OAKLAND COUNTY
C O N N E C T I N G .
E L E VAT I N G .
I N S P I R I N G .
TOP PRODUCER
MRUK Photo by Stylish Detroit
DECEMBER 2020
THE GREATEST ASSET OF A COMPANY ARE IT’S EMPLOYEES
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2 • December 2020
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A MORTGAGE PROGRAM SPECIFICALLY FOR PHYSICIANS. For more information about this and other exclusive offers, contact: Sandra Frith
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NMLS# 564023 1040 E Maple Road Birmingham, MI 48009 p - 586.749.8355 f - 877.873.1344 c - 586.871.8002 e - sandi.frith@huntington.com www.huntington.com/mortgage/frith-sandi All loans are subject to application and credit approval, satisfactory appraisal and title insurance. Terms, conditions and loan programs are subject to change without notice. Other terms, conditions and restrictions may apply. The Huntington National Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. a®, Huntington® and aHuntington® are federally registered service marks of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. Huntington. Welcome.SM is a service mark of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. ©2018 Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. NMLS ID #402436 (09/17)
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Oakland County Real Producers • 3
TAB LE OF
CONTENTS 06
08
16
Editor’s Note
Preferred Partners
Top Producer: Paul Mruk
20
24 Rising Star: Daniel Salmo
30
Agent Spotlight: Reginald Perryman
34
38
46
Partner Spotlight: Action Estate Sales, LLC
BehindtheScenes All-Star: Taylor Kerrigan
Celebrating Leaders: Robert Chubb
Partner Spotlight: Brad Ziemer, WindowStill
50
56
61
Agent Spotlight: Jenilynn Estereicher
Charity Spotlight: Habitat Oakland Women Build
Game: Get to Know the Oakland County Real Producers!
If you are interested in contributing or nominating someone for a feature, please email us at Chris.csotty@realproducersmag.com or Terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com. DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a Real Producers but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Oakland County Real Producers magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.
4 • December 2020
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Oakland County Real Producers • 5
Editor’s
NOTE I am willing to bet that the majority of culinary enthusiasts generally fall into one of two camps in the kitchen: They either enjoy cooking or baking. Because I don’t like to be bound by precise measurements, I can’t stand a countertop covered in flour and I don’t have an ounce of patience for confectionery artistry, I staunchly prefer cooking over baking any day of the year — with the exception of one special day around the holidays.
The thing is, I’m usually late to the game in catching the holiday spirit, especially during the years when I volunteer to host back-to-back family gatherings. I am also typically a master procrastinator when it comes to holiday prep, shopping and decorating. One year, I was outside in the freezing cold on the eve of December 22, untangling and stringing up massive amounts of lights in a sort of Clark Griswold-inspired mania. At any rate, let’s just say that I’m not the kind of gal who’s overflowing with holiday cheer at the first sight of snow. Despite my aversion to baking, cookie day — which has been running strong for the past decade — is good for my soul. For starters, I get to spend 12+
6 • December 2020
uninterrupted hours with Becky, my kindergarten BFF and dearest friend who I don’t get to see nearly enough. After Becky boisterously greets me with a hug and a “top of the mornin’ to ya!” she hauls all of her supplies into my kitchen. We then commence the cookie day festivities by unwrapping Hershey’s kisses, chatting and sipping coffee, followed by our trusty first meal of the day: my husband’s breakfast burritos. We then review our recipe cards and laugh about how we call our double fudgy pudgy cookies “fuzzy puppies” or about the time Becky unknowingly doubled the Crisco in a batch of peanut butter blossoms, and we couldn’t figure out why the heck the dough was too sticky to roll into balls. Then, we put our aprons on over our “Bake Like a Boss” shirts, crank up the music and get to work. Our first order of business is a quadruple batch of cream cheese sugar cookies accompanied by holiday tunes. As we frost and sprinkle the cookies, we both belt out “O Holy Night,” and we totally butcher the high notes. Then, as we churn out a hundred peanut butter kiss cookies and a triple batch of no-bakes, we transition to Regina Spektor, Florence + the Machine, Brandi Carlile or Tori Amos — all our favorites that have shaped our friendship throughout the years. Then it’s onto buckeyes or peanut butter squares, loads of fuzzy puppies, magic cookie bars and Cornflake wreaths — we always dread this last one because of the green marshmallow goo it leaves all over our hands, but we continue to make them because, well, tradition and
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because we deem them the perfect breakfast cookie. Throughout the day, Becky and I fill my kitchen with song and laughter and deep conversation and mixing bowls and measuring cups and cookies — so many cookies! By the end of the day, our bellies are full and our bodies are exhausted, but, like any auspicious holiday tradition, our hearts brim with joy and cheer. This holiday season, no matter what camp you fall into, where you start, where you go or what you still have left to do, may you, too, find your home filled with song and laughter, your kitchen filled with cookies and your heart filled with joy and cheer. Happy Holidays! Jane K. Asher, Ph.D.
Managing Editor of Real Producers of Oakland County jane.asher@realproducersmag.com
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Oakland County Real Producers • 7
PREFERRED PARTNERS
This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the real estate community!
