New Orleans Real Producers January 2021

NEW ORLEANS

C O N N E C T I N G .

E L E VAT I N G .

I N S P I R I N G .

COVER STORY

BLAINE TATJE of Team Tatje at Keller Williams Realty Making the Journey Enjoyable Cover Photo by Lacy Daviller of Davillier Photography and Graphics

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT: Fleur De Lis Title Company MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Chris Genard of Genard Companies REAL STORY: Coniece Allen-Brown of HomeSmart Realty South RISING STAR: Chris Bergeron of ZMD Realty PETS OF REAL PRODUCERS: RAM Properties of Keller Williams Realty and Gary, the Male Bighorn Sheep Plus articles by Stephen Emmons, Jason B Horne and a Question of the Month

JANUARY 2021

Title Insurance

EXPERTS Get the peace of mind you deserve.

Ring in the New Year

with a New Home!

It is a new year! Why not start it off right by choosing a lender who cares we take pride in helping our customers finance the home of their dreams.

We are available to assist you throughout all aspects of the loan process. We have the tools and expertise to make your home buying process simple and worry free. Give us a call today and let us help you start the year off right.

Purchase |

“True Title does a great job!!! The attorneys and staff are very knowledgeable and accommodating. My home buyers are always pleased with the service they provide. Thank you for all of your help!!”

-James P. - Realtor®

| First Time Buyer | Renovation | Conventional | Jumbo | FHA | VA | USDA

(504) 292-3443 www.LendNola.com 650 Poydras Street, Suite 2010 New Orleans, LA 70130 Branch NMLS: 1147595

¡Se habla español!

Providing quality service to our customers since 1998.

Armand Alvarez

Kandice Legleu

Licensed Loan Partner | NMLS # 1710242

Loan Partner

True Title Westbank 901 Derbigny Street Gretna, LA 70053 (504) 368-1118

Branch Manager | NMLS # 1301823 AR Lic # 116370, GA Lic # 66216 MS Lic # 1301823, VA# MLO-44231VA

InterLinc Mortgage Services, LLC. NMLS ID: 205696. Arkansas Combination Mortgage Banker-Broker-Servicer License ID #103543. Georgia Mortgage Lender License ID #42026. Louisiana Residential Mortgage Lending License NMLS ID# 205696. Mississippi Mortgage Lender License ID #205696. Licensed by the Mississippi Department of Banking and Consumer Finance. Licensed by the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending (SML) Mortgage Banking Registration | Virginia Lender License ID #MC-6620. InterLinc is an Equal Housing Lender.DISCLAIMER: This is not a commitment to lend. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Other restrictions may apply. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org. *Notice Complaints - http://interlincmortgage.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/TX_Notice_Complaints.pdf

2 • January 2021

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

True Title Eastbank 110 Veterans Boulevard Suite 525 Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 309-1030

www.TrueTitle.net

New Orleans Real Producers • 3

TAB LE OF

CONTENTS 12

18

22

Partner Spotlight: Fleur De Lis Title Company

Rising Star: Chris Bergeron of ZMD Realty

A Guide to Transforming Your Business to Maximize Productivity

24

27

28

Making A Difference: Chris Genard of Genard Companies

Staying Real Safe With Master Jason B. Horne

Pets of Real Producers: Gary the Male Bighorn Sheep

32

32 36

40

Real Story: Story Coniece AllenBrown of HomeSmart Realty South

What charitable organizations have your heart?

Cover Story: Blaine Tatje of Team Tatje

If you are interested in contributing or nominating Realtors for certain stories, please email us at julian.landry@realproducersmag.com.

DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a Real Producers but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the New Orleans Real Producers magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies.

4 • January 2021

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 5

MEET THE NEW ORLEANS REAL PRODUCERS TEAM

Julian Landry

Lori Landry

Owner/Publisher

Alysha Garner Ad Manager

Account Executive

Dave Danielson Writer

Kayla Perrault

Lacy Davillier

Account Executive

David DeSue

Publishing Assistant

Photographer

Noel Marcantel Photographer

ecko360 Estates/ ecko360 Media Videographer

BECKY ROBERTS 985-847-0570

broberts@stanmor.com Slidell • NMLS# 315911

THE RIGHT WAY HOME... FOR ALL THE RIGHT REASONS Local In-House Processing, Underwriting, and Servicing METAIRIE

1401 Gause Blvd.

Slidell, LA 70458

110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 430 Metairie, LA 70005

NEW ORLEANS

MANDEVILLE

701 Poydras St., #110 Plaza New Orleans, LA 70139

2 Sanctuary Blvd., Suite 201 Mandeville, LA 70471

www.stanmor.com 6 • January 2021

eweller@stanmor.com

Mandeville • NMLS# 1017645

Partner with us and let us show you how we've built a solid organization with nearly a century of real estate experience!

SLIDELL

ERIC WELLER 985-778-2807

EMILY PAULE 504-828-2990

epaule@stanmor.com Metairie • NMLS# 1035917

STACIE KERRY 504-828-2994

skerry@stanmor.com

Metairie • NMLS# 1716663

KASEY SARTIN 504-569-3782

ksartin@stanmor.com

New Orleans • NMLS# 260580

JAMES TOPPING JR. 504-569-3781

SOUTHSHORE TEAM

SINCE 1925

NMLS#44912

NORTHSHORE TEAM

If you are interested in contributing or nominating REALTORS® for certain stories, please email us at julian.landry@realproducersmag.com

jtopping@stanmor.com

New Orleans • NMLS# 1763757

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 7

PREFERRED PARTNERS

This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the REALTOR® community!

APPRAISER Bryant Appraisal Services LLC Rosalyn Bryant (504) 828-2779 AUTOMOBILE SALES & SERVICE Porsche of New Orleans (504) 832-2112 porscheofneworleans.com CLOSING GIFTS Synergy Gifting Group at Cutco Closing Gifts Lori Reyna Landry (916) 420-2540 www.SharpBrandingTools. com EXTERIOR CLEANING SERVICE Safe Wash Solutions (985) 789-8018 safewashsolutions.com GENERAL CONTRACTOR Professional Construction & Restoration Stephen Emmons (504) 738-7380 HOME INSPECTION Axelrad & Associates Home Inspection (504) 799-9401 www.AxelradHome.com House Call Ed Rowley and Bill Harris (504) 888-7378 HouseCallUSA.net

8 • January 2021

HOME WARRANTY Home Warranty of America Lydia Hodges (985) 869-6111 www.HWAHomeWarranty. com Old Republic Home Protection Webb Wartelle (225) 241-2088 www.ORHP.com INSURANCE Riverlands Insurance Gabe Corchiani (985) 331-2766 MARTIAL ARTS XS Martial Arts Dojo Jason Horne 2000 Earhardt Blvd., Ste B New Orleans, LA 70113 (504) 558-9850 MORTGAGE Angel Oak Home Loans (504) 319-9186 www.AngelOakHomeLoans. com Eustis Mortgage Sunny Shannon (504) 905-4881 www.EustisMortgage.com/ Sunny-Shannon

