Top Agent Magazine | Ontario Edition | July 2026 by Top Agent Magazine

KEAN AKRAWI

FEATURED AGENTS

CARRIE MASSEY

COURTNEY DORION

GREG VISSER

KASHAN CHAUDHARY

MALLORY SIEZAR

GREG VISSER — SERVING OXFORD COUNTY WITH COMMUNITY, CARE, AND EXPERIENCE

After 30 years in the funeral industry, Greg Visser was not ready to retire. Instead, he followed a new path that had always been on his radar: real estate. Having spent decades serving families throughout his community, the transition felt natural. Greg already understood the importance of trust, compassion, communication, and being present for people during meaningful life moments. Real estate gave him a new way to continue serving others, and the career has proven to be both seamless and deeply rewarding.

COURTNEY DORION

CARRIE MASSEY

Now two years into real estate, Greg works alongside his business partner, Rachael Dennis. Together, they form a small team serving Oxford County, including Woodstock, Ingersoll, Tillsonburg, and surrounding cities such as Brantford, London, and Kitchener, Ontario. Greg’s connection to the region runs deep. He has lived and worked in the community for nearly 35 years, and for him, it is more than a market. It is home.

CARRIE MASSEY TEAMWORK, AND

communication, steady guidance, and helping clients feel supported throughout the process.

KASHAN

Real estate has always been more than a career to Courtney Dorion. It is part of her family’s story. Growing up around the industry inspired her to build a career where hard work, relationships, and dedication could shape her success. The opportunity to help people through one of the biggest milestones of their lives, along with her genuine passion for real estate, continues to drive her every day. Nearly eight years later, Courtney still loves what she does and feels grateful to help families find a place to call home while building a legacy of her own.

What Greg loves most about the area is the community itself. After decades of involvement in Oxford County, he understands the people, the neighborhoods, and the local pride that make the region special. That firsthand knowledge allows him to guide clients with perspective and care, whether they are buying their first home, selling a longtime property, relocating, or exploring a new chapter in a familiar place.

Greg and Rachael primarily market their listings through social media, email, and their website. Their approach reflects the modern tools needed to reach buyers while still staying grounded in personal relationships. For Greg, real estate is an extension of the community service that has defined much of his professional life. He values clear

Looking back, Greg says he would have started his real estate career earlier in life. He loves being around people and serving his community, and real estate has allowed him to remain close to the heart of what makes that community thrive. Each transaction gives him the opportunity to connect with people, solve problems, and help families make important decisions about where they live and what comes next.

Carrie Massey first became ested in real estate as a teenager, when her parents sold their ily home and built a new one. loved touring model homes, what stayed with her most the Realtor who guided her ents through the process. He knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely cared helping Carrie’s family every step of the way. Watching the difference that Realtor made helped Carrie understand that buying or selling a home is about much more than transaction; it is about guiding people through one of

COURTNEY DORION — HELPING SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO CLIENTS MOVE FORWARD WITH TRUST, STRATEGY, AND

Faith, family, relationships, and serving others have always been at the heart of Mallory Siezar’s life and business. While she is the face clients often see, she believes it truly takes a village. Together with her husband, Peter, their sons Marcus and Vince, her business partners Dave Foreman and Kim Greeley, the Seeing You Home team—including Lucy Soares and Amanda Howe—and the unwavering support of her extended family and friends, Mallory has built a career in Real Estate dedicated to helping people navigate some of life’s most meaningful decisions.

have been the foundation of her business and have her belief that trust and integrity are far more chasing quick transactions. What she would is invest earlier in systems, marketing, her personal and her professional community. Working closely rienced agents and knowledgeable mentors has refine her processes, gain perspective, and build with confidence, strategy, and long-term vision.

Community involvement has long been part of Greg’s life. He has supported Operation Sharing, a Christian-based organization helping less advantaged members of the community, as well as the Lions Club of Canada and its local and international projects. He has also been involved with Cowapalooza, Woodstock’s summer celebration, where he ran the annual soap box derby. Today, Greg is a member of Masonic Lodge No. 43, helping raise funds for local high school bursaries, and is active with the Woodstock Disc Golf Collective, which offers beginner instruction and recently completed renovations at the local course at Pittock Park. He also participates in the Realtors Who Care Food Drive each year.

Kashan Chaudhary’s path estate was inspired by his After spending his career tality and tourism industry, father decided to pursue after being diagnosed cer because it offered the he needed during treatment. he passed away one exam becoming a licensed Realtor. Kashan had initially career in engineering, but a few years in, he chose that field and pursue real estate. He was drawn but he was also motivated by the desire to finish father had started.

