Issuu

WAY N E C O U N T Y

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 .

JUNE 2020

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Wayne County Real Producers • 3

TAB LE OF

CONTENTS 06

Preferred Partners

WAYA: #quarantinelife

Charity Spotlight: Henry Ford SandCastles Grief Support Program

Rising Star: Kim Draper

Partner Spotlight: Nadia Mekled, Toll Brothers

Making A Difference: Glover’s Heroes

Behind-theScenes AllStar: Amy Raupp

WAYA: Celebrating Father’s Day

Game: Crossword Puzzle

If you are interested in contributing or nominating Realtors for certain stories, 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 N2 Publishing but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Wayne County Real Producers magazine are not endorsed or recommended by N2 Publishing or the publisher. Therefore, neither N2 Publishing 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.

SERVING METRO DETROIT LICENSED & INSURED SERVICE, MAINTENANCE, NEW CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

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Wayne County Real Producers • 5

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 REALTOR® community!

APPRAISAL SERVICES/ PERSONAL PROPERTY Anne Zielke (734) 335-4435

ESTATE SALES Eclectic Attic Estate Sale Service (248) 660-3825

HOME BUILDER Lombardo Homes Melissa Cervin (586) 781-2316

HOME STAGING Eclectic Attic Estate Sale Service (248) 660-3825

CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS Cranbrook Custom Homes (586) 781-2316

Hands of Time Estate Sales (734) 890-3623

Toll Brothers (248) 305-4004

Impact Home Staging Experts (248) 591-4290

FINANCIAL ADVISOR Edward Jones Colin Talbot (248) 348-0423

HOME INSPECTION en-Vision Property Inspections (586) 453-8755

FLORAL & GIFT BASKETS Rodnick, Inc. (586) 772-4350 www.rodnick.com

HomeTeam Inspection Service (313) 343-8661

Toll Brothers (248) 305-4004 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 Windowstill Photography (517) 292-4066 WolfVR (248) 910-1754 ELECTRICAL Safety One Electric Company, LLC (313) 303-1617

6 • June 2020

GIFTS/ FRUIT/ CHOCOLATES Edible Arrangements (734) 459-9620 HANDYMAN/ HOME MAINTENANCE Home Fixology (586) 690-6211 HEATING & COOLING Colonial Heating & Cooling (734) 455-6500 Shook Heating & Cooling (734) 658-5330 Superior Heating and Cooling (734) 818-7141

House Call Home Inspection (586) 434-0243 Inside Out Inspections Plus (734) 224-0342

Showhomes Home Staging (586) 709-5071 www.showhomes.com/ northville INSURANCE AAA Insurance Amy Arnold (734) 873-2100 Farm Bureau Insurance Megan Danneels (248) 349-5592

Pillar To Post Home Inspectors (734) 427-5577

Kennedy Nemier Insurance Agency (734) 454-4058

Premier Residential Services, LLC (734) 363-1184

State Farm Ryan McCreight (517) 375-4817

HOME ORGANIZER TidySmart Organizing Solutions (248) 755-4992

State Farm Tiffany Khousakoun (248) 864-8219 LAW FIRM Laura M. Walesch, PLC (734) 357-8970

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LENDING Supreme Lending Jacque Gorris Jacque Gorris (734) 624-8579 MARKETING/EVENT SERVICES/FLOORING Third Floor Marketing (313) 466-6498

Union Home Mortgage Ryan Andersen (248) 564-1619 Union Home Mortgage David Wechsler (248) 514-3489 MOVING & STORAGE Morse Moving & Storage (734) 484-1717

MORTGAGE LENDER Berkshire Capital Griffen Hock (248) 822-7121

Preferred Moving and Storage (586) 463-4230

DFCU Financial Denise Staffeld (734) 776-6593

MOVING SERVICES BOS Moving and Service (248) 360-6644

PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY 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 Windowstill Photography (517) 292-4066

Lake Michigan Credit Union Lisa Kreza (734) 462-5420

DMS Moving Systems (800) 521-5225 https://dmsmoving.com/

PHOTOGRAPHY & WEB DESIGN WolfVR (248) 910-1754

Motto Mortgage Excel Garrett Stone (734) 748-1785

PARTY & EVENT PLANNER DJH Event Management (585) 727-3101

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT D Land Group (313) 347-0241

Omega Lending Group (248) 792-8876

PHOTOGRAPHY Dawn Townsend Photography and Design (586) 225-4495 www.DawnTownsend.com

ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION Horizon Roofing & Construction (734) 585-7160

Hommati (248) 550-0515

SEWER - CAMERA INSPECTION en-Vision Property Inspections (586) 453-8755

Simple Mortgage Dawn McCarty Dawn McCarty 20144 Carr Rd Belleville, MI 48111 (734) 260-2660

