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CHURCH
- NONDENOMINATIONAL
Mosaic Church (228) 875-3500 mosaicgc.com
CLOSING LAW FIRM
Coast Title Company (228) 334-5122 sullivanlawfirmpllc.com
Page, Mannino, Peresich & McDermott, P.L.L.C. (228) 374-2100 pmp.org
SOJ Law
Mark Orgler (228) 832-8550 1226 Hwy. 49 Gulfport, MS 39503 sojlaw.net
CUSTOM COUNTERS
& STONE WORK
The Top Shop (228) 863-5084 topshopgulfport.com
INSURANCE AGENCY
Fassbender Insurance, Inc. (228) 265-5885 fassbenderinsurance.com
Goosehead Insurance - Bill Knox Agency (228) 207-5000 goosehead.com
Mac’s Coastal Insurance, LLC (228) 364-6667 macscoastal.com
United Risk Insurance Agency, Inc.
Cale Merrill (228) 206-3853 2137 E Pass Road, Ste E Gulfport, MS 39507 unitedriskins.com
MORTGAGE LENDER
Community Bank (769) 777-6092 Communitybank.net
Community Bank (769) 777-6092 Communitybank.net
PHOTOGRAPHY
AK Stokes Photography, LLC (601) 270-8298 akstokesphotography.my pixieset.com
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Next Step Property Management (228) 203-3412 www.facebook.com/ nextsteppropertymanagement
REAL ESTATE ORGANIZATIONS eAgent (228) 400-9215 eAgent.com
GCAR (228) 896-3122 gcarealtors.com
ROOFING & ROOF REPAIR
Strong Roofing (228) 313-3997 strongroofs.com
SECURITY / AUTOMATION
Secret Coast Security (228) 215-1345 getsecretcoast.com
SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING
Southern View Media (251) 517-9425 southernviewmedia.com
SUPPORTING BROKERS
Ashman-Mollere Realty, Inc. (228) 216-7864 ashman-mollere.com
Coastal Realty Group (228) 234-2121 coastalrealtygroup.com
TERMITE & PEST CONTROL
Vector Pest Solutions (228) 346-4451 vectorpestsolutions.com
TERMITE INSPECTION
A & M Pest Management (228) 382-0477 www.ampestmanagement.net
Want to pitch, nominate or share a really cool story with our readers? Scan the QR code to share with our Publisher.
BY ROBERT ORSO
“Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away…”
With these simple words, The Beatles captured a feeling that resonates with anyone who has suffered deep loss— be it the death of a spouse, the heartache of divorce, the loss of a child, the pain of a wayward son or daughter, the shock of financial ruin, or the collapse of a lifelong career. “Yesterday” became so popular not just because of its haunting melody but because it voiced what so many feel when life takes a painful turn: life was better before, and we wish we could go back.
does not define today unless we allow it to.
You have a choice: will you live in the shadow of yesterday, or will you choose to live today and step forward into tomorrow?
Choosing to live again does not dishonor the memories of better days; it honors them. It says, “Because those days were good, I will not waste what I have left.” It is okay to remember better times, but we must refuse to give up. We can fight our way back from loneliness, despair, and financial loss by taking small steps: reaching out to someone, serving others in need, setting new goals, or simply getting out of bed and making the next right choice.
Life will never be exactly as it was before your loss. But it can still be good, even if different. Even if your career ended, you can still contribute and build something new. Even if your child is far from you, your love and prayers still matter. Even if you lost your spouse, you can find purpose in honoring their memory by living well.
We all face moments when the shadow of yesterday hangs over today. The memory of laughter around the dinner table before your spouse’s illness, the warmth of a child’s hug before rebellion and distance, or the sense of purpose before the layoff or the business closing—these memories can be both comforting and suffocating. Nostalgia can be a gift that reminds us of the beauty we once had, but it can also become a chain that keeps us from stepping into what God still has for us.
“Yesterday” is a song of longing, but it should not be the song of our lives. We can acknowledge what we have lost, grieve it fully, and still decide that we will not remain there.
We cannot live in yesterday. Time only moves in one direction, and staying stuck in the past will not bring back those moments.