ACCOUNTING Wenderski & Associates, CPA P.C. (248) 689-7740 Your Tax Coach (810) 588-4646
CLOSING GIFTS Nibbles Gifts (248) 737-8088 NibblesGifts.com One Hope Wine (248) 425-7897
APPLIANCES Sargent Appliance & Video (248) 652-9700
CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS Cranbrook Custom Homes (586) 781-2316
Trevarrow Inc. (248) 377-2300
Toll Brothers (248) 305-4004
APPRAISAL Bittner Appraisal Group LLC (248) 828-8218
DESIGN/BUILDERS Detroit Build Seabrook Satterlund (248) 677-0551
ATTORNEY/ LEGAL SERVICES Matta Blair, PLC (248) 593-6100 Rochester Law Center (248) 613-0007 Targosz and Walker Legal Group (248) 443-5250 CAR DEALERSHIP Star Lincoln (248) 354-4900 CARPET & TILE CLEANING Chet’s Cleaning Jennifer Carnaghi (248) 584-1819 CATERING Corporate Express Catering (248) 579-4602
8 • December 2020
DRONES Hommati (248) 550-0515 Michigan Real Estate Photography (248) 660-5708 Perfect Light Photography Jermaine Buie (517) 515-1910 Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686 WayUp Media (248) 924-1011
ESTATE SALES Action Estate Sales (586) 228-9090
Conclusive Inspection Services (248) 399-6969
Hands of Time Estate Sales (734) 890-3623
en-Vision Property Inspections (586) 453-8755
FINANCIAL SERVICES & INVESTMENT PLANNING Equitable Advisors Randall B. Klee, LUTCF (248) 641-2617 FLOORING City Flooring (586) 303-5347 The Third Floor Marketing Group (313) 466-6498 FLORAL & GIFT BASKETS Rodnick, Inc. (586) 772-4350 www.rodnick.com GRAPHIC DESIGN & PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS Graphic Takeover LLC Jimmy Johnson (248) 894-4464 HEATING & COOLING Colonial Heating & Cooling (734) 455-6500
WindowStill Photography (517) 292-4066
HOME BUILDER Lombardo Homes Melissa Cervin (586) 781-2316
WolfVR (248) 910-1754
Toll Brothers (248) 305-4004
ELECTRIC Premier Electric Company (248) 249-3790
HOME INSPECTION Big Moose Home Inspections (920) 570-6543 www.Bigmoose.us
HomeTeam Inspection Service (586) 783-9957 House Call Home Inspection (586) 434-0243 Total House Inspection (248) 550-9492 HOME STAGING Impact Home Staging Experts (248) 591-4290 HOME WARRANTY Achosa Home Warranty (248) 303-7210 INSURANCE Community Insurance Center (248) 628-2505 Farm Bureau Insurance David Purvis (248) 644-6364 Farm Bureau Insurance Aaron Blakemore (248) 760-3479 Goosehead Insurance Wesson Gappi (248) 275-8600 Provision Insurance (248) 262-7362
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INVESTMENT REAL ESTATE Michigan Real Estate Investors (248) 886-3585 JUNK REMOVAL 1-800-GOT-JUNK? (586) 909-9329 KITCHEN & BATH Whiski Kitchen (248) 629-0058 MOLD REMEDIATION Advanced Mold Services (586) 243-9991
Motto Mortgage Defined (844) 437-3629
Skyview Experts (586) 549-9690
Devon Title (248) 273-4300
Omega Lending Group (248) 792-8876
Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686
Fidelity National Title (248) 594-9390
Ross Mortgage Toni Thwaites (248) 459-2089
WayUp Media (248) 924-1011
Inked Title (248) 617-0004
WindowStill Photography (517) 292-4066
TREE CARE SERVICES Dreadknot Services (248) 884-1681
MOVING & STORAGE Changing Places Moving Johnna Struck (248) 674-3937 Morse Moving & Storage (734) 484-1717
MORTGAGE LENDER Anderson Financial Group Sandi Voiles (248) 417-4958
Preferred Moving & Storage (586) 463-4230
Berkshire Capital Griffen Hock (248) 822-7121
NEW CONSTRUCTION MORTGAGE Huntington Bank Sandi Frith (586) 871-8002
First State Bank Lisa Marie Pevac (586) 354-6797 First State Bank Ken Ebaugh (248) 270-6278 Gonzalez Group NEXA Mortgage (586) 201-7255 Horizon Financial Group Joshua Rubin (248) 538-7162 Huntington Bank Sandi Frith (586) 871-8002 Lake Michigan Credit Union Matt Adler (248) 219-7552
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PARTY & EVENT PLANNER DJH Event Management (585) 727-3101 PHOTOGRAPHY Dawn Townsend Photography & Design (586) 225-4495 Hommati (248) 550-0515 Jessica Laine Photography (586) 855-3822 PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY Michigan Real Estate Photography (248) 660-5708 Perfect Light Photography Jermaine Buie (517) 515-1910
PHOTOGRAPHY & WEB DESIGN WolfVR (248) 910-1754 PRINTING/MARKETING/ DESIGN/SHIPPING Imperial Press (734) 728-5430 ROOFING PROFESSIONALS Clarkston Roofing Professionals Tony Missentzis (248) 934-7288 SEWER - CAMERA INSPECTION en-Vision Property Inspections (586) 453-8755 TAX PLANNING Your Tax Coach (810) 588-4646 TITLE COMPANY Alliance Title of Michigan Mary Reed (586) 238-4400
VIRTUAL 3-D TOURS Hommati (248) 550-0515 Michigan Real Estate Photography (248) 660-5708 Skyview Experts (586) 549-9690 Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686 WayUp Media (248) 924-1011 WindowStill Photography (517) 292-4066 VIRTUAL STAGING/SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING WolfVR (248) 910-1754 WEB DESIGN/SEO/ SOCIAL MEDIA Affordable Website Specialists (248) 770-8408
Alliance Title of Michigan Kelly Anderson (586) 238-4400 Defined Title (248) 218-1757
Oakland County Real Producers • 9
Premier Electric Servicing real estate agents in the tri-county area for over 30 years.
Premier, realizes the importance and urgency of every deal you are completing. We understand that certain items will need to be taken care of to close the deal. Our company, emphasizes SAME DAY SERVICE so you can close your deals on time!
Specializing In: GFCI repair/replacement Panel swaps/upgrades Emergency Backup Generator full install Any Electrical Addendum Repairs
Premier Electric Company
10 • December 2020
(248) 249-3790
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Oakland County Real Producers • 11
Services we provide our customers include the following: Mold Services Residential and Commercial Mold Removal Mold Testing and Removal
Tax Coach to the Real Estate Stars! Karen@KarenRyan.com 810-588-4646 www.YourTax.Coach
12 • December 2020
Attic Mold Removal and Insulation Crawlspace Mold Removal and Encapsulation
43682 Gratiot | Clinton Township, MI | 48036 Phone: 586-468-6883 | Fax: 586-468-6480
advancedmoldmi.com
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MEET THE
OAKLAND COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS TEAM
Chris Csotty
Terra Csotty
Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Managing Editor/Writer
Dina Ranieri
Relationship Manager
Jeanne Monillo
Publisher
April Shanne Subiera
Deborah Huston
Robbyn Moore
Amanda Matkowski
Andy Schwartz
Jermaine Buie
Jessica Laine Gouverneur
Dawn Townsend
Brandon Ramsay
Publisher
Publishing Assistant
Perfect Light, LLC Photographer
realproducersmag.com
Event Coordinator
Jessica Laine Photography Photographer
Writer
Dawn Townsend Photography & Design Photographer
Editor
WayUp Media Videographer
Ad Strategist
Stylish Detroit Photographer/Videographer
Alex Norris
Michigan Real Estate Photography Videographer
Oakland County Real Producers • 13
announcement
GET EVERY ISSUE ON YOUR PHONE WITH ISSUU
OAKLAND COUNTY
C O N N E C T I N G .
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I N S P I R I N G .
TOP PRODUCER
MRUK Photo by Stylish Detroit
DECEMBER 2020
It’s a badge of honor to hold the printed version of Real Producers of Oakland County magazine in your hands. If you want all our issues wherever you go, download the Issuu app or visit www.issuu.com, and search Real Producers of Oakland County.
14 • December 2020
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• Fundraising • Corporate Gifting • Custom Etching • Private Tastings ONEHOPE Wine is a charity based wine out of Napa Valley. Each bottle has a cause partner and has donated over 5.5 million dollars to date
https://www.onehopewine.com/myshop/lisa-zubal
248-425-7897 • Lisa.zubal@yahoo.com
TITLE SERVICES
Matta Blair, PLC 39572 Woodward Avenue | Suite 200 | Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 248.593.6100 | www.mattablair.com
Steven A. Matta, Esq. 248.505.9993
Kellie M. Blair, Esq. 248.568.0290
Real Estate Transactions | Real Estate Litigation Great legal representation is essential to reduce risks and liabilities in buying and selling real estate. We combine over fifty years’ experience in representing buyers, sellers, brokers, agents, title companies and lenders in all aspects of real estate transactions, and we can help to ensure any issues that may prevent your transaction from closing are resolved quickly and efficiently. If things do go south, our team is equipped to handle all facets of real estate litigation: quiet title, boundary and riparian rights, zoning, contract disputes, licensing claims, arbitrations, agency issues, earnest money deposit disputes, buyer/seller liability, probate problems, and 1031 exchange issues. Plus, you’ll love us, we promise!
