Nfocus Insider's Guide to Realtors

Insider’s Guide TO REALTORS

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Insider’s Guide TO

REALTORS

Welcome to the annual Insider's Guide to Realtors, produced by your friends at Nfocus. Once again, we are introducing you to the region’s top real estate agents. Get to know how they approach their jobs, what sets them apart and read insider tips from the experts on the most important items to consider when selling a home.

Our photoshoots took place inside the dreamy Hotel Fraye, located in the heart of Nashville's iconic Midtown. A balance of pioneering grit and elegant glamour, Hotel Fraye honors Nashville's long-standing traditions in an experience that's all its own.

A special thank you goes to Carla Mathis, Heather Cantrell Mullins, Kellie Benz, Christie Passarello and Angelina Castillo for working hard to make this guide a reality. Keep an eye out for future Insider’s Guides from the team at Nfocus. We’re always working hard to keep you in the know.

Jennifer Trsinar Jezewski

Publisher, Nfocus

Photographer: Angelina Castillo

Writer: Kellie Benz

Editor: Janet Kurtz

Managing Editor: Karin Mathis

Art Director: Christie Passarello

Publisher: Jennifer Trsinar Jezewski

Advertising Solutions Consultants: Carla Mathis, Heather Cantrell Mullins

Location: Hotel Fraye

Addy Biggers

Crye-Leike

Email: addy.biggers@crye-leike.com Phone: 615-522-3848

Addy Biggers is an expert in all things Nashville, having called the city home since 1983. In April 2022, Addy was appointed the Principal Broker for Crye-Leike’s flagship branch in Brentwood. While she works with clients across all stages of life, she’s particularly fond of helping first-time homebuyers. “I find it particularly gratifying to assist those who require additional guidance. Presenting them with the keys to their very own home is an incredibly rewarding experience. It's also enjoyable to witness their personal and professional development in the years following their initial purchase, helping them move to new homes as their circumstances change.”

What is your favorite thing about living or working in Nashville?

My favorite aspect is the opportunity it has given me to become an invaluable asset to my clients. With over 40 years of experience in this city, I possess an extensive knowledge of the area that transcends the closing table: I take great pleasure in identifying which pockets of Nashville would best suit their individual lifestyles and connecting them with that ideal community.

How do you go above and beyond for your clients?

I cultivate enduring friendships with my clients extending well beyond the conclusion of our business transactions. By availing myself to my clients whenever they require aid, even beyond the realm of real estate affairs, I am able to assist them in a multitude of ways. If their needs exceed my expertise, they have faith that I'll connect them with the right experts and the necessary support. I am grateful that my work enables me to serve and assist people.

What is the best advice you offer someone buying/ selling a home?

As an expert in real estate, my biggest piece of advice for someone buying or selling a home is to be patient and thorough in the process. Rushing through the buying or selling process can lead to regrettable decisions or missed opportunities. Take the time to research the market, understand your budget and needs, and work with a trusted real estate professional who can guide you through the process.

What sets you apart from other realtors in the area?

My top priority is always my clients' goals. It's crucial that they feel comfortable and never pressured during the process. One of the things I enjoy most about my job is serving people and being a trusted advisor throughout their real estate journey.

Chris Grimes

Partners in Grimes, a team within Corcoran Reverie

Email: chris.grimes@corcorangroup.com

Phone: 615-250-7880

Chris Grimes took a chance on entering the real estate field during his early career, and now he’s the leader behind the Corcoran Reverie team, Partners in Grimes. Chris and his team feel passionately about a realtor’s role in the home buying and selling process, including disclosure laws and strategies. He shares, “I believe my team and I can be distinguished by our authenticity and transparency to our clients. We genuinely care for each of our clients and put their best interests above our own at all times.”

to make intelligent, informed decisions. Having previously been a principal broker, I have witnessed the aftermath of agents who make decisions for their clients. I swore I would never put my clients in that position, so my team and I work to ensure our clients have the knowledge needed to make the best decisions for their situation.

What drives/motivates you outside of your work?

What's your favorite thing about being a realtor?

My team and I all share the same heart to help our clients achieve their goals whether buying, selling or leasing. We want our clients to feel they’ve had a successful, stress-free experience.

How do you go above and beyond for your clients?