“Yesterday” touches us because it is honest about how quickly everything can change, but we must remember that yesterday
With God’s strength and the courage to take one step at a time, we can move from the shadows of yesterday into the light of today and the hope of tomorrow.
Because life, though changed, is still worth living—and your story is not over.
BY JESS WELLAR • PHOTOS BY VENESSA BOLLINGER
“At Next Level Realty, success isn’t measured solely by numbers, but by the impact we have on each other and our community,” Summer Newman begins. “I want people to know that I genuinely care about helping others rise — because when one of us levels up, we all do.”
That’s not just a soundbite, it’s the radical truth Summer lives and leads by. As the brokerowner of Next Level Realty in Biloxi and 2025 President of the Gulf Coast Association of Realtors (GCAR), Summer brings equal parts boldness and empathy to the table.
Whether she’s mentoring agents, organizing fundraisers, or wrangling a lively household that includes six children and a hobby farm, Summer does it all with purpose, presence, and plenty of personality.
“GCAR actually calls me ‘The Muscle in Heels,’” she says with a chuckle. “I’m loud and colorful and rarely say ‘no.’ You will know when I enter a room.”
Natural Fit
Before she was the dynamic leader of Next Level Realty, Summer was simply a young
mom looking for more. She worked at a temp agency until a full-time opportunity in title came along, giving her a front-row seat to the world of real estate. But it wasn’t until she started helping a family member scout out investment properties that a lightbulb went off after a passing remark from a fellow agent.
“The agent suggested I would be a good fit as a Realtor and was very encouraging. I had never really thought about it before then and it got me curious,” Summer remembers.
“It all unfolded like a domino effect from there,” she explains.
“Real estate felt like a natural fit — I’ve always been in the people business, and connecting with strangers has never been hard for me.”
Once licensed in 2012, Summer found not only a career path but a way to build the life she had always envisioned for herself and her family.
“With small children at home, I wanted a career that allowed flexibility — something that gave
me the opportunity to be present for the everyday moments as well as the milestones,” she shares.
By 2022, Summer obtained her broker’s license and felt ready to do more — not just for herself, but for others.
“I was very happy at my former brokerage, but it felt like this was my next step,” she offers.
With that, Next Level Realty was born, and Summer leaned hard into the culture she wanted to create: “A supportive environment, that’s the key to my business,” she explains. “It’s about helping build your business, not just mine.”
That support-first model is starting to pay off. In 2024, Summer’s
boutique brokerage, still in its early stages, racked up $3.4 million in volume. Currently, Summer has a thriving team of six agents.
She’s quick to point out that experience isn’t everything; what she’s really seeking in potential agents is the right attitude.
“I’m always looking for good people to grow,” she affirms.
“Not necessarily agents with deals under their belt; just someone willing to learn, ask questions, that cares about people, not just transactions.”
A Colorful Calendar
Summer certainly doesn’t shy away from the spotlight, or the work. A GCAR 40 Under 40 honoree in 2019 and the association’s 2023 Realtor of the Year, she’s earned her accolades through consistent advocacy and a relentless schedule. She describes her calendar as
always full and “one that would give most people anxiety.”
But she’s not driven by ego — she’s all about elevation.
“My goal isn’t just to have agents under my brokerage; it’s to help them build the skills, confidence, and business acumen to succeed on their own terms,” she emphasizes.
To that end, Summer prioritizes mentorship and training, often piggybacking on GCAR’s free offerings and ensuring her team is always sharpening their skill sets.
“Education and training are my focus, as I’m really just here to help grow their business,” she affirms. “If they go off on their own after that, it doesn’t offend me. I want to encourage their growth and success’ “
There are no bad days on the water. That’s where I recharge & find peace.”
On The Homefront
At home, Summer is just as much a powerhouse thriving amidst the chaos — but her pace slows down on the water, where she loves to kayak, boat, and fish. “There are no bad days on the water,” she smiles. “That’s where I recharge and find peace.”