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It’s not closed..... until its INKED
www.InkedTitle.com
248-617-0004 Oakland County Real Producers • 15
top producer By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Stylish Detroit
MRUK
FINDING THE RIGHT LANE TO FUEL HIS BEST
16 • December 2020
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PAUL MRUK’S DECISION TO BECOME A REAL ESTATE AGENT 31 YEARS AGO DIDN’T JUST REDIRECT HIS PROFESSIONAL PATH — IT MARKED A MAJOR TURNING POINT AND GAVE HIM THE DIRECTION THAT HE WAS DESPERATELY LOOKING FOR IN LIFE.
At the time, Paul, who was studying to become a psychiatrist and selling gym memberships, had racked up $30,000 in debt and $40,000 in student loans. He was a few weeks into his new position at the local jail and found himself listening to an inmate threaten to kill him and his family. “I believed him, and it was then that I thought to myself, ‘I’m 24. What am I doing?’” Paul said. “I thought, I don’t want to sell gym memberships, I don’t want to hear people’s problems, I certainly don’t want to deal with people like this and I don’t want to be a psychiatrist. I’ve got to figure this out.” This unsettling but life-changing encounter made Paul realize that he could leverage his problem-solving and people skills beyond the field of psychiatry, and he felt that real estate was the best route for doing so. “I quit my job and jumped right into real estate — people thought I was nuts and warned me that if I jumped in, there was no going realproducersmag.com
back,” Paul said. “My girlfriend even said ‘there’s no way you’re going to be successful in real estate,’ and then she dumped me.” Paul grew up in a poor family in Detroit and often witnessed his parents fight about money. As a child, he also witnessed the murder of a store clerk during an armed robbery. Paul’s upbringing, along with the blow of his girlfriend breaking up with him, made Paul determined to transcend his socio-economic circumstances and forge his own path in real estate and in life. Paul says that after attending a Tony Robbins seminar, he had the clarity and the direction to make that happen. Paul’s path was also greatly influenced by a janitor at General Motors, who Paul describes as a “simple man.” He showed Paul what it means to be a good father, husband and person. At the start of Paul’s career, selling homes was the easy part; the hard part was learning how to balance his life while giving it his all. “I needed to find the lane where I work best,” Paul said. “In the beginning, I focused on finding new clients, but lately I focus on my past and current clients, listing presentations, negotiating contracts, showing homes and understanding market conditions.” Now, over three decades later, Paul, who sold $38 million in 2019, says that real estate is “the fuel” that makes his engine run. “My passion is helping clients make the right decisions with buying or selling a home,” he said. “I still love that today — if that passion runs out, I will do something else.” Paul most enjoys making that Oakland County Real Producers • 17
phone call to a client to inform them that they have bought or sold their home; sometimes “those really hard sales” still bring tears to his eyes. Paul also loves working with his team at RE/MAX Classic and is dedicated to supporting and building his teammates’ businesses. Paul and his three sales associates — Kristen Henson, Missie McSweeney and Jenny Egan — all share a strong work ethic, value communication and genuinely care about what is best for their clients. Paul is proud that he was able to see his potential, prove himself, and harness his drive and skills to build a successful business and a good life for himself and his family. Paul refers to his wife Sally as “the glue that holds the kids and the house down.” “Sally doesn’t follow my business at all, but sometimes when I am trying to figure shit out, she chimes in with ‘why don’t you just do X,’” he said. “It’s 18 • December 2020
usually something very simple, but it helps to put things into perspective for me.” Paul and Sally have two children: Kira, 17, and Connor, 13. Kira is a high-achieving student and a hardworking individual as well as a great swimmer and vocalist. Connor is a happy teen with a great sense of humor; he plays soccer with the Michigan Jaguars FC and is a quick learner. Paul admires how both of his children are finding their lanes in life and appreciates how supportive his family is of one another. In his free time, Paul enjoys traveling with his family, playing guitar, working out, doing yoga and golfing. His must-read books are “Think and Grow Rich,” “The Greatest Salesman,” and “As Far as My Feet Will Carry Me.” His all-time favorite artist is Prince, with Led Zeppelin being a close #2 and Red Hot Chili Peppers at #3. In addition to supporting Congregation of Everyone — his friend’s charitable organization that uses 100% of its donations to feed, clothe and support the homeless in Detroit — Paul is big on random acts of kindness, such as buying groceries for someone in
need and overtipping servers. “What used to be something I tried to do is now a habit — it’s who I am,” he said. Paul is a man of humble beginnings who has overcome many challenges to understand who he is; he’s also worked hard to become the person he was meant to be. “In each of us there’s something we want to reach for, but something inside says you should be happy with this, like settling for hamburger when you really want a steak,” Paul said. “It took me 20 years to reach my first income goal in real estate, and each year after, I have earned more — always go beyond the lines of what you think you should be. If you honestly work hard and get a little uncomfortable, you can really make a difference in many people’s lives, including your own.”
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IF YOU HONESTLY WORK HARD AND GET A LITTLE UNCOMFORTABLE, YOU CAN REALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN MANY PEOPLE’S LIVES, INCLUDING YOUR OWN.
”
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Oakland County Real Producers • 19
ACTION ESTATE SALES, LLC O N E - S T O P S H O P P I N G I N E S TAT E S A L E S
partner spotlight By Robbyn Moore Photos by Jessica Laine Photography
20 • December 2020
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Action Estate Sales, LLC is a family-run business that considers its employees members of the family. Their allegiance to honesty and respect for their clients is of the highest regard, and the dedication to their work goes well beyond any of their competitors.