I’ve always believed that clients should be enabled

I find a lot of my motivation in my team. I want to see my team so blessed that their cups overflow, and I want to be a blessing to others around me to the extent that I don’t have to weigh whether or not I can help someone. I want to jump at every opportunity that my heart tells me to, and that dream drives me to work harder.

What is the hardest thing about your job?

The hardest part of my job as a realtor and as the Managing Partner of Partners in Grimes is taking time off from work. I love my job, my team, our clients, and it’s hard to unplug from what I love.

PHOTOGRAPH BY JOEY FAIRWEATHER

PHOTOGRAPH BY TINA DAVIS

Chip Wilkison

Engel & Völkers Nashville Email:

Chip Wilkison is a Nashville native and trusted real estate advisor with Engel & Völkers. With a passion for supporting clients through their real estate journey, Chip shows up every day with kindness, hustle and energy. “I am never resting on my laurels or sitting watching television: I am always checking on market updates and following up with agents on properties.” Chip is committed to building relationships with other realtors and doing everything he can to get clients into their dream home.

What is your favorite thing about living/working in Nashville?

I love that I can say I am a Nashville native. I have been able to see Nashville grow from a sleepy town to a bustling city. One of my favorite things to do is to take an out-of-town client around the city, pointing out how all of the neighborhoods were when I was growing up. I love seeing the excitement of people as they move here.

What is the best advice you offer someone buying/ selling a home?

Know that “when it is meant to be, it is meant to be.” Never force a square through a triangle hole. Also, listen to your realtor. We deal with buying and selling homes every day and navigate the best way to buy and sell. Real estate is like air travel: We get you on the plane, keep you calm, deal with turbulence and land safely.

Do you have a specific area of expertise?

With over 10 years as a real estate advisor and as a Nashville native, I have been able to see neighborhoods and their growth throughout my life. I can spot which neighborhoods are the newest “hot” area and which would be great long-term investments. Nashville has a variety of communities, and I can help you find the exact one that fits you.

What drives/motivates you outside of your work?

Chloe, Thomas and Kate are my Cavalier spaniels, and their bright, shining personalities keep me happy and active. Without my dogs, I don’t know what I would be doing when winding down from my day.

Missy Brower and Sara Ludlam

Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty

Email: missy.brower@zeitlin.com, sara.ludlam@zeitlin.com Phone: 615-476-5455

Missy Brower and Sara Ludlam are a dynamic mother-daughter duo with Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty. Being family themselves, the pair understands that their role is to support clients through one of the most important life decisions. “Home is important to us, and we feel privileged to be part of that process.”

What is your favorite thing about living/working in Nashville?

As native Nashvillians, we love the community. We have parks, restaurants, music, sports and many other industries that make this a diverse place to live and call home. When not working, you can find us with our families on the greenway, at a Titans game or enjoying one of our favorite local restaurants.

How do you go above and beyond for your clients?

Our goal is to make our clients' experience as stress-free as possible. Whether meeting various vendors, previewing properties or helping get their property market-ready, we are here to serve.

Do you have a specific area of expertise?

We don't limit ourselves to one area or neighborhood — from land to lake, country to urban — we love and do it all! Our clients include investors, first-time home buyers, people relocating and long-term clients looking to downsize.

What sets you apart from other realtors in the area?

We are a team in the truest sense of the word, and this allows us to give the most seamless attention to our clients. We pride ourselves on loyalty and commitment to our clients. We also have different networks, affording us a wide net for information marketing.

What is the hardest thing about your job?

Taking time off! We love what we do and find it hard to press pause.

PHOTOGRAPH BY MARY CRAVEN DAWKINS

Sara Ludlam, Missy Brower

Therese E. Winnington

T. Lewis Real Estate & Design LLC

Email: twinnington@icloud.com Phone: 615-545-8700

Therese E. Winnington is a triple threat as an expert in property management, investments, and interior design and development. Growing up in a family rooted in real estate, Therese knew she would inevitably enter the field, so she took her business, T. Lewis Real Estate & Design LLC, one step further to ensure clients were supported before, during and after the home buying process.

What's your favorite thing about being a realtor? The constant daily chaos and unique challenges that are thrown my way.

How do you go above and beyond for your clients? I envision all my clients — whether property management, real estate or design — as long-term relationships. The job doesn't end after the first transaction, rather it begins.

What is the best advice you offer someone buying/ selling a home?

Know your exit strategy! Because no one has a crystal ball that can predict the future, it's good to have multiple strategies.