She’s been happily married to her supportive husband, Joe, for 14 years and has a bustling household full of six amazing kids: Sarah, Jace, Jayden, Riley, Thomas, and Amelia, and is a proud grandmother of two, Amanda and Charlie.
Summer also stays grounded through community involvement and is a vocal advocate for giving back. As the 2025 GCAR President, she volunteers and fundraises regularly for various organizations, using her platform to support worthy local causes.
Looking ahead, Summer is eyeing growth for her brokerage, maintaining her industry involvement at both the local and state level, all while staying true to the values that define her career: support, mentorship, and integrity.
“I’ll keep advocating for business and property owner rights, because protecting our industry and communities matters deeply to me,” Summer states. “I intend to continue using my voice and experience to help shape the future of real estate in a meaningful way.
“Ultimately, I hope to make a lasting impact; not just through success in business, but by helping others rise, find their footing, and achieve dreams of their own,” she concludes thoughtfully.
BY REBECCA WILSON • PHOTOS BY OUTLAW PHOTOGRAPHY
When life dealt her a pivotal hand, Connie Lea did not fold—she leaned on faith, trusted her instincts, and went all in.
After working as a pit manager, floor supervisor and dealer for over 25 years, Connie was dealt a bad hand—or in this case, a foot—when she found herself with a fractured foot for the third time. Her recurring injury served as a clear sign it was time for a career change—one that did not require her to be on her feet all day. “I wanted a career that was fulfilling and more of a positive environment,” explained Connie.
While home on leave for her injured foot, Connie received a visit from the warranty representative for Elliott Homes—the builder of the home she and her husband, Darren, bought in 2018.
“We started talking and he mentioned there was a sales position available,” Connie stated. “With my prior experience in residential construction, I knew I loved assisting families with their dream of home ownership and had a real passion for homebuilding. So, I talked it over with my husband and he encouraged me to apply,” she added.
Her experience as a residential contractor paid off, as Connie was offered the sales position and joined the Elliott Homes team in 2019. “The transition from a seasoned casino industry professional to a passionate new home advisor has honed my expertise in residential construction, management, and team building,” Connie emphasized.
This career shift gave Connie the perfect opportunity to go “all in” by living out her
core values of faith, honesty, and integrity— while helping others achieve one of life’s biggest dreams: homeownership. It is a role she embraces wholeheartedly, guided by a simple but powerful philosophy: “Always lead with a servant’s heart.”
Connie certainly played the right hand at the right time, stepping into a role where her skills and values aligned seamlessly. Since making that switch, the cards have continued to fall in her favor.
“When I started with Elliott Homes in 2019, a real estate license wasn’t required because I worked directly for the builder,” explained Connie. “But in 2023, they partnered with New Home Star to manage the sales team, and at that point, having a license became a requirement, so I obtained mine.” Then, in July 2025, Connie began working for Meritage Homes.
Since starting in real estate, Connie has been on a winning streak, stacking up success hand after hand.
In 2023, Connie closed 42 transactions totaling approximately $17.7 million, followed by 27 transactions in 2024 at around $8.5 million. As of now in 2025, she has already closed an impressive 15 transactions totaling $5.1 million, with a projected year-end volume of 40 transactions.
Connie was awarded as the Top Sales Agent on her team in 2023, and she ranked #16 out of the Top 25 Realtors for Gulf Coast Real Producers in 2024. In addition to being a realtor, Connie also serves as an outside sales counselor for Meritage Homes.
She credits much of her success to her parents, Joan and Alan Santa Cruz, who instilled in her a strong work ethic, integrity, drive, kindness, compassion, grace, and faith in God.
How Connie defines success is this:
“Success is nurturing a thriving career in real estate sales by helping families find their dream homes. It’s achieving personal financial stability and continuously growing your skills. It’s cherishing your role as a devoted wife, mother, and GiGi, while creating lasting memories and a loving legacy with your family.”
The genuine enthusiasm Connie brings to her work is what sets her apart in the industry, as well as an abundance of gratitude for her career. “I feel so blessed to be in such a rewarding career field,” she shared. “And having the privilege to work alongside an amazing team! I am so grateful for the opportunity that Elliott Homes gave me and the incredible team I have had the privilege of working alongside!”
