NORTH SHORE
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 .
TALLY HO!
WENDY WILLIS
Willis & Smith Group, Keller Williams
JANUARY 2024
2 • January 2024
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Working with Dave has taken all of the guess work out of determining insurance coverage and needs for our family—we had previously enrolled in a corporate option, thinking that our best interests were protected; however, Dave’s analysis and insights not only saved us on premiums, but offered us more coverage. He holds the insurance for our home and our vehicles, continually updating us on policies and rates …without hesitation, I would recommend Dave for his knowledge, response rate and genuine customer service. - Maureen Marblehead, MA We have worked with Dave Bruett for only a few years and can confidently say we would never change. Dave's professionalism and responsiveness sets him apart from the other agents we have worked with. His expertise and thorough guidance provides us the confidence that we are making the right decisions for all our insurance needs. He is our 'go to!' - Nora Marblehead, MA
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David Bruett President
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North Shore Real Producers • 3
MEET THE
NORTH SHORE REAL PRODUCERS TEAM
Talman Hauch
Dan St. John
talman.hauch@realproducersmag.com
Lightshed Photography Studio
Owner/Publisher
Heather Johnson Ad Strategist
Michelle Morello
Photographer
Geneva Eilertson
Breanna Smith Pizzolato Sr. Writer
Maeve Sherwood
Marketing Coordinator
Social Media Manager
Photographer
Photo + Video Production
Corey Stein
Hannah Shachook,
Lightshed Photography Studio
Corey Stein Films
Lightshed Photography Studio
Photography Assistant,
For content contributions, or to nominate a REALTOR for a certain story, please email NSRP@RealProducersMag.com
For content contributions, or to nominate a REALTOR for a certain story, please email NSRP@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 North Shore 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 2024
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North Shore Real Producers • 5
TABLE OF
CONTENTS 11
Publisher’s Note: Out With the Old... In With the New
14
Partner Spotlight: Ryan McCarthy
19
23
24
28
Coach’s Corner: Focused Thinking
Rising Star: Brenda Fosco
Featured Team: Bryan and Amy Ruocco
Cover Feature: Wendy Willis
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6 • January 2024
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@rjhomeinspections North Shore Real Producers • 7
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 *Please place Index on a left hand page and Tarpey Insurance ad opposite this article on the right. ASBESTOS ABATEMENT Acqua Environmental, LLC Scott Drinko (978) 735-5541
Cherry Tree Legal, PLLC Brendan L. Ward, Esq. (781) 496-2013 www.cherrytreelegal.com
ATTORNEY Capano & McGloin, LLP Lisa J. McGloin (781) 599-1010 CapanoMcGloin.com
Parry & Parry, P.C. Denise Parry (978) 346-0005
Dalton & Finegold, LLP Christina Petrucci (978) 783-3038 dfllp.com ATTORNEY/ TITLE COMPANY Anthony G. Keck & Associates Anthony Keck & Julie Rubenstein (978) 745-3353 Salem-Law.com
Simple Title Closing & Escrow PLLC George Megaloudis (978) 539-7500 simpletitle.us Tiernan Law Sean Tiernan (617) 791-3538 Tiernan-Law.com
HOME INSPECTION Indian Rock Inspections, LLC Brett Maloney (978) 766-0366 indianrockinspections.com R.J. Home Inspection Adam Wright (800) 253-4402 rjhomeinspection.com HOME RENOVATION Curbio (810) 300-9432 Curbio.com HOME STAGING & DESIGN Relux Decor Ashley O’Shea (978) 979-6532 ReluxDecor.com INSURANCE AGENCY Tarpey Insurance Elizabeth Kent (781) 246-2677 tarpeyinsurance.com INSURANCE SERVICES David Bruett Insurance Services David Bruett (978) 594-5308 davebruettinsurance.com JUNK REMOVAL JNR Junk & Logistics Ryan McCarthy (781) 367-9223 MOLD REMEDIATION & INSPECTION Premier Restoration Jake Turner (339) 235-4278
MORTGAGE LENDER Academy Mortgage Adam Moore (978) 697-6019 AcademyMortgage.com/ about-us/team/adammoore CrossCountry Mortgage - Liz & Mike Team Liz Ryan (978) 237-4431 ccm.com/liz-ryan NRL Mortgage Anthony Lapolla (978) 209-0916 www.AnthonyAtNRL.com MOVERS Humboldt Storage & Moving Jim Sullivan (781) 821-8777 Humboldt.com PHOTOGRAPHER Lightshed Photography Studio Dan St. John (978) 854-5348 lightshedphoto.com PUBLIC ADJUSTING SERVICES Panakio Adjusters, Inc. Melissa Sherwood (781) 592-7575 panakioadjusters.com VIDEO PRODUCTION Corey Stein Films Corey Stein (781) 479-7774 CoreySteinFilms.com
Tiernan Law, LLC. 400 Trade Center Dr. Suite 5900 Woburn, MA 01801 (617) 791-3538
8 • January 2024
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North Shore Real Producers • 9
publisher’s note
Out With the Old...
