real estate in 2013 by investing in his own properties, he spent three years accumulating experience before finally becoming a licensed agent in 2016. Abdellah’s exceptional skills led him to join a sales team at Keller Williams, where he consistently ranked as one of the top sales agents. But that wasn’t enough for this ambitious entrepreneur. In March 2022, alongside his sales team-Majd Realty Group notably his Director of Operations Bailey Smith who is integral in the day to day. Abdellah alongside Bailey expanded his business by opening a boutique brokerage in Hamilton, Revel Realty IncHamilton Central, which has since grown to house 20 agents and counting. Alongside this impressive venture, he is partner to a successful construction company, 555 Construction Management Inc., and maintains a sizable personal real estate portfolio. For Abdellah, the sky’s the limit – and it shows.

In the heart of the Hamilton-Burlington area, Abdellah navigates the real estate landscape with finesse, describing it as “very fast-paced” and “highly competitive.” Venturing beyond the Hamilton-Burlington area, Abdellah also serves clients in Niagara Falls & surrounding, Brantford, and everywhere in between.

Abdellah specializes in the investment-driven city of Hamilton, focusing on multi-unit properties, conversions, and larger acquisitions. “Our office covers a wide range of clients and properties,” he explains. “We

handle everything from single-family residential assets to large commercial Properties.”

Abdellah’s success as a real estate agent is built on a strong foundation of repeat and referral business, making up a staggering 70-80% of his clientele. This impressive figure is due in part to the generational referrals he has fostered, creating lasting relationships that span from parents to children. His robust online presence, including a YouTube channel on one of the largest Canadian real estate investment platforms, further bolsters his reputation. With a background in the hospitality industry, Abdellah has honed his customer service skills to perfection. “Working in hospitality provided me with a refined skill set in customer service,” Abdellah says. “It taught me the art of sales but most importantly the importance of going above and beyond for clients.” Abdellah and his office, some of whom also have a hospitality background, are committed to resolving any issues and ensuring that clients remain excited about their purchase or sale. Their unwavering dedication to customer service is what truly sets them apart in the competitive world of real estate.

When Abdellah isn’t working, he’s enjoying everything his region has to offer. He loves attending sporting events, holding season tickets to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Much of his free time is spent with family and friends.

He plans to continue growing his business to new heights. “We want to further put ourselves on the map,” he says. “Our vision is to place in the top five brokerages in the city.” He also plans to grow his own personal real estate portfolio further both in Canada & The US. No matter where his path leads, he will continue to enjoy the journey. “What we love most is to serve people at a high level.”

For more information about Abdellah Majd, please call 905-921-6253 or email abdellah@majdrealty.com

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CAPITAL BROKERS GROUP When Christopher Bonil founded Capital Brokers Group, he was guided by a passion for homes and home building, as well as a desire to help clients achieve their real estate goals.

Now firmly established as a leading team offering top-tier service in the luxury space, Capital Brokers Group provides trusted advice and solutions to a range of real estate needs.

An impressive 90% of the team’s clients come back to work with them again, a feat that speaks to the enduring relationships they forge. In addition to the team’s strong ethics and morals, Christopher attributes their strong repeat and referral business to the comprehensive service they offer. “We give our clients what the industry offers and more,” he explains. “We realized that the majority of agents were offering the same thing, and what really differentiated us and had our clients coming back was the fact that we took care of every single thing involved in the home selling process.” This could include everything from reorganizing and decluttering to repainting and even sometimes lawn maintenance.

“From major to minor, we do everything that will help sell the property,” Christopher says. “We do many things beyond basic real estate services.” The team is also known for its marketing, allowing listings to stand apart from the rest and make an impact that translates to added value for sellers.

Capital Brokers Group has been constantly expanding into new areas across the GTA. “Ever since we’ve been a team, we’ve been able to break barriers in a lot of high-end areas such as Bridle Path and Kleinburg, as well as luxury areas in Caledon, Toronto, Vaughan, and Innisfil,” Christopher says. “Our most top-tier area was Bridle Path in Toronto, where we sold a $7 million dollar home down the street from Drake! That set us up for where we are today.”

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Giving back to their community is important to the team at Capital Brokers Group, and they have recently partnered with the SickKids hospital in Toronto to launch the annual Golden Heart Gala. Though it has been delayed due to Covid, Christopher and the team are looking forward to an ongoing commitment to help support this great cause.

“As a new dad, I felt a unique connection to this purpose,” Christopher says.