Jessica Laine Photography (586) 855-3822

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TITLE COMPANY Alliance Title of Michigan Mary Reed (586) 238-4400 Alliance Title of Michigan Kelly Anderson (586) 238-4400 Estates Title (248) 647-3600 Title Solutions (734) 259-7130 VIRTUAL 3-D TOURS Hommati (248) 550-0515 Michigan Real Estate Photography (248) 660-5708 Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686 WayUp Media (248) 924-1011 Windowstill Photography (517) 292-4066 VIRTUAL STAGING/SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING WolfVR (248) 910-1754

Wayne County Real Producers • 7

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MEET THE

W AY N E C O U N T Y T E A M

586-453-8755

Chris Csotty

Terra Csotty

Jane K. Asher, Ph.D.

Jeanne Monillo

April Shanne Subiera

Deborah Huston

Robbyn Moore

Jennifer Donovan

Andy Schwartz

Jermaine Buie

Jessica Laine Gouverneur

Dawn Townsend

Publisher

Event Coordinator

Jessica Laine Photography Photographer

Ryan McCreight 734-263-2109 ryan.mccreight.e1c0@statefarm.com 2500 Packard St. Suite 108 Ann Arbor, MI 48104 8 • June 2020

Publisher

Writer

Dawn Townsend Photography and Design Photographer

Managing Editor/ Writer

Editor

Brandon Ramsay Wayup Media Videographer

Ad Strategist

Stylish Detroit Photographer

James McGing Wayup Media Videographer

Publishing Assistant

Perfect Light, LLC Photographer

Alex Norris

Michigan Real Estate Photography Videographer

Wayne County.

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Wayne County Real Producers • 9

Since 1954 Realtors like you have counted on Morse Moving/Allied Van Lines as your trusted partner.

publisher’s

Let your team count on our team to carry the load!

NOTE

We are there when you need us most!

Thank you for your business

This month, we celebrate Father’s Day, look back on the first month of the quarantine and highlight some charitable organizations that are especially relevant in these unprecedented times.

When I think about Father’s Day, I think about the father Chris is to our kids – how fun and loving he is, how he leads by example and how he shares the best lessons with our three children. I also think about Dr. Joseph Csotty, my father-in-law and rock of the Csotty family who passed away four years ago at the age of 70. My dear father-in-law was a passionate man – he was passionate about life, work, his friends, and, most importantly, his family. No matter what was going on in our lives, he would always bring us together, go out of his way to attend his grandchildren’s events and spend time with us because he knew that time spent with the people you love is priceless. He was taken from us too soon, but his legacy lives on through his son, and I am forever grateful to him for raising the man I am proud to have by my side as my husband and father to my children. This Father’s Day celebrate the important men in your life who have inspired and taught you life lessons. Tell your father, fatherin-law, uncle, brother, or husband how grateful you are for them. This month’s “Making a Difference” feature on Glover’s Heroes shares how one nonprofit organization in the real estate community responded to the COVID-19 crisis by showing appreciation to Michigan’s hometown heroes on the front lines of the pandemic. Our “Charity Spotlight” on Henry Ford SandCastles Grief Support Program raises awareness about children’s and teens’ unique needs following the death of a loved one and illustrates how its programs and services – which will be in higher demand following the aftermath of COVID-19 – support and serve grieving families in Southeast Michigan. If you have a charity you would like to see featured in an upcoming issue of Real Producers, reach out to us. Like all of you, we at Real Producers had to quickly adapt to the many changes and challenges that materialized due to COVID-19. In order to continue to build relationships in the real estate com10 • June 2020

The Morse Moving Family

10049 Harrison Rd. Ste. 500 | Romulus, MI 48174

734.484.1717 | www.morsemoving.com USDOT 274486 | PUCO HHG#509459-HG

Tim Bartaway 734-363-1184 premier1184@yahoo.com premierresidentialservicesllc.com Trained and certified by InterNACHI, Member #11122012

munity, we amped up our online presence by hosting two Virtual Master Panels that were open to the public. We also established a new private Facebook group for the TOP 500 and our partners, and streamed “Partner Spotlight” mini interviews to promote our partners. Thank you to all the Top Producer panelists and preferred partners who participated and shared their expertise with our followers, as well as to the hundreds of you who joined our Zoom meetings. Finally, we came together to raise $2,000 for Beaumont’s COVID-19 Fund – thank you to those of you who donated to this important cause. On a lighter note, this month’s two “We Ask, You Answer” (WAYA) features aim to lift your spirits with #quarantinelife photos and Father’s Day tributes from the tykes and teens who shared their thoughts about the man they are honored to call Dad. As you celebrate Father’s Day and get excited for summer, we hope you enjoy our June issue, which, like all our issues, is made possible by the support of our preferred partners.