What's your proudest career accomplishment? My first reaction would be that my proudest accomplishment is winning the top industry awards year after year; however, establishing my brokerage on my own is definitely my proudest career accomplishment.

What sets you apart from other realtors in the area? The ability to handle all facets of the process — from start to finish — under one umbrella.

Griffin Jamerson

Parks Broadwest

Email: griffin@jamersonhomes.com Phone: 615-512-7126

Parks Broadwest agent Griffin Jamerson is a Nashville native, which she feels is a huge asset in her real estate career. “Not only do I know this city like the back of my hand, but I have connections with many trusted vendors and advisors which helps me better serve my clients.” Griffin loves seeing the growth and change throughout the city, and feels lucky to play a part in its progress and development.

What's your favorite thing about being a realtor? I love the investigation and discovery. Nothing excites me more than digging and connecting the dots to find the perfect property for my clients. I don't just wait on a home to pop up on the MLS. A significant amount of our inventory is sold off-market, so knowing how to efficiently source homes, land and investment properties is a huge asset to my clients. I want my buyers to be the first through the door. Plus, my first-hand knowledge of what is going on behind the scenes is an asset to my sellers when creating an effective marketing strategy prior to listing.

How do you go above and beyond for your clients?

No client or property is alike. I am careful to avoid taking a "one size fits all" approach; my team and I curate a plan unique to each buyer and seller so their wants, needs and home are being well represented.

Do you have a specific area of expertise? If so, what? I specialize in luxury homes in Davidson County and investments in the urban core. I have an extensive knowledge of short-term rental investments as well as new construction.

What drives/motivates you outside of your work?

My family, of course! I am so proud of my three beautiful children. They motivate me to work hard and be the best I can be.

What is the best advice you offer someone buying/ selling a home?

Work with an experienced realtor — a qualified realtor will help you save money when you buy and ensure that you are getting top dollar when you sell. In addition, they will make sure that your interests are well protected throughout the process.

Amanda Gleaton, Michelle Maldonado

Michelle Maldonado

Michelle Maldonado Team – Compass Real Estate

Email: michelle.maldonado@compass.com Phone: 615-260-4423

Michelle Maldonado’s real estate journey began in 2005 when she had the opportunity to play a key role in developing a midtown high rise. “I came from a corporate background, and the thought of being such an integral part of the growth of our city and participating in the lives of our 186 residents was beyond exciting. I took a massive leap of faith, and it has been a wonderful journey.” Now, Michelle enjoys educating clients on the city’s growth and its variation from national real estate trends.

What's your favorite thing about being a realtor? It sounds cheesy, but it's my clients. We are a part of their most nerve-wracking, exciting, life-changing times. I love developing trust, working with them to clarify their needs and creating a strategy to get those needs met. Being a part of the relief and joy at the finish line is so special.

What is your favorite thing about living/working in Nashville?

Watching Nashville "grow up" over the last 20 years has been amazing. We now have incredible neighborhoods with unique personalities, a great food scene, awesome entertainment and beautiful architecture. Yet no matter how "grown up" Nashville gets, we've still remembered how to be kind, open and friendly. Our people have always been the best part of our city.

What is the best advice you offer someone buying/ selling a home?

If you do not already work with a trusted agent, interview more than one and ask plenty of questions. You will be spending a lot of time with this person, not to mention trusting them with a financially and emotionally impactful transaction. Find an agent with experience in your area and price point who you trust to have an open dialog. Once you've selected your agent ... trust them and their advice.

Do you have a specific area of expertise?

Our focus encompasses Nashville's urban neighborhoods and down the I-65 corridor into Brentwood and Franklin. My career began with a downtown, high-rise development, and — as my clients moved into more conventional neighborhoods — so did my business. It helps that we've lived in almost every area we sell. From East Nashville and Green Hills to Brentwood and Franklin, we offer first-hand knowledge.

Lisa Peebles

Fridrich & Clark Realty

Email: lisabpeebles@gmail.com

Phone: O: 615-327-4800, C: 615-456-8160

Fridrich & Clark realtor Lisa Peebles jokes that her job title should be Problem Solver. “I pride myself on approaching challenges or adversity with a calm nature and a get-things-done attitude.” Lisa specializes in in-town estates or hobby farms situated outside of Nashville, launching two digital resources for specific buyers looking for luxury or urban options: NashvilleLuxuryEstates.com and NashvilleHighRiseCondos.com.