The company is owned and operated by Richard and Christy Shearer. Together, they established the group as a reputable estate sales business specializing in liquidating estates through in-home sales and providing appraisals and cleanouts. The company was originally founded by Richard’s brother in 2001 and later purchased by the couple in 2015. “We fell in love with the work and the process of helping people get through difficult situations,” Richard said. “My wife and I were excited when we were given the opportunity to purchase the company.” The company’s experienced staff, consideration for their clients, professionalism and honesty set them apart from other similar businesses. “Real estate agents regularly refer their clients to us because we do exactly what we say,” Richard explained. “Our promises count, and we hold a high standard for ourselves — delivering exceptional service in a timely fashion, so our clients don’t have to worry about a single thing.” Because selling an estate is never an easy task — especially if it’s for a loved one or to liquidate an estate — the team at Action Estate takes on the daunting work that’s required to maximize their clients’ profits as well as to remove the stress from the long process. “Our mission is to make the estate transition as smooth as possible,” Christy said. “Once the contract is signed, we take care of everything: taking digital pictures and posting advertisements, organizing, pricing and staging the sale, providing security cameras, staffing a sale, arranging cleaning services and donation
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deliveries. Within 72 hours of an event, we provide our clients a check from the proceeds of their sale. Our services help take the burden and worry off someone’s shoulders during a difficult time.” Throughout the years, Richard and Christy have seen the evolution of estate sales. “Before, estate sales were mostly for the estate of your loved ones,” Richard recalled. “Now, more and more people are turning to estate sale companies for moving, downsizing or liquidating. Furthermore, with a rise in hoarding situations, we have seen an increased need for the services we provide — some requiring multiple sales in one home. We’re also gaining more visibility with the advancement of advertising on social media.” Together, Richard and Christy have seven kids ranging in ages from five to 34, along with two grandchildren and another grandchild on the way. “We love spending time outdoors,” they shared. “We enjoy working in the yard, taking walks or riding our bikes. Also, as a family, we are focused on our spiritual needs.” Whether it’s emptying a house or preparing it for a sale, the team can make almost anything happen. “We base our success on how satisfied our clients are and in our ability to meet their needs,” Richard explained. “This can be measured by the numerous referrals we’ve received from previous clients and from agents who believed in the services we provided to their clients.” To learn more about Action Estate Sales and the services they provide, visit www.actionestate.com.
Oakland County Real Producers • 21
Wenderski & Associates, CPA P.C. Certified Public Accountant and Management Consultants
TARGOSZ & WALKER LEGAL GROUP
Your Full-Service Real Estate Planning and Contract Law Firm
Our Services:
• REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONAL • REAL ESTATE WILLS TRUST ESTATE PLANNING • PURCHASE AGREEMENTS
• DIVORCE RESOLUTION LIQUIDATION
• LAND CONTRACTS
• COURT ORDERS
• REAL ESTATE LITIGATION
• CONFLICT RESOLUTION
• QUIET TITLE ACTION
• MEDIATION
• REAL ESTATE PROBATE
• CONTRACT REVIEWS
Office: (248) 443-5250 Cell: 248-515-4226
www.targoszwalker.com | victoria@targoszwalker.com 15920 W 12 Mile Rd Suite 202 Southfield Mi 48076
22 • December 2020
Individual Taxes
Business Retirement Planning
Business Taxes
Foreign Income Exclusion
Business Consulting
Business Start-ups
Trusts
Software Implementation
Bookkeeping
Accounting
frank@wenderskicpa.com 3911 Rochester Rd. Troy, MI 48083 Ph: (248) 689-7740 Fax: (248) 689-0611 www.wenderskicpa.com
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Estate Liquidation • Consignment Full Clean Out Service Serving Metro Detroit Area.
Robert and Megan Lewis 734-890-3623 Robertaestate@gmail.com www.hotestatesales.com
HUMAN TRAFFICKING
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Oakland County Real Producers • 23
DANIEL SALMO Determined to Succeed — A Lesson in Learning from Failures
“
Our lives are not meant to be lived as a failure; rather, life is meant to be lived in abundance. There’s so much success out there — we just need to go out and find it.
”
24 • December 2020
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rising star By Robbyn Moore Photos by Dawn Townsend Photography & Design
No amount of business setbacks, adversities or failures can bring Daniel Salmo down. In fact, every defeat in Daniel’s career has motivated him to be stronger and more knowledgeable in his efforts — teaching him life lessons and the importance of never giving up on a dream.
Daniel has always been willing to take chances, especially if the opportunity is well-planned and calculated. After a series of business ventures of owning restaurant franchises, convenience shops and clothing establishments, Daniel focused his attention to owning and operating several cell phone stores. “I went from owning a Verizon store to working at a Metro PC store to then owning a Sprint store,” Daniel recalled. “When my brother and I got an opportunity to operate a store in Puerto Rico, we jumped at the chance and built a very successful cell phone store business both locally and internationally.” Not long after Daniel and his brother expanded their presence in Puerto Rico, a tropical storm came through and wiped out all the cell phone towers. realproducersmag.com
The towers were never fully fixed, and business dropped dramatically. Daniel and his brother eventually had to sell the stores back to the company. “Even though we faced this loss, we did not give up,” Daniel said. “We continued to move forward with a positive attitude, knowing that our faith would guide us to something bigger and better.” In 2015, Daniel got married. He and his wife, Sasha, purchased their first condominium together with the idea of fixing it up to create an investment opportunity for themselves. It was during this time he also obtained his real estate license. “I thought it might be fun to explore the idea of becoming a real estate investor,” Daniel explained. “I enjoyed fixing up my condo and making a profit on it, so I thought I should have my license to save on commissions. I honestly had no intention of making a full-time career of it.” After exhausting his efforts from owning cell phone stores, Daniel decided it was time to focus on an occupation that would make him happy. “I told myself that if I didn’t take the chance now, when would I?” Oakland County Real Producers • 25
As Daniel began his first year in real estate, he set his goals high and went for it. After he aligned himself with several different real estate companies, Daniel found his home at eXp Realty, where he is currently building his business. “When I began, I had no help, no support, no strategy, no money or any leads,” Daniel said. “But I did have great people skills, business experience and a basic understanding of the benefits of using social media.” Above all, Daniel also had the determination to become the best version of himself in the real estate business. Daniel put in the time and work needed to accomplish his goals. By the end of his first year, he finished with $5.6 million in volume, 26 units and $160K GCI. “I was amazed,” Daniel said of himself after his first year in the business. To continue his growth and development, Daniel hired a coach and implemented new business strategies to help keep him more organized. “I started out as a real estate agent focusing on clients and sales to focusing on how to build a career and solid relationships. Now, I am in the process of building a team,” he said. “Hiring my assistant was the first step in building the foundation for my team.” Daniel has also recently hired a buyer’s agent to maximize his growth. According to Daniel, social media has been the key to his success. “Social media is king,” he said. “Having a presence on these platforms grew my business bigger than I could have ever imagined. And I know it’s only going to keep growing, not only for me, but for other agents as well,” Daniel said referring to a free 90-day action plan that he created to share with other agents as a part of his mentorship and coaching course. “I am passionate about teaching others,” Daniel shared. “Because of the success I had in a short amount of time, I believe I can help more real estate agents.” Daniel and his team work from a business model called CARE — Creating A Referable Experience. “It’s all about the client and building relationships,” he said. “Rather than focusing on just sales, we are focusing on building relationships, which will inevitably lead to more transactions.” The intention surrounding the CARE model is to put the focus on caring for clients and creating a referable experience. “Which would you rather work for: a lead or a referral?” Daniel asked. After launching his real estate career in 2016, Daniel is on track to achieve $20 million in sales this year. When he is not building his business and client relationships, Daniel enjoys spending time with his wife and their two boys — Jacob, 3, and Adam, 1. Together, they watch movies, go to church and play outdoors. As Daniel reflected on his journey to becoming a real estate agent, he humbly shared, “I have had to be my own influence
26 • December 2020
in life. Our lives are not meant to be lived as a failure; rather, life is meant to be lived in abundance. There’s so much success out there — we just need to go out and find it,” he explained. “Mindset is everything, and I truly believe God put in my heart and mind the drive to always fight for what I believe in and the importance of staying positive and helping others.”