Chris and Terra Csotty

Publishers of Real Producers of Oakland and Wayne County chris.csotty@realproducersmag.com 248.506.6169 terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com 586.615.8749 @realproducers

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Wayne County Real Producers • 11

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It’s a badge of honor to hold the printed version of Real Producers of Wayne County magazine in your hands. If you want all our issues wherever you go, download our mobile app Digapub and take them with you. On the app, search and choose Real Producers of Wayne County where you can view issues from the last year, connect with all our Preferred Partners and share articles to Facebook.

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Wayne County Real Producers • 13

REACHING GOALS WITH A

DETERMINED MINDSET stay focused on my goals, and I have a great team of supporters within my family, my office, and even within other agents. It makes a huge difference in business success when there is support around you.”

With only a year and a half into the real estate business, Kim Draper has achieved $7.5 million in sales volume and the honor of top-producing agent at Island Realty Inc. Her career is on the rise as a result of her passion to build her business and desire to help her clients. “Selling real estate is work achieved by determined effort,” Kim said. “The days and hours can be long and tiring, but the payoff is so very rewarding.”

KIM DRAPER 14 • June 2020

Kim, who earned a bachelor’s degree in packaging engineering from Michigan State University, has a strong work ethic that has pushed her in all areas of her life. She is a mother of three boys, has traveled the world in corporate sales for a Fortune 500 company and completed seven marathons. “I am a hard worker and very goal-oriented; it’s part of who I am,” Kim explained. “I’m always striving for personal growth and looking for ways to improve myself.”

rising star By Robbyn Moore Photos by Dawn Townsend Photography and Design

It was Kim’s mindset that helped launch her career into real estate, believing she could do anything as long as there was passion, drive, focus and support. “It was this mentality that motivated me when I first changed my career,” Kim said. “I continue to

Kim credits her family for influencing her life, especially her mother and father. “My mom has always been my number-one cheerleader, always keeping me grounded and focused on what really matters,” Kim shared. “Growing up, I watched my father lead a successful sales career, and I think it shaped who I wanted to become.” Kim has also been fortunate to have the same group of childhood friends who support and inspire each other, especially during life-changing events. “I’m so lucky to have the consistency of friends and family that know me and want the best for me.” In true entrepreneurial fashion, Kim enjoys the autonomy of managing her own hours, building her own business and being her own boss. “I love the freedom to run my business as I like,” she shared. “I am my own brand, which allows me the freedom to be the best version of myself. That’s the most rewarding aspect of what I do.”

The two things Kim is most passionate about right now is helping her clients and continuously learning. “It’s the people who I meet and the life stories they share with me,” Kim said. “I love, love, love that about my job! I also love that I’m always learning. Every day I wake up with hustle in my blood, and I’m habitually in competition with myself to strive for greatness.” Additionally, Kim sees real estate as an opportunity to do good. “Moving in or out of a home or moving to a new city is high on the list of stressful events that happen in life. I feel good when I am able to ease the stress burden for my clients and help them get to where they want to go,” she said. “While making a sale is an obvious goal, I prefer to focus on my client’s overall experience, which is how I came up with the tagline, ‘The Difference is in the Details,’” Kim shared. For Kim, the word “no” is not an option – rather, it’s a starting point. “Through attentiveness and creativity, there is always a solution that works for everyone.”

Time-blocking plays a crucial role in Kim’s daily success. In between client meetings and showings, she and her husband, Rob, manage to stay involved in their boys’ sports activities, which takes up most of their free time. “We have boys in basketball, swimming and travel hockey,” Kim said. “Any parent who has kids in sports knows the time and commitment needed to get kids fed, to and from practice and manage homework. It can be overwhelming on a family calendar.” Kim laughed, “Managing that alone is a full-time job.” Photo by Mary Kaye Girst, TreeTop Photography

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Wayne County Real Producers • 15

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Wayne County Real Producers • 17

NADIA MEKLED

partner spotlight By Robbyn Moore

or more than 17 years, Nadia Mekled has been helping families find and build their dream homes. She has watched neighborhoods develop into communities where children can grow up along with the landscaping and has formed friendships to last a lifetime. Nadia is a senior sales manager for Toll Brothers, a leading luxury home-building company that started with two brothers and a single home. “When I drive through the communities that I’ve helped build, a sense of pride, accomplishment and pleasure comes over me,” explains Nadia. “I get so much joy in the journey of building a new home. And I’m always emotional on the day of closing. It really is a big deal in the lives of these families, and I’m a part of that every step of the way. Truly, it’s why I do what I do.” Born and raised in Canada, Nadia received a double major in psychology and sociology from the University of Western Ontario. “I have always had a strong connection to people and helping others,” says Nadia who learned from her mother the importance of making an impact on others and following her heart. “My daughters, Amber and Sophia, have also made me the best version of myself. They are true examples of courage, strength and bravery – together, we are the three musketeers.” Giving back is Nadia’s true passion, which aligns perfectly with Toll Brothers’ core set of values. This includes being the best, doing the right thing, taking care of each other, delighting the customer, creating value and honoring the company’s history. “I truly believe in these values both personally and professionally,” says Nadia. Additionally, Toll Brothers is a huge supporter for cancer research and has an annual gala every year where they raise over $1 million to help fund research. “I can honestly say my proudest moments with the company are when I attend the annual cancer galas in Pennsylvania at the corporate headquarters. The vibe and feeling in the room are so emotional and inspiring.”

