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E L E VAT I N G .
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Wayne County Real Producers • 3
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CONTENTS 14
Top Producer: Julie Ahee
30
We Ask, You Answer (WAYA): Celebrating Mother’s Day!
24
Agent on the Rise: Kyle Lang
34
Behind-theScenes All-Star: Theresa Martell Â
ls41682@gmail.com shookhvac.com
28
Partner Spotlight: Lisa Kreza, Lake Michigan Credit Union
41
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Game: Get to know your Wayne County Real Producers!
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.
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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!
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6 • May 2020
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MOVING & STORAGE Preferred Moving and Storage (586) 463-4230 MOVING SERVICES BOS Moving and Service (248) 360-6644 DMS Moving Systems (800) 521-5225 Morse Moving & Storage (734) 484-1717 PHOTOGRAPHY Dawn Townsend Photography and Design (586) 225-4495 www.DawnTownsend.com Hommati (248) 550-0515 Jessica Laine Photography (586) 855-3822
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Wayne County Real Producers • 7
MEET THE
W AY N E C O U N T Y T E A M
Chris Csotty Publisher
Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Managing Editor/ Writer
Jeanne Monillo Ad Strategist
Deborah Huston
Robbyn Moore
Jennifer Donovan
Jermaine Buie
Jessica Laine Gouverneur
Brandon Ramsay
James McGing
Perfect Light, LLC Photographer
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Publisher
April Shanne Subiera Publishing Assistant
8 • May 2020
Terra Csotty
realproducersmag.com
Event Coordinator
Jessica Laine Photography Photographer
Writer
Wayup Media Videographer
Editor
Wayup Media Videographer
Andy Schwartz Stylish Detroit Photographer
Alex Norris
Michigan Real Estate Photography Videographer
Wayne County Real Producers • 9
Make YOUR Business Better
publisher’s
NOTE
In Michigan, Mother Nature doesn’t usually show us the first signs of spring until May. We start to hear the birds chirp a little louder, the wind is slightly warmer, and the grass turns a little greener. Coincidently, May is also the month we celebrate Mother’s Day. A mother figure can come in all forms: biological mom, adopted mom, foster mom, stepmom. Many times, it’s an aunt or a grandmother who plays the strongest role of a mother, and other times we find motherly guidance and support in a colleague, a neighbor, a teacher or a coach. Whomever it is for you, the impact a mother has on a life is valued and respected.
THANKS to our Preferred Partners, this magazine is FREE to the Top 300 REALTORS® in Wayne County. Our partners come to us as a trusted source of business from YOU.
Take time this month to call your mom or that like-mom person in your life and enjoy some much needed time with Mother Nature.
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In the spirit of springtime, we can watch a mother bird teaching her young how to fly—sometimes falling far from the nest, other times taking flight right away. Just as in nature, the mothers in our own lives not only teach us to fly but also remind us to put our wings back on when we have forgotten that we can fly. Here’s to all the moms in our lives who have shown us how to soar! Check out our monthly feature titled, “We Ask, You Answer,” where each month we will ask a question and YOU get to answer. We will include the answer along with a photo to be featured in our publication! This month, we are celebrating our mothers with some great photos! Look for our monthly email with new questions. We are looking forward to seeing YOUR answers to some questions— thank you in advance for participating. Would you like to nominate someone for our new feature titled, “Behind-the-Scenes All-Star”? Email us to nominate someone who is helping and supporting behind the scenes. Also, stay up to date on the latest news, features and event details by following us on social media.
10 • May 2020
Chris and Terra Csotty Publishers of Real Producers of Wayne County chris.csotty@realproducersmag.com 248.506.6169 terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com 586.615.8749
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Wayne County Real Producers • 11
announcement
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12 • May 2020
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Wayne County Real Producers • 13
JULIE AHEE A Lifelong Profession of Passion and Compassion Julie Ahee’s interest in a real estate career was initially inspired by her brother’s passion for helping clients find their dream home. Over time, Julie discovered her own passion for helping clients find their dream home or first-time home. Now, after spending the last 17 years as a REALTOR®, Julie continues to build a thriving business centered on her relationships with her clients and on the journeys that she is honored to share with them. “I try to work every day to put my clients’ needs first and to treat them how I would want to be treated— with care and professionalism,” Julie said. “The most rewarding part of my business is the relationships that I build with my clients and the problems that I solve for them.” Julie, who was born in East Pointe and later moved to Grosse Pointe, graduated from the University of Michigan and began her career as a dental hygienist before transitioning into real estate in 2003. Throughout her longstanding career in the real estate industry, Julie has earned a reputation for exceeding clients’ expectations as well as many awards, including the 360 Diamond Award, the President’s Award, the 360 Service Award, Diamond Elite Award, Top Agent Award GCI, Chairman’s Guild Medallion Award and the Diamond Medallion Award. For the last ten years, she has also been an “Hour Detroit” Real Estate All-Star.