Courtney works with The Kate Broddick Team and REVEL Realty, serving Brantford, Brant, and much of Southwestern Ontario within roughly an hour in every direction. She loves the communities she serves because they offer a unique combination of affordability, growth, and opportunity for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. From charming small towns to vibrant city neighbourhoods, the region’s diverse landscapes and strong sense of community make it an incredible place to call home.

Now 24 years into her career, Carrie leads an all-female team of dedicated real estate professionals who share commitment to exceptional service, honest advice, putting clients’ needs first. Working as a team allows to provide a higher level of communication, support, expertise throughout every stage of the buying and ing process. Together, they serve Hamilton, Burlington, Brantford, Niagara, and surrounding communities.

What Carrie loves most about the areas she serves diversity. From vibrant downtown neighbourhoods charming small towns to waterfront living and rural erties, there is truly something for everyone. She enjoys learning what matters most to each client and helping find not only the right home, but the right community their lifestyle, goals, and next chapter.

Community involvement is also important to addition to serving on the Government Relations at the Brantford Regional Real Estate Association, closely with Nova Vita Women’s Shelter, local housing initiatives, and the Housing Resource port individuals and families facing housing challenges. both a REALTOR® and a mother, Courtney believes ble housing is the foundation of a strong community, is proud to support organizations that help create ties for those in need.

Now eight years into real estate, Kashan believes the best decisions he has ever made. Each day, for the opportunity to help people through one milestones of their lives. He primarily serves London surrounding areas throughout Southwestern Ontario, also assisting clients across Southern Ontario when His goal is always to provide a seamless real ence, regardless of location.

Courtney’s approach to marketing is built around the belief that every property deserves a tailored strategy. She combines professional photography and videography, targeted online advertising, social media, email marketing, and local networking to help each listing reach the right audience and stand out in today’s competitive market. As an agent, she believes relationships are just as important as results. Her goal is to be a trusted advisor by providing honest guidance, clear communication, and a high level of service throughout every stage of the real estate journey.

Carrie believes every property deserves a customized keting plan because no two homes or sellers are the same. Her team combines professional photography, video, plans, social media marketing, online advertising, campaigns, MLS exposure, and their extensive agent work to help each listing reach the right buyers. They believe strong communication and strategic marketing just as important as pricing a home correctly, ensuring ers feel informed and supported throughout the process.

With a career built on service, a deep love for his community, and decades of relationship-building behind him, Greg continues to help Oxford County clients move forward with confidence and care.

For more information about Greg, please visit Facebook and Instagram

https://l.gourl.es/l/347d2ee2b0c9df8739b31d45d61fcc8530ea9148?u=964615 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571840666214

For Courtney, the relationship does not end on closing day. She stays connected with past clients through regular check-

Her journey, however, wasn’t one she expected. Before becoming a Realtor, Mallory worked behind the scenes in the real estate industry, where friends, family, and fellow Realtors encouraged her to give it a try. At the time, she was not convinced. She can still be quoted saying she did not think real estate was for her. Once she took the leap, however, she quickly realized it was exactly where God was leading her. Fifteen years later, Mallory has been honoured with RE/MAX’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award—an achievement she views not as a measure of success, but as a reflection of the trust her clients

Courtney is deeply grateful for the support system She thanks her husband, Andy, whose encouragement belief in her have helped her pursue this career their family. She also recognizes her best friend partner, Allison Marry, for her friendship, collaboration, constant encouragement. Professionally, Courtney to Kate Broddick and the entire REVEL Realty mentorship, leadership, and support. Most of all, her clients, friends, family, and community for be part of some of life’s biggest milestones. With rooted in care, strategy, and integrity, Courtney serve the community she proudly calls home.

Kashan mainly works solo, which allows him client a highly personalized experience from start When it benefits his clients, he also collaborates agents and industry professionals. Over the years, a trusted network of renovation professionals in who can help sellers maximize their home’s value ing and assist buyers with personalizing their new closing. That resource-driven approach allows Kashan port clients well beyond the standard transaction.

For her own business, Carrie focuses on building relationships, educating consumers through social media,

Kitchener, Waterloo, rounding areas. raising her own appreciation munities she individuals and but the right What Mallory opportunity to ent has a unique first home. Others sizing after divorce, settling unexpected challenges. or selling a home decisions a person most personal. believes they cates honestly, cares about the her clients move one of the most

MALLORY SIEZAR

KEAN AKRAWI

GREG VISSER

Laughs!

Is Starting a Team the Right Solution for your Business?

You’ve started your own real estate business and after a slow start, you’ve found your footing and business has really taken off. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Until maybe you’re getting more business than you can handle. After all, you don’t want to sacrifice service for more listings. The top-notch level of service you offer is probably what created your boom in

business in the first place, so you don’t want to compromise that. But, at the same time, you don’t want to turn down business either. It’s at this point, a lot of Realtors® consider start-ing a team. But, how do you know if that’s the right call for you? Here are a few questions you might want to ask yourself to help make your decision.