Toll Brothers Achieving Success by Helping Others 18 • June 2020

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While Toll Brothers is a publicly traded company, it has never lost its feeling of a family-owned business. It’s not uncommon for the CEO to send a message to an employee if they are sick or going through a difficult time in their life. “Taking care of each other is one of the company’s core values, and it makes a difference in our day-to-day work,” shares Nadia. Furthermore, when the housing market took a dive several years ago, the stability and strength of the company allowed for the opportunity to still move forward and concentrate on its clients. “During that time, our leaders focused on new ways to stay strong in the market, and we persevered through it all.” “Taking care of each other also goes beyond our internal teams,” says Nadia. “We value our real estate agents and appreciate the partnerships we have with them. We will do whatever we can to support their needs. And we love rewarding our agents for any clients they bring our way.” When Nadia is not working, she loves to spend time with her husband and visiting her daughters in Chicago or downtown Detroit. She’s also a huge fan of fashion and enjoys attending fashion shows, supporting local designers, and finding the perfect pair of shoes in the latest designs. Nadia is also involved with various charitable organizations such as the Covenant House, New Hope Center, Make a Wish Foundation and Habitat for Humanity. “I want to be remembered for giving back to my community and having a good heart,” says Nadia. “I love connecting with people and helping them. Whether it’s finding a dream home or helping at a local homeless shelter, it’s important to make connections with others – and when that happens, I truly feel successful.”

Wayne County Real Producers • 19

announcement

BROKERS ARE BETTER!

REAL PRODUCERS OF W AY N E C O U N T Y Invites YOU to submit an original, informational article for publication consideration in a future issue.

If you are seeing rates ABOVE 3.5% on a 30 year, or ABOVE 2.875% on a 15 year, SOMETHING IS WRONG! We will give you an accurate, no obligation quote on the spot! No Credit Check Required! No Obligation!

Check out what some of our clients have to say... My first experience with a lender was a complete nightmare. Griffen and his team were the exact opposite. Friendly, professional and answered any questions that I had. Can’t recommend them enough. — Jeff Griffen and Shannon Davis made our home buying the most seamless experience we’ve ever had in the past 3 home sales we’ve been through.... Thank you Berkshire Capital for an excellent job well done. — Erica

GHOCK@BERKSHIRECAPITAL.COM 33687 Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009 | (248) 822-7121 Area Development Opportunities available in Michigan, Florida and Colorado

We welcome article submissions (500-700 words) that educate and engage Wayne County 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 Local REALTOR® Board Updates

For additional information about this publication opportunity, please contact Managing Editor Jane K. Asher at jane.asher@realproducersmag.com. 20 • June 2020

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Wayne County Real Producers • 21

FINANCIAL

TIPS

financial fitness By Shauna Osborne

FOR NEW HIGH SCHOOL GRADS

Congratulations – the big day has finally arrived! Although I’m sure this senior year looked pretty different from how you anticipated (thanks, COVID-19!), high school graduation nevertheless is an exciting time for both students and parents. Now that your grown-up, independent future is spreading out before you, there are so many variables to consider: college? Job? Military service? Travel? Finances? Yep, that’s a big one! It can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to begin with managing your own finances. Check out (and share with your favorite grad!) the tips below to get started on the right foot!

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Make a budget.

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An emergency fund is money you keep in a savings account to be used for emergencies only; it can help you deal with unanticipated expenses that crop up, such as car repairs, vet bills, or plane tickets home. Aim to save $1,000, then $2,000, working toward three to six months’ worth of living expenses in savings. Having this support in place will help you avoid needless financial anxiety and credit card debt.

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Finally, have fun! No, really! You’re entering what is likely the most exciting and carefree time of your life, and you don’t even need to spend a lot of money to do it, particularly if you’re on a college campus. Connect with new people, volunteer, join a club or team – the options are endless, so enjoy!

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22 • June 2020

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Wayne County Real Producers • 23

#QUARANTINELIFE waya — #quarantinelife

“Zoom calls with the TOP 500 and our preferred partners.” – REAL PRODUCERS OF WAYNE COUNTY

“Zoom meetings!”