top producer 14 • May 2020
Julie’s sales history is equally impressive—her career volume is almost $200 million, approximately $25 million of which she generated in 2019. In her business at Sine & Monaghan, REALTORS® Real Living, Julie does not work with a team, but she does rely on Nicole Scott, her assistant who helps coordinate the social media team, professional photographer and the professional stager, all the behind-the-scenes tasks that Julie says help to make her clients’ sales or purchases winning experiences. “We get the job done,” Julie said. “We are 100% committed to our clients and to their satisfaction—whether it’s a sale or home purchase, we make sure it’s a smooth and profitable transaction.”
By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Stylish Detroit
@realproducers
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Wayne County Real Producers • 15
Marrying my high-school love, raising my two beautiful children and watching my five healthy grandsons grow have made me who I am today
Julie attributes her strong work ethic and her zest for life to her father. “My father had a passion for family, work, education and sports,” she said. “I think I have his genes.” Julie’s journey in life and in business has also been shaped by her strong faith. She attended Catholic elementary school and grew up surrounded by many faith-filled family and friends. “My strong faith really began to soar when I developed a few small groups with faithfilled women,” Julie said. “For the past 20 years, we regularly meet, enjoy fellowship with one another, strengthen one another, study together and challenge each other to grow in our faith on a daily basis. We call ourselves prayer warriors, and we always reply to one another when difficulties arise in our lives—having this supportive community is game-changing for me as I have learned that my life is in balance when my faith is first.” Julie is married to her high school sweetheart Chris Ahee, and they have a son named Christopher and a daughter named Lauren. Christopher and his wife Theresa Vicari Ahee have two sons—Christopher, 6, and Leo, 3—and Lauren and her husband Mark Aliahmad have three sons—Hussein, 13, Markie, 5, and Lucas, 3.
16 • May 2020
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Wayne County Real Producers • 17
“Marrying my high-school love, raising my two beautiful children and watching my five healthy grandsons grow have made me who I am today,” Julie said. “We love that our children live blocks from our house. Our passion is spending time with our children and grandchildren—whether it’s enjoying a meal together or watching their sports, it’s the favorite time of our day.” When Julie is not spending time with her family and her clients, she volunteers her time and supports local charities. The Capuchin Monastery of Detroit, an organization beloved by her late father-in-law Edmund T. Ahee, is near and dear to her heart. “Over 30 years ago, my late father-in-law began hosting parties to raise money for the Capuchins, and we have continued his passion by supporting the monastery’s efforts to feed the hungry and serve the community ever since,” Julie said, “This year’s Capuchin Party is at Comerica Park on June 27, and all are welcome.” Julie also supports The Carmelite Nuns of Michigan in honor of her dad’s cousin who was a cloistered Carmelite nun. Throughout her child-
18 • May 2020
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hood, Julie and her family regularly visited the nuns’ home to take them food and other supplies. “The relationship we had with sister Madeline is one I will never forget,” she said. For the past 35 years, Julie, who loves to exercise, has worked out with a “beautiful group of women.” Together, Julie and her workout crew have raised their children, watched them get married, discussed their careers and supported each other during their 6 a.m. workouts. “I’ve been friends with one of the women since grade school—I have friendships that will last forever.” Julie recognizes that building a thriving real estate career, much like all of life’s endeavors, takes hard work and patience, along with dedication and discipline to continue to learn and grow each year. More significantly, in all areas of her life—her family, friendships, career and service to others—Julie demonstrates that such undertakings blossom into worthwhile, lifelong endeavors when they are fueled by immense passion and remarkable compassion for others.
Wayne County Real Producers • 19
announcement
A CALL FOR
Local Contributors Do YOU have special skills, helpful tips, expertise or insight to share with the real estate community? Real Producers of Wayne County invites YOU to submit an original, informational article for publication consideration in a future issue.