NOLA Lending Group, A Division of Fidelity Bank (800) 220-2497 www.NOLALending.com Standard Mortgage Corporation (504) 569-3695 www.StanMor.com MORTGAGE LENDING InterLinc Mortgage Services Alex Shafirovich (504) 292-3443 www.InterlincMortgage. com/GNO MOVING / PACKING Hug-Condon Moving & Storage (504) 733-1483 www.HugCondon.com PHOTOGRAPHY Davillier Photography and Graphics Lacy Davillier (504) 821-2666 davillierbranding.com PHOTOGRAPHY PORTRAITS & HEADSHOTS Noel Marcantel Photography Noel Marcantel (504) 323-9317 www.NoelMarcantel.com

REAL ESTATE VIDEO & PHOTOGRAPHY ecko360 Estates (833) 325-6360 ecko360Estates.com TITLE COMPANY Fleur De Lis Title Jeff LeSaicherre (985) 277-5550 Homestead Title (504) 581-6427 www.HomesteadTitleCorp. com True Title - Gretna Office (504) 368-1118 www.TrueTitle.net True Title - Metairie Office 504-309-1030 www.TrueTitle.net TRANSACTION COORDINATOR Executive Lady 504-669-4703 www.theexecutivelady.com UTILITY CONCIERGE Utility Boss Tyler Chapman (985) 981-3252 www.UtilityBoss.net VIDEO PLUMBING INSPECTIONS Tunnel Vision Video Inspections Sharon Polizzi (504) 885-8761 TunnelVision01.com

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 9

NOTE

PUBLISHER’S

Every year we update our mailing list to include the Top 500 Real Estate Agents in Greater New Orleans from the previous year based on independent data estimates. If you’re receiving this publication, it’s because you cracked the top 500 list for 2019, or manage a brokerage with agents on the list — so congratulations!

For those of you who have been receiving this publication for a while, it means you’ve consistently ranked within the top 10% of the Greater New Orleans Real Estate industry, or run a top-notch brokerage in the area. We hope you’ll be proud to receive this exclusive publication, attend our events, and connect with the other top producers.

In case you’re wondering, all of the agents featured are based solely on nominations and featured entirely for free (there’s no “pay to play� for agent feature articles). If you have an agent or business that you would like to see featured, please email us at julian.landry@realproducersmag.com.

This publication is being provided to you FREE OF CHARGE as a top producer in real estate — the cost of producing, printing, and mailing each magazine is covered by the advertising partners. If you’re ever in need of topnotch services, we hope you’ll turn to our partner index for recommendations, as each has been thoroughly vetted, and contributes significantly to help produce the New Orleans Real Producers platform. Our partners can be found in the index of this magazine.

The events and publications are designed to increase social connections between top REALTORSÂŽ and top affiliates so that the best of the best can grow their businesses together.

It is our goal that our events create a culture where there is no “hard selling� and rather a culture of relationship-building on a more intimate level.

BRING YOUR WEBSITE TO LIFE!

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR 2021?

For more information on our platform, visit our Facebook or Instagram page or email julian.landry@realproducersmag.com.

Let us help you reach them.

Inside This EditionÂ

This month’s edition includes the stories of featured agents Blaine Tatje with Keller Williams Realty, a Rising Star feature on Chris Bergeron ZMD Realty, a REAL Story on Coniece Allen-Brown of HomeSmart Realty South, a Pets of Real Producers feature on RAM Properties Group at Keller Wiliams Realty, a Making a Difference article on Chris Genard with Marquee Real Estate, and a Partner Spotlight on Fleur De Lis Title. Additionally, we have articles by Jason B Horne and Stephen Emmons.

Your business should be bringing in more leads but your website is holding you back! www.digitaln2.com

10 • January 2021

 �

 Â

Â?

Â?

Â?Â?

Â

With gratitude, Julian Landry Owner/Publisher New Orleans Real Producers julian.landry@real producersmag.com

Virtual Transaction Coordinators + PLUS

Necole S. Weaver

Cell: (504) 669-4703 | Office: (225) 435-9815 www.theexecutivelady.com @realproducers

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 11

Fleur De Lis Title Company

At Fleur De Lis Title, our roots run deep, founded with a vision of taking care of our clients and the people who call the Fleur De Lis home.

Built on this foundation, our attorneys work directly with agents and lenders, allowing them to be more responsive and more effective at all phases of the closing process. As a result, our processors are freed up to provide more accurate and timely information to ensure every closing goes as smoothly as possible.

MORE THAN JUST A TITLE COMPANY

Under the leadership and vision of CEO Jeff LeSaicherre, Fleur De Lis has grown to be one of Louisiana’s largest title companies, focusing on local offices managed and operated by local attorneys with direct ties to the community. Our growth results from how we treat the agents and lenders we serve, providing them an alternative to more traditional and often dated ways of doing business.

partner spotlight From left to right, Parker Ryan, Matthew Long, Tiffany Hanna, John Stephens, Cristin Barr, Stephen Scherer, Jeff LeSaicherre, Jared Miguez, Carling Lee, Coby Venable, Dylan Yesso, Blake Guidry, Doug Harper, Lauren Navarre (not pictured Jenna Fugarino)

Written by Molly Daigle Photos by Lacy Davillier of Davillier Photography and Branding

12 • January 2021

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 13

By choosing Fleur De Lis Title, we can help mitigate costly delays and avoidable issues that can lead to a failed transaction or financial hardships.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that there is no choice in choosing which title company represents you at closing, often going with whoever your agent or lender decides upon. At Fleur De Lis, we never want our clients to trust us because they were told to trust us, but rather because we earned it. This comes from providing a professional and reliable service and a transparent and informative way of communicating what we do and how what we do benefits you as our client.

We take great pride in the trust we have earned over the years and want our clients to be able to count on us the next time they buy or sell a home or investment property or when it comes to the civil practice of law.

The Fleur Des Lis Civil Law Division supports our title work while offering our clients additional services that fall within their lifelong legal needs. These needs can include writing a will to protect your family and loved ones in the events of the unthinkable or helping with the formation of a new company to ensure you are covering the essential needs for future growth and success.

Our ability to anticipate changes in the marketplace and remain at the forefront of evolving technologies has made our emphasis on being a trusted resource even more relevant as the world continues to change.

Our goal with having a Civil Law Division is to be our client’s title lawyers and their legal guides through every phase of their lives. Whether it’s through comprehensive estate planning, successions, business formations, or other contract matters, our Civil Law Division at Fleur De Lis Title helps ensure that you, your family, and your business are always protected and prepared for the future.

As a company, we are successful when our clients are successful, and that success can only come with a proven process.

Here, it’s called the Fleur De Lis Way. While many facets make up our process, it begins and ends with our team of attorneys and their commitment to being a trusted and easily accessible resource throughout every phase of any given transaction.

For many, the purchase or selling of a home or property is one of the biggest financial decisions they will ever make, and the last thing anyone wants is for there to be a problem at the closing.

14 • January 2021

FLEUR DE LIS CIVIL SERVICES:

As a company, we are successful when our clients are successful, and that success can only come with a proven process.