For future realtors, Connie offers the following advice: “Real estate is hard work, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It will not come easily, and you will have to push yourself in order to become successful. Become a master at building genuine relationships with realtors and prospects, remember to follow up with people, and know your product and your competition. Look out for the best interest of your clients and always lead with a servant’s heart.”
Connie may have walked away from the casino floor, but she is still betting on what matters most: her family, her faith, and the people she serves.
The most fulfilling parts of a career in real estate, according to Connie, are building relationships with clients and colleagues and guiding people through a significant life decision with care and professionalism.
“At the core of my mission lies the buyer’s experience,” Connie shared, referring to her
“I love to compete with myself.”
clients. “I apply a ‘buyer’s perspective’ to enhance the sales journey. This ensures my clients’ needs and aspirations are met with every new home.”
By setting her focus on delivering unmatched service and building strong ties in her community, Connie has mastered the house advantage, turning every transaction into a win for her clients. “At Meritage, our brand promise is ‘Life. Built. Better,’” Connie shared.
Connie’s heart for service extends far beyond her clients. She leads with love in every aspect of her life, such as through her active involvement at Mosaic Church or by supporting both St. Jude’s and Tunnel to Towers charities.
She is also very devoted to her family—her incredible husband, Darren, her five adult children: Justin Johnson and his wife Caitlin, Tyler Jarrett and his wife Yana, Amanda Jarrett and her fiance Aaron Young, bonus daughter Haidyn Lea, and late son Brandon Jarrett (who passed away in 2020 and remains forever in their hearts), and her six grandchildren: Josie, Elana, Brandon, Kayce, Emma and Haven.
“My husband is my biggest supporter and fan. He always gives me the best advice and is my calm during life’s storms,” shared Connie. “My children are my cheerleaders, and I always want to make them proud! Being a Mom has given me such a purpose in life, and watching their successes and them starting their own family is the best reward.”
Connie’s future goals are to be #1 on her sales team and assist more home buyers than the previous year. “I love to compete with myself,” she said jokingly. Connie credits her desire to significantly increase her home sales to the continuous training and growth offered by her new team at Meritage Homes.
Whether it’s the house of God, her family home, or the future home of a client, one thing remains true: When Connie is on your team, the house truly does win.
Get in touch with Connie at (228) 861-0546 or caglea11@meritagehomes.com CONTACT US!
BY
At just 23 years old, Marissa Senter is what some consider a “newer agent” in the world of real estate.
Since starting in real estate at the beginning of 2023, Marissa has already heard many doubtful comments about her career due to her age: that she is too young or lacks experience. “I see older generations speak to the younger generations as if they’re not as valuable because they have less experience,” Marissa stated.
But do not mistake her youth for a disadvantage. Rather than allowing those critical comments to hold her back, they have only fueled her fire.
“I want to emphasize that just because I am much younger than the average realtor (NAR stat says the average age is 60), this does not mean I lack experience, as many have told me. I bring much value to my clients, just as realtors much older than me do,” she asserted.
Marissa’s initial interest in real estate began with a desire to become an investor. “I wanted to learn how others were doing it,” she explained. “I thought, what better way to learn how to invest in real estate than to get my license?”
Before long, that curiosity evolved into a new ambition. “I saw people selling houses for a living on social media and thought, ‘I can do that,’” she added.
While Marissa first stepped into real estate in 2023, it was not until the beginning of 2024—when she joined Elevate Realty full-time— that her potential really began to unfold. “I want to build something bigger than myself,” she said. “Age is just a number and should not define our capabilities.”
For Marissa, success is not about choosing only one path—it is about excelling in many. From her service in the Army National Guard to her continued education and real estate accomplishments, her results reflect a mindset built on ambition.
In November 2019, Marissa enlisted part-time in the Army National Guard and has been activated several times since. From January 2021 to May 2024, she also attended the University of Southern Mississippi as a full-time college student, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in history. “I’m continuing both my education and military service to this day—while building my real estate career,” Marissa shared. “I’ll be starting my master’s courses soon and courses to obtain my brokerage license.”