Ryan McCreight 734-263-2109 ryan.mccreight.e1c0@statefarm.com 2500 Packard St. Suite 108 Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Wayne County.
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.
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N2 Publishing – the company behind every Real Producers magazine – believes in a future where everyone is free. This year, we donated 2% of our revenue, or $3 million, to support nonprofits that rescue and rehabilitate victims of sex slavery and forced labor. And it was only possible because of the support of our industry partners and engaged readers. Because of you.
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Wayne County Real Producers • 23
Finding Fulfillment and Happiness in Real Estate
agent on the rise By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Jermaine Buie with Perfect Light, LLC Photos taken at Cranbrook Custom Homes in Northville
“I’ve always had a bit of a soft spot for children with learning disabilities and am grateful that I am able to help them.” Kyle has recently begun mentoring new agents in his office and finds it very rewarding to share insight and ideas with real estate rookies who are looking for ways to better serve their clients. Kyle’s favorite part of his job is spending every day helping people from all walks of life achieve the same goal of homeownership. Even though Kyle has discovered a rewarding and fulfilling career in real estate, he has also realized how challenging it can be to find an “off switch.” “I’m constantly going, and that can be very taxing at times,” he said. “Thankfully, over the last year, my wife has been able to help me with my work-life balance.”
F
our years ago, Kyle Lang was stuck in a rut. He was a sales manager at CARite of Garden City, he wasn’t enjoying his work and he began regularly complaining about his situation to his wife Brianna. “My wife basically told me to quit complaining and to make a change if I wasn’t happy with what I was doing,” Kyle said. After years of monotonous work in management, Kyle knew he needed to find a more exciting and versatile career—one that would allow him to change up his daily routine yet still remain productive. So, on April 1, 2016, he took his wife’s advice, sought out the change that he was looking for and transitioned into real estate.
KYLE LANG 24 • May 2020
After spending eight months selling real estate part-time, Kyle not only began to work his way out of his rut, he also realized that he wanted to make real estate his full-time and long-term career—and with a career volume of approximately $25 million, $9 million of which he generated in 2019, Kyle has demonstrated that he has what it takes to thrive in the industry.
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Kyle and Brianna are high school sweethearts who have been married for five years and have a 3-yearold daughter named Madelyn. “I am lucky to be the husband of such an amazing woman and the father of the most beautiful, smart and hilarious little girl,” Kyle said. In their free time, The Langs enjoy walking to downtown Plymouth, traveling—especially to Disney World—and fostering Madelyn’s interest in activities like soccer and swimming lessons. Kyle and Brianna are “huge” Billy Joel fans — they saw him perform at Madison Square Garden last January. Kyle is also a film enthusiast who would love to attend the Sundance Film Festival one day. He has played on a hockey team every year since he was five years old and is an assistant coach for the Adrian College ACHA D1 Men’s Hockey Team.
“I remember when I first started, I had a client who was also a great friend tell me, ‘what you lack in experience you make up for with your hustle.’ I take pride in being the agent who answers the phone on the second ring and who is always there for you when you need him,” Kyle said. The majority of Kyle’s business comes from referrals, so he strives to exceed his clients’ expectations and make their transactions go as smoothly as possible.
Now that Kyle has found the excitement and versatility that he was looking for in his professional life, he can’t imagine doing anything else. “I remember one agent telling me, ‘real estate agents don’t retire—they just die,’ and I can honestly see myself doing this for the rest of my life,” he said. “In real estate, I’ve been fortunate to provide a great life for my family, and the plan is to continue to do so in the future.”
As a REALTOR® at RE/MAX Dream Properties, which has three offices, Kyle was awarded Rookie of the Year in 2016, Top Producer for the past two years and Top Contributor to the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) for the past three years. “One of my favorite parts about being a RE/MAX agent is having the opportunity to support CMN, especially their pre-school program,” he said.