What's your favorite thing about being a realtor? Real estate is something we all have in common. Everyone needs a place to call home with the best possible location and features to fit their needs. As a realtor, I have the privilege of guiding my clients to their perfect home, and that’s something I will never take for granted. The best part is that this never feels like work.

What is your favorite thing about living/working in Nashville?

Not only is Nashville a beautiful city, there’s a very strong sense of community here, and a genuineness of the people. We seem to attract that as well. I’m meeting such incredible folks who chose to relocate here, and many of them mentioned to me how they immediately felt right at home in Nashville. It is such a gift to meet so many amazing people and to help them find their unique place in our great city.

What is the best advice you offer someone buying/ selling a home?

Just follow the golden rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. On a more practical level, buyers should get pre-approved before they start looking for real estate. Sellers might consider having their home pre-inspected before listing so they can tackle any deferred maintenance or other items that might be discovered. And of course, decluttering and de-personalizing a home — so potential buyers can see themselves in the space — is incredibly helpful.

What sets you apart from other realtors in the area?

I have been in real estate for nearly 18 years, so I have deep ties to the community and many happy past clients. Oftentimes, these connections lead me to properties that do not hit the broader market. Couple those connections with grit and a good work ethic, and you have some key ingredients that pay big dividends for buyers and sellers in Nashville's current climate of low inventory and high demand.

Richard Courtney

Fridrich & Clark Realty

Email: richard@richardcourtney.com Phone: 615-300-8189

Richard Courtney’s real estate experience speaks for itself. He’s spent 44 years in the business, sold nearly 2,000 properties and trained more than 200 agents. “I have not seen it all, but I have experienced more than most,” Richard shares. This experience has taught him a great deal about the fields of advocacy and representation, which guides his client relationships today.

What's your favorite thing about being a realtor?

My favorite thing is meeting new people and introducing them to our city, as well as assisting current residents in the sale or purchase of properties. The real estate industry changes like the weather, so an understanding of local, state and federal legislation is important. I have always been interested in finance, and the financial world fills our plates with opportunities.

How do you go above and beyond for your clients?

I try to monitor financial, legal and legislative issues, as well as all segments of real estate for the entire Midstate and the Sewanee/Monteagle areas. I also work with those buying and selling primary residences, as well as those seeking second homes or investment properties.

What's your proudest career accomplishment?

I have been fortunate to work with many community leaders. My leadership training through the Greater Nashville Association of Realtors gave me the platform to serve on numerous boards, and I chaired the board at Nashville Electric Service on two occasions which was both rewarding and challenging. Serving Safe Haven, Habitat for Humanity, Belcourt, and Room in the Inn has made an impact in my life.

What drives/motivates you outside of your work?

I have fourteen-year-old twins — a boy and a girl — both at Ensworth. Need I say more?

Aaron Kinssies

Parks Broadwest Email: kinssiesaaron@gmail.com Phone: 615-522-5100

Homes, architecture, and interiors have always been a passion for Parks Broadwest realtor Aaron Kinssies. “I’m fascinated with how physical space affects our energy and mood, so guiding people as they find a space that fits their very unique and specific needs is a blast to me.” A music industry veteran, Aaron enjoys living and working in Nashville while helping clients find their homes — whether that’s a high-rise luxury condo downtown or a first-time home that varies across region and price point.

How do you go above and beyond for your clients?

I take immense pride in ensuring my clients understand how their decisions will impact their life and finances. I arm my clients with all the information they need to make the best decision for their situation, and I approach each person with empathy, compassion and understanding as they walk through a stressful process and major decision.

What inspired you to enter real estate?

I worked in the music industry for over 2 decades and had the amazing privilege to represent some incredible artists over the years, including a few very successful names. Real estate had been in the back of my mind for many years, and when the pandemic hit, I took the opportunity to get my license. I honestly didn’t think I would fully make the transition into real estate, but once I started selling properties, I quickly fell in love with it.

What sets you apart from other realtors in the area?

My time representing superstars set me up for success as I represent buyers and sellers. As an artist manager, I represented clients and negotiated some very complex contracts. My understanding of how a contract works has given me the ability to ensure that my buyers and sellers are always protected in this area.

What drives/motivates you outside of your work?