All the while, Marissa’s real estate career has been gaining impressive traction, closing 10 transactions totaling around $1.8 million in 2024 and already in line to nearly double that volume in 2025.
She is even operating as a mentor at Elevate Realty for new agents. “I show brand new agents how to lead generate, write contracts, and build motivation,” explained Marissa.
One quality that makes Marissa stand out among other agents is her ability to invoke change in the industry, which she does by way of social media. “Open houses sell houses. House tours on Instagram and Facebook sell houses. Cold calling sells houses. However, I believe there’s a lot of untouched potential in our market when it comes to social media,” she confessed.
“I think the Gulf Coast might even be the next Austin or Dallas, but most agents are not using social media to their advantage,” said Marissa. “Every million dollar listing should be having videography all over social media.”
What Marissa finds most fulfilling about her career in real estate is helping people get to their next chapter. “A
lot of home buyers think they can’t achieve ownership, but there are so many resources people don’t even know about,” she shared. “What I also find fulfilling is changing things up— changing the game of real estate and how it’s bought and sold. Constantly becoming creative in how to evolve the business is inspiring!”
“I believe that if you are fulfilled through your work, you are successful,” defined Marissa. “For some, that may mean working a 9-5 and living a simple life to fund their hobbies. For others, that may mean building a business, and giving others opportunities,” she added.
“You can wake up and make a ton of money, but if you have no one to share it with, it doesn’t seem as valuable,” she asserted. For me, maintaining an education and having different avenues is what fulfills me. To me, success is being able to treat my family to nice vacations, and setting my future generations up for success as well.”
Guided by Grit Ambition may fuel her journey, but grit keeps it going. Marissa’s values guide her every decision, and her vision for the future is built on purpose, persistence, and service.
One of her core values is selfdetermination—believing that no obstacle, background, or doubt can dictate your future. “Do not let your challenges or where you came from define you,” she affirmed. “My advice to any new agent getting started in real estate: pick up the phone and talk to people—but be ready to hear 100 no’s for every one yes.”
In the world of real estate, Marissa is just getting started and her future looks bright. “My short term goals are to stay active on social media, nail down my routine, and build systems to optimize my business. Long term, I’d like to build out a team of my own, earn a couple more degrees, retire early (a.k.a. travel a lot more), and own a large rental portfolio,” she shared.
Get in touch with Marissa at (228) 6973938 or marissenter@gmail.com
Outside of real estate, Marissa enjoys spending time with her husband of nearly four years, Tyler. Together, they keep busy with their lively household— which includes their red husky named Autumn, seven ducks, and 17 chickens.
“I also have many hobbies,” Marissa said. “I workout regularly. I read and run a book club that meets monthly, called Caffeinated Bookaholics. I actively attend Harvest Church in Gulfport and maintain my own harvest at home— a garden with tomatoes, watermelons, peppers, beans, and sunflowers. I also just started my next venture, making sourdough.”
Whether wearing camouflage or writing closings, harvesting produce or planting seeds for her future, Marissa is always intentional with her time. With endless loyalty to her clients, constant commitment to growth, and unwavering grit, Marissa is proving that the only age that matters is the age of ambition.
When Jarrod Blakeman first stepped into the pest control industry, it was meant to be temporary. A skilled carpenter by trade, Jarrod saw his construction career impacted by the 2008 market crash, and he needed something—anything—to help make ends meet while the dust settled.
“I thought it would just hold me over until things picked back up,” Jarrod recalls. “But I ended up being really good at it—and I’ve been in it ever since.”
Now 16 years later, Jarrod is the proud owner and operator of Vector Pest Solutions, a one-man business dedicated to solving pest problems thoroughly and professionally. What began as a short-term job quickly became a long-term passion, fueled by his natural aptitude and a desire to serve customers the right way.
Learning the Business, Building the Dream
Jarrod’s early years in the pest control field included a stint with a company based out of Jackson. But their lack of commitment to the Gulf Coast left him wanting more.
“They were more focused on Jackson, and I just didn’t feel like the coast was a priority,” he explains. “So I started working for a local company, and I stayed there for 13 years.”