Kyle hasn’t just found a lifelong job in real estate; he has joined an industry wherein he can thrive in meaningful ways. He’s embraced a career that engenders his productivity, and, more importantly, his happiness.
realproducersmag.com
Wayne County Real Producers • 25
financial fitness By Shauna Osborne
FINANCIAL TIPS FOR NEW
COLLEGE A
GRADS
h, spring is here! The birds are singing, the sun is shining, the flowers are blooming… and your whole life is stretching out before you – congratulations! As a new college grad, you’re about to launch your career with your first serious job, bringing with it your first real paychecks. While exciting, deciding what to do with your money can be overwhelming. But no worries, you have the greatest financial advantage of all on your side: time. Embrace the following suggestions for new college graduates to get your fledgling fiscal life off on the right foot! Make a Budget Establishing a reliable budget is a crucial first step once you’ve acclimated to your new salary and lifestyle. Once you have determined precisely where your money is going, you can confidently manage your expenditures, knowing what you can afford and when. For new grads, the 50/30/20 rule is appropriate: allocate 50% to needs like rent, utilities, transportation, groceries, and minimum loan payments; 30% to splurges, like trips and concert tickets; and 20% to savings. Overall, always aim to spend less than you make! Start Saving for Retirement Contribute as much as you can to your retirement fund now, before significant expenses such as buying a house and raising children come into play. Certainly, make sure you reach your employer match if you have one (typically 3-6%) since it’s free money.
26 • May 2020
Build Your Credit Good credit is the key that unlocks many doors to financial success. A high credit score will help you get the best rates on loans, insurance, and a mortgage, and many employers and landlords also check credit scores when making employment/tenancy decisions for due diligence. Now is the time to begin building your credit. Start by reviewing your credit report on a free, helpful website such as Credit Karma, both to see where you stand and to access their personalized suggestions for building your credit. In terms of debt, tackle all high-interest balances first. Establish an Emergency Fund Set aside an emergency fund of three to six months’ worth of living expenses. While you may never need it, having this cushion in place just in case you become injured/ill or lose your job is great for peace of mind. Also, putting those funds into a money market mutual fund or a high-yield savings account will make your money work for you. Some final words of advice: Amid all these responsible behaviors, don’t forget to have fun! Put aside a portion of your money each month to save/invest (20% or so), and then spend some guilt-free on adventures – eat delicious food, go to that concert, take that trip you’ve wanted to take. Now’s your chance!
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Wayne County Real Producers • 27
partner spotlight
LISA KREZA By Robbyn Moore Photos by Jessica Laine Photography
Lake Michigan Credit Union A Solid Team Built on Old School Principles
The team at Lake Michigan Credit Union has built its business on old school principles of accountability, exquisite business etiquette, and the highest level of common courtesy. “Customer service has always been a cornerstone to our success,” said Lisa Kreza-Bristow, mortgage loan originator for Lake Michigan Credit Union. “Our approach to customer service works well because we keep the focus on our clients. In a technology-filled world where people have less and less contact, we offer a refreshing approach to personal service that’s second to none.” Lisa originally began her career as a bank teller while going to school to be28 • May 2020
come a teacher. During that time, she learned about the mortgage business when she began assisting with loan processing. “In those days, people originating loans handled all aspects of the job,” she said. “I did everything from origination, to balancing and closing the loans. All of the actions were hand-typed, even the checks, giving me invaluable experience to learn every step of the process.” Lisa eventually abandoned the teaching route and fully dedicated her focus to writing mortgages alongside top-producing managers in the business. “I’m so grateful to have had the fate that led me to this career,” she said. Her fate was sealed when the bank she was working for eliminated her bank teller job but offered her a position as an independent mortgage loan officer. “While the stability I was familiar with was changing on multiple levels, I took @realproducers
the route of handling mortgages and never looked back.” Lisa has since made the Presidents Club every year. For the past 30 years, Lisa has overcome many industry obstacles including the housing and mortgage crash in 2008. She has weathered the storms of loans going into foreclosures and assisting people in devastating scenarios. “Although some of the years in my career have been hard ones, I firmly believe it’s the hard ones that define our lives,” Lisa said. Today, Lisa is most proud of her solid team and their contribution to the success of the business. Adam Bartsch has worked alongside Lisa for almost 20 years and Jason Pewinski for 15 years. “If you know me, you know my team,” Lisa said. “Together, with Lake Michigan Credit Union behind us—a company ranked nationally among mortgage lending credit unions—we can continue to deliver the best service and products.” “We all get along so well personally, that it makes working together flow naturally,” said Adam, who is the senior loan coordinator. “We are also aware of each other’s strengths (and conversely our weaknesses), which I feel helps us stand out amongst other teams and ultimately benerealproducersmag.com
Wayne County Real Producers • 29
fits our customers the most.” The team has confidence in each other that stems from the established trust built over the years. “Adding Jason to our team has only strengthened this bond, and enhanced our capabilities and resources,” Adam said. Jason has been a mortgage loan officer since 1999 and has worked with Lisa and Adam since 2007. “We each bring many years of experience and expertise to the table,” Jason said. “As a team, we are seeing the business grow, and at the same time, we’re able to support each other and provide a better work/ life balance.” Lake Michigan Credit Union prides itself on taking care of its members and employees by providing the tools and support necessary to deliver top-notch programs and services. “We’re not just numbered people coming to an office each day to fulfill tasks,” Adam said. “We’re a true team that supports each other and lifts each other up. Help is always available if needed, and the company listens to their employees.” Collectively, the team has the knowledge of products, processes and people skills to save and enhance deals for most real estate agents. “We have assisted in structuring, mediating and 30 • May 2020
WOM AN OW N ED AN D OPER AT E D
re-structuring deals,” Lisa said. “The knowledge of guidelines and tools, and products available, coupled with our ability to effectively communicate is our greatest asset. Our referral partners can concentrate on sales once they have turned their buyers over to us.”