Here, it’s called the Fleur De Lis Way.

@realproducers

Wills, Trusts, Comprehensive Estate Planning Business Formation, Business Structuring, Contracts Powers of Attorney and Other Special Mandates Succession and Probate Matters Property Litigation

985-277-5550 | orders@FDLtitle.com | FDLtitle.com

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 15

Protecting What Matters Most "His customers definitely come first. He is the first person that comes to mind when I need something in a pinch. Most of my clients who finance through Interlinc continue to work with Gabe.”

- Kiley Martin, REALTOR®

Residential & Commercial

Homeowners | Renters | Flood | Auto | & MORE!

Contact me today for a FREE quote!

Gabe Corchiani

504-444-1880 | gcorchiani@rivins.com Born and raised in New Orleans.

Insuring my community since 2010.

Could your social media presence use a boost?

Low engagement? Few to no likes or comments? Feel like there is never enough time?

We get it! Use our service to maximize your social media engagement, and attract your dream clients with curated New Orleans imagery, conversation starter captions, hashtags, and smart planning.

FREE Lifetime Home Binder with Every Inspection!

Get started for just $39/month!

Got Questions? Email info@abouttownsocial.com

www.abouttownsocial.com

axelradhome.com

Follow me @lacyddavillier

Serving Greater Metropolitan New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Southeast Louisiana, including Northshore.

Lacy Davillier, Photographer + Strategist 16 • January 2021

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

License # 10822

•Thorough Reporting •Pre-Listing Inspections •Combined 41 Years in the Industry •Top-Reviewed •Multiple Inspectors per Inspection

New Orleans Real Producers • 17

ADDING HARMONY When Chris Bergeron sets out to help someone, he’s not in it for a few days or a few weeks. He’s there for good.

As a Team Leader and REALTOR® with The Bergeron Team with ZMD Realty, Chris has a long-term view of what it means to be there for people. Even well beyond the deal at hand, there’s no doubt about it. He’s staying on their side and adding harmony.

“I really try to put my clients first. They know they can call me anytime, and I will help them try to solve their problems,” Chris emphasizes. “I take service very seriously. I am there beyond the process. We become like family. I’m the kind of guy who will be there.”

rising star Written by Dave Danielson Photos by Noel Marcantel of Noel Marcantel Studios

I love helping kids learn and donate money to organizations that provide those services to kids who really need to be able to have that outlet.

Hometown Success Story

Chris Bergeron

Chris began his real estate adventure about three and a half years ago. But his story begins years earlier.

“I was born and raised here. New Orleans is the most perfect city, in my opinion,” he smiles. “I went to Loyola and got my degree in music education.”

Starting in 2013, Chris worked for several years as a music teacher and band director in local schools. In fact, he is Co-Founder of the New Orleans Volunteer Orchestra, a group he is still heavily involved in.

A Natural Next Step

Real estate seemed to be a natural extension of the interests and experience Chris had.

“I was a teacher for so long, but I’ve always had a business side of me, along with a really strong

O F Z M D R E A LT Y

18 • January 2021

@realproducers

In time, Chris decided to take action toward a path he had considered off and on. He earned his real estate license and got his start.

As Chris says, “I’ve always loved meeting new people and hearing their stories. I love helping first-time homebuyers find their dream home.

It feels good helping people who are renting or living with parents and who are looking to start their lives together and begin building new memories together.”

realproducersmag.com

entrepreneurial side,” he says. “I started the orchestra in 2012, and since then, I’ve been the conductor and director. I run all of the accounts, make the ticket sales, and make sure the budget is right. Real estate was interesting to me. It’s another direct way to help people and the community.”

During his relatively young real estate career, Chris has definitely been hitting all the right notes.

During his first year in 2018, he recorded $3 million in sales volume.

The next year, in 2019, he doubled that with $6 million. And in 2020, he has turned up the volume on production with an estimated $10 million in sales volume. In the meantime, Chris has helped many families and has even helped one of his family members pursue a new career path.

New Orleans Real Producers • 19

PROTECTING THE HEALTH OF YOUR HOME His brother, Justin, saw Chris’s success and has since earned his real estate license and has started his own path as a REALTORŽ.  Life’s High Notes

Away from real estate, Chris cherishes time spent with his family, including his wife, Jennifer, a professional violinist who he met through the New Orleans Volunteer Orchestra, and their 15-month-old son, Dominic.  Chris has a natural love of music that runs very deep. He also enjoys traveling to Florida when he can to spend as much time as possible at the beach.  Giving back is central to Chris’ nature.

As you might guess, he has a special place in his heart for groups that support children and music, including afterschool music instruction programs.  As he says, “I love helping kids learn and donate money to organizations that provide those services to kids who really need to be able to have that outlet.�  Chris also plays a central role in continuing the New Orleans Volunteer Orchestra. In fact, Chris conducts the

20 • January 2021

orchestra, an organization of 70 musicians that perform symphonic arrangements and even parts of operas. Plus, the group also includes a full choir of 40 artists. All told, the group of 110 represents people of all ages, from 15 to 85. Â Passion for Life

When you talk with Chris, you see the passion he has.  “It’s a non-profit group that gives mostly adults an outlet to play their instruments. Plus, we do a lot of outreach with kids,� he says. “We sponsor guest soloists.�  Chris and Jennifer are very involved in supporting the arts.  “We like going to the opera or taking in a Broadway show. We love giving back to the music scene here, and donating time and money to help music continue to thrive here,�

Chris explains. “Jazz is natural that a lot of people think about with New Orleans, but we also sponsor classical music and are working to move that back into the mainstream of New Orleans, as well.â€? Â

Chris continues to grow in life and business. He recently earned his MBA from LSU.  “I want to continue improving the way I serve people,� he says. “So, with my degree, it has helped me learn more about the detailed aspects of business, including finance and accounting, with an emphasis on entrepreneurship and family enterprise.�  As Chris thinks about the work he does with his real estate business, he reflects on the sense of harmony that is so important to him.  As he explains, “Real estate can obviously be a very stressful transaction.

My hope for what I do as a REALTORŽ is to do whatever I can to help my clients get through that by calming them down and taking as much of that burden from them as I can.�  Day by day, Chris does his part to add true harmony to the people around him ‌ making their lives richer and helping them achieve their dreams.

@realproducers

Need a home inspection report fast?

We provide instant results with on-site reporting!

Bill: 504-496-1505 ¡ Ed: 504-388-3870 www.housecallusa.net

Our Team’s #1 Goal is our Customers’ Complete Satisfaction

HOME INSPECTION | TERMITE & PEST CONTROL | VIDEO PIPE INSPECTION

504.828.2779 www.bryantappraisalservices.com rosalynb@bryantappraisalservices.com

Left to right: Bill, Tiff and Ed

Ask about our listing consultation.

FULL SERVICE RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE APPRAISERS

We take pride in our accuracy and personal commitment to each client. realproducersmag.com Call us today to find out why WE are referred for a reason!