In With the New
When you receive this issue, we will be into the year 2024...hard to believe, right?
Keep paging through to read more about Toby’s insight into this simple, yet effective technique.
To say this past year has been a challenge is probably an understatement to many of you. That said, I’ve witnessed so many stories of challenging situations that have had positive outcomes. I’ve seen the majority of you hit these unique market conditions head-on, with a solid plan in place, hard work and diligence to maintain a quality level of production.
Looking back on each year, the best in sales take stock in their experiences from the previous year. It’s important to not only celebrate our achievements, both big and small, but it’s equally important to understand where we can improve and do better.
Our Coach’s Corner article this month is by Toby Moyle, is about “Focused Thinking.” In it, Toby offers three steps to help us get clarity around our priorities, find solutions and make good decisions. Some real estate agents have to juggle multiple highstakes situations, each that require their full attention and all in the span of one day. Those steps are: 1. Schedule a sacred time with yourself 2. Remove distractions and noise so that you can clearly think about your single task or goal. 3. Document all of the ideas that come into your thoughts during your session
10 • January 2024
However, strike a balance of understanding how you can do better. Make a list of takeaways for improvement and, then as the saying goes “let it go” and embrace a fresh start. Each new year offers us all the chance to bring on a fresh start. Let this year be no different. Out with the old, and in with the new. Cheers to a great 2024! Happy New Year to all of you and Happy Sellng!
Talman Hauch Owner/Publisher North Shore Real Producers Talman.hauch@n2co.com
@realproducers
?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS I often get a lot of compliments about North Shore Real Producers content, our quality of photography, professional design appearance, and overall, the positive nature and influence that our publication has brought to the real estate community here in Essex County and the North Shore. But like anything, not everyone agrees. I also get notes and calls about why we decided to feature some of the people who we've featured. How did they get in the magazine, and oftentimes, how can I be included in your pages? These are fair questions which warrant some discussion, so let me offer explanation into some of the frequently asked questions. Who receives North Shore Real Producers?
The top 300 agents/teams in Essex County, and I also include Reading, North Reading and Wakefield, based on MLS total sales volume from January 1, 2021-December 31, 2021, will receive the magazine FREE of charge for the remainder of this year. The list then resets at the end of this year. I'm hopeful that as we grow, I'm able to expand our footprint and distribute our publication to the top 500 agents/ teams and include more towns outside of Essex County. Stay tuned. What is the process for being featured in the magazine?
Almost every feature you see has realproducersmag.com
been nominated by peers. You can nominate other REALTORS, affiliates, brokers, owners or even yourself. We will consider anyone brought to our attention because we don't know everyone's story.