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announcement S p e c i a l O p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r YO U t o C o n t r i b u t e t o
REAL PRODUCERS COACH’S CORNER Do YOU have special skills, helpful tips, expertise or insight to share with the real estate community? We welcome article submissions (500-700 words) that educate and engage local real estate professionals. Topics may include but are not limited to the following: • • • • • • • •
Game-changing social media strategies New directions in marketing and advertising How-to instructions focused on specific situations or processes Tips on hiring, retaining and motivating employees Building a brand Creative approaches to problem-solving Finding work/life balance REALTOR® Board Updates
B E YO N D T H E B O O K
Have YOU or one of your colleagues written a book? If so, we’d like to consider you as a featured author for an upcoming issue. If chosen, you will have the opportunity to share some information about your published work and your writing journey with the local real estate community.
For additional information about Coach’s Corner and Beyond the Book publication opportunities, please contact Managing Editor Jane K. Asher at jane.asher@realproducersmag.com. realproducersmag.com
Oakland County Real Producers • 29
PERRYMAN AN EXAMPLE OF HOW TO FIND STRENGTH IN THE DARKER MOMENTS OF LIFE
To go after your dreams, you need to seize your moment.
30 • December 2020
@realproducers
she left him two rental properties which forced him to handle the probate estate. “This piqued my curiosity to gain a better understanding of real estate,” he said. “So, I enrolled into a class. Because I didn’t have a post-secondary education, I thought real estate was a smart career choice.” Since his inception into the real estate business, Reginald has a total career volume of $80 million. At the age of 19, Reginald began working at Century 21. He worked there for more than 10 years until he opened his own company, Ritz Realty, which he ran and operated for over 12 years. There, he had 29 agents and became one of the top REO/HUD brokers in the Detroit area. In 2015, Reginald joined forces with Keller Williams Metro. Reginald is past treasurer and current director for the Detroit Association of REALTORS®. He has been recognized as a Real Estate All-Star in Hour Detroit magazine. He has also been awarded REALTOR® of the Year by the Detroit Association of REALTORS®, and, in 2019, Reginald was honored as REALTOR® of the Year nominee by Michigan REALTORS®. Additionally, Reginald has earned gold and platinum sales awards for Keller Williams.
agent spotlight By Robbyn Moore Photos by Jermaine Buie with Perfect Light, LLC
Reginald Perryman’s inspiring story is one of resilience and faith. For most of his childhood he watched his mother struggle with drug addiction. When he was 18 years old, she contracted AIDS, which years later, eventually took her life. However, prior to that, he watched her rise above her challenges and overcome her addictions through rehabilitation, prayer and hard work. When Reginald saw the changes in his mother, he realized the possibilities in life were endless. When Reginald’s second daughter was born with severe cerebral palsy — leaving her unable to walk or see — he realproducersmag.com
was once again impacted by life’s events, which this time, changed his perspective on how he viewed life. Reginald’s resilience to finding strength within the darker moments of his life has given him the courage to take chances and believe in his dreams. Although he did not attend college because of limited resources, Reginald did follow a real estate path which led him to become a top-producing real estate agent in the Detroit metro area. Once again, it was a woman in Reginald’s life who influenced him. This time, it was his grandmother who was a savvy real estate investor. “She always wanted me to get into real estate,” Reginald recalled. “However, I had dreams of becoming a music engineer.” As fate would have it, when Reginald’s grandmother died,
“Don’t wish it was easier, wish you were better,” is one of Reginald’s favorite quotes by Jim Rohn. Reginald explained, “I learned in 2015 that I had been setting the bar for success too low and did not dream big enough. It takes lots of work, sacrifices and a commitment to believing in something bigger than yourself. Success is not handed to most people — it is earned.” Early in his career, Reginald experienced the ups and downs of managing his income and taxes. He overcame these challenges by becoming a steward of his expenses and tracking his numbers. He now looks for Oakland County Real Producers • 31
investments and other ways to make money to create more money. “Early on, I realized that no one was going to create a future for myself except for me,” he explained. “My suggestion for new real estate agents is to give 100% effort for at least two consecutive years before quitting — not 60% for five years and then say real estate is no good, but a whole 100%.” Reginald also suggested reading the book “The Millionaire Real Estate Agent” by Gary Keller. “If a new agent reads that book and follows the directions within those pages, it will be a good start to their career,” he said. “I also suggest learning how to manage the money you currently have before you get more of it to screw up,” he laughed. “Additionally, find out what you do really well, and then focus on that. Then, once you mastered that skill, share it with others, so they can learn from you.” Reginald is passionate about training and mentoring new agents. “Sales are good, but if you can show a new agent something that will save them from the pitfalls of this business, that is priceless,” he said. “I find, in some of my co-op transactions, I am often teaching and training agents. Sometimes they teach me things, too. It’s important to always be open to learning from others because the learning never stops.” Because Reginald loves helping others, it is no surprise that his greatest joys come from his first-time homebuyers. “I have clients who are generational renters,” he explained. “They were born in a home that their parents — and even grandparents — rented. Sometimes, the great-grandparents were the last in a family to have home ownership, so it’s a great feeling when I see someone make a change from renting their entire adult life to finally owning their own home,” he shared. “Watching that change happen in just a few months is very exciting to me.” Reginald and his wife, Sophia, enjoy Detroit ballroom dancing and have competed and won in several competitions. Their oldest daughter, Renasia, owns a clothing line and their youngest daughter, Reece, likes attending school and taking long road trips. Reginald also enjoys traveling and participating in Slow Roll Detroit, a bicycle group that meets weekly in Detroit. One of Reginald’s top priorities is to give back to his community and to organizations that have impacted his life. He supports Euro-Peds, a national center for intensive therapies in children, and the Detroit Public Schools Foundation. “It’s great to enjoy the best that life has to offer, but I am a firm believer 32 • December 2020
that giving back in ways that will make a difference is the very definition of success.” Reginald’s goal every year is to help change people’s lives. “I want to know that I have either taught someone something new, said something or gave something that changed someone’s life,” he shared. “We are meant to support one another with our talents and gifts that we have been given.” Reginald has a team of three agents and one assistant. After 28 years in the business, he feels most fulfilled by the people he has met and the clients who have now become friends.
“To go after your dreams, you need to seize your moment,” Reginald explained. “After reading the book ‘Outliers’ by Malcolm Gladwell, I realized life is full of lessons and opportunities that are given to us through our experiences and circumstances. I see the bright side of my family’s history, which gave me the path to change my destiny.” The legacy of Reginald’s mother and grandmother are honored through his love for his family, his commitment to his work and his dedication to giving back to his community.
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behind-the-scenes all-star
TAYLOR
KERRIGAN M A K I N G A N U N R E A L I M PA C T
How would you describe your job in one word?
If I had to pick one word, I guess I would go with impactful. In my heart, I truly believe that my daily tasks impact the lives of our clients, employees, real estate agents and affiliates. We are on the ground floor of some amazing companies that can help our associates live a more unreal life, and every day we get one step closer to that unreal living. Why do you think you excel at your job?