New Orleans Real Producers • 21

3. Be Efficient and Effective.

A GUIDE to Transforming Your Business to

MAXIMIZE PRODUCTIVITY in 2021

First of all, let me say, “Happy New Year!�

Like everyone else, I am happy to have 2020 in my rearview mirror. If you’re like me, you spent the last few weeks with family and friends, reflecting on the past year, and hopefully, you’ve gained some perspective and probably even a few pounds‌ Â

Written by Stephen Emmons

By now, most of us have spent a considerable amount of time preparing our goals for 2021.

We’ve reviewed our business model, target markets, lead generation, lead conversion, numbers, spreadsheets, marketing, etc. I could go on forever! Unfortunately, this all means very little if we overlook the most obvious improvement, personal development.  Â

If you do what you’ve always done, you will get what you’ve always gotten. Â

We start with such lofty goals. We begin each year at a sprint but quickly tire. We slip back into our old patterns, and things rarely change. Before we know it, summer is here, then fall, then back to the dreaded goal setting for the next year. This year can and will be different if we take the time to evaluate our patterns and develop a solid plan.

Below are my top five ways to maximize your goals and create momentum! Â 1. Set Realistic, Achievable Goals with Deadlines. Â Â

Tony Robbins says, “Most people overestimate what they can achieve in a year, but underestimate what they can achieve in a decade.�

Take a good look at your business and ask yourself what would make your year amazing. Write these goals down and review them often. Set realistic deadlines for these goals. Â Â Â Â Â 2. Are you Busy or Productive?

Be 100% Honest with Yourself. Many of us are very busy yet not very effective. The most productive people are those that OWN their day! We need to evaluate our available time and use it to ensure that we are moving closer to our goals.

There is a drill that we use for our staff called a “168.â€? There are 168 hours in a week. Basically, you write down, in 15-30 minute increments, everything you do for one full week. Our goal is to have little white space eventually. After a few days, you will begin to see patterns, and you will be amazed at how much time you actually have available. You can download basic 168 spreadsheets online or create them yourself. Â

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39

A

5:00 AM 5:30 AM 6:00 AM 6:30 AM 7:00 AM 7:30 AM 8:00 AM 8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 12:00 PM 12:30 PM 1:00 PM 1:30 PM 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 3:00 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM 8:30 PM 9:00 PM 9:30 PM 10:00 PM 10:30 PM 11:00 PM

B

168 Time Tracker for :_____________________ Day:_____________________________

Now that you have your “168,� you can utilize this tool to become a more effective and efficient person. Develop your goals and the tasks required to achieve them and put them on your schedule FIRST. Whether it be exercise, lead generation, time with family, etc, these become non-negotiable. Just like a listing appointment or closing, these are events that you can’t miss! Once you have entered all of the “Must Do’s,� you can fill your remaining white space with other tasks and even downtime. Stick to your schedule, and you will create momentum very quickly!  4. Do the Hard Things First Every Day!

“Eat a live frog first thing in the morning, and nothing worse will happen to you the rest of the day.â€? -Mark Twain. Â

We are always best in the morning. Tackle the difficult conversations, the tough client, the harder tasks first. Once these difficult things are done, you are liberated from anxiety and free to pursue your other goals. It’s a great feeling to check off items on your to-do list, but an even better feeling to check off the items you dreaded most.   5. Focus on Fewer Goals to Achieve More.

“If you have more than three priorities, you don’t have any.� –Jim Collins.   We want to set three goals and develop tasks to inch closer to these every day.  We should devote time to each of these three goals in our schedule and make these priorities over everything else. Once achieved, we can add new goals.  Many have said that we should have three hobbies we love. One hobby should make money, one should keep us in shape, and one should help us to be creative. This also applies very well to our goals.    2021 is going to be a great year! There is so much opportunity in the Real Estate world. Anything we desire can be achieved if we plan correctly and put in the work. Spend some time evaluating your goals and, more importantly, your time spent working toward them. Go out and smash them!

Our staff is comprised of 40 of the finest craftsmen in the industry. Unlike most contractors, we perform the majority of our work in house, and subcontract very little. We have a full millshop that has the ability to fabricate any type of molding and millwork, no matter how rare, mechanical installers, decorative painters and several other specialists to take your project to a new level.

PROFESSIONAL CONSTRUCTION & RESTORATION KITCHEN & BATH DESIGNS | HISTORIC RENOVATIONS | EXTERIOR REPAIRS | INSPECTION RESPONSES CUSTOM MILLWORK | FOUNDATION REPAIR | IN HOUSE DESIGN

CA L L T O DAY T O S E T U P A C O N S U LTAT I O N A P P O I N TM E N T WITH OUR CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS! Stephen Emmons: 504-415-6681 | www.pcrnola.com

22 • January 2021

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 23

making a difference Written by Dave Danielson

community. There are a lot of my tenants who live paycheck to paycheck.

With COVID-19, it was easy to imagine a pretty devastating snowball effect.”

One of Chris’s businesses is Redamo, a new-age rental company that focuses on the sharing economy.

Redamo and its sister company, Redamo Work Spaces, provides housing and office space for the new transient economy.

CHRIS GENARD Shelter in the Storm

of Genard Companies

When the world closes down, fear encapsulates reason, and danger swirls around; one of the greatest comforts is having a safe place to lay your head down at night.

New Orleans is known for its hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and fortitude in facing natural calamities. 2020 was no different as the city was on the front lines of the COVID-19 battleground.

As the unknown virus moved in with devastating effects, Chris and Ashley Genard were there to offer a haven to those who needed it most. As head of Genard Company, a full-service development company, and as a REALTOR®

24 • January 2021

with Marquee Real Estate, Chris was there when it mattered — providing shelter in the storm.

NEED MEETS OPPORTUNITY

Through time, Chis has had extensive experience in a wide range of commercial and residential real estate. Through his organization, Genard Company, Chris helps his clients with a full spectrum of needs, including finding and acquiring properties, sponsoring projects with private investor capital, constructing property, and handling all its operating functions through property management.

As part of that, Chris owns and self-manages about 70 properties in the New Orleans area, including 25 shortterm rental properties in Louisiana and some self-storage, industrial, retail, and mixed-use facilities.

He remembers the days when COVID19 first hit.

“No one knew what was going on and how bad the virus would be and what our economy would look like and what would happen to our livelihoods,” Chris remembers. “A lot of things go through your head. I’ve got investors I serve, and I have bills to pay. Plus, you think about the impact on the @realproducers

“Before COVID hit, we were looking at our best year ever. Travel was booming with lots of bookings, and we were gearing up for April, which is one of our biggest months, with events like Jazz Fest happening,” Chris remembers. “All of our properties were booked solid … and the pandemic hits in March, and all of a sudden, I went from high occupancy to zero within a week because travel was locked down.”

STEPPING FORWARD

That’s when Chris saw a way he could be part of the solution.

“A friend called me and said that the New Orleans EMS had put out a news brief saying they needed housing to quarantine the paramedics who had been exposed to COVID-19 patients,” Chris says. “They didn’t necessarily have symptoms themselves, but they didn’t want to go back to their homes and expose their own families because they didn’t want to take a chance of infecting their spouses and children.