“Getting lots more workouts in and tons of dog walks at my lake-house garage gym! Keeping up to date on all deals in the pipeline as well as with all prospects ready to roll out all listings when we can show again.” – ALLISON FISHWICK, HOWARD HANNA

“Staying home safe with family and watching CNN … needing a major shave soon. God’s blessings and prayers for our brothers and sisters on the front line in the hospital, police department, fire department and ambulance drivers.” – MIKE K. SOBH, RE/MAX LEADING EDGE

“I’ve been working on videos for Facebook, Instagram and other promotions. I’m also getting used to the fact that people really don’t care what you look like in the videos, just your content … good thing!” – MICHELLE DAVIS, RE/MAX MASTERS

“Work from home?! Dave Saward is busted.” – MICHELLE SAWARD, THE SAWARD TEAM, EXP REALTY

“Missing watching my boys play hockey, so I’m watching replays.” – TERRA CSOTTY, PUBLISHER, REAL PRODUCERS OF OAKLAND AND WAYNE COUNTY

“We remodeled our half bathroom … here are the before and after photos.” (after photo on the left) – WHITNEY GESCH, WHITNEY GESCH REAL ESTATE

24 • June 2020

@realproducers

“How are we continuing to operate and practice safe distancing? Any way we can – from door delivery and curbside closings to remote online notary (RON). We were incredibly happy to help a first responder and a nurse with their closing while also keeping them safe at home. Stay home. Stay safe.” – KELLY ANDERSON, ALLIANCE TITLE OF MICHIGAN Pictured: Mary Reed

We want to hear from you and publish YOUR answers! Check your email and submit a response, so you can be featured in next month’s WAYA.

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Wayne County Real Producers • 25

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Wayne County Real Producers â€˘ 27

Glover’s HEROES Lifting Up Michigan’s Frontline With Meals and More making a difference By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D.

As COVID-19 cases increased across the state, Michigan hospital workers on the front lines of the pandemic faced increasingly scary and stressful working conditions. After hearing several stories about the dedicated medical experts who braved these tough conditions on a daily basis, Glover’s Heroes, a non-profit organization founded by Jeff Glover of Jeff Glover & Associates, made it their mission to find a way to help. “Since I can’t sew, and medical equipment is hard to get a hold of right now, we figured we’d do the next best thing … feed our nurses and medical professionals,” said Jeff. “We feel for each and every nurse and medical professional on the front lines and are so grateful for their work each and every day. We wanted to make their day a little brighter and thank them for being our heroes.” On Sunday, March 29, Jeff and a team of Glover’s Heroes volunteers filled their cars with countless boxes

28 • June 2020

of Jimmy John’s sandwiches and made “freaky fast” deliveries of just over 5,000 subs to 25 hospitals across Metro Detroit, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Ann Arbor. A little bit before 11 p.m., as Jeff finished up the last delivery in Kalamazoo and reflected upon his day of service, he was overwhelmed by the outpouring of gratitude from every nurse who greeted him to receive the sandwich delivery. “I really hope our work today inspires others to contribute to and support this hard-working group of heroes,” he said. “You never know when you may need their help, so you might as well pay it forward now while they are in need the most.” @realproducers

Throughout the day, in addition to delivering sandwiches, volunteers also shared information about the Glover’s Heroes Home Repair Program, which covers 100% of the cost of materials and labor for nurses who have fallen on hard times and could benefit from financial assistance for home repairs or home-improvement projects. “We want to take care of our medical staff for selflessly taking care of so many right now, and we will select as many nominees as we can,” Jeff said. The Glover’s Heroes Home Repair Program, the thousands of Jimmy John’s sandwiches that they delivered to hospitals and the organization’s ongoing charitable events and initiatives to give back to

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local heroes — veterans, teachers, employed caregivers, firefighters, police officers and emergency medical technicians — are all funded by Jeff Glover & Associates. When they sell homes for any one of these “heroes,” the agent donates 20% of their commission back to the hero and another 5% to Glover’s Heroes. Every dollar donated to Glover’s Heroes goes back to Michigan’s heroes, and Jeff covers the administrative costs. To learn more about Glover’s Heroes or to make a donation, visit www.gloversheroes.org.

Wayne County Real Producers • 29

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Wayne County Real Producers • 31

Committed to Caring behind-the-scenes all-star

Amy and Michelle Saward, REALTOR® and associate broker at EXP Realty, have been close since their senior year of high school. “Amy’s been a friend, a roommate, a coworker and a partner in business,” Michelle said. “She helps keep me grounded and reminds me to relax and have fun, and I remind her to keep driving forward and reaching for more – we balance each other out.”

Name: Amy Raupp Title: Buyer’s Agent/REALTOR® Company: EXP Realty Years in Current Position: 10 years Years in the Real Estate Industry: 10 years What did you do before you began working in your current position?

I graduated from Wayne State University with a bachelor’s degree in geography with a focus on computerized mapping. I then spent 14 years working in urban development and neighborhood planning in the Detroit nonprofit sector.