The top-notch level of service you offer is probably what created your boom in business in the first place, so you don’t want to compromise that.

CAN YOU AFFORD IT?

First things first, are you really making enough money to warrant hiring help? One of the key things to think about is your ability to generate leads. Are you so busy with your existing contracts, that you have no spare time to generate more business? Then, it might be time to consider your options. Figure out the time you’ll be afforded to generate more business, how many more transactions that will lead

to, and then see if that pays for the assistant’s wages. That should help you easily see if it’s worth the investment. If it’s on the border, you may still want to go for it if you have a lot of confidence in the market and your ability to bring in business. If you’re not quite there yet though, it might be a good idea to look into a virtual assistant until your business is ready to expand.

ARE YOU READY TO BE A TEAM LEADER?

Or in other words, how comfortable are you delegating tasks and responsibilities? For some agents, they need to be actively involved in every step of the process. Being a team leader is not only about being able to delegate, it’s about mentoring and guiding your team as well. Not only do you have to help them serve the team

better, you need to look at yourself honestly too, constantly evaluating what you can do better. It’s also your job to set up systems and operations, that are constantly refined with the feedback of your team members. Clear and constant communication is key with your clients as well as your team.

CAN YOU FIND PEOPLE WHO SHARE YOUR VISION?

Of course, the above two points are moot, if you’re unable to find people that you trust and that share your business’ philosophy. Having a supportive and professional team culture is instrumental in a team’s success. These are people you will be working with closely for long hours so you not only need to trust in their expertise and professionalism, you want to find people with a positive attitude. You will all be relying on each other to create seamless trans-

actions in sometimes stressful circumstances. Having the right team spirit, so to speak, is what will help your business and team grow. The ultimate goal of a team is to have thriving careers for everyone on board.

So, if you want to see your business grow maybe a team is right for you. It may even give you a little free time for a personal life. We can all dream, can’t we?

Reconsider Referral-Only When Planning for the Future

A 100% referral rate is a testament of client happiness. But even a 30% referral rate is proof of client satisfaction. It’s all relative, say some agents. One number pays tribute to past success, which is certainly a story worth telling. But the other might better predict the future. Many agents plan for the

idea that working only on referral may not be sufficient during slower times of the year, in a down market, or when an agent needs to expand into a new sector.

Unless you are clairvoyant enough to flawlessly predict every market change or every

Many agents plan for the idea that working only on referral may not be sufficient during slower times of the year, in a down market, or when an agent needs to expand into a new sector.

life change that your clients and referral partners may experience, it’s wise to maintain an active marketing presence. The reasons vary, however, depending on the goals and trajectory of each individual’s business.

If long-term success, a growing team, a legacy or expansion into new areas are not priorities, then working a sphere of influence may be enough for some agents, especially those who may be in the industry mostly for the love of the business. But for a majority of agents, no matter how much they love their work, their real estate and mortgage businesses are careers, first and foremost.

Let’s start with the team-builders and mentors. Agents and brokers who are building teams are wise to invest in business marketing, advertising and community outreach. Ty Hutchins, who owns and operates Ty & Company Real Estate in Colorado’s Front Range, says that, while she could personally live off referrals alone, her goal is to build up her agents. “I do the marketing piece for my team, so I can help them succeed,” she says. That marketing includes running commercials on TV and in movie theatres, as well as lead generation that identifies potential buyers, sellers and

investors between the Colorado Springs and Denver markets. Her team’s goal, she adds, is to promote their reputation of being honest, hardworking professionals with the reach of a major brand but the personalized approach of a boutique.

Then there are the growers. Khrista Jarvis and Nicole Jung of The Khrista Jarvis Team in the San Francisco Bay Area, are on a considerable growth track. “We’re the #1 team in our area and the top team in Compass Real Estate nationally,” explains Khrista. While high marks for service on behalf of their clients have led them to these heights, they know that they must continue to evolve and market their brand. “We do a good deal of social media marketing for our listings and for our business,” she says. Their names, therefore, are frequently linked to sentiments of trust, dependability and market knowledge, both in their marketing and in their reviews.

Next, there are those who weathered the worst of times. Susan Roche entered real estate sales in 2003, following several years of property management in North Carolina. The key to her sustained triumphs through major market swings lies in her long-range planning. “If the market starts to dip or fall,

I have safety nets in place,” says Susan Roche, team leader of Simply Real Estate, based in Charlotte. “When it’s a seller’s market, I still plan for a buyer’s market and when it’s a buyer’s market I plan for a seller’s market.” In other words, no matter how comfortable her existing work may feel, she networks consistently. She also employs a full-time marketing director who leads several projects including ongoing research, events and social media exposure in addition to listings marketing. By staying ahead of market changes, Susan knows she can unfailingly represent her clients’ best interests while still maintaining a safety net for her business.