This was very early on when no one knew how serious it would be.”

Chris talked with a Lieutenant with the local first responder’s organization who was trying to arrange housing. During the conversation, the officer had mentioned to Chris that he might get some funding from the non-profit New Orleans Foundation realproducersmag.com

to pay Chris for providing housing for the first responders.

“As soon as we hung up from our phone conversation, it hit me. These paramedics don’t have time to wait for a foundation board of directors to approve funding … they need housing now. I knew the right thing was to worry about providing housing first, then worrying about any payment later on,” Chris recalls. “I thought if it works for me to get paid something on that back end, that’s fine, but I’m not going to worry about it.”

The world is fullcircle. If you do the right things, GOOD THINGS WILL HAPPEN. So Chris called right back and opened up the houses to the first responders.

“As I told him that the houses were available for them to start using right away, he almost started crying on the phone. That’s when I knew right then and there that this was the right thing to do,” he remembers.

A PLACE TO CALL HOME

Right away, people on the front lines delivering much-needed care to patients who were falling ill had a safe place where they could rest and have a respite from their duties while still being able to protect their own loved ones.

Chris is grateful for his wife, Ashley, and the teamwork and efforts of his staff members.

“It was a difficult time for my team, too.

They get paid on commission. When all of this hit, they were going from one of their best years to one of their worst,” he points out. “Yet, they all jumped on board and said, let’s take care of people and do what we can to make them feel at home. In many cases, first responders stay in hotel rooms and are basically quarantined, which means they are confined to a small room. We felt good about being able to provide them with a home, with more space and something that felt a little more normal for them.”

“We knew we had symptomatic people going into the houses, but I knew we couldn’t worry about that at that moment,” he says.

Word of what Chris was doing got out. It turns out that Chris was the number one provider of hosting first responders in the United States.

The Airbnb organization had also worked on rolling out a program to ask hosts to provide housing to people in need nationwide. Airbnb’s head reached out to Chris and offered Chris partial payment for the housing that had been provided during the height of the crisis.

“That meant a lot,” Chris recalls. “We hadn’t planned on being paid, but it was very nice to receive enough to cover our costs.”

Through the region’s battle with the virus, many first responders who were local residents and many others who came to New Orleans to help ended up having a place to stay — a real shelter in the storm.

“First responders are doing so much.

They’re literally putting their own lives on the line every day. So we wanted to do what we could to help,” he emphasizes.

“The world is full-circle. If you do the right things, good things will happen.”

New Orleans Real Producers • 25

Safety Tips For

The New Year staying real safe with master jason b. horne

By Master Jason B. Horne

Happy New Year to all! Wishing that the new year brings you prosperity, safety and good productivity.

In this new year, I would like to focus on how aware we are in our lives.

Ensure that you stay conscious and aware of how you travel to your vehicles and how you travel to your home. Ensure there is sufficient lighting around your home and that there are no easy hiding spaces for predators. Keep your keys in your hand, and park in well-lit places. Be sure to

Quality custom engraved gifts that last a lifetime. We will help customize a gifting strategy that fits your needs.

• Custom engraving with your logo & contact info • Creates top of mind awareness for your business • 100% tax-deductible* • Guaranteed FOREVER • Practical Luxury • Easy System-in-Place--Saves time & takes the hassle out of gift-giving

www.GirlWithAnEdge.com

Stay Classy.

Stay Sharp.

Stay Top of Mind...

Forever!

*Consult Your Tax Professional

Contact me directly for Cutco engraved gift ideas and/or current specials.

Text/Call: 504-535-GIFT (4438)

ALWAYS PROTECT YOURSELF! TRAINING IS AVAILABLE FOR ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL.

ALSO OFFERING • Private Training in Fitness and Combat Kickboxing • Kubaton Weapon Training

WORKSHOPS AVAILABLE IN-STUDIO OR ONLINE

MyCutcoGirl@gmail.com

With Master Instructor Jason B. Horne and a staff of expert instructors at the helm, our dojo hones a relentless focus on discipline and leadership.

LET US TEACH YOU ABOUT RULE #1...

Call to schedule a FREE trial and develop readiness and confidence for when you'll need it most.

Lori Landry

SIP & SAFETY SELF-DEFENSE CLASSES A FUN, MEANINGFUL WAY TO TO BUILD CONFIDENCE & READINESS IN A SOCIAL/GROUP SETTING.

2000 Earhart Blvd | New Orleans, LA 70113 | 504-558-9850 | info@xsmad.com

Direct shipping to clients with a handwritten note now available.

26 • January 2021

Personal Safety & Realtor Defense Training

check all your safety precautions before meeting your clients or strangers at the vacant building/home you are showing. Stay prepared. You should always be ready to pay attention to your surroundings. Remember, when you are comfortable, you are most vulnerable.

Let us remember to stay upbeat; keep your eyes open, and remain less distracted. We all want to look back on the holidays with memories of good cheer and good times with a lot of shopping, gift-giving, and visiting. We can only do that when we are safe!

As we get back to work in the new year of 2021, we want to take a new attitude of being on top of our game. We all want to close the deal and make families happy. Stay safe and prepared! Stay safe and be aware! Stay safe and stay alert!

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 27

RAM Properties of Keller Williams Realty and their mascot,

GARY the Male Bighorn Sheep

Personality-wise, Gary is known to be a little sheepish when he first meets someone. But after getting to know you a little, he warms up quickly.

Gary’s girlfriend is a cute little ewe. Their favorite dates are picnics in the countryside.

As Stacey says, “He likes to hit the hay early ... early bird gets the worm, ya know ... although the worm was early too and it didn’t go so well for him.”

The Life of the Party

A Truly Rambunctious Companion

pets of real producers

28 • January 2021

There’s no doubt that pets add so much to each of our lives. While many pets take the form of dogs and cats, there’s a lot to be said for having a truly rambunctious companion like Gary, a male bighorn sheep and the team mascot for RAM Properties of Keller Williams.

As Stacey Levin Mayeur, owner of RAM Properties, describes him, Gary is a “lovable little egomaniac that loves the women and wants to buy a barndominium one day, and settle down, maybe run the RAM team from abroad.”

Going Places

Naturally, Gary drives a bright red Dodge truck. In fact, red is his favorite color, and his favorite holiday is Valentine’s Day. His favorite subject in school was biology.

Always one to watch his weight, Gary tries to stay away from buffets when it comes time to eat. Instead, his favorite dinner is settling down to a nice meal of salad and goat cheese.

@realproducers

When it comes to music, Gary is known to jam out to “Wooly Bully.” One of his favorite movies is National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.

Gary is also quite the fashion trendsetter, as well. His favorite accessory is a red scarf to accent his wool suit because “all the girls really like it.”

Gary is someone who gives back to those around him, too. He is a motivational kind of guy. One of his favorite mottos is, “If a little bird tells you something, make sure it’s not a little cuckoo,” and “If you butt heads all day, you won’t end up going anywhere in life. You’ll just come away with a headache.”