Position/Title: Director of Operations Office/Company: Jeff Glover & Associates, Live
Unreal Companies How long have you been working for/with the person who nominated you? 7 years How long have you been working in the real estate industry? 7 years What did you do before you began working in your current position?
Before working with Jeff Glover & Associates, I was a shift manager and waitress at a local restaurant.
I believe I excel at my job because I am over-the-top efficient with everything I do. I time block my day every 15-30 minutes and am constantly changing what I am doing. I look at every day and measure my efficiency on a 10-point scale, and if I don’t feel I operated at an 8 or 9 that day, then I continue to work until I hit that number. There is a video highlighting the mamba mentality where Kobe Bryant explains that an athlete may be more skilled than him but will never outwork him. I believe that I, as well as Jeff, follow that mindset. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is that I’ve been here since the beginning and witnessed the growth and evolution of the company throughout the years. When I started with our team, we only had three companies under Live Unreal, and now, we are at 13 companies! It is so rewarding to discover a need in our industry and create a company that helps service that need for real estate agents in our industry.
What does your typical workday look like?
I love this question! My typical workday is split into two every single day. In the morning, I focus on working “in the business,” which includes assisting clients, overseeing experience for both our agents and our clients, checking in with staff and holding our agents — including Jeff — accountable. In the afternoon, my mindset switches to working “on the business,” which means implementing new processes and opportunities for everyone within our Live Unreal organization.
34 • December 2020
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
I would say the only challenging part of my job is managing so many moving pieces at once. As a result, I have to be very intentional with my time and ensure that I am crossing off each item on the daily to-do list. Otherwise, it is very easy to fall behind. What is one thing about you that others might find surprising or interesting?
I think most are surprised to find out I am only 26 years old. I started with our organization at the young age of 18 and have been here ever since. I am confident I will still be here at 65, too! @realproducers
When you’re not working, what do you like to do for fun?
I run a local non-profit 501(c)(3) animal rescue named ReJoyceful Rescue. I have been a board member for three years, and last year we were able to successfully rehome over 600 animals, many with serious medical or behavioral issues. I personally foster kittens for the organization as well and have successfully found homes for over 45 dogs and cats that I have fostered. How do you feel about being nominated as a Behind-the-Scenes All-Star?
I am honored! I know Jeff and I have a great partnership and have accomplished a lot over the years, and I am excited to see what else we will continue to accomplish together. Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself, about your job or about your relationship with the person who nominated you?
Gosh, I would just say that I hope my position and growth within our organization show others that anything is truly possible as long as you continually work hard and dedicate yourself to your goals. Thanks for the opportunity! realproducersmag.com
Throughout her time at Live Unreal Companies, Taylor has progressed from marketing assistant to executive assistant with six direct reports to her current position as director of operations where she leads a six-person management team and the 50 staff members who report to that team. “Taylor is the definition of someone who ‘started in the mailroom’ and became a success in the organization because of how many positions she has held in the last seven years,” said Jeff Glover, team leader at Live Unreal Companies. “She works behind the scenes, and although she is the backbone of the organization, she does not want the credit or recognition for what we’ve accomplished.” Jeff greatly admires Taylor’s efficiency and work ethic. “I respect her ability to take a process and make it better, take a system and make it more effective, and take a person and show them how to be productive,” Jeff said. “All this time I thought I was the hardest working agent in real estate … and then I met Taylor.”
Do you work with someone who truly makes a difference in the industry, in your business or at your office? Email Terra Csotty at terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com to nominate them to be featured as a Behind-the-Scenes All-Star in an upcoming issue.
Oakland County Real Producers • 35
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celebrating leaders By Robbyn Moore Photos by Dawn Townsend Photography & Design
ROBERT
CHUBB A N AT U R A L- B O R N L E A D E R 38 • December 2020
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Robert Chubb jokingly said he is uniquely qualified to do one thing in life: real estate. He began his career in April 2002. Within two months, he had closed his first sale, and by the end of that year, Robert had acquired $1.5 million in sales volume. Eighteen years later, Robert is still at the top of the leaderboard with a career volume over $100 million and currently leading the way as CEO and team leader at Keller Williams Advantage.
Like other real estate agents when they enter the marketplace, Robert thought real estate would be a smart career choice because of the flexible hours, unlimited income and the opportunity to be his own boss. “I think most agents get into this business for the obvious reasons but soon learn it’s a much different program once they’re in it,” Robert explained. “This business is a servant job. Agents need to be available when their clients are available, and every realproducersmag.com
part of the transaction is time-sensitive.” Now he teaches agents how to meet the demands of the job while maintaining their schedule flexibility. Robert always had an interest in real estate and jumped right in at the age of 22. “I was 22 years old, but I looked about 15,” he said with a chuckle. “But I decided to go for it anyway.” Shortly after Robert started his career with Real Estate One, the industry shifted to online systems. While many agents struggled to keep up with the change, Robert’s youth and adaptability allowed him to embrace the changes, and he became the tech trainer for the agents in his office. “I’ve always had a learn and teach mindset,” Robert shared. “At one point, I wanted to have more of an impact on my brokerage and the agents, so I left to open a boutique brokerage with a colleague. I developed a curriculum for training and coaching for that company.”
At a time when Robert felt there was a lack of resources for training and support available to agents, he received a phone call from Wendy Patton who was the operating principal of Keller Williams in Novi. “After exploring Keller Williams, I realized I was living on an island and that everything I was doing or working toward was already being done at KW,” Robert said. “I attended one of their events, and that is where I saw a whole new world of training, education and a group of masterminds who were working at an extremely high level.” After careful consideration, Robert decided that KW would be the right fit. “Keller Williams has a uniquely set up infrastructure unlike any other brokerage I’ve ever seen,” Robert said. “Wendy put the opportunity map in front of me and showed me what was possible if I was willing to work for it,” he shared.
Oakland County Real Producers • 39
Shortly after joining KW, Robert built an amazing group which allowed him to step into the role of productivity coach as part of the leadership team and develop a coaching program. In June 2019, he was offered the role of team leader. “It wasn’t something I had set my sights on when I joined; however, I couldn’t pass it up when it was offered to me. It has proven to be an incredibly rewarding position for me and my career.” In his role as team leader, Robert acts in the same capacity as a CEO. He oversees the entire operation of his office with the focus and responsibility on growth, productivity and retention. He also consults top agents inside and outside of KW. After joining KW, Robert said his biggest gain was having proven systems and models. “Now, I have the resources at Keller Williams to provide top-notch programs at the highest level.” Robert is most passionate about helping agents to think and operate like business owners. “When I see my agents lead big lives and achieve big results, I know I’ve done my job,” he said. “It’s so rewarding to see their success. It’s in my nature to help others get what they want.” Robert finds inspiration for himself and other agents in books such as “The One Thing” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan and “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek. “I merge concepts from these books with my own practical experience to help agents fine-tune various components of their business,” Robert said. Robert leads his business and his life with a generous heart. He is known for putting the needs of his clients and agents at the highest priority. “I was influenced early in my career by Gail Turner and Fil Superfisky,”
40 • December 2020
Robert recalled. “They showed me that by doing the right thing, no matter what, I would always find success. That advice has served me very well.” Robert’s loyalty to the industry is steadfast as it has opened many doors for him and his family. “Every single thing I’ve done has led me to where
I am right now,” Robert said. “If I could go back, I may have made a couple different choices to get into a higher producing environment earlier, but I do not live with too many regrets in my life.” When Robert isn’t working with his teams, he and his wife, Nina, along with their children — Henry, Sebastian and Evangeline — can be found enjoying weekend day trips and various outdoor activities.