None of the REALTORS in our magazine paid to be featured. They were either nominated by fellow Top 300 REALTORS, or industry colleagues in the community and featured FREE of charge. I spent a lot of time getting to know the North Shore and Essex County REALTOR® community during my ramp-up period from April 2020 through January 2021. I was able to then catalog a lot of information on a lot of top-performing REALTORS®, many of whom were more than worthy of a presence in
our publication at a future date. In some of those instances, I selected the REALTORS® to be featured based on my conversations. At the end of the day, based on nomination information, or those who I've met on my own, I select who I think would best represent our publication each month. What does it cost a REALTOR® or team to be featured?
The answer is simple... NOTHING. None of the REALTORS® in our magazine paid to be featured. They were either nominated by fellow top 300 REALTORS® or industry colleagues in the community and featured FREE of charge. Who are the Preferred Vendor Partners?
Anyone listed as a Preferred Vendor Partner in our Partner Index in the front of every publication is an integral part of this community. Our Preferred Vendor Partners pay for their presence in our publication and will have an ad in every issue, attend our private events and be a part of our online presence. We don't just find these businesses randomly, nor do we work with all businesses that approach us. Many of you have recommended every single Preferred Vendor Partner you see in our publication. Our goal is to create a powerhouse network, not only for the best REALTORS® in the area but the best affiliates as well, so that we can grow stronger together: Connecting. Elevating. Inspiring. If you have questions, suggestions or nominations, please feel free to send me an email at talman. hauch@realproducersmag.com or call me at 617-921-7033. North Shore Real Producers • 11
from the ceo’s desk
N O RTH SH O RE REALTO RS
By Patrick Maguire, Chief Executive Officer, North Shore Realtors
ADVOCACY BLOG Stay up to date on local zoning proposals, legislation, and REALTOR® advocacy efforts by visiting the North Shore REALTORS® (NSR) Advocacy Blog. With over 250 blog posts chronicling local real estate advocacy news, the NSR Advocacy Blog is your go to resource on the key issues affecting homeownership and private property rights here on the North Shore. Stay Informed
If you work along the coast, you are likely familiar with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Essex County has the 3rd most policies in Massachusetts, with only Barnstable and Norfolk County accounting for more. For many property owners, NFIP is the primary or potentially only source of insurance against flooding. Beyond the financial security, this insurance may be required to purchase a property with a mortgage. The last reauthorization of NFIP was in September of 2017. Since then, there have been 25 short-term extensions, 3 lapses in coverage, and the implementation of Risk Rating 2.0 in an aim to make rates more equitable using specific data for each individual property. This fall, NFIP was once again in the spotlight as last-minute extensions were made in September and then again in November. These deadlines typically coincide with potential government shutdowns. The National Association of REALTORS® and North Shore REALTORS® have been actively advocating for not only extensions but more importantly a long-term reauthorization. The latest continuing resolution extends the NFIP to Feb. 2, 2024. At that time, we are most likely looking at another short-term extension, but REALTORS® will be advocating for the following:
• NFIP reauthorization should be long-term. • Flood mapping should be done at higher resolutions with a streamlined and less expensive appeal process. • Premiums should be more accurately priced to the property-specific risk, but any rate increases should be gradual and phased in over time. • Private flood insurance options should be encouraged where cost-effective, provided that NFIP remains a viable option for property owners.
12 • January 2024
• To help keep rates affordable, the federal government should strengthen pre-disaster risk mitigation options – including guaranteed loans, grants, and buyouts for property owners to build stronger or relocate to higher ground. • There should also be an adequately supported FEMA Office of the Flood Insurance Advocate to assist policyholders with flood map and rate disputes. NSR in the Community
From obtaining charitable grants to hosting fundraising drives to rallying volunteers, North Shore REALTORS® is proud to support housing charities across the North Shore. Coldwell Banker Realty Beverly recently held their November Food Drive which benefited two local food pantries, People to People Food Pantry in Danvers and Beverly Bootstraps in Beverly. People to People Food Pantry was created by the Danvers Community Council to help Danvers families needing assistance. The pantry is operated by a team of volunteers who collect food, stock shelves, interview clients as well as shop, distribute and deliver food. Beverly Bootstraps Food Pantry was started in 1992 by the parishioners at the First Baptist Church. Since then, our services have grown tremendously to include the Kids Eat Healthy initiative, refrigerated food lockers, mobile markets, community meals, and senior deliveries. Thank you to all who donated to this wonderful cause!