Even professionals with more than three decades’ experience and deep referral networks know the importance of business

marketing. Cathy Richards, co-owner with Nancy Dalaska of Epic-Wasatch Homes in Park City, UT, entered real estate in 1987 and still draws at least a fifth of her business from lead generation, social media marketing and community outreach. Her business partner, Nancy, adds that real estate is about much more than their own business. “We love collaborating and brainstorming with other agents to help them prosper,” says Nancy. “We believe the healthier the market, the better we all are.”

Regardless of market conditions, even the best reputation can’t guarantee long-term success. To sustain and grow, it’s wise to feed your business by increasing exposure, remaining flexible and maintaining systems for customer service, networking, research, marketing and lead-generation.

KEAN AKRAWI

Kean Akrawi — Guiding Clients with Strategy, Trust, and Community Connection

Kean Akrawi was drawn to real estate because he loves helping people navigate major life decisions with clarity and confidence. Early in his career, he saw how the right guidance could completely change the experience for a family, and he wanted to be the calm, steady presence clients could rely on. Over time, what has kept him in the business is the blend of strategy, negotiation, and real human connection. Every client has a different story, and Kean values the opportunity to help each one move forward with confidence.

Now 16 years into real estate, Kean works with a team serving clients across Halton Region, Toronto, Peel, and Hamilton. His work often centers around Oakville, a community he especially enjoys for its strong sense of connection. People care about their neighbourhoods, their schools, and their neighbors, which makes the work especially meaningful. To Kean, helping someone buy or sell a home is about more than the property itself; it is about

Kean works with a team serving clients across Halton Region, Toronto, Peel, and Hamilton. His work often centers around Oakville, a community he especially enjoys for its strong sense of connection.

helping them find a place where they can truly belong.

Much of Kean’s business comes from referrals, which he considers the highest compliment. For him, a referral represents trust, confidence, and the belief that

he will take care of someone’s family, friends, or colleagues with the same care he would provide his original client. That foundation shapes the way he approaches every transaction, with a focus on listening closely, offering honest advice, and helping clients make informed decisions.

Whether representing a sale or helping a buyer understand their options, his goal is always to serve clients so well that they feel confident introducing him to the people they care about most.

Kean supports that relationship-based business with targeted marketing, strong visuals, and consistent communication. His marketing is designed to reinforce trust while presenting each property in a clear and professional way. Whether representing a sale or helping a buyer understand their options, his goal is always to serve clients so well that they

feel confident introducing him to the people they care about most.

Staying connected with clients after the transaction is also important to Kean. He keeps in touch through personal check-ins, phone calls, quick emails, and thoughtful notes on birthdays and important milestones. His approach is simple and

personal rather than sales-focused, because he wants clients to feel that the relationship continues long after closing day.

Looking back, Kean would still put clients first and build his business around relationships, because that is what matters most to him. If he could change anything,

he would have embraced new technology sooner, including social media and online marketing. He also would have invested earlier in mentorship and stronger systems, creating a business that felt less reactive and more intentional. Those lessons continue to shape the way he grows and serves today.

Kean is also connected to the community through his support of Oakville infrastructure organizations. He is deeply grateful to his wife, Sanaria, for her unwavering love, encouragement, and steadfast support throughout his journey. He also extends his heartfelt thanks to his children, Mina, Noor, and Allen Akrawi, whose love and inspiration mean the world to him. He is equally grateful to his family, especially his brothers Raed and Shwan, and his sister

Nadya Akrawi, for their constant support and belief in him.

Most of all, Kean is thankful to his clients for their trust and support. Their confidence has been deeply personal to him, humbling him and inspiring him to give his very best every day. With a career built on trust, strategy, and sincere care, Kean continues to help families throughout the Greater Toronto and Hamilton areas make confident real estate decisions.

5 Ways to Transform Renters into Owners

Perhaps the largest demographic of untapped business lies in the rental market. From major cities and suburbs to rural communities—renters across generations are opting to rent rather than own. The question is: why? For starters, many Americans are undereducated about the inventory and financing options available that might suit their budget and lifestyle. Secondly, many would-be homeowners have difficulty

visualizing the potential investment of purchasing property, and how homeownership can build wealth and security in the long-term.

As an agent, you’re always on the lookout for potential clientele. Now, to guide renters toward the real estate market, keep a few of these strategies in mind as you meet and greet this untapped demographic.

1Show

renters that purchasing a home isn’t impossible

Possibly the biggest hurdle for renters is believing homeownership is possible. Beyond saving for a down payment and boosting credit scores, there are a dozen more factors to consider: affording utilities, homeowner’s insurance, renovations, property taxes, and more. Besides that, assembling pay stubs, finding an agent, arranging house tours, negotiating a price, and timing the transition are all major considerations to surmount. One way to combat this thinking is to make the process transparent and demystified. Find examples of past clients who made the leap successfully, or profile the average buyer in your marketplace and see how that renter compares. Provide evidence that it’s been done before and can be done again, then build a game plan from there.