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2020 Holiday Décor By Shauna Osborne
2020 has been a unique year in many ways, so it’s no surprise that holiday decorating trends will be distinctive, as well! According to digital marketing data from Pinterest and other social networks, many Americans have been daydreaming about and planning for the holiday season this year since summertime. A time of peace, of joy, of togetherness — all things sorely missed and much desired during difficult times. People are looking to get back to any sense of normalcy and are more excited than ever to start decorating homes for the holidays! Recycled / budget-friendly: Though trends have been leaning this way for several years now, this year, eco- and budget-friendly décor choices are more popular than ever. Instead of decking the halls with new décor items, repurpose what you’ve already amassed from previous years and add in some DIY holiday crafts to supplement (find 31 gorgeous options here: https://www.housebeautiful.com/entertaining/holidayscelebrations/g3952/diy-christmas-decorations/). Instead of wasteful wrapping paper, swaddle gifts in fabric, cloth bags, newspaper, or craft paper.
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Classic / nostalgic: Ah, the good old days, when our biggest worries were whether we’d get snow on Christmas Day or which relatives would drink too much eggnog and quarrel at the dinner table. Nostalgia is a huge theme in décor this holiday season, with a focus on gratitude for life’s small things. Think of what your home and traditions looked like during the holidays growing up – what made you feel warm and fuzzy – and surround yourself with those trimmings (and sentiments!). Minimalist: An upside to being homebound during a pandemic is families were compelled to focus on what is really important, what is essential, and this rearrangement of values has resulted in an emphasis on quality and sustainability versus quantity. Look for simple, beautiful décor designs in neutrals that will work in multiple rooms, and incorporate natural light and wood details for that comfy hygge vibe. Less is truly more. Oakland County Real Producers • 43
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Oakland County Real Producers • 45
BRAD ZIEMER WindowStill
LOOKING THROUGH THE LENS OF A SALE
46 • December 2020
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Brad shared a time when he took a job to help generate interest in a house that was on the market for 90 days. “The agent came to us because the house needed to be shown in a way that would attract a buyer,” he explained. “We came in, listened to the agent and the home seller, and captured the home in a refreshing way to generate interest.” In less than a week, the house was sold. Brad added, “Furthermore, the agent ended up getting both sides of the deal after the buyer liked how the house was marketed and photographed. It was a win for everyone involved.” Brad went to school for photography; however, prior to starting his business, he was a full-time pilot and aviation instructor. At the time, most of his trips were to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, exposing Brad to new areas of real estate. “I was noticing lots of real estate properties, and it started to pique my interest,” Brad said. “I’ve always had an affection for taking pictures of buildings and large structures, so with my interest in real estate and knowledge of photography, I created a business plan.”
partner spotlight By Robbyn Moore Photos by Jessica Laine Photography
It’s been said a picture is worth a thousand words; however, for Brad Ziemer, owner of WindowStill Photography, a picture is worth over $1 billion in real estate sales — an amount that reflects Brad’s contribution to the many homes he has helped sell since the inception of his company five years ago.
By listening closely to the increasing needs of real estate agents, the company has grown by 400 percent each year. Their services include interior/ exterior photos and videos, aerial photos and videos, 3D images, floor plans and other unique photography that’s tailor-made to each client. realproducersmag.com
“We know we’ve done our job when the seller loves our photography so much, they don’t want to move,” Brad laughed. “It’s very rewarding to capture a home in a way that pleases our client and ultimately sells a house.” Along with Brad, his wife, Bernadette, helps run the company. Together, they approach their business — and capture images — in unique ways that get attention. Brad said, “We use all the appropriate platforms and pay attention to the details and preferences of our clients. We are a client-driven business — providing an exclusive experience — which is why we are known for our excellent customer service.”
Immediately, Brad’s business began to take flight. Today, he has 46 photographers working for him and plans to have a team of photographers in every state within the next two years. “What sets us apart is our ability to deliver results, not just photos,” Brad said. “We have the capability to create something from nothing and the potential to impact everyone.” Since the start of the business, Brad and Bernadette have been a dynamic team working together. They enjoy time with their 3-year-old daughter, Myra, and outdoor family adventures. Brad continues to get his aviation “fix” a couple of times a month by flying for the University of Michigan Hospital.
Oakland County Real Producers • 47
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Oakland County Real Producers • 49
Jenilynn Estereicher F I N D I N G R E S U LT S I N THE EXPERIENCE
“
You are the only one who can make your business successful. If you are willing to do the work, success will come.
”
50 • December 2020
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Jenilynn was born and raised in southern California and influenced by family and friends who modeled excellent sales techniques and the confidence to believe in herself. “I have always learned by trial and error,” Jenilynn said. “The mistakes I made this year won’t be made next year. I understand the value of making the most of an opportunity, especially when I’m adhering to my own work ethic.” Jenilynn’s work experiences prior to real estate prepared her to become one of the best in the industry. While mastering new technology and providing quality service to her clients, she has also worked hard to build respect and relationships with other agents. “It’s so important to build relationships with other real estate agents, network together and respect each other,” Jenilynn advised. “As agents, we should all try to rise to the same standard expected by the customers in maintaining and cultivating respect and encouragement, particularly when competing for a listing.”
agent spotlight By Robbyn Moore Photos by Dawn Townsend Photography & Design
From owning a successful high-end hair salon in West Hollywood, California, to becoming a leader in the real estate industry, Jenilynn Estereicher has always thought of herself as an entrepreneur. “I became a real estate agent because it was an opportunity to continue self-employment and pursue my goal of being in sales,” Jenilynn recalled. “I knew I had much to learn; however, my work ethic, visualization for success and my ability to push myself were intangible skills that helped me realize my dream in real estate.” realproducersmag.com
Currently, Jenilynn is with RE/ MAX Defined Rochester and is most passionate about working with relocation buyers and sellers. “This has been a big part of my success,” she shared. “In 2006, I started focusing my efforts on relocations. Since that time, I have met some amazing people along the way. Because relocation buyers and sellers usually move every 2-5 years, time is of the essence. Therefore, it is important to not only sell a home but also to provide my clients with all the pros and cons of the listed home, regardless if it is a buyer’s or seller’s market.” When she first entered the business, Jenilynn’s biggest challenge was facing the “unknowns” of the industry. “Over time, my confidence built with each open house, and I gained a better understanding of the selling process,” she said. “Challenges must
Oakland County Real Producers • 51
be embraced because real estate, as a business, is always changing — it’s what motivates me more than anything!”