Looking toward the future, Christopher says, “We plan on becoming a true onestop shop where a client can come to get pre-approved, find the proper home at the right price with the right service, and have a top-tier team representing them. We feel there’s a huge gap in transparency in our industry, and that’s what set us out on this mission we’re on. We want to not only be able to offer these real estate services to our clients, but also offer that peace of mind so they can know they’re working with the best of the best and that taking care of their money is our top priority. That’s the kind of confidence and trust we’re trying to instill back into the industry.”

To find out more about Capital Brokers Group, contact Christopher Bonil at (416)743-5000 email chris@capitalbrokersgroup.ca, or visit capitalbrokersgroup.ca and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capitalbrokersgroup.ca/ @capitalbrokersgroup.cahttps://www.instagram.com/mrbonil/ and @MrBonil www.

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Concierge Care: Services that Lure Clients and Transform Your Reputation It’s a no-brainer: customer service is central to success in the real estate industry. While properties may be the product, this industry really revolves around people and the relationships you cultivate along the way. With that in mind, how would you describe the service you provide? If solid service is the baseline, then to set yourself apart you must deliver service that’s exceptional. But, how? Returning calls and displaying a friendly face won’t necessarily separate you from the pack. If you really want to take your customer service to the next level and build a reputation for white-glove, concierge-level courtesy, then keep a few of the following tips in mind as you create a professional style that’s completely bespoke.

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Make your communications matter For many agents, communication during and after a transaction are perfunctory affairs, with one-sizefits-all newsletters or promotional postcards that feel mass-produced. To really grab the attention of your clientele, you’ll want to build a recognizable brand. To accomplish this, begin by adding value to your regular communications. Clients are likely to bypass your communications if they think your only intent is to sell them something. Focus instead on creating content that’s compelling and dishes out value to your clientele. Just like a favorite blog you revisit again and again for its quality content, con-

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sider your communications as an extension of your brand and identity. A few popular ideas from which clients can derive value include: local restaurant guides, tax tips for homeowners, reports on home values and the marketplace, or highlighting home décor and landscaping trends. Make your communications readable and useful, and your clients past and present will think twice before skipping past your name.

Showcase the lifestyle Clients remember when you go the extra mile, and that additional effort distinguishes run-of-the-mill agents from high-powered professionals. Whether listing or buying, consider a property’s lifestyle.

First, think about a client’s everyday experience.

Where’s the best breakfast spot nearby? How’s access to public transportation or bike paths? Which outdoor recreational opportunities exist in the area?

Where might your client swing by for coffee?

Neighborhood guides that outline the livability of a home and its area not only boost value and highlight potential, but they also demonstrate your ability to think outside the box and connect on a personal level. After all, a home isn’t just a house; a home is all about the daily experience that unfolds within and beyond those four walls. With that in mind, do your homework and make yourself a local expert.

Your clients will feel they’re in good hands and will better envision their future unfolding, all thanks to your thorough legwork.

Customize your approach to clients As an agent, it’s only natural that you build your own daily routines and practices that keep your business running. While it’s necessary to create positive habitats that streamline your workflow, it’s also important to remain adaptable. For instance, Millennial clients may prefer to chat by text, instant 20

message, or email, whereas older clientele may prefer face-to-face time or connecting by phone call.

Adapting your communication style is as simple as a brief discussion: ask your client how they prefer to communicate and adapt accordingly. While it may seem like a small matter, it provides clients with a sense of comfort and control. Again, the key here is communication. Talk with your clients about their preferred methodology. Maybe they prefer a marathon house-hunting trek on a weekend day, or perhaps they rather sift through listings online before making in-person visits to a narrowed list. It’s okay to encourage clients or fill them in on industry norms, but it’s important to create an experience that’s tailored to their style and personality.

Authentically seek feedback While it may feel uncomfortable, asking for feedback during and at the end of a transaction can dramatically improve your working style and professional blind-spots. It can also help you adapt your working style to better suit your respective clients.

Of course, it’s important to be open-minded and to quash the need to be defensive. Not all feedback will be useful, but you can incorporate the parts that are. This not only grows your skillset, but it also demonstrates to clients that you are open to constructive criticism and sincerely prioritize a job well done over personal praise. As a bonus, positive feedback can be parlayed into client testimonials, which are incredibly useful tools to boost your business on the whole.

It’s no secret that real estate is a busy, self-determined business. While your client care may feel all accounted for, there is always room to grow. Professionals at the top of their field know this and never stop building out their repertoire. If you want to take your business to the next level and create an imprint that’s synonymous with concierge care, then keep these ideas in mind as you build your relationships and your brand.