Michelle admires Amy’s remarkable work ethic, her commitment to making a difference in people’s lives and her genuine care for others. “Amy puts in the work and puts clients first,” Michelle said. “She’s willing to go the extra mile, she’s professional, she knows the market, and she knows how to create win-win solutions for clients. She has a large referral base, it’s easy for her to create raving fans and she’s definitely integral to our operation.”

What does your typical workday look like?

I spend my typical day prospecting, following up on leads, and scheduling and attending appointments. I assisted with over 50 transactions last year. I have also recently assisted with a training component for agents in the office. How would you describe your job in one word?

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

How do you feel about being nominated as a Behind-the-Scenes All-Star?

I have to be available almost always — you can never really “clock out” from real estate. Even if I take a day off from appointments, I will probably still get a call, text or email.

Honored. It was completely unexpected but so appreciated.

What is one thing about you that others might find surprising or interesting?

Michelle Saward and I have been friends for almost 28 years! It is hard to believe. When I first started working with her, I had three kids and worked part time to help her with some light real estate admin. Over time, that has evolved into more and more. At a certain point, Michelle asked, “Hey, can I pay for you to get your real estate license?” How could I say no? Now here I am, eight years later, assisting with over 50 of our 180-plus team transactions per year. We have grown together in this for sure – we have had difficult times but also great times. So much of my success is the result of all the time and training Michelle has poured into me. She has so much knowledge and great negotiating skills. Although she is a fierce businesswoman, she has an amazing heart – she’s always there to help me with any of my personal or business needs.

Amazing Why do you think you excel at your job?

Customer service — I am a hugger. I like building rapport, I like being brutally honest, and I am low pressure and responsive. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

My greatest reward is getting a call from a client and hearing them say, “I want to refer my brother, mother, dad, uncle, sister, boyfriend’s dog-walker’s barber” ... and the first time I make a new client laugh.

32 • June 2020

I have no filter — I really can’t keep my inside thoughts inside. I consider myself an adult version of a class clown, so if I am in a meeting, I will, at some point, have to say something funny. If I am at a showing, I will point out something crazy: a weird painting, a creepy statue or a bizarre collection of some sort. Hopefully, the client also laughs at my odd discovery, and then I joke about trying to get it included with the sale if they plan on making an offer. I guess my humor usually surprises people because I wear a pretty serious face most of the time. When you’re not working, what do you like to do for fun?

All the things ... vacations, spending time with my family — I have four kids, three of whom are teenagers — going out to eat, girls’ nights, cooking, dancing, playing sports and anything that involves laughing. @realproducers

Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself, about your job or about your relationship with the person who nominated you?

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Amy also diligently works to support local charities: She’s actively involved with her church, she’s volunteered with the Salvation Army, and she coordinates Trenton baseball fundraisers each year. “People instantly trust Amy,” Michelle said. “She’s really good at listening to the other side of the story and trying to find a common ground. She’s a peacekeeper and a skilled negotiator.”

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.

Wayne County Real Producers • 33

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As I sit down to write this in mid-March, we as a nation – no, as humanity – are in the firm grip of the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools are out, businesses are closed… and it feels like everything is upside-down. Hopefully, by the time you’re reading this article, things will have settled down significantly. However, in this moment, we are all taking it one day at a time; I’m seeing reactions from friends and family fluctuating wildly, everything between sheer panic and complete apathy (sometimes even in the same day or from the same person!).

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We can define emotional resilience as the ability to cope and adapt in highly stressful or tense situations, such as the one we currently face. Emotionally resilient people handle acute trauma more efficiently, and they are able to bounce back more quickly in the aftermath. They also have a stronger capability to adapt to and manage life changes, both small and large. In short, these individuals grow stronger and learn about themselves and others from their negative experiences, while others barely recover or develop harmful coping mechanisms (e.g., substance abuse) or psychological disorders as a result.

external factors, which allows them to be proactive in dealing with stress and finding solutions for the problems at hand. • Sense of humor: I’m sure we’ve all heard the saying, “If you

can’t laugh at yourself, who can you laugh at?” Emotionally resilient people are not only able to navigate difficult situations more easily, but they can also find the humor in them. Crises are not perceived as threats but rather challenges to be overcome, altering how their brains perceive and react to the stress. As author Jean-Paul Bedard writes for Huffington Post, “Resilience has a lot to do with embracing past scars and the dissonance of lived experience as a road map forward and, ultimately, as a bridge to connect with others in your community.” With this in mind, see you on the other side!