Though I am not currently in my best fighting shape, running is a big part of my life. I’ve done a handful of marathons, and I absolutely love what the process teaches me. The idea of taking something that feels impossible, breaking it down into bite-sized pieces, and then just executing the plan proves that the impossible is actually possible. This bleeds into every aspect of life. When running long distances, there are times you feel like you can’t keep going. But you do. This mentality seeps into every part of life. When I feel like a work situation is too much to handle, this mindset kicks in and drives me to keep going.

PHOTOGRAPH BY TAUSHA DICKINSON

Paula Hinegardner

The Paula Hinegardner Group

Email: phinegardner@me.com Phone: 615-618-1330

After retiring from a successful 20-year corporate career, Paula Hinegardner was motivated to build her own business, and real estate was the perfect way to do that. “I have been lucky enough to receive a multitude of recognitions and awards in my 15 years in real estate, but there is nothing more rewarding than getting a call from a past client, asking me to now help the next generation purchase their first home. Their trust is the biggest honor I could ever receive.”

What is the best advice you offer someone buying/ selling a home?

Buying or selling a home will likely be one of the largest financial transactions you make in your lifetime; because of that, it's important to make sure the person representing you is an experienced, knowledgeable professional with proven results.

Do you have a specific area of expertise? If so, what? While I have clients all over Nashville, I live in Williamson County, so I often find myself working with buyers and sellers in Brentwood, Franklin, College Grove and Arrington. From horse farms in Leipers Fork to golf course living in College Grove and gorgeous Brentwood estates, our community has something for everyone. I love helping people find their perfect fit.

What drives/motivates you outside of your work?

My amazingly patient husband — who I am sure at times feels as though he is living in an episode

of "House Hunters" — and my crazy gang of tennis friends: Each helps keep me present and occasionally they even get me to put down my cell phone!

What sets you apart from other realtors in the area? For my sellers, my team and I take care of all of their pre-listing needs. From painting touch ups, staging/ design, cleaning, handyman projects and curb-appeal landscaping, everything is complimentary — there's never a bill. It's all part of my service. For buyers moving into our area, we try to provide everything necessary for a smooth transition, from taking car and furniture deliveries, meeting the cable guy, and setting up school tours to connecting the new homeowners with contractors and pet sitters. We work hard to make our client's move to Nashville as easy as possible.

Learn more about my Extraordinary Advantage Program: previewnashvillerealestate.com/extraordinary-advantage/

Beth Molteni

Fridrich & Clark Realty, LLC

Email: beth@bethmolteni.com

Phone: O: 615-327-4800, C: 615-566-1610

Beth Molteni, an agent with Fridrich & Clark Realty, LLC, is always up for the unique challenges that come with buying and selling homes. “Each day is different from the last, and when I start my day, I don't always know where it will lead me, but it’s never dull and always rewarding. I love every aspect of the business, from the initial contact with a client, learning their specific needs and wants, and then obsessing over how I can make that happen.”

How do you go above and beyond for your clients?

My love for real estate stems initially from my aptitude and training in marketing, advertising and promotions. For sellers, I go above and beyond in trying to help them get the most for their properties with staging suggestions, beautiful photography, creative marketing ideas, high exposure and ultimate networking capabilities.

With buyers, I try to find that hidden jewel which is just the right home for them, and in order to know that, it is important to read between the lines. If they don't know our city very well, they may not initially know what they are looking for, so I try to get to know them, understand their lifestyle, and ask the right questions. As they look at homes, I call my fellow realtors, friends, and others about houses, lots, condos — any property where I can gather information that my buyer would lack without my help.

Do you have a specific area of expertise? If so, what? I have worked in most of the areas of Middle Tennessee including Davidson, Williamson, Sumner and Rutherford counties. I have a history of working

with developers, builders and clients in the luxury resale market. I have worked with buyers and sellers in a wide range of experience levels.

What sets you apart from other realtors in the area?

I like to be involved in every aspect of the business, from driving buyers around the city to getting homes ready for the market. I love marketing, planning and development. I love to network and research for offmarket or "coming soon" properties, then negotiate for my clients while making the deal work for both sides.

What drives/motivates you outside of your work?

My family is my biggest motivator; they have always been supportive of my career. I remember when my children were little, they would shush each other and say, "Mom is on the phone!" It was most important that I have a flexible work schedule so I could be available to go to school events and spend evenings at home. I wanted to show my children how satisfying a successful career can be as well as the importance of developing skills in order to support themselves or contribute to the family.