2 Help would-be homebuyers create a road-map to ownership

It’s no secret that buying a home can feel overwhelming. Compared to signing a yearlong lease on an apartment, taking on the house-hunting process is a daunting affair. That’s where your expertise as an agent comes

into play. Consider making a checklist, or step-by-step road-map, that guides clients through the process from start to finish. This way, you’ll manage expectations and create a path to ownership that’s specific, instead of abstract. They won’t have to wonder what goes into buying a home when they can look at an interactive site or read a document and see the steps outlined before them, with you there to guide the way.

3 Collaborate with mortgage professionals to find the right financing opportunities

Many renters aren’t aware of the variety of mortgage financing options out there that cater to first-timers, offer low down payments, or down payment assistance. Most buyers believe that the standard 20% down is a hard and fast rule, when in reality, there’s far more flexibility out there to cater to renters where they are. There are even loan options catering to freelance workers, renovation options, and other unconventional routes to ownership. Work with a mortgage pro and find the route that suits your renter best.

4 Compare and contrast rental rates with monthly mortgage payments

One way to convince renters to make the shift is to demonstrate the savings potential of paying into a monthly mortgage, rather than throwing away rent on a property they don’t own. To do this, draw up the average rental rates in your area, then find some potential listings that would demand a similar amount in monthly mortgage payments. Sometimes placing these numbers and images sideby-side can prove to renters that what they manage to pay monthly in rent, they can

pay monthly in a mortgage—while building a lasting asset.

5 Paint the big picture

For most, renting isn’t the most sustainable financial option when it comes to housing. Rents rise, families grow, and retirement looms. Building a financial future and homeownership go hand-in-hand. When planned appropriately, buying a home can create a path toward retirement and position homeowners in a better place for further investment in the future. A rental has little security or investment returns to offer, while owning a home makes a renter king or queen of the castle.

Prospecting renters as potential homebuyers may seem like a time-intensive way to cultivate new clients, but logic is on your side. Keep these tips in mind as you broach the conversation with renters in your hometown. All it takes is a clear-cut value proposition and a listening ear.

MALLORY SIEZAR: MORE THAN REAL ESTATE

Mallory proudly serves Cambridge, the community she has always called home, along with Brantford,

Kitchener, Waterloo, Woodstock, Guelph, and the surrounding areas. Growing up in Cambridge and now raising her own family there has given her a deep appreciation for the people, neighbourhoods, and communities she serves. She considers it a privilege to help individuals and families find not just the right home, but the right community to build their future.

What Mallory loves most about real estate is the opportunity to be part of her clients’ stories. Every client has a unique journey. Some are buying their very first home. Others are welcoming a new baby, downsizing after decades in the same house, navigating divorce, settling an estate, or starting over after life’s unexpected challenges. She understands that buying or selling a home is often one of the biggest financial decisions a person will make, but it is also one of the most personal. Whatever chapter they’re in, Mallory believes they deserve someone who listens first, educates honestly, communicates openly, and genuinely cares about the people behind the transaction. Helping her clients move confidently into their next chapter is one of the most rewarding parts of her work.

When marketing a property, Mallory believes maximum exposure is essential. Her approach includes professional signage, open houses, strategic online marketing, and a social media plan that is continually

reviewed to ensure each listing is positioned for success. As a member of two of the largest real estate systems, she is able to provide her clients with broad exposure among buyers and Realtors alike. Mallory also believes in building a recognizable and trusted brand through consistent online marketing, billboards, bus benches, community partnerships, and a strong local presence, ensuring clients know they have a knowledgeable Realtor they can turn to when the time comes to buy or sell.

For Mallory, the relationship does not end at closing. Her philosophy is simple: once a client, always a client. One of the most rewarding parts of her career is staying connected with the people she has had the privilege of helping, whether through birthday cards, client appreciation events, thoughtful Christmas gifts, or simply checking in over the years. She deeply values the trust her clients place in her and believes the strongest relationships are built long after the transaction is complete.

Community has always been at the heart of Mallory’s life and business. She is passionate about giving back and is proud to support organizations such as Children’s Miracle Network, Forward Church, Youth for Christ, Christians Against Poverty, Bisons Football, and local food bank initiatives. Throughout the year, and especially during the Christmas season, Mallory and the Seeing You Home team enjoy finding meaningful ways to support local charities and families in need. For Mallory, giving back isn’t something she does because of her business—it’s simply an extension of her faith and her commitment to serving the community she proudly calls home.