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FAIZ TAHIR Faiz Tahir is a highly accomplished REALTOR® and financial expert who leads The Tahir Team at RE/MAX© Millennium Real Estate Brokerage, located in Woodbridge, Ontario. With a passion for helping clients achieve their real estate investment goals, Faiz’s expertise was refined through years of experience alongside his father, Tahir Sheikh, Broker, who is now his esteemed partner in the business. Their focus is on creating value for high net worth and luxury clients in the Greater Toronto Area, with a specialization in pre-construction projects that attract investors from around the globe. Faiz’s unwavering commitment to excellence has earned him multiple accolades, including the prestigious RE/MAX Top Agent of the Month and Chairman’s Awards, solidifying his standing as a top-performing industry leader.

“Experience the pinnacle of luxury service with Faiz Tahir, leading the dynamic and experienced Tahir Team. Our team of specialized agents are experts in finding exceptional homes and pre-construction investment opportunities, with over a decade of experience and a distinguished reputation in Milton, Oakville, and the Greater Toronto Area.”

Faiz Tahir is a proficient REALTOR®, holding a Masters in Accounting and CPA, which uniquely positions him to offer clients a comprehensive and expert full-package service, combining both financial and real estate advice. Faiz approaches every client interaction with professionalism and a can-do attitude, expertly guiding individuals across all spectrums of the real estate market, from first-time buyers to luxury clientele. The Tahir Team’s extensive network of professionals includes an inhouse lawyer, immigration consultant, mortgage specialist, and an accountant, all of whom work collaboratively to provide a seamless and comprehensive service for clients. Faiz’s commitment to service excellence is evident in his team’s willingness to travel anywhere in Ontario, from London to Ottawa, to sell a home. Their client-centric, goal-oriented approach has resulted in a solid reputation for delivering exceptional service and high rates of referrals for The Tahir Team.

Moreover, Faiz’s expertise extends beyond residential real estate, as he is also specialized in buying/selling businesses, re-zoning and development of land, and providing institutional investors with outstanding investment opportunities. His in-depth knowledge and experience in these areas make him a valuable asset for clients looking to expand their investment portfolios or venture into new markets.

Faiz Tahir has built an impressive global outreach, ensuring that every listing is marketed to his clients around the world. With a strong reputation in the Middle East, The Tahir Team frequently hosts conferences in the region, providing valuable insights and creating new connections. Faiz’s commitment to client satisfaction extends beyond the transactional nature of real estate, as he takes great pleasure in bringing clients and their families together for engaging and educational events.

Through these events, clients feel like they are part of a supportive community, a testament to Faiz’s dedication to building strong relationships with his clients.

Faiz is deeply committed to giving back to his alma mater and supports the university’s finance program and international studies course. His passion for education extends beyond his professional pursuits, as he believes in the importance of supporting the next generation of leaders. Outside of his work, Faiz enjoys playing basketball and golf, and has a penchant for traveling across North America to play on some of the best courses.

Faiz Tahir’s individual achievements in real estate speak for themselves, having completed over $40 million in sales last year. As his business grows and his team expands, he remains committed to exploring new emerging markets, as is evidenced by the recent opening of his team office in Oakville, Ontario. With a keen eye for opportunities, he is dedicated to transforming his passion for real estate into success for his clients and those around him. Faiz takes pride in his ability to build trust and strong relationships with clients who may be unfamiliar with the intricacies of the real estate market. His goal is to help people in whatever way he can, exemplifying his unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and exceeding expectations.

To learn more about Faiz Tahir, call at 647-782-6230, email faiztahir.remax@gmail.com, or visit instagram.com/faiztahirhomes www.

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5 Things You Can Do To Achieve Your Biggest Goals If there’s one thing successful people can agree on, it’s that setting goals has been key to their success.

Whether you’re creating a five year plan or just settling on what you want to achieve by the end of the day, setting goals gives you the focus and direction you need to complete even the biggest tasks.

But there is a method to setting them. It’s a process that takes careful thought and consideration up front, which is then combined with the hard work necessary to implement your plan. Luckily there are proven methods to goal setting that you can start using immediately.

1. MAKE YOUR GOALS SPECIFIC Yes, it’s fun to think in grand terms of where you want to end up in life and in your career, but it’s better to have a specific goal like “Increase my sales by 25%”, than “Get rich.” When a goal is clear and specific, it allows you to figure out the exact steps you need to take to accomplish it. The more general it is, the more paralyzed you might be when it comes to figuring out what to do since, the choices may be overwhelming.