There’s no doubt that Gary adds a lot to life as a truly rambunctious pet!

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 29

We Remain Strong and Stable Since 1956 Do you want to beautify your space while you are spending so much time in it?

Our Homestyle Renovation loan is a great option when you want to make your current home into your forever home or when buying a home that needs a little TLC. Homestyle Renovation can help with in-ground pools, interior and exterior upgrades, decks, landscaping, and kitchen or bathroom upgrades!

STACEY WINOKUR LOAN OFFICER ASSOCIATE NMLS# 883208

O: (504) 586-0075 C: (504) 293-5835 StaceyW@EustisMortgage.com

SUNNY SHANNON VICE PRESIDENT, LOAN OFFICER NMLS# 87255

O: (504) 210-2742 C: (504) 905-4881 Sunny@EustisMortgage.com

www.eustismortgage.com/Sunny-Shannon/ 798 S. RAMPART, NEW ORLEANS, LA 70113 BEST BUSINESS OF 2018

E x celle nce

NMLS# 70345

30 • January 2021

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

FOLLOW US HOME New Orleans Real Producers • 31

Coniece Allen-Brown

real story Written by Dave Danielson Photos by Noel Marcantel of Noel Marcantel Studios

of HomeSmart Realty South

Elevating the Experience When someone provides the best they can and does everything they can to serve others, it shows.

A perfect example of that is Coniece Allen-Brown. As a REALTOR® with Home Smart Realty, Coniece gives her all. In the process, her clients benefit from the way she elevates their experience.

“It’s very important for me that whatever I do that I do it with integrity and compassion. I go all out for my clients and my family,” Coniece says. “I

always want to consider the needs of other people and do the right things for them.”

Glimpses into the Future

Coniece grew up in New Orleans. She has vivid memories of that time and the glimpses she had into her future even then.

“As a little girl, I remember going by houses and saying, ‘I wonder what the inside of those homes look like,’ and I also remember saying, ‘Someday, I will live in a home like those.’”

As she came of age and started her career, she worked as a nurse.

When it came time to buy her first home, she had an experience that sparked her interest in working in real estate.

“Plain and simple, I had a rude real estate agent when I was looking for a home in 2003,” she remembers. “My agent didn’t have much patience with me. At that moment, it inspired me to get my real estate license.”

Pursuing Her Path

Coniece earned her Louisiana real estate license in 2004. In 2005, she moved to Dallas, where she raised her sons and worked for eight years, before returning home in 2012.

The idea of building a real estate business in New Orleans had stayed with her through time.

As she says, “My husband and sons inspired me to walk away from nursing and to take the leap of faith.”

32 • January 2021

@realproducers

It’s very important for me that whatever I do that I do it with integrity and compassion.

I go all out for my clients and my family. realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 33

Example of Excellence

Coniece takes pride in being an example of what people can achieve when they set their mind on something then work hard to achieve their vision.

“I want to help others see that if I can do it, they can do it, too. When I graduated from high school, I was pregnant, and I became a young mother. It was a struggle.

But I think it is essential for people never to let others tell them what you can and can’t do in life.”

Talking with Coniece, you immediately understand why she has become so successful, and you see the power she has to impact other lives.

“When I think about what I do, I think it’s all about relationships. If I were giving some advice to someone getting started in the business today, I would encourage them to build solid relationships and to be a go-getter who does the right thing and who treats everyone the same, regardless of how big a potential transaction is.”

That’s advice that Coniece lives each day as she elevates the experience for those around her.

“I put God and family first.

God gives me the strength to get up and help other people every day. My foundation is built on God. And when you have a solid foundation, your house will stand strong.”

It makes me feel good when my clients call me for anything and everything. I want to help people to be at that place of peace.

Signs of Success

Coniece has steadily built success in the business through time while helping her clients achieve their dreams. In fact, in 2019, she recorded an impressive $7.6 million, representing 44 transactions. In the process, she finished as the top producer in her company based on the number of units, and she ranked second in volume. She also recruited several new agents to the company.

Coniece feels the similarities between what she does as a REALTOR® and her experience working as a nurse.

“I think it comes down to incorporating that same level of care for people in both settings,” she points out. “When I started in real estate, I wanted to do whatever I could to help people … at the same time, doing my

34 • January 2021

part to bring compassion to the industry and let people feel safe. It all goes hand in hand.”

That care goes well beyond the deal.

“In real estate, we fill a lot of different roles,” she says. “It makes me feel good when my clients call me for anything and everything. I want to help people to be at that place of peace.”

Family Inspiration

Coniece is thankful for the place of peace she enjoys with her family, including her husband, Gregory, and her sons — Harold and Demoni.

She’s also extremely grateful for the strong role models in her life, with her father, Eugene Allen, her mother, Elaine, and her grandmother, Emmajean.

“They gave me the morals I have today, and they taught me respect and integrity … and to treat people the way you want to be treated,” Coniece remembers. “Shortly before I lost my dad, he told me that I needed to get into a career that I really enjoyed. Even though I enjoyed nursing, I knew real estate was one of my greatest passions.”

In her free time, Coniece enjoys time spent relaxing, meditating, enjoying family, traveling, and, as she says, “Thanking God for all of the gifts and blessings he has given to me.”

Giving back is a central part of Coniece’s make-up, as well. She supports several organizations and has a passion for providing a little extra support when she sees families in need.

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 35

question of the month sister, Carol, were diagnosed the same month, and the disease progressed the exact same way for both. My sister chose not to have “life supporting measures” and passed away 22 months after her diagnosis. My father had a very slow progressing ALS and passed eight years after diagnosis. He and my sister, Carol, were diagnosed three months apart, so we had two in our family at the same time. My hope is that a cure will be found very soon for this horrible disease. My family has participated in the ALS walks in Missouri, Tennessee, and Louisiana.

CHARLOTTE JOHNSON of Keller Williams Realty Services

Magnolia Chapter of Humane Society in Washington Parish AIMEE FELDER of Re/Max Alliance

Northshore Humane Society St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital The Valhalla Project Children’s Miracle Network

STEPHANIE SCHULTE of Keller of Williams Realty Services

What charitable

Children’s Hospital New Orleans

United Way Tangipahoa Options Our Daily Bread Restoration House Casa/ CAC Catholic Charities St. Vincent DePaul and St. Jude Children’s Hospital

DAWN CAZEDESSUS of Keller Williams Realty Services

ROSE FOGARTY of Latter & Blum Inc.

OPTIONS in Hammond!

Rotary International as a good friend is president down in Belize.

I know they do a whole lot for people down there, and with the past hurricanes they have had down there.

LIBBY CLARK GILBERT of Coldwell Banker TEC

Drew’s Tunes TONY BERTUCCI of NOLA Living Realty

NOLA Families in Need

organizations

DAVID MCLAUGHLIN of Keller Williams Realty

have your heart?