What makes some people more resilient in crises than others? To an extent, resiliency is innate – some people are naturally more easygoing than others – but it’s also a skill that can be developed. Overall, emotionally resilient people tend to have several traits in common: • Emotional awareness: Resilient people are conscious of their

emotions and have taken time to explore and understand what they feel and why they feel it. This important form of selfcare leads to higher degrees of self-awareness, allowing them to disengage from the adversity at hand, thus gaining them perspective. Their evolving consciousness also broadens their awareness of others’ emotions. • Strong social support system: Perhaps most important, a strong

support system is consciously cultivated and valued by emotionally resilient individuals. Positive social support has been shown to stimulate the release of oxytocin, a “happy hormone,” whereas a lack of support from friends and family is associated with indicators of compromised physical and mental health. • Perception of mastery: Resilient people believe they have

control over their own lives rather than being controlled by 34 • June 2020

@realproducers

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Wayne County Real Producers • 35

ager Peggy Nielsen, LPC. “Our mission focuses on the belief that every child and teen deserve the opportunity to grieve in a supportive, nurturing environment.”

charity spotlight By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D.

In 1997, Peggy, who had experience working with two children’s bereavement programs in the Midwest, teamed up with Henry Ford Hospice Administrator Sondra Seely to establish SandCastles, the first children’s bereavement program of its kind in Southeast Michigan. Peggy knew from her experience that this vital resource could change the lives and futures of grieving children, as she had seen and experienced it. As a hospice administrator, as well as a mother who lost a child just after birth, Sondra knew the hardships and challenges that plague grieving families. Together they were determined to help families support their children in grief, and within 15 months, they had three SandCastles programs up and running.

Henry Ford SandCastles Grief Support Program

“Grieving children commonly feel alone in their experiences and may lack the coping skills, cognitive function, and supportive family environment necessary to express their grief in a healthy manner,” Peggy said. “Unresolved childhood bereavement has been shown to lead to an increased likelihood of substance abuse, greater vulnerability to depression, higher rates of criminal behavior, reduced academic achievement and lower employment rates. SandCastles works as a preventative program to help children and teens learn how to grieve and cope with the loss in a positive way, eliminate self-destructive behavior and promote healthy lifestyles — by learning how to make positive life choices now, children can carry these healthy habits into adulthood and secure a brighter, healthier future.”

Building Safe Spaces for Children to Grieve, Heal and Grow Coping with the death of a loved one — and navigating grief that follows — is undoubtedly a harrowing experience for anyone, regardless of their age. However, the loss of a loved one poses unique challenges for children and teens, especially if they find themselves without the social and emotional support to mitigate a world that often avoids talking about loss.

From the onset of its establishment, Henry Ford SandCastles Grief Support Program for Children and Families (SandCastles), a community division of Henry Ford Hospice, set out to fill the unmet needs of grieving children in Southeast Michigan; and for over two decades, SandCastles has expanded its reach across three counties and seven programs to change the lives and futures of hundreds of grieving children.

SandCastles offers a range of services to help children and teens successfully navigate their grief journeys: A year-round bi-weekly family grief support group program at seven sites across Oakland, Wayne, and Macomb Counties; SandCastles Camp, a weekend overnight bereavement camp held in August; support for schools; and community education and trainings on children’s grief and loss.

“Families share with us that when death occurs in a family, life turns upside down. Everyone is hurting and no one knows what to do — adults find it difficult to cope with their own grief let alone trying to aid their young children in this difficult journey,” said SandCastles Co-Founder and Program Man36 • June 2020

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Typically, the grief support sessions begin with dinner, include age-based smallgroup activities and conclude with a closing circle activity for all children and adult participants. The children have the opportunity to openly share their stories in a judgment-free space and discover ideas for coping with day-to-day obstacles and difficult painful moments. “Healing occurs in the sharing of their stories and listening to others,” Peggy said. “Participants gain hope for a better future and discover new ways to remember loved ones.”

Spread the Word — Sharing that SandCastles is available for families in need is always helpful. Learn more by visiting the contact page at www.aboutsandcastles.org and joining SandCastles email list.

SandCastles Camp offers companionship and understanding from others who have experienced similar situations. Similar to the year-round program, group sessions at SandCastles Camp focus on the three tasks of grief: Understanding what dead means; feeling the feelings associated with the death; and going on living and loving after the death — moving the person from a physical relationship to a memory. Through projects, art, writing, and other creative expression, campers learn about their grief journey, share their memories, support their peers and develop life-long coping skills.

Donate Funds — Individuals who have a heart for children can support SandCastles programs through personal or corporate financial contributions.

SandCastles programs and services are 100% funded by donor dollars. “We are extremely grateful to receive in-kind donations from Henry Ford Health System (HFHS), such as office space and access to our legal, philanthropy and marketing departments, yet our budget — whatever it takes to run the programs — must be raised each year,” Peggy said. In anticipation of the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the increased need for grief support, SandCastles is ramping up its fundraising and volunteer initiatives to continue offering its services to families for free. “Research has shown that in the State of Michigan, 1 in 12 children will experience the death of a parent or sibling before they turn 18. This doesn’t account for grandparents, friends, teachers, etc. With the current COVID-19 crisis, we expect this number to be significantly higher,” Peggy said. If SandCastles’ mission touches your heart, there are several ways that you can help:

Join the SandCastles Team — Volunteers are an integral part of SandCastles programming. The organization regularly trains community volunteers who are willing to help grieving children by volunteering their time and serving as group facilitators and program aides.