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North Shore Real Producers • 13
Ryan McCarthy
partner spotlight
By Breanna Smith Pizzolato, Sr. Writer Photography by Michelle Morello, Lightshed Photography Strudio
JNR JUNK REMOVAL AND CLEANOUTS
Honesty, Integrity and Hard Work
In the heart of Methuen, JNR Junk Removal is working diligently to transform spaces, uplift spirits, and build lasting relationships. Owner Ryan McCarthy is the driving force behind the local junk removal company that has become a staple for Realtors across the North Shore. As a veteran, entrepreneur, and dedicated business owner, Ryan has turned a humble venture into a community gem in a few short years.
Before diving into the world of junk removal, Ryan spent nearly a decade working as a business, marketing and e-commerce consultant. He worked with business owners across various sectors, developing a keen understanding of the intricate workings of different industries. The challenge of problem-solving and desire to make a tangible impact on local businesses fueled his passion for entrepreneurship.
Ryan began JNR Junk Removal three years ago with his friends, Jason and Nick, forming the trio that inspired the company’s name - JNR. Life took them on different paths, and in 2022, Ryan took over as the sole owner of the business. For Ryan, JNR is much more than a junk removal business - it’s a testament to his resilience, entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to providing impeccable service to his community.
There, a passion for helping small businesses find unique ways to compete with large corporations lit up inside him. Soon, he was ready to start a homegrown business of his own. Raised in a household where hard work was the norm, Ryan draws inspiration from his parents. His father’s lengthy career in law enforcement and his mother’s role as the office manager for a local plumbing business instilled in him a strong work ethic. After seven years as a marketing and business consultant, the time came for Ryan to forge his own path. While others opted to play it safe by remaining part-time, Ryan knew he had to be all-in on this new business venture to provide the level of service he wanted to offer. “We’re young and hungry. I want to make a name for myself,” he said. The company stands as a testament to his commitment to excellence. Punctuality and preparedness are virtues Ryan holds dear, qualities ingrained in him during his six years of military service in the Marine Corps. “If you roll up your sleeves and stay organized, you can make it happen,” he said.
14 • January 2024
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North Shore Real Producers • 15
In the world of junk removal, we're not just removing things; we're creating space for new beginnings. It's about transforming a potentially stressful situation into a seamless experience. JNR’s commitment extends beyond just removing junk. Ryan takes pride in fostering strong relationships with local Realtors and understands the unique challenges they face in the industry. JNR Junk Removal offers a range of services, from full home cleanouts to demolitions in preparation for renovations and even smaller jobs like furniture removal.
For Ryan, each removal is not just a transaction - it’s an opportunity to positively impact someone’s life. His dedication to providing quick, fair, and honest service is not just a business model; it’s a reflection of his values.
“Sometimes, when people move out, they don’t take everything with them. Bigger companies may charge a hefty fee for moving something as minor as a sofa or recliner, but we’re there to offer a fair price to get the job done quickly,” Ryan explained. He understands the importance of time in the fast-paced real estate world and emphasizes, “Time is money, and as a salesperson, I understand that.”
As JNR Junk Removal continues to grow, Ryan remains focused on the principles that have guided him from the start - integrity, hard work, and a genuine commitment to the community. Through JNR, he has not only carved a niche for himself but has also elevated the standard for what it means to be a local business that truly cares.
16 • January 2024
“In the world of junk removal, we’re not just removing things; we’re creating space for new beginnings. It’s about transforming a potentially stressful situation into a seamless experience,” Ryan said.