STACIA SEPULVEDA LAMULLE of 1 Percent Lists Premier

Tunnels to Towers DEBBIE M. LONG of Team Geaux Realty NICHOLE BROWN LIUZZA of Keller Williams Realty

Lynhaven Retreat

Tangi Humane Society and Camellia Homeless Outreach SEAN K. HARRIS of NOLA Choice Realty BRETT RECTOR of Witry Collective

Son of a Saint, Anna’s Place, ARNO SUSAN MAHONY KURZWEG of RE/MAX Northlake Associates

Boys and Girls Club/ Covington

BETSY DONNER WILLIAMS of Meridian Realtors, LLC

COURTNEY FRICKE of Northshore Real Estate Investors Association

Habitat for Humanity as it combines helping with real estate.

Every project that has items to donate goes to Habitat REstores in the area. I like to volunteer for the builds when possible. Love the connection between giving and housing.

SHERYL STORY of Axelrad & Associates Home Inspections

SHARON VALE-LATINO of Re/Max Alliance AIMEE GUEDON CUROLE of Snap Real Estate

I partner up with Living Waters International to drill water wells in Central America for communities that rely on the river for their water.

ASCPA. It is important to me to give a voice to those that don’t have one. It upsets me to see animals suffering or being abused.

Emotional support dogs, service dogs, police dogs, and animals are so significant and helpful to so many. The power and the security these dogs provide are priceless, just like our beloved pets. I would adopt all the dogs and cats if I could. Their unconditional love is priceless to me.

KARON REESE of Reese & Company Real Estate

DELISHA BOYD of Delisha Boyd, LLC

Roots of Music!

New Orleans Women & Children Shelter

KELLI KARBEL WRIGHT of Latter & Blum-Uptown

A’s and Aces, Special Connections, Disability Rights Louisiana, Raphael Village, and Race for the Rescue.

CHRIS RUSSELL of HomeSmart Realty South

Zeus’ Rescues, Metropolitan Center for Community Advocacy (Women & Children Shelter)

MAUREEN MATTHEWS of Gardner Realtors

WILLIAM MCINTYRE of Coldwell Banker TEC

Ronald McDonald House, Angel’s Place, Rotary International

They are so many organizations to partner with in this town.

In fact, I think per capita, we have more fundraisers organizations than most. I’m a member and past president of Rotary International and the Carrollton Rotary Club. I’m involved with TCC Trinity Community Center located at 3908 Joliet street in Holly Grove. TCC services the Hollygrove Neighbourhood with their facility through aftercare, after-school tutoring, primarily math and reading, mission trips, leadership training, summer camp, etc. We have a refrigerator in front where people can stock things, and others can take things as needed.

KILEY MARTIN of Freret Realty

The NOLA Schnauzer Rescue, Zeus’s Place

STEVE LANIER of Southwest Funding Mtg

Toys for Tots by the Marines JOYCE DELERY of Engel & Volkers New Orleans

Ozanam Inn. Homeless shelter for men. Our father was the founding president in the 1950s.

36 • January 2021

Animal rescue Hope & Hearts 4 Paws. Two of my furbabies came from this fabulous organization!

KRISTEN COBB SIMPSON of Keller Williams Realty

Living4Burke.org was founded in memory of my nephew Burke Cobb. Our mission is the prevention of sudden cardiac arrest/ death in student-athletes. Look us up.

LESLEY JUNEAU TRONCOSO of Gardner Realtors

Habitat for Humanity LIZZIE TARDO of Nola Home Realty Group

Innocence Project New Orleans

ALS

DEANA HUDSPETH SCOGNAMILLO of Gardner Realtors

My father and sister passed away from ALS, and I have been supporting Team Gleason since 2011. Steve Gleason and my

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Northshore Humane Society and St. Judes have my heart.

MICHELLE KEYES SOLIMAN of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Preferred Realtors

Grace at the Green Light and Second Harvest CATHY DIPIAZZA CASHMAN of Alex-Cate Realty

Next Generation ANTHONY POSEY of Anthony Posey Properties

A Soldier’s Heart Bluegrass and Muddy Waters

New Orleans Real Producers • 37

REDUCE RISK WITH V I D E O P LU M B I N G I N S P E C T I O N S | WAT E R J E T T I N G | D R A I N C L E A N I N G

WE CAN PINPOINT:

•Blockages •Bellied Pipes •Leaking Joints •Root Intrusion

•Broken or Collapsed Pipes •Offset Pipes •Corrosion

“In my business I surround myself with likeminded people that do whatever it takes to accomplish a successful result. I am thankful to Tunnel Vision Video Inspections for their professionalism and willingness to be there for me on a daily basis and in a crisis. They have dropped everything to help me out of a jam on several occasions. They are extremely competitive with pricing and are eager to please. The staff is very friendly and helpful. I recommend their service highly!” ~ Beth Trepagnier, Rockstar Realty

Call today to schedule an inspection!

504-885-8761 | www.TunnelVision01.com ROOF WASHING

L I C E N S E D & F U L LY I N S U R E D

PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

985.789.8018

GUTTER CLEANING

WINDOW CLEANING IN & OUT

EXTERIOR SOFT WASH

DRIVEWAY CLEANING

www.SafeWashSolutions.com

ALBANY • ALBUQUERQUE • CHESAPEAKE • ATLANTA • AUSTIN • BALTIMORE • BOULDER CHARLOTTE • CHICAGO • CINCINNATI • CLEVELAND • COUR D’ ALENE • COLORADO SPRINGS COLUMBUS • DALLAS • DAVENPORT • DAYTONA BEACH • DENVER • FT. WAYNE • GRAND RAPIDS HOUSTON • INDIANAPOLIS • JACKSON • JACKSONVILLE • KANSAS CITY • LAS VEGAS • LINCOLN LITTLE ROCK • LUBBOCK • MILWAUKEE • MURRIETA MONTERREY BAY • NASHVILLE • NEW ORLEANS AMERICA'S BEST REAL• ESTATE AGENTS NEWPORT BEACH • NORTH DALLAS • NOVA • OAKLAND COUNTY • OKLAHOMA CITY • OMAHA ORLANDO • PHILADELPHIA • PHOENIX • PITTSBURGH • PORTLAND • RALEIGH • SALEM • SAN DIEGO SEATTLE • SILICON VALLEY • SPOKANE • ST. LOUIS • TAMPA BAY • TEMECULA • TRI-CITIES • TRIAD TUCSON • TWIN CITIES • VIRGINIA BEACH • WASHINGTON D.C • WAYNE COUNTY • WEST VALLEY WILMINGTON • YOUNGSTOWN • ALBANY • ALBUQUERQUE • CHESAPEAKE • ATLANTA • AUSTIN BALTIMORE • BOULDER • CHARLOTTE • CHICAGO • CINCINNATI • CLEVELAND • COUR D’ ALENE COLORADO SPRINGS • COLUMBUS • DALLAS • DAVENPORT • DAYTONA BEACH • DENVER • FT. WAYNE BE PART OF THE NATIONAL REAL PRODUCERS MOVEMENT GRAND RAPIDS • HOUSTON • INDIANAPOLIS • JACKSON • JACKSONVILLE • KANSAS CITY • LAS VEGAS FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM TODAY LINCOLN • LITTLE ROCK • LUBBOCK • MILWAUKEE • MURRIETA • MONTERREY BAY • NASHVILLE • NEW ORLEANS • NEWPORT BEACH • NORTH DALLAS • NOVA • OAKLAND COUNTY • OKLAHOMA CITY @realproducers

RECOGNIZED

38 • January 2021

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 39

Blaine Tatje has seen firsthand how a typical real estate deal takes urgent questions, unexpected hurdles, and

cover story

uncertainty. It can be one of the most

Written by Dave Danielson Photo by Lacy Davillier of Davillier Photography and Graphics

stressful chapters of any client’s life.