Even then, owning his own business was always the end goal. But as Jarrod admits, making the leap from a steady paycheck to self-employment takes guts.
“You get comfortable,” he says. “Leaving that behind to start something from scratch is a huge risk. But I finally made that leap—and I’ve never looked back.”
One Man, All In At Vector Pest Solutions,Jarrod prides himself on being thorough, attentive, and responsive to his customers’ needs—especially when working with real estate agents and clients in the middle of property transactions.
Solving Problems, One Home at a Time For Jarrod, pest control is more than spraying and setting traps. It’s about being a problem solver—someone clients can trust to resolve issues quickly, effectively, and completely.
“Solving problems is really my best skill,” he says. “That’s what I enjoy most about what I do.”
That skill is especially valuable in real estate, where multiple parties—buyers, sellers, agents, tenants—often need clear answers fast.
“LEAVING THAT BEHIND TO START SOMETHING FROM SCRATCH IS A HUGE RISK. BUT I FINALLY MADE THAT LEAP—AND I’VE NEVER LOOKED BACK.”
“Being thorough and working around people’s schedules is key,” Jarrod says. “Real estate transactions have a lot of moving parts. I try to make my part of the process as smooth and dependable as possible.”
While Jarrod is great at his work, what really stands out is how deeply he cares for the people he serves. Many of his longtime clients refer to him not just as “my bug man,” but as a friend. I enjoy the relationships I’ve built over the years.”
Jarrod is the type of service provider who goes the extra mile without being asked.
Away from work, Jarrod is a dedicated family man. He and his wife Maria will soon be celebrating 13 years of marriage, and they are raising their 8-year-old daughter, Olivia, who turns nine in October. Between running a business and being a present husband and father, free time is limited—but meaningful.
“Between work and family, that’s full-time everything,” Jarrod says. “And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Staying True to Himself
In an age where social media and selfpromotion are expected parts of running a business, Jarrod admits he’s still learning how to put himself out there more. But when it comes to his reputation, he hopes people see what’s always been there: integrity, reliability, and a genuine heart.
“My hope is that people describe me as someone they trust—someone who shows up, does the job right, and cares about them as people,” he says.
For Jarrod Blakeman, success isn’t about shortcuts or flashy gimmicks. It’s about relationships, results, and doing right by others—one home, one client, and one solution at a time.
Anthony Sheffield – Ashman-Mollere Realty, Waveland
“I am thrilled to share my positive experience with Gulf Coast Real Producers. Their dedication to showcasing the best in the real estate industry is truly commendable. The quality of their content and the spotlight they provide on local professionals have significantly boosted our visibility and buisness. Thank you! I would also like say Thanks to all who support them; your partnership is invaluable.”
Anna Kral - Kral Realty, Gautier
“I am deeply appreciative of the free spotlight in the Gulf Coast Real Producers magazine. I am grateful for the opportunity to showcase my commitment to excellence and service in the real estate community. Thank You for highlighting my story and my achievements!”
Randy Richardson –Century 21, Gulfport
“Working with Robert Orso at Real Producer Magazine was an exceptional experience. He introduced me to the talented photographers Yvone and Carl Fallo, as well as the skilled writer, Jess Wellar. Collaborating with them was truly enjoyable. Through a casual conversation, Jess transformed the discussion into an insightful and comprehensive article. She was able to capture both my professional growth and personal journey. I was very pleased with the experience and article.”
Susanne Ashman – Ashman-Mollere Realty, Waveland
“I absolutely love Gulf Coast Real Producers It surpasses the traditional role of a magazine; instead, it acts as a driving force behind the ongoing expansion of the Gulf Coast real estate realm. Grounded in its commitment
to excellence, passionate acknowledgment of accomplishments, and steadfast dedication to its community, Gulf Coast Real Producers stands out as an invaluable ally for real estate professionals throughout the region. I would like to thank each buisness that supports the production of this valuable resource for us.”