“Our business model is pretty basic, but important,” Lisa said. “Our team will always be responsive, honest and beneficial. In a nutshell, we can be counted on.”
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Lake Michigan Credit Union is a full-service financial institution, and the largest credit union and new purchase mortgage lender in Michigan.
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32 • May 2020
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Wayne County Real Producers • 33
behind-the-scenes all-star
Theresa Martell Inciting Others to Grow and Succeed
When you’re not working, what do you like to do for fun? I have a cottage up north, so that’s where you will find me kayaking, fishing, enjoying bonfires and grilling — spending time there with my family is the best. How do you feel about being nominated as a Behind-theScenes All-Star? I am very humbled.
Finding solutions for your financial needs.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself, about your job or about your relationship with the person who nominated you? I’ve worked with different brokerages and real estate agents over the years, and I’ve built many relationships and friendships. This one that I have with Matt and his team was an instantaneous fit for us. Being a part of this team and the City of Detroit’s growth is simply amazing. I’ve only been here a short time, but I am looking forward to spending many years at Alexander Real Estate Detroit—it’s not work when you enjoy what you do.
Name: Theresa Martell Title: Office Administrator/REALTOR® Company: Alexander Real Estate Detroit Years in Current Position: 7 months Years in the Real Estate Industry: 7 years What did you do before you began working in your current position? I was the office administrator for a real estate franchise brokerage. Prior to that, I was the manager of a law firm. What does your typical workday look like? A typical day? Is there such thing in the real estate industry? I process all of Matt’s and his team’s transactions (prepare documents and streamline the transactions to closing), process closings and commissions, monitor legal compliance, manage office operations, recruit talent, train new agents/staff and ensure that everyone is performing at their personal best. How would you describe your job in one word? REWARDING 34 • May 2020
Why do you think you excel at your job? Great question...I truly enjoy success through others. Your success is my success. I am very passionate about my work. I absolutely love the people I work with and do my best to instill my passion in them. In turn, they trust and believe in me — it’s a win-win. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? The smile on everyone’s faces when they walk away from the closing table. What is the most challenging aspect of your job? The most challenging part of what I do is trying to not answer all of my calls, emails and texts during my off-hours. Real estate doesn’t stop—it’s challenging for me to stop and take uninterrupted “T” time.
1039 Novi Road Northville, MI 48167 248-348-0423
www.edwardjones.com
Member SIPC
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 AllStar in an upcoming issue.
What is one thing about you that others might find surprising or interesting? I obtained my real estate license in 2002 to sell real estate as a hobby—little did I know, it would become my passion and my career path. @realproducers
Financial Advisor
MKT-5894G-A-A1
Matt O’Laughlin, TOP PRODUCER and partner at Alexander Real Estate Detroit, has been working with Theresa for the past six months and wanted to recognize the inspiration and motivation that she brings to the office. “Since Theresa has come on board, she’s filled any role we’ve needed her to fill,” Matt said. “She’s personally managed all my transactions, as well as two offices and 30+ agents, and she’s filling the role of our accountability coach by helping all agents reach their yearly goals and keeping them on track.” Theresa is also responsible for growing the brokerage—she’s brought on 10+ agents over the past couple of months. Matt describes Theresa as “superwoman” and admires her strong work ethic and her “always-ready-for-what’s-next attitude.” According to Matt, the majority of his clients are developers who require the highest level of management and reporting. “Without Theresa (and Hannah!) helping on the backend, I wouldn’t be able to take on more business,” Matt said. “Theresa helps by taking on all the backend work, so I can focus on continuing growth.”