“With JNR, I’m going to be there every time, and you’re going to get my attention every time,” he said. “Give a small, local business a chance to give you a quote. It’s free. And you’ll likely be pleasantly surprised by the price and the service.” @realproducers
LET US HELP YOU MAXIMIZE THE SALE PRICE OF YOUR NEXT LISTING.
978.979.6532 INFO@RELUXDECOR.COM www.ReluxDecor.com
We are committed to providing high-quality legal services that meet our clients' needs. Real Estate Transactions Probate Matters Estate Planning Small Business Organization
Salem-Law.com realproducersmag.com Julie Rubenstein Anthony Keck
Real • 17 2 2 4 E s s e x S t r e e t | S a l e m , M a s s a c h u s e t t s 0 1 9 7North 0 | ( 9 Shore 78) 74 5 - 3Producers 353
The Farrelly Group, Coldwell Banker
B R E N D A FOSCO Family and a Big Heart
rising star By Breanna Smith Pizzolato, Sr. Writer Photography by Michelle Morello Lightshed Photography Strudio
18 • January 2024
For four months, Brenda stayed by her oldest daughter’s side as doctors and nurses worked to diagnose and treat her for Crohn’s disease. Sometimes, when Juliana felt okay, Brenda would head over to La Famiglia Giorgio’s and pick up a shift. @realproducers
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North Shore Real Producers • 19
“I started working there when I was 18 and in college and worked there forever and ever,” Brenda said. After college, Brenda worked for a prominent investment firm, where she climbed the ranks to become a team leader. She spent many days traveling back and forth to Philadelphia for meetings, and while she loved the job, life changed things. “Once I had my first child, that kind of traveling was impossible for me. So I went back to the restaurant. Four kids later, I was still with the restaurant.” The Italian Restaurant, known for its giant portions, classic Roma-style fare and lengthy wine list, became her second family and home away from home. But there always comes a time to leave home for a new adventure. La Famiglia
As the second oldest of 12 sisters, Brenda 20 • January 2024
naturally took to leadership and motherhood. “I’ve always been a second mom to my sisters,” she said. And yes, they all have the same mom and dad. Brenda and her sisters enjoyed playing outside, making up games, climbing trees and spending afternoons in their playhouse. “It was always chaotic, and holidays were insane. Nobody really invited us to holidays, obviously,” Brenda laughed. “So we had our own fun. We always had each other.” Brenda remains close with her sisters, and having grown up together north of Boston, they all decided to build their lives nearby. “Everybody stayed close by,” she explained. “My sisters were like my kids growing up, so I didn’t want to move too far from them, and then my husband, I met him when I was
I’m such a people person you can’t put me behind a desk. I need to be out, talking to different people, facing challenges - that’s my personality.
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young, we were together forever, so it was one of those situations there was no reason for me to move too far.” Brenda and Tony have been married for 22 years and have four children: Juliana, 21, Elisa, 18, Antonio, 15 and Luke, 12. They still live in the area North of Boston near where they grew up and fell in love. The small-town feel, proximity to family, and accessibility to the city, mountains, lakes and beaches make North Reading home.
hospital for four months, and my youngest child went to school full days, I knew I needed to change my career,” she said. Turning Tables
As Brenda began thinking through new career options, she was sure of what she didn’t want. “I’m such a people person you can’t put me behind a desk,” she laughed. “I need to be out, talking to different people, facing challenges - that’s my personality.”
For Brenda, family is everything. “After my oldest daughter got sick with Crohn’s disease and was in
After talking with a dear friend, Brenda landed on real estate. She enjoyed finding the unique charm
of different houses and grew up learning about carpentry from her dad, but above all, Brenda excels at connecting with people. With her cordial and warmhearted personality and service-oriented work ethic, people lined up to work with her before she could get her license. “I already had this sphere. Some of them were my sisters, of course,” she smiled. That was four years and countless conversations ago. Now, Brenda is an individual agent with Coldwell Banker North Reading. Real estate has become much more than a job. It’s her way of life. “I’ll be walking the lakes for exercise, strike up a conversation with someone and then we’re talking business,” she said. “I promote myself just by being my normal, talkative self.” As naturally as striking up a conversation comes, so does doing the work and going the extra mile. When two brothers came to her to help them handle their late mother’s estate, they presented a unique challenge - they would not speak to each other and refused to be in the same room. “I told them about working through 9/11 at the investment firm and assured them I was up for the challenge,” Brenda recalled. Then, she got to work. When they couldn’t agree on hiring someone to clear out the home, Brenda cleaned everything herself. “I told them I would get the job done, and I did.” Brenda lives, works and loves wholeheartedly, giving back in both big and small ways. She supports several local organizations, including Autism Speaks, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, and the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.