2. MAKE IT ATTAINABLE Making attainable goals might seem boring, I mean afterall, you want to dream big! But you don’t want to suffer through the disappointment of not reaching your goal, something that may not even be possible at this stage in your life to begin with. One solution to that is creating goal levels. You can have the dream goal, but underneath that you have the realistic goals that are setting up a foundation for achieving the big one. Things that are attainable still take work and effort to achieve. Those small victories will keep you motivated and encouraged to go for the bigger dreams. And don’t forget, those 22

little goals may have been things you wouldn’t have gotten done if you didn’t set out to achieve them, so be proud!

3. PUT A PLAN OF ACTION IN WRITING Your plan of action should include daily, weekly, monthly and yearly goals. There is something about seeing things in writing and crossing them off the list that is oddly satisfying.The daily goals are especially important in regards to building up those good habits. The first few weeks of your plan of action are critical when it comes to your long term success. Reaching a goal is something you are doing every day, all throughout the day, in numerous ways. Achieving goals is all about creating good new habits.

4. MAKE IT MEASURABLE This is key, since you definitely want to reward yourself for a job well done, and having a goal that is measurable in some way is a sure way to know.

Maybe it’s to increase your lead generation or to cut expenses, whatever the case, have a measurable test you need to meet, as well as a time frame. Then calculate what you have to do to reach that goal. Not only should your goal be specific, but the plan and the measure of success should also be set in stone.

5. ADJUST AS YOU GO You can have all the best laid plans, and you still might quickly realize that what you thought would help you reach your goal, might not be cutting it.

Commitment to reaching your goals is good, but commitment to a plan you know isn’t going to work is not only a waste of time, but will be a devastating blow to your motivation. Sticking to a plan everyday means adjusting it accordingly.

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RUENA CORPUZ REOTUTAR Ruena Corpuz Reotutar of Oshawa, Ontario, has built an eight year career in real estate by focusing on the power of perseverance, education, and organic interpersonal networking. “In this business, patience is the key, and hard work really does pay off.”

Prior to entering the industry, Ruena was a full time nanny. “This career really came out of the blue for me,” she recalls. “My in-laws helped my family purchase our first property, and as we started to grow, we purchased additional properties. When we started managing them and thinking about selling them, my husband and I thought of every option, and we eventually said, ‘Why don’t I just study and become an agent?’” Juggling the demands of her profession while raising two children and simultaneously operating several properties made for a challenging educational experience, but after three years of diligent coursework at OREA Real Estate College, Ruena obtained her licensure and began practicing with Public Choice Realty Inc. Today in 2023, Ruena boasts a book of business that is one hundred percent repeat and referral clients. In 2022, she cleared $19 million in volume spread across all of Ontario with her current brokerage, RE/MAX Metropolis. Her geographic range helps her service clients from all over, and Ruena attributes the bulk of her steady success to her penchant for education, particularly her ability to help clients research their new neighborhoods and connect them with communities and job opportunities. “Back home in the Philippines I was a teacher,” she exudes, “so I am constantly educating. My clients tell me I am patient, and I take the time to explain every detail – that really makes people happy.” In addition to her commitment to learning, Ruena also leverages a strong digital presence (particularly on Facebook), and she makes a commitment to attend every social function she’s invited to – no matter Top Agent Magazine

the drive. “I might only be able to make a brief appearance, but it’s important to show up, and people appreciate it.”

With her position cemented in the real estate industry, Ruena is excited to continue growing her business alongside her partner at The Savvy Team. “I’ve been a solo agent for the past eight years, and I’ve been a top producer, but I’ve found someone I really trust and want to work with.” She is hopeful that, with the aid of another intelligent businesswoman, she’ll be able to see “more smiling faces for buyers! That’s what I love most about my job.” In addition to growing her team, she is also keen to pursue private opportunities for real estate investment, paving the way for her clients to benefit from her experiences. “I have so many repeat and referral clients, and I know they’re always looking for these opportunities.”

When she’s not growing her business, Ruena enjoys spending time with her two children, traveling, and “cleaning! Because I used to be a nanny, I’m always organizing and rearranging my furniture. If I ever get bored, that means it’s time to move something!”

Contact Ruena at 647-869-2533, email corpuz_ruena@yahoo.ca, or visit remaxmetropolis.ca/RUENA-CORPUZ www.

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