Colin M Talbot
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Wayne County Real Producers • 35
we ask, you answer (waya)
Celebrating Mother’s Day
Single working mom CYNTHIA MILLER FROM MILLER LUXURY AT NATIONAL REALTY CENTERS with her two children, kindergartener Chloe Miller and fourth-grader Nathan Miller.
O N M AY 1 0 T H
“Getting a lice treatment between home inspections because your 3-year-old’s hair wasn’t dirty enough—putting your 6-year-old to work so that you can multitask—‘No, no, no, sweet girl...those donuts are for our clients!’” JAYMIE PATERNOSTER, HOUSE CALL HOME INSPECTION
With Photos of Working Moms “I am a working mom in real estate and am always trying to get my cute children involved! My first big year in real estate was the year I had my son, and it was the best year of my life. Real estate has allowed me to have a career and also be a full-time Mom. Before they were in school, I would just drop them off at their grandparents’ house, and mainly my dad would watch them for a few hours so I could attend showings, inspections and closings. Everything else would be at my home office with the children. Many times I caught myself hiding in the bathroom talking with another agent or client. There is nothing cuter than my babies holding a sold sign!” KRISTY HORNE, DWELLINGS BY RUDY AND HALL
“Being a hustling agent and single mom, I’ve been taking time each day that I have my 9-year-old daughter and attempting (not always succeeding!) to homeschool her, so she doesn’t fall behind. Here we are doing math problems in one of the many workbooks I picked up for her at The Teacher’s Store and teaching her old school ‘carry the one’ math instead of common core!” JENI GOHL, DWELLINGS BY RUDY & HALL
“The reason why I work so hard is to show my girls— Kennedy, 5, and Madison, 2—that working moms can do it all and still have time to make amazing memories together.” MEGAN DANNEELS, THE DANNEELS AGENCY FARM BUREAU INSURANCE
DARLA ROWLEY, FROM IMPACT HOME STAGING EXPERTS, with husband, Michael, celebrating their son Maximus’ 18th birthday.
“This is my ‘why.’ Everything I do, I do for them!” MICHELLE WALKER FROM EN-VISION PROPERTY INSPECTIONS pictured with Madalynn, Angela and Brian Walker
“This is me and my little family, and I love how my ‘job’ brings us together. My husband and my son often assist me with shoots because they love and appreciate the artistic side of my craft. My husband is my second camera for weddings— we are able to provide timeless candid moments in our two perspectives.” JESSICA GOUVERNEUR, JESSICA LAINE PHOTOGRAPHY & BOUDOIR BY JESSIE LAINE
TERRA CSOTTY, PUBLISHER OF REAL PRODUCERS, with her kids Alexis, Tyler and Nathan at Knapp’s in Rochester for a quick dinner out after working all day.
“This pretty much sums up my life as a working mom of a 17-yearold, who, by the way, is perfectly capable of doing his own laundry. When laundry—or life—piles up, sometimes it’s best to just take a deep breath, shut the door and walk away.” JANE K. ASHER, MANAGING EDITOR AT REAL PRODUCERS
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.
36 • May 2020
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Wayne County Real Producers • 37
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Email nominations to terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com.
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Wayne County Real Producers • 39
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Get to know your
games
WAYNE COUNTY
REAL PRODUCERS! Untitled
1
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5
ACROSS
4. The word Theresa Martell uses to deAcross job 4. Thescribe wordherTheresa Martell uses to 5. Lisa Kreza’s first career describe her job 5. Lisa Kreza’s first career
40 • May 2020
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DOWN 1. Julie Ahee’s Downinterest in a real estate career was initially inspired by this person 1. Julie Ahee's interest in a real estate career was initially inspired 2. A free app where real estate agents and partners can view current and by this person past issues 2. A free app where real estate agents and partners can view 3. Kyle Lang and his wife Brianna are big fans of this artist
current and past issues 3. Kyle Lang and his wife Brianna are big fans of this artist
Wayne County Real Producers • 41
www.rodnick.com | (586) 772-4350
42 • May 2020
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Wayne County Real Producers • 43