Mallory is deeply thankful to God for the opportunities He has provided throughout her family’s real estate journey. She is grateful for the unwavering love and support of her husband, Peter, their sons Marcus and Vince, her extended family, friends, clients, and the entire Seeing You Home team, whose encouragement and partnership have helped shape both her life and her business. With a career built on faith, relationships, and a genuine passion for serving others, Mallory remains committed to helping people navigate some of life’s biggest moments with honesty, compassion, and care—one home, one family, and one relationship at a time.

USING CLIENT FEEDBACK TO ELEVATE YOUR REAL ESTATE BUSINESS

For real estate professionals, publishing your client testimonials is a key strategy for establishing trust, enhancing your reputation, and drawing in new clients. Through the strategic use of positive

client feedback, you can demonstrate your expertise and the exceptional value you offer in real estate transactions. Here are key strategies for maximizing the impact of real estate testimonials in your business:

Diversify Your Testimonials

Collect feedback from a broad spectrum of clients, such as first-time buyers, sellers, investors, and those facing unique challenges. This approach offers a comprehensive view of your capabilities.

Promptly Request Testimonials

Aim to obtain testimonials soon after closing a deal. Prompt timing ensures clients’ memories are fresh, enabling them to share detailed and impactful experiences.

Enhance Your Website with Testimonials

Develop a section on your website dedicated to client testimonials. Display them attractively, including clients’ names, photos, and specific transaction details if possible.

Utilize Testimonials in Marketing Efforts

Embed powerful testimonial excerpts in your marketing materials, including brochures and flyers, to catch the eye of prospective clients and underscore your track record.

Broadcast Testimonials on Social Media

Publicize your client feedback on social platforms, using engaging visuals or property photos to accompany the testimonials.

Innovate with Testimonial Videos

Elevate your client feedback with video testimonials. Short, engaging videos can make a lasting impression on potential clients by showcasing genuine satisfaction.

Incorporate Testimonials into Email Marketing

Utilize testimonials in your email campaigns to underscore your expertise and encourage engagement from potential clients.

Present Testimonials to Prospective Clients

Integrate client success stories into your presentations to illustrate your track record and reassure potential clients of your ability to deliver favorable results.

Feature Testimonials in Your Blog

Share client success stories in blog posts, integrating testimonials to lend credibility and a personal touch to your narratives.

Create Detailed Case Studies

With client consent, develop case studies that explore specific challenges and your successful interventions, offering deep insights into your problem-solving prowess.

Highlight Testimonials in Your Online Presence

Feature client testimonials in your profiles on key real estate and social media sites to bolster your online reputation and attract new clients.

Promote Third-Party Platform Reviews

Encourage clients to review your services on esteemed real estate platforms, enhancing your visibility and credibility.

Engage Through Testimonial Events

Host webinars or events where clients can share their experiences, providing a dynamic forum for potential clients to learn and interact.

Advertise with Testimonials

Use testimonials in your advertising campaigns to spotlight positive client experiences and foster trust with your target audience.

Keep Your Testimonials Current

Regularly refresh your testimonials to maintain relevance and demonstrate your continuous commitment to excellence and client satisfaction.

By strategically publishing real estate testimonials across various platforms and marketing channels, you can build a compelling narrative that resonates with potential clients. Authentic endorsements from satisfied clients serve as a powerful tool for establishing trust and differentiating yourself in a competitive real estate market.

CARRIE MASSEY — GUIDING CLIENTS WITH TRUST, TEAMWORK, AND LOCAL INSIGHT

Carrie Massey first became interested in real estate as a teenager, when her parents sold their family home and built a new one. She loved touring model homes, but what stayed with her most was the Realtor who guided her parents through the process. He was knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely cared about helping Carrie’s family every step of the way. Watching the difference that Realtor made helped Carrie understand that buying or selling a home is about much more than a transaction; it is about guiding people through one of life’s biggest milestones.

Now 24 years into her career, Carrie leads an all-female team of dedicated real estate professionals who share her commitment to exceptional service, honest advice, and putting clients’ needs first. Working as a team allows them to provide a higher level of communication, support, and expertise throughout every stage of the buying and selling process. Together, they serve Hamilton, Burlington, Brantford, Niagara, and surrounding communities.

What Carrie loves most about the areas she serves is the diversity. From vibrant downtown neighbourhoods and charming small towns to waterfront living and rural properties, there is truly something for everyone. She enjoys learning what matters most to each client and helping them find not only the right home, but the right community for their lifestyle, goals, and next chapter.

Carrie believes every property deserves a customized marketing plan because no two homes or sellers are the same. Her team combines professional photography, video, floor plans, social media marketing, online advertising, email campaigns, MLS exposure, and their extensive agent network to help each listing reach the right buyers. They also believe strong communication and strategic marketing are just as important as pricing a home correctly, ensuring sellers feel informed and supported throughout the process.