Sandi Pickard – Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty, Gulfport
“I was honored to be on the cover of the Real Producers magazine in December 2023. I will have to say that since then the magazine has had a positive impact on my business as it relates to relationships with other agents. I feel that knowing and communicating with your fellow agents is very important in our industry and that is what the Real Producers magazine gives us the opportunity to do. It gives us information on the skills and interests of our realtors that helps us to build those relationships, which is so important. Reading the articles that share agents’ in-debt stories are very.” interesting and we find out that we all share some common interests and work ethics. Robert and his team are the best at showcasing the talent we have in our agents here on the Ms. Gulf Coast.
Christine Hudson – The Worth It Group at Keller Williams
“I am very pleased with my feature in Gulf Coast Real Producers magazine and appreciate the hard work and effort put into it. As realtors, we are very appreciative of having a magazine offered to us for free and supported by great businesses like home inspectors, insurance companies, and banks, to name a few. We greatly appreciate all of you.”
I also appreciate the magazine highlighting those businesses that support our industry. I really enjoy that the Top Producer magazine highlights the best in the industry of the businesses that we need to support our real estate transactions. These businesses mean a lot to us and reading about them in this magazine really helps us in choosing the best of the best when we need them.”
Richard Reynolds –Keller Williams, Gulfport
I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the feature in Real Producers magazine. It was an honor to be highlighted in such a prestigious publication that is dedicated to celebrating the achievements and stories of real estate professionals.
The article captured my journey and dedication to the real estate industry perfectly. The professionalism and attention to detail exhibited by your team throughout the process were exceptional. The feature has not only boosted my visibility in the market but also reinforced my commitment to providing the best service to my clients.
Thank you for the opportunity to share my story with your readers. Being part of Real Producers has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I look forward to continuing to engage with your inspiring content.
Welcome to Real Producers! Some of you may be wondering what this publication is all about, which is why we have created this FAQ page. Here, we will answer the most commonly asked questions from around the country regarding our program. My door is always open to discuss anything regarding this community — this publication is 100% designed to be your voice!
Q: Who Receives This Magazine?
A: The top 300 agents in the Gulf Coast Area. We pulled the MLS numbers (by volume) from Jan. 1, 2022, through Dec. 31, 2022, in the MS Gulf Coast market. We cut the list off at number 300, and the distribution was born. For this year’s list, the minimum production level for our group is $5 million in 2022. The list will reset at the end of 2023 for next year and will continue to update annually.
Q: What Is The Process For Being Featured In This Magazine?
A: The process is simple. Every feature you see has first been nominated. You can nominate REALTORS®, agents, affiliates, brokers, owners, or even yourself. Office leaders can also nominate real estate agents. We will consider anyone you bring to our attention because we don’t know everyone’s story, and we need your help to learn more.
Q: Who Are The Preferred Partners?
A nomination currently looks like this: Email us at robert. orso@realproducersmag.com with the subject line “Nomination: (Name of Nominee)” and explain why you are nominating the individual. Maybe the person has an amazing story that we need to tell, or perhaps someone overcame extreme obstacles, is an exceptional leader, has the best customer service, or gives back to the community in a big way. The next step is an interview with us to ensure a good fit, and then we put the wheels in motion for our writer to conduct an interview and for our photographer to schedule a photo shoot.
Q: What Is The Cost To Feature A Realtor®, Agent, Or Team?
A: Zero, zilch, zippo, nada, nil. The feature costs nothing, my friends, so nominate away! We are not a pay-toplay model. We share real stories of Real Producers.
A: Anyone listed as a preferred partner in the front of the magazine is a part of this community and will have an ad in every issue of the magazine, attend our quarterly events, and be a part of our online community. We don’t just find these businesses off the street, nor do we work with all businesses that approach us. One or many of you have recommended every preferred partner you see in this publication. We won’t even meet with a business that you have not vetted and stamped for approval, in a sense. Our goal is to create a powerhouse network for the REALTORS® and agents in the area and for the best affiliates so we can grow stronger together.
Q: How Can I Recommend A Preferred Partner?
A: If you have a recommendation for a local business that works with top real estate agents, please let us know. Send an email to robert.orso@realproducersmag.com.
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