Participate in “Build the Castle” — Each year, SandCastles has a “Build the Castle” month or quarter, which is a collection of third-party fundraisers (dining events, donor drives and even painting parties) put on by anyone in the community who wants to help raise funds. Attend Fundraising Events — Cruise-In for a Cause, SandCastles’ annual event at the Suburban Exotic Motor Cars of Michigan dealership in Troy, is typically held each May but is currently postponed until fall. For a minimum donation, guests can test drive a luxury car such as a Maserati or a Bentley, browse the showrooms, and enjoy tasty food, wine, amazing gift baskets and great people. SandCastles is also planning its first team fundraising event with the Detroit Free Press Marathon 5K and Family Fun Run, which is held in October. Sponsor an Event — Real estate businesses and our Preferred Partners can support the SandCastles mission by sponsoring fundraising events for the organization.

For more information about Henry Ford SandCastles Grief Support Program, call 313771-7005, email SandCastles@hfhs.org, and visit www.AboutSandCastles.org or www. Facebook.com/HenryFordSandCastles. Wayne County Real Producers • 37

waya — celebrating father’s day

Kids Say the Dearest and Darndest Things ...

ABOUT THEIR DADS

BRIAN WALKER, EN-VISION PROPERTY INSPECTIONS What is Dad really good at?

MIKE K. SOBH, RE/MAX LEADING EDGE What is Dad really good at?

“Making me laugh and smile when I am having a bad day.” – Madalynn Walker, 18 “Bugging me when I don’t want to be talked to.” – Angela Walker, 15

“I know most people will say my dad’s great at basketball or baseball, but my dad is really good at being a mentor. My dad has always worked on raising his girls to be independent and successful women. My whole life he has taught me that life comes with lessons that we all have to learn and that even the hardships themselves are lessons. To conclude, of all the things my dad is good at, being a great mentor to his five kids is what he’s been really good at!”

What do you love the most about Dad?

“His outgoing personality.” – Madalynn Walker, 18 “When he tries to sing.” – Angela Walker, 15

What do you love most about Dad?

• Pre-Photo Cleanup - making the home look extra tidy and more attractive for listing photos/showings • Organizing and decluttering • Packing and unpacking services • Selling unwanted items • Closet design and installation 38 • June 2020 /tidysmart

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“Whereas some parents like to control their children’s lives, what I love most about my dad is he likes us to learn from mistakes, while of course watching to keep us safe and teaching us from right and wrong. #girldad #boydad#1” – Dunia Sobh, 21 realproducersmag.com

CHRIS CSOTTY, REAL PRODUCERS OF OAKLAND COUNTY AND WAYNE COUNTY What is Dad really good at?

EARL GESCH, VP OF NORTH AMERICAN SALES FOR MASU BRAKES AND HUSBAND OF WHITNEY GESCH, WHITNEY GESCH REAL ESTATE

“Being funny.” – Tyler Csotty, 10 “Being a coach at hockey.” – Nathan Csotty, 10 “He’s really good at golf.” – Alexis Csotty, 8

“Work, roughing up, chucking kids in the pool, engineering, and soccer.”

What do you love the most about Dad?

“He’s very competitive and gives good talks.” – Tyler Csotty, 10 “He helps us improve in hockey.” – Nathan Csotty, 10 “He calls me beauty.” – Alexis Csotty, 8

“That he plays with me a lot.” – Anakin Gesch, 7

What is Dad really good at?

We want to hear from you and publish YOUR answers! Check your email and submit a response, so you can be featured in next month’s WAYA.

Wayne County Real Producers • 39

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AcrossACROSS DownDOWN 2. Nadia Mekled of Toll Brothers is a huge fan of This is what SandCastles Camp offers to children and teens 2. Nadia Mekled of Toll Brothers is a huge 1. This is1.what SandCastles Camp offers to children and teens ___________. who have lost loved ones. fan of ___________. who have lost loved ones. 4. The one word that best describes Amy Raupp’s job. 3. This is what Jeff Glover and his team of volunteers deliv4. The one word that best describes Amy 3. This is what Jeff Glover and his team of volunteers delivered 5. This plays a crucial role in Kim Draper’s daily success. ered to hospitals. Raupp’s job. to hospitals. 5. This plays a crucial role in Kim Draper's daily success. realproducersmag.com

Wayne County Real Producers • 41

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Wayne County Real Producers • 43