For her own business, Carrie focuses on building relationships, educating consumers through social media, and

earning referrals by providing an exceptional client experience. Her goal has always been to build a business based on trust and long-term relationships. That same philosophy extends beyond closing. Carrie and her team stay connected with past clients through client appreciation events, newsletters, market updates, social media, and personal phone calls. Many clients have become lifelong friends, and a large portion of the team’s business comes from referrals and repeat clients, something Carrie considers the greatest compliment.

Looking back, Carrie would have invested earlier in systems, marketing, and building a team. Trying to do everything herself limited her growth in the beginning, and she has learned that surrounding yourself with great people allows you to provide even better service while creating a more sustainable business. Giving back is also important to Carrie, who supports the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Good Shepherd, and several local children’s charities.

Carrie is grateful to her family for their unwavering support throughout her career and to her brokerage for the leadership, training, and systems that have helped her grow personally and professionally. She is also thankful to her amazing team for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to delivering exceptional service to every client. Most of all, she thanks her clients for their trust, loyalty, referrals, and continued confidence, which have been the foundation of her success over the past 24 years.

COURTNEY DORION — HELPING SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO CLIENTS MOVE FORWARD WITH TRUST, STRATEGY, AND CARE

For Courtney, the relationship does not end on closing day. She stays connected with past clients through regular checkins, personalized messages, client appreciation events, social media, and helpful market insights throughout the year. She wants clients to know they can continue turning to her with questions about real estate, homeownership, or their next move, long after the transaction is complete.

Looking back, Courtney would still lead with authenticity and focus on building genuine relationships. Those connections

have been the foundation of her business and have reinforced her belief that trust and integrity are far more valuable than chasing quick transactions. What she would do differently is invest earlier in systems, marketing, her personal brand, and her professional community. Working closely with experienced agents and knowledgeable mentors has helped her refine her processes, gain perspective, and build a business with confidence, strategy, and long-term vision.

Community involvement is also important to Courtney. In addition to serving on the Government Relations Committee at the Brantford Regional Real Estate Association, she works closely with Nova Vita Women’s Shelter, local Indigenous housing initiatives, and the Housing Resource Centre to support individuals and families facing housing challenges. As both a REALTOR® and a mother, Courtney believes safe, stable housing is the foundation of a strong community, and she is proud to support organizations that help create opportunities for those in need.

Courtney is deeply grateful for the support system behind her. She thanks her husband, Andy, whose encouragement and belief in her have helped her pursue this career while raising their family. She also recognizes her best friend and business partner, Allison Marry, for her friendship, collaboration, and constant encouragement. Professionally, Courtney is thankful to Kate Broddick and the entire REVEL Realty team for their mentorship, leadership, and support. Most of all, she thanks her clients, friends, family, and community for trusting her to be part of some of life’s biggest milestones. With a business rooted in care, strategy, and integrity, Courtney continues to serve the community she proudly calls home.

The Daily Schedule of a Successful Real Estate Agent

Everything you do should be intentional. A busy schedule isn’t the same thing as a productive schedule. Sometimes people write things like “find clients” on their to-do list, but finding clients isn’t actually a task. It’s a goal. Your daily schedule should be created with your goal in mind if you want to be a successful real estate agent, but a goal is too broad to add to your calendar.

Instead, you can break your goal down into projects, break those projects down into tasks, and schedule time in your calendar to complete each task. You’ll find that some of these projects will have an immediate impact on your business, and that those are the tasks that should be completed first.

The fact is that as a real estate agent you can set your own schedule—if you’re not productive until 10am, then you don’t have to start your day until then. But having a daily schedule means that every day you have a running start on all those other agents who just “wing it.”

You don’t want to feel burned out and busy but like you’re simultaneously not getting a whole lot done. You can only keep up 70+ hour weeks for so long before your body breaks down and both your performance and income drop as a result.

Since every real estate agent’s operating hours look different, the following daily schedule is broken up by the suggested amount of hours you

should spend on each task rather than specific times of day. However, certain tasks, like prospecting, appointments, and listing presentations should be performed at times when it’s most convenient for clients. If you’re an agent who likes to end their workday at 5 o’clock, remember that this is also the same time your clients are likely ending their day, meaning you might be unavailable for showings during the only time their schedule allows.

1 hour – Spend this time waking up, exercising either at home or at the gym, and eating breakfast.

2 hours – Use this time before you head to the office to develop a morning routine, if you haven’t already. You can meditate, journal, practice affirmations, or read personal development books to prepare for the day ahead.

1 hour – Once you’re at the office, spend this time to review the day’s schedule, catch up with your assistant or other colleagues, and check the latest industry news. This is also the time of day that you can role play to prepare for appointments.

1.5 hours – Spend this time prospecting and appointment setting.