That’s why it means so much to have professional support and expertise on their side to help them through.

Blaine’s proactive advocacy and easygoing attitude, coupled with a depth of knowledge his clients’ have come to trust, have helped Keller Williams Team Tatje quickly stand out in Metro New Orleans.

Blaine is all about making his clients’ journey to homeownership as enjoyable as possible.

“My main hope is that the people I work with would describe me as honest and hardworking and that they know I will always do what’s best for the client,” he says. “I will be open and honest with them, whether it’s something they want to hear or not. In the process, I always want to give them the very highest level of service. It’s all in keeping with our motto: ‘Your Journey. Our Passion.’”

BLAINE TATJE

Made for This

In many ways, Blaine was destined for what he does.

“I always had a passion for houses. My dad is a builder.

I grew up on job sites and around conversations that had to do with his work,” Blaine recalls. “My parents also owned a lot of rental properties, and I helped dad fix things. My uncles and grandma were also in the business.”

of Team Tatje at Keller Williams Realty Making the Journey Enjoyable

40 • January 2021

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 41

While earning a business degree from LSU, Blaine took a real estate class that cemented the deal for him.

“I started with Keller Williams three months after graduating in 2016,” he remembers. “The most important thing to me at the time was the goal of being the absolute best-trained agent I could be, so naturally, I wanted to go someplace that would provide me that level of resources.”

Keller Williams stood out for Blaine.

“They really did stand out at the time, and that’s still the case. In fact, that’s one of the main reasons why I have stayed here,” he emphasizes. “Keller Williams is always equipping us with more tools that help us help more people.”

Spirit of Teamwork

Teamwork soon became part of Blaine’s success story.

As Blaine says, “I joined a team when I first started, and that evolved into a partnership with another agent. In time, that grew into me starting my own team, which I now have.”

Blaine founded Team Tatje two years ago. The team also includes Angela Sykes, Lauren Derocha, Donna Rodrigue, and Cameron Norfleet.

“It has been an entertaining ride working with our group. We have great chemistry together,” Blaine says with a smile. “We have a really relaxed

environment on the team. I’m not the overbearing or micromanaging type. I think one of the great things we do is that we have a certain level of trust between us, and we hold each other responsible. We build a team so strong that no one knows who the leader is.

The main thing is we are all young, hungry and fighting for another day.”

Success has followed their efforts as a team. Today, they do more than 100 deals a year.

“Once you reach $10 million in sales, Keller Williams allows you to open a branch office, and we established our Metairie location in 2019,” Blaine remarks.

The team’s office off Veterans Blvd furnishes plenty of space for them to advocate for their clients, and is the workplace of Team Tatje’s mascot, Chiefy, a pittmix Blaine adopted in 2018.

Family Strength

Family is something Blaine is very appreciative of, including his parents — Kurt and Natalie.

“My parents are a big part of my life. They have always been big supporters,” Blaine says. “They are also definitely where I got my work ethic.”

The experience and support he received from them helped to pave his path forward in life.

“They are both small business owners. So I was around that environment my whole life. As a result,

... I always want to give them the very highest level of service. It’s all in keeping with our motto: ‘YOUR JOURNEY. OUR PASSION.’ it wasn’t a scary thing for me to get into real estate. I was never afraid of failing. I knew I would succeed … it was just a matter of what path I would take to get there,” Blaine says.

In his free time, Blaine enjoys the benefits of his flexible schedule with a healthy work-life balance to pursue passions and volunteer in the community.

“I grew up swimming competitively, so one of my favorite things is helping to coach the high school swim team,” Blaine says. “It’s nice to be able to stay involved and coach and help shape young swimmers and be part of that experience.”

Blaine also enjoys quiet time to travel to a place he has in Mississippi, where he spends time on the water, reflecting and unwinding.

42 • January 2021

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Giving back is something that is a natural extension of Blaine, as well. He serves as Treasurer on the Library Board at St. John Parish.

“It’s been gratifying to serve,” he reflects. “I never realized how much libraries help the underserved in our community. It’s not just four walls and books.

There are so many things that people access through the library that people don’t know about. It’s a great experience and something that I definitely enjoy.”

The Drive to Help Others Thrive

Blaine has been in the business for just four years, yet his record of achievement is remarkable. As he thinks about the new people who join the industry each day, he offers some advice.

New Orleans Real Producers • 43

“Evaluate your sphere of influence, organize your database and reach out to people and tell them what you do,” he says. “Another key is reading the Millionaire Real Estate Agent by Gary Keller. It is the foundation of my business. For someone who wants to build a business and not just be a real estate agent, it is the key to doing it. I’m a firm believer in the Keller Williams systems and models. If you want to succeed, you have to be with a company that has the resources, tools, understanding, and vision to help you succeed.”

44 • January 2021

At the heart of his approach to his work — and to his success — is the drive Blaine feels to help others succeed.

“It’s one of the main driving factors for me. In the traditional sense, as part of being a REALTOR®, I enjoy supporting a seller to realize a higher sales price or a buyer get a great deal. But being able to see the individuals I have brought on to the team succeed is what really motivates me to do this,” he smiles. “We celebrate those things as a team. It means a lot to see them reach specific goals in life. That’s my big ‘why.’”

@realproducers

I think one of the great things we do is that we have a certain level of trust between us, and we hold each other responsible. WE BUILD A TEAM SO STRONG THAT NO ONE KNOWS WHO THE LEADER IS.

realproducersmag.com

New Orleans Real Producers • 45

Serving New Orleans, Baton Rouge, St. Tammany, & Tangipahoa Parish

Lydia Hodges, Sales Representative

Take The Worry Out Of Home Ownership With a Home Warranty Lydia is great to work with! She is extremely professional, communicative, efficient, professional and goes above and beyond for her clients.

Turn around time is usually minutes from order to completion. I have utilized her service many of times as she's always able to assist me easily, quickly and usually on a moment's notice. Lydia takes the initiative to let me know about discounts being offered so clients can get the most bang for their buck! Buying a house can be stressful for most so having a home warranty from a company and rep that stands by their product and offer good service is great for putting buyer's mind at ease.

-Cherrian Levy Multi million dollar producer Delisha Boyd , LLC

• our current promotion!

Call today to find out about 985-869-6111 • LHodges@hwahomewarranty.com Easy Orders or Claims Online 24/7 www.hwahomewarranty.com | Customer Service - 888-492-7359 46 • January 2021

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Ask about our 100% FREE Sellers

Coverage

New Orleans Real Producers • 47