Photo by Nancy Thomas Rommeney
With two daughters — ages 10 and 13 — Jenilynn has made it a point to be a positive example of how to deal with certain challenges women face in business. “I have been defined by my choices throughout my life’s journey,” Jenilynn explained. “I feel I’ve been successful as a wife and a mother and a career woman because I have fully accepted the failures that were needed to reach my goals.” Despite any business hurdles or challenges, Jenilynn has risen to the top during her 17-year career in real estate. Her advice to up-and-coming real estate agents is to provide clients with great communication, honesty and confidence. “Above all, the best advice I can give is to be committed to your work,” she said. “You have to be disciplined and self-motivating. You are the only one who can make your business successful. If you are willing to do the work, success will come. But there’s no sitting and waiting for the phone to ring.” The secret to Jenilynn’s success is embracing the highs and lows in each closing. “The experience can be bittersweet, depending on the circumstance surrounding the sale,” Jenilynn explained. “Sometimes there’s extreme joy, such as a first-time homeowner; while, other times there’s a more somber reason for the sale of a home. Either way, it’s my job to be as supportive and involved as possible. It’s literally my favorite part of being a real estate agent.” Jenilynn has a career volume of $82 million in sales and has been in the top 5% in Hour Detroit magazine since 2014. She has appeared on CNBC Power Lunch multiple times as a trusted source regarding the real estate market in Detroit. When she’s not working, Jenilynn enjoys time with her husband and their daughters playing board games, skiing, riding bikes and supporting their daughters’ sporting activities.
Photo by Nancy Thomas Rommeney
“I want to be remembered for being a good mother, wife, sister, daughter and friend,” Jenilynn said. “But also for my good ethics and tenacity for finding a way to seal the deal no matter the obstacles.” Throughout any transaction, Jenilynn is a master at understanding the importance of balancing the interests of each party. She provides honest suggestions that benefit everyone involved in a sale. “My goal is to build lasting relationships 52 • December 2020
throughout my career,” she said. “It takes years of learning and being consistent in your work to find success — it doesn’t happen overnight. I believe when results matter, experience counts.” @realproducers
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54 • December 2020
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charity spotlight By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D.
WOMEN BUILD HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF OAKLAND COUNTY
TRANSFORMING TRA JECTORIES AND COMMUNITIES THROUGH HOMEOWNERSHIP
For the past 25 years, Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County has coupled its hyper-local focus with world vision to engage donors, homeowners, neighbors and volunteers to work together to build better living environments. As a result, Habitat Oakland County along with the Oakland County Women Build Team — its largest non-corporate partner — has helped over 600 people on their journey toward homeownership.
56 • December 2020
In 2014, Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County launched the Women Build Team through the leadership of Johnna Struck, owner of Changing Places Moving Co., and now, in its seventh year, the Oakland County Women Build Team has grown to more than 55 women. Each year, through fundraising events, sponsorship, donations and volunteering at the build site, team members build or rehab a
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home in partnership with the family who will own the home through an affordable mortgage. “The Women Build Team is successful because The Team can get involved as much or as little as they want,” said Dena Vatalaro, major gifts officer for Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County. “More so, The Team gets to meet and work alongside the homebuyer as they put in ‘sweat equity’ toward their future home — the most fulfilling and rewarding aspect of being a part of our organization is personally knowing the homebuyers through their journey to homeownership and seeing them develop pride in ownership.” Doreen Marquis, the organization’s first homeowner, has said that becoming a Habitat Oakland County homeowner changed the trajectory of her family forever. She was able to send all three of her children to college and secure a brighter future for each of them.
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“The success of Doreen’s family — and other partner families like hers — demonstrates the impact homeownership has on individuals,” Dena said. “Those of us so deeply committed to Habitat for Humanity’s mission are particularly mindful of families for whom the recent sheltering in place exacerbates conditions with which they have struggled for so long.” These conditions include residing in houses that are already not healthy because of leaks or mold, overcrowded living arrangements because the only way to afford rent or save up money is for extended family to stay together in a too-small space, living in homes without easy access to water, and residing in spaces merely just for shelter. “Even before COVID-19 became the nearly singular topic of conversation and news coverage, we were facing an undeniable housing crisis, with more than 18 million American families paying half or more of their income on their housing costs
Oakland County Real Producers • 57
— the pandemic only exacerbates this challenge,” Dena said. “The low-to-moderate-income community who we serve often works in retail or hourly jobs and are facing serious income reductions which will make it harder for them to afford home repairs. They may be neglecting work in the home that is a safety hazard so they can shift resources for food and medicine.” Habitat Oakland’s Rock the Block program aims to alleviate some of these challenges and assist families who are struggling during this difficult time. Through corporate, faith and community sponsorship for the organization’s neighborhood revitalization effort, Rock the Block brings dozens of volunteers together to perform minor exterior home repair for low-to-moderate-income homeowners in target neighborhoods in Pontiac and Southfield.
and operated by Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County with proceeds used to build strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. Habitat ReStores are a great place to shop and to refer clients to donate household or industrial items — pick up is available by calling the Restore donation pick-up call line at 248-365-4090. You can also support Habitat Oakland by joining or sponsoring the Women Build Team and becoming a part of the amazing group of people who are building a new construction in 2020. For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County and Women Build, visit habitatoakland.org or contact Dena Vatalaro at 248-321-9649 or denav@habitatoakland.org.
Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization that is not supported by Habitat International and relies on the businesses and residents of Oakland County for support. One of the ways that the organization receives community support is through Habitat ReStores of Oakland County — located in Waterford and Farmington Hills — which are proudly owned
58 • December 2020
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Get to know the
game
OAKLAND COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS! Untitled
1
2
3
4 5 6
7
8
Across Down DOWN ACROSS 1. Growing up, Reginald Perryman wanted to become 2. What Daniel Salmo refers to refers as “king” words) 1. Growing up, Reginald Perryman wanted to become 2. What Daniel Salmo to as(two “king” (two words) this kind of an engineer. 5. How Taylor Kerrigan describes her job in this kind of an engineer. 5. How Taylor Kerrigan describes herone job word in one word 3. Surname of the homeowner forhomeowner Habitat of for Habitat8.ofWhere Robert 3. first Surname of the first 8. Where Robert Chubb finds inspiration for himself Chubb finds inspiration for himself Humanity of Oakland County Women BuildWomen Build and for other agents Humanity of Oakland County andother for other other agents 4. Where Jenilynn Estereicher was born and raised 4. Where Jenilynn Estereicher was born and raised 6. What Paul Mruk sold Paul before real estate (two words) 6. What Mruk sold before real estate (two words) Before startingBrad WindowStill, Ziemer was this 7. Before starting7. WindowStill, Ziemer Brad was this type of instructor. type of instructor. Action Estate LLC was originally 8. Action Estate 8. Sales, LLC wasSales, originally founded by founded by Richard’s ________ in 2001. Richard’s ________ in 2001. realproducersmag.com
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Join the Habitat Women Build Team and make a difference in Oakland County! Building now in Southfield, no experience needed! Contact denav@habitatoakland.org for more membership or sponsorship information
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