I work with my heart on my sleeve. That’s just how I am.
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For Rising Star Brenda Fosco, sincere service is at the heart of everything she does. “I work with my heart on my sleeve. That’s just how I am,” she said. And, of course, it’s all about La Famiglia.
North Shore Real Producers • 21
coach’s corner By Toby Moyle,
FOCUSED THINKING
SIMPLE TECHNIQUE TO FIND A SOLUTION- ‘FOCUSED THINKING’ Some real estate agents have to juggle multiple high-stakes situations, each that require their full attention, all in the span of one day. Maybe you can relate. So, how do you decide which task takes priority? How can you make important decisions when your mind is divided amongst competing priorities? Years ago I applied a technique that helped me in a similar time when I had more issues than I had time to even ‘think’ about the issues… much less ‘solve’ anything. The simple technique that helped me was called ‘Focused Thinking’. As the name implies it is the simple act of being singularly focused on one thing at a time. This basic premise was foreign to someone that prided
22 • January 2024
themselves on being able to multi-task and handle an endless number of problems, seemingly all at the same time. ‘Focused thinking’ helps us to get clarity around our priorities, find solutions and make decisions. A literal example is a laser. A laser light is actually a weak source of energy. It is the concentration of energy that makes a laser so powerful. With focus it produces enough force to cut through metal and stone. There are 3 steps in focused thinking and the first step is to schedule a sacred time with yourself. Time that is devoid of anything else. Schedule this time and treat it as you would respect an appointment to meet a new customer. The second step is to remove distractions and noise so that you can clearly think about your single task or goal. This allows you to concentrate and shift your thoughts from being more ‘generalized’ to being more precise and powerful. Clear answers will appear when given the amount of focus they deserve.
The third step is to document all of the ideas that come into your thoughts during your session. You will have time to delve into each idea, one by one, but as the ideas present themselves stay focused on the single question or circumstance that you scheduled this time to focus on. You can designate additional time slots to concentrate on each new idea but during the session remain true to your original goal rather than get distracted. This will also provide a sense of relief because you know that you will have time in the future, rather than trying to address multiple topics at the same time. I have used focused thinking to help me make important decisions. Decisions that had been taking up a lot of energy and mind space before I applied this technique. Once I dedicated focused thinking time around these situations, it was amazing how clear and into view the answers became. I encourage you to try this technique and see what kind of positive results you achieve.
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North Shore Real Producers • 23
featured team By Breanna Smith Pizzolato, Sr. Writer, Photography by Michelle Morello, Lightshed Photography Strudio
BRYAN AND AMY RUOCCO
THE RUOCCO GROUP LPT REALTY CREATIVITY AND COLLABORATION The Ruocco Group has woven the power of love, entrepreneurship, and creative collaboration to form a business that exemplifies the beauty of blending talent, experience, and passion. Bryan and Amy Ruocco, the dynamic duo behind The Ruocco Group brokered by LPT Realty, have journeyed from successful entrepreneurs in other industries to real estate powerhouses. 24 • January 2024
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Bryan and Amy share a personal journey that spans 22 years of marriage, two kids, and a decade as business partners. Real estate has allowed them to creatively leverage the education, skills and experience they developed in their previous pursuits to help bring people’s dreams of owning property and real estate investments a reality. With over 25 years of experience in design and marketing, Amy brings a unique perspective to the world of property transactions. Armed with degrees in design and photography, she is an artist who understands how to create the cozy comforts of home in a short-term vacation rental. Bryan is not only a seasoned Realtor but a skilled photographer, videographer and leather worker. Bryan infuses every interaction with his quick wit and charming personality. His ability to connect with people goes beyond business transactions - it’s about building relationships and fostering a sense of community.