1 hour – Now it’s time for a lunch break. If you’re a multitasker, you can also use this time to prepare for the afternoon and any meetings you have scheduled or connect with followers on social media.

3.5 hours – This is that time of day that you should schedule all your appointments and listing presentations. If you are a newer agent, you might use this time instead to do more prospecting and appointment setting.

.5 hours – Look over the day’s schedule again and ensure you’ve checked every task off your to-do list. While you’re at it, be sure to review tomorrow’s schedule and goals too.

2 hours – Now it’s time to unwind. Use this time to have dinner and spend time with your family. If you have children, this is usually the time of day when they are wrapping up homework assignments and getting ready for bed. It’s important that you make time for these moments the same way you make time for your work.

2 hours – Spend these last couple hours before you fall asleep to have quality time with your spouse or perform your self-care routines.

8 hours – Now it’s time for sleep—getting a full night’s rest is crucial if you want every day to be productive.

As you can tell, there’s still some wiggle room left in this schedule, but the important thing is to block out time every day so you can achieve your goals and help your clients.

GREG VISSER — SERVING OXFORD COUNTY WITH COMMUNITY, CARE, AND EXPERIENCE

communication, steady guidance, and helping clients feel supported throughout the process.

Greg is grateful to the people who have supported him in this new chapter, including his business partner, Rachael Dennis; his wife, Judy Visser; his business coach, Peter Brouwer; and brokerage leader and owner Jennifer Gale. With a career built on service, a deep love for his community, and decades of relationship-building behind him, Greg continues to help Oxford County clients move forward with confidence and care.

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Daily Habits That Will Increase Your Mental Strength

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

DON’T WASTE YOUR BRAIN POWER

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

BE MORE POSITIVE

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

STEP OUTSIDE YOUR COMFORT ZONE

A lot of mental energy can go to dealing with anxiety. One way to deal with that is by forcing yourself to try new things and take on new challenges, that you might normally avoid because they make you feel unsure or scared. Challenge yourself daily, even with small things.

This is definitely something that becomes easier with practice. Start small, and in no time you’ll be taking on things you never thought were possible. The simple task of trying something new every day will have you feeling energized and put you on the path to self-growth.

BE SELF-AWARE

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

BE WILLING TO LEARN

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

KASHAN CHAUDHARY — HONORING FAMILY LEGACY THROUGH SERVICE, STRATEGY, AND CARE

Kashan Chaudhary’s path into real estate was inspired by his late father. After spending his career in the hospitality and tourism industry, Kashan’s father decided to pursue real estate after being diagnosed with cancer because it offered the flexibility he needed during treatment. Sadly, he passed away one exam short of becoming a licensed Realtor. Kashan had initially built a career in engineering, but a few years in, he chose to leave that field and pursue real estate. He was drawn to the work, but he was also motivated by the desire to finish what his father had started.

Now eight years into real estate, Kashan believes it was one of the best decisions he has ever made. Each day, he is grateful for the opportunity to help people through one of the biggest milestones of their lives. He primarily serves London and the surrounding areas throughout Southwestern Ontario, while also assisting clients across Southern Ontario when needed. His goal is always to provide a seamless real estate experience, regardless of location.

Kashan mainly works solo, which allows him to give each client a highly personalized experience from start to finish. When it benefits his clients, he also collaborates with other agents and industry professionals. Over the years, he has built a trusted network of renovation professionals in various trades who can help sellers maximize their home’s value before listing and assist buyers with personalizing their new home after closing. That resource-driven approach allows Kashan to support clients well beyond the standard transaction.

What Kashan loves most about Southwestern Ontario is its diversity and sense of community. The region is home to remarkable people, cultures, amenities, and opportunities, making it a welcoming place for people from many backgrounds. He also appreciates the collaborative nature of the local real estate community, where agents work together with professionalism and respect to help clients achieve their goals. Being in such a desirable and growing region allows Kashan to continue building relationships and connecting with people from all walks of life.

Kashan takes a strategic, client-first approach to every listing and transaction. He works closely with clients to develop a

plan that aligns with their goals, using social media marketing, online exposure, and community-focused promotion to showcase properties effectively. His process extends beyond a market price analysis. He considers neighborhood trends, demographics, lifestyle factors, and buyer behavior to help buyers find the right community and ensure sellers reach the appropriate audience. To Kashan, thorough preparation and education are key to creating a seamless and successful experience.

For Kashan, every client relationship is a long-term connection, not a one-time transaction. He stays in touch through personalized follow-ups, market updates, social media, and regular check-ins, making sure clients always have a trusted resource they can rely on. Looking back, he would remind his younger self to trust the process and not put so much pressure on every outcome. He would still prioritize relationships, keep learning, and continue placing his clients’ best interests first, because those values have remained the foundation of his success.

Giving back is also important to Kashan. He proudly sup