#RELENTLESS
What made you choose a career in real estate?
Erika Gaetz
I chose a career in real estate because I’ve always believed that “home” is one of the most meaningful words in any language. It’s where people build their lives, create memories, and feel safe. Helping someone nd that special place—or move on from it with care—feels like a deeply human connection. I’m drawn to the emotional journey behind every transaction, and I feel honored to be part of something so personal and impactful.
How do you stand out from other realtors?
What sets me apart is the heart I put into every relationship. I don’t just see transactions—I see people, stories, and milestones. I take the time to truly listen, understand what matters most to my clients, and walk alongside them through every step of the journey. My goal is to make them feel supported, informed, and cared for—not just during the process, but long after. For me, it’s not about being different for the sake of it—it’s about being deeply genuine in everything I do.
Are there any real estate success stories or role models who inspire your journey?
I’m deeply inspired by real estate professionals who lead with integrity, heart, and a true commitment to service. The ones who treat every client like family, who stay humble no matter how successful they become, and who always make time to give back to their communities. Watching them reminds me that success isn’t just measured in numbers, but in the trust you build and the lives you touch. They’ve helped me shape a vision of my own journey—one that’s rooted in compassion, consistency, and making a meaningful difference every day.
What strategies do you use to keep up on market trends and changes?
To stay current with market trends and changes, I regularly study local market reports, follow trusted industry news sources, and attend professional development workshops. I also stay closely connected with other real estate professionals and local experts, which helps me stay informed and adapt quickly. It’s important to me to always provide clients with the most accurate, up-to-date guidance.
What is you main way to expand your client base?
I grow my database by focusing on building genuine, lasting relationships. Whether it’s through community events, referrals from past clients, or simple conversations where I offer guidance, I always lead with care and authenticity. To me, it’s not just about collecting contacts—it’s about connecting with people, earning their trust, and being someone, they feel comfortable turning to when they or someone they love needs help with real estate.
Do you have any goals for the next 5 years?
Over the next ve years, my goal is to continue growing—not just in numbers, but in knowledge, skill, and heart. Real estate is constantly evolving, and I believe that if you’re not learning, you’re falling behind. I’m committed to staying ahead by continuously educating myself—whether it’s mastering the latest forms, sharpening my social media marketing, deepening client relationships, or simply maturing into a more well-rounded, thoughtful agent. I want to be the kind of professional who adapts with purpose, leads with authenticity, and always shows up with the passion to serve at the highest level.
JERRY HOLTEN
What advice would you give to someone interested in real estate?
Entering a real estate career offers incredible opportunities, but success requires dedication, continuous learning, and strong relationship-building skills. My advice to anyone starting in the industry is to focus on mastering the fundamentals, understanding contracts, market trends, and negotiation strategies. Equally important is developing a client-centered approach, as trust and communication are the foundation of long-term success. Seek mentorship from experienced professionals, stay adaptable in an evolving market, and always approach challenges with persistence and professionalism. The more knowledgeable and client-focused you are, the more rewarding your career will be.
Is there a memorable story you
have
from real estate?
When Marlene, a sweet widow in northern Indiana, asked me to help sell the home her late husband built, she had just one request: “Find someone who’ll love it like we did.” I didn’t just list the house—I made a few calls and found Emma and Luis, a young couple expecting their rst child, who instantly felt a connection. At closing, Marlene handed them a photo album of the home being built. Years later, they still send me holiday cards, thanking me not just for helping them buy a house.
What
does your Real Estate team value most?
Is there anyone that you regard highly or see as a mentor?
Jessica Birkle played a pivotal role in shaping the foundation of my career. Her mentorship provided invaluable guidance, particularly in helping me understand the intricacies of real estate forms and the signi cance of building strong, client-focused relationships. Her dedication to education and professional growth instilled in me the skills and principles that continue to drive my success today. I am incredibly grateful for her support and the knowledge she shared.
How do you prioritize a work-life balance in a demanding field?
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance in a demanding profession requires intentional effort and adaptability. I prioritize this balance by understanding my active clients' schedules and structuring my availability accordingly. By aligning my work with their timelines, I can provide exceptional service while maintaining personal time. Staying in tune with clients' lives fosters strong relationships and allows for a more seamless approach to managing professional and personal commitments. Ultimately, being proactive, setting boundaries, and maintaining e ciency ensure long-term sustainability in this industry.
Do you specialize in a particular market or type of real estate?
We recognize that all types of real estate hold unique value, and our commitment is to ensure our agents are highly knowledgeable across the entire industry. Rather than specializing in a single market segment, we focus on providing comprehensive training that equips our agents to navigate residential, commercial, and investment properties with expertise. This approach allows us to serve a diverse clientele with con dence and adaptability.
What drives your team to be successful?
As an agent on this team, what we value most is shared success through unwavering support. We believe that when one of us wins, we all win — and that mindset is at the heart of everything we do. Answered By:
Our success is driven by a deep passion for building lasting relationships, delivering unmatched service, and creating a legacy of trust and results for every client we serve.
Helen DeArmond