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Before finding their shared passion for real estate, Bryan was a chiropractor for 27 years. Amy founded a print and web design agency and the highly successful Wedding Window, a wedding website company. Wedding Window began as a solution to sharing information about their swiftly approaching nuptials with friends and family in the earthly 2000s as she and Bryan planned the wedding and finished building their home. “I decided to create a website where my guests could get all the information they were looking for without the need to contact me for specific details.” The feedback she received was so overwhelmingly positive she decided to go all-in on the business. The business quickly gained traction, reaching new heights when they handled Star Jones’ wedding in 2004, earning them a feature on The View.
Their journey is not just about buying and selling properties; it's a narrative of shared dreams, creative collaboration, and the harmonious blend of home and heart.
The entrepreneurial spirit that fueled their initial successes eventually led them to real estate.
North Shore Real Producers • 25
As their lives unfolded, Bryan delved into real estate in 2011. At first, he worked as a part-time Realtor, seeing his chiropractic patients in the early morning and spending the rest of his day on real estate. As Bryan’s real estate business grew, he enlisted Amy’s help with staging, marketing and photography. Fortunately for Bryan, his two businesses were able to successfully support one another as each grew. Like Bryan, it didn’t take Amy long to dive into real estate with an equal amount of passion. Then, in 2015, Amy sold Wedding Window to a long-time employee. 26 • January 2024
Amy quickly found her niche, and then came the birth of yet another business, HostedGuest, LLC, a full-service short-term rental management company. From reservation booking to guest management, staging and design, photography, and cleaning, Amy, with the support of Bryan, underlines her commitment to offering comprehensive services that reflect the couple’s dedication to excellence. Bryan, originally from New Hampshire, and Amy manage their own vacation home there, adding a personal touch to their understanding of the vacation rental market.
As Bryan and Amy continue to redefine the norms of real estate and vacation rental management, they do so with a creative flair and a commitment to providing a holistic experience for their clients. Their journey is not just about buying and selling properties; it’s a narrative of shared dreams, creative collaboration, and the harmonious blend of home and heart. The key to working together so effectively and 22 years of wedded bliss? “Yes, dear,” Bryan said with a smile. @realproducers
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North Shore Real Producers • 27
cover feature By Breanna Smith Pizzolato, Sr. Writer • Photography by Michelle Morello, Lightshed Photography Strudio
WENDY WILLIS Willis & Smith Group, Keller Williams
W
endy Willis wasn’t introduced to fox hunting until she was an adult, long after falling in love with horses as a child. A scent trail is dragged along a set course, following a route over jumps and obstacles. Despite being dressed in stock ties, jackets and tall boots, Wendy isn’t afraid of getting dirty and roughing it as her horse gallops through woods and fields and jumps over fences, all in pursuit of the elusive scent and the thrill of the hunt.
“I can’t explain it. It’s simply the best feeling in the world,” Wendy said. Fox hunting, also known as riding to hounds, originated in England in the sixteenth century and remains popular in Scotland, Northern Ireland, Australia, Canada, France, and the United States. Wendy has been a member of the Myopia Hunt for over 12 years. “Myopia is a drag hunt - a scent is dragged in advance for the hounds to find,” she explained. “No animals are hurt!” Despite breaking her back riding just a few years ago, Wendy took the advice of the adage and got right 28 • January 2024
back to riding as soon as she could. For Wendy, there’s something magical about the hunt - whether for a client’s dream home or a drag scent on a weekend hunt. The Love of the Hunt
Twenty-two years ago, Wendy was a stay-at-home mom on the hunt for a new career. She had spent many years working as an accountant, but with 18-month-old twins, she required more freedom and flexibility in her schedule. @realproducers
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“My former husband had recently lost his job, we were in the middle of an addition to our house, and I had 18-month-old twins to take care of,” she recalled. “Talk about motivation to do well!.” Growing up, Wendy spent weekends Open House hopping with her mom. “My love of real estate started there,” she said. Wendy saw an opportunity to pursue her lifelong dream of selling real estate and put her accounting degree and experience to work in an exciting way that would change the lives of those around her. She wasted no time seizing the opportunity and quickly built a reputation as a tenacious Realtor willing to go the extra mile and extend kindness at every opportunity. After over a decade of working as a solo agent, she joined forces with Elizabeth Smith to create the Willis & Smith Group, brokered by Keller Williams Greater Newburyport. “We have an amazing partnership,” Wendy said. “We’re two strong women, and we work really well together. We support each other and lift each other up.” “In addition, my executive assistant and office manager, Elizabeth Graves, is my right hand. She has 30 years of business experience and keeps everything organized and on point. Combined I have great support.” As an avid equestrian and fox hunter, Wendy especially enjoys helping clients find equine property. She spends much of her free time at Myopia Hunt or supporting the New England Equine Rescue North (NEER North) and Equine Rescue Network. Recently, she welcomed a new member to her family - an Irish Sport Horse who finally completed its long journey from Ireland to Wendy’s stables. realproducersmag.com
WE HAVE AN AMAZING PARTNERSHIP. We’re two strong women, and we work really well together. We support each other and lift each other up.
The dream of having an Irish Sport Horse of her own was solidified during a trip to Ireland, where she attended a fox hunt. “I came off on the first big ditch, but it was a lot of fun,” she laughed. For Wendy, fox hunting is much more than a sport or hobby. “It’s community, being with like-minded people enjoying horses in the beautiful country,” she said. “We are blessed at Myopia Hunt that we have the permission of landowners to go through properties that you would otherwise never see - some vast, beautiful estates with hundreds of acres of land.” Wendy fell in love with the area after moving to Massachusetts to attend Salem State University. She originally hails from Ohio but also lived in Pennsylvania. She attributes much of her success in real estate to her friendly and positive attitude. “I’m just a friendly midwesterner,” she laughed.
As a long-time resident, she stays active in the community. She is currently a West Newbury Park and Recreation Commissioner, a member of the West Newbury Riding and Driving Club, a former Board Member of the Pentucket Regional School Committee, the Secretary and Board Member of the West Newbury Garden Club, and a committee member of the West Newbury Affordable Housing committee, co-director of the Page School Ski Program and co-director of Pentucket Youth Cheerleading. She is also a member of the Greater Newburyport Association of Realtors, National Association of Realtors, and Massachusetts MLSPIN. Despite the many titles and roles, Wendy remains humble and energetic. And of all her titles, she prides herself most on being called mom. Her now 23-year-old twins, Alexander and Rebecca, are recent college graduates. “My kids are my world,” she said. North Shore Real Producers • 31
I FIND MYSELF IN A POSITION TO HELP OTHERS, and it is the most satisfying part of my work to be able to support and help.
When she’s not house hunting, volunteering or fox hunting, Wendy enjoys reading, traveling and spending time with her boyfriend, David Plunkett and father, Lawrence Rutherford, who lives with them. “We really enjoy each other’s company and spend a lot of time together going to dinner and watching movies,” she said. “We are planning a family trip to Italy next year!” As she reflects on 22 years in real estate, Wendy points to her team at Willis & Smith and following the Golden Rule as tenets of her success. Her enthusiasm, energy and zeal for life are infectious, and she always opts for kindness and friendliness. When a client confided in her that their family had hit hard times, Wendy decided she would not charge a commission without hesitation. After all, that’s what friends are for. “I find myself in a position to help others, and it is the most satisfying part of my work to be able to support and help.”
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