North Shore Real Producers - September 2023

CONNECTING. ELEVATING. INSPIRING.

GERI

FARRELLY

FARRELLY REALTY GROUPCOLDWELL BANKER

PUSH - PERSIST UNTIL SOMETHING HAPPENS

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

Dave is so customer focused he makes things easy when it comes to insurance. Whether it is setting up a new policy, answering my questions promptly, helping get a claim filed or any other insurance related issue he is always right on top of it. I do all my personal insurance with him and when I started my own business a few years ago he set all that insurance up for me as well. Dave is the best!

- Sam Salem, MA

David Bruett President

978-594-5308

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

ATTORNEY

Capano & McGloin, LLP

Lisa J. McGloin (781) 599-1010

CapanoMcGloin.com

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

Cherry Tree Legal, PLLC

Brendan L. Ward, Esq. (781) 496-2013 www.cherrytreelegal.com

Parry & Parry, P.C.

Denise Parry (978) 346-0005

Simple Title Closing & Escrow PLLC

George Megaloudis (978) 539-7500

simpletitle.us

Tiernan Law

Sean Tiernan (617) 791-3538

Tiernan-Law.com

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Northwestern Mutual Martin Connolly (781) 224-1623

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

Ace Cleanouts (844) 223-7781

JNR Junk & Logistics (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 MortgageLiz & 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

PUBLISHERS

I recently saw this on Instagram. Not only did it resonate with me, I thought that these basic points made sense for everyone, no matter your lot in life...and I feel like these are inspirational words in both our personal and work lives...

1. Stop Regretting the Past : release the grip of past regrets as they can’t be changed. Embrace the lessons learned and step into a brighter future.

2. Stop Worrying About the Future: Free Yourself from worrying about the unknown future and trust in your ability to handle what comes your way.

3. Stop Looking for Your Happiness in Other People: Seek happiness within yourself rather than relying on other people to provide

it, and watch your positivity attract positive connections.

4. Stop Underestimating Your Inner Strength : Believe in your abilities and embrace your resilience. Every setback is an opportunity to grow, learn and become even more magnificent. Embrace challenges with courage and determination knowing they are stepping stones toward the life that you desire.

Ok, so I haven’t done this before, but, I’m publishing some “ behind the scenes” photos of our cover feature shoot with Geri Farrelly. We were rewarded with a beautiful day and a fantastic location in North Reading. North Shore Real Producers is blessed to have a fantastic relationship with one of the best real

estate photographers in our business, but they also know how to put people at ease and have fun! And at the end of the day, that’s what we want all of our subjects to take away from their experience with Real Producers...and from Lightshed Photography Studio.

As always, I hope you enjoy our mission, our content...and this issue! We are nothing without the continued support of our esteemed and professional vendor partners...along with YOU real estate professionals who use Real Producers to Connect. Elevate. Inspire.

We thank you all so much and Happy Selling!

Talman Hauch Owner/Publisher North Shore Real Producers talman.hauch@n2co.com

VIDEO PRODUCTION & MARKETING

COREY STEIN FILMS

CAPTURES THE BEST OF YOUR REAL ESTATE WITH A CINEMATIC FILMMAKING APPROACH.

HIGH-QUALIT Y PHOTO + VIDEO SERVICES for promoting properties and towns

LICENSED + INSURED DRONE OPERATORS for aerial shots

ORIGINAL COMPOSED MUSIC

MATCH BRAND colors + fonts + logos for custom look

VIDEO OPTIONS voiceover + on screen text/titles + split-screen + guided walkthroughs + staged scenes

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT

Match brand colors, fonts + logo for custom look, create + post on social media accounts

MONEY ALCHEMY OF

a wealth-building seminar for REALTORS® presented by Brandon Green.

Wednesday, October 4th, 9 am - 3 pm

Presented by Humboldt Storage & Moving, part of the Armstrong Company.

Co-sponsored by North Shore Real Producers & South Shore Real Producers .

This ticketed event will include lunch, plus a networking breakfast at the Irish Cultural Center in Canton. Visit https/brandongreen.com to learn more.

MacKenzie

Cormier

rising star

By Dr. Brian Ramsey, Sr. Writer

Photography by Michelle Morello, Lightshed Photography Studio

Deb Lucci Team - William Raveis

Learning From The Right People

in a quick path to real estate recognition. She sold $18, 850,600.00 last year, and her drive, persistence and mental tenacity will not allow her to slow down, nor should she. She notes that her family’s background in building and developing has really helped her knowledge of the industry, and she has been fine with having to “earn her stripes.” Her parents’ example was important, and it was her grandfather and father who really taught her to work hard and formulate a successful business.

Mackenzie graduated from Elon University with a degree in Communications. She moved to Los Angeles and took a position in PR focusing on Social Media / Influencing. After a year, she moved back to her hometown and took a similar job, but she did not find it to be highly rewarding. Her family has been in construction for 50 years, and she knew that she always had a soft spot for real estate. During COVID, she was laid off, took the opportunity to study for her license, and when the testing centers reopened in July of 2020, Mackenzie passed her test.

I thrive on the activity that I find every day. It is challenging in a good way and makes the time interesting.

Cormier loves her work. It is a passion for her, and she finds it to be quite rewarding. She enjoys the journey with other people and becoming part of their story. Whether they are investing, seeking their first home, or relocating, she finds each situation unique and ample to learn more about real estate. “I thrive on the activity that I find every day. It is challenging in a good way and makes the time interesting,” she quips. Sure, at the beginning, she was 24 years old, and some thought that to be a bit young. Mackenzie is confident, which helped, and she worked very hard to assimilate a good amount of knowledge which led to experi ence, and boom – Rising Star!

For her, success is about being happy in all areas and achieving a balance in life so that one can enjoy everything. Her parents taught her to chase her dreams and that the money would follow; they were correct. Her grandfather is 85 years old and still working in building/developing, and he has been a harbinger for her entrepreneurial success journey. She observes that her return to the northeast was life-changing and has made her path and trajectory what it is today. She knows that life would have been very different had she stayed in California.

Though she has been in the industry a shorter time, Mackenzie has learned the successful habits of the best agents. She is attentive, responsible, and likable, and she is adept at being social and skillful. It is a people business, and she has studied them and knows how to interact with them. She thinks that the best agents must be technologically savvy and that they must work to be very relatable. She also thinks that newer agents should talk to as many agents and brokers as possible but be very careful to choose a great mentor. “The most important question for an agent is ‘Whom will they learn from?’”

Mackenzie is a newly-wed, and her husband, Robert works in banking. She loves design, fashion, activities with family, travel, and yoga. She loves to spend time with Duncan, her dog, and she really enjoys working with her younger sister, Leah. They can collaborate on certain projects while having their own clients too. Mackenzie is a determined, energetic, and loving person who might work in fashion if selling real estate was not an option. She has surrounded herself with great talent, and she is committed to change and grow for however long it takes to succeed. It will probably not be long before we see her on the cover!

By

PREMIER RESTORATION

Dr. Brian Ramsey, Sr. Writer; Photography by Michelle Morello, Lightshed Photography Studio

RESTORE YOUR PEACE OF MIND

“… we also believe in taking risks, because that’s how you move things along.”

Melinda Gates

For the last decade, Jake Turner has been focused upon the restoration business, but the game-changer came a couple of years ago when Jake bought his first investment property. The property needed a lot of work, and slowly, Jake started to make the renovations while learning and increasing his skill set. His family has always been good with construction, and he found that he developed a passion for rehab. He eventually decided to focus his business upon the rehab side, and now, his business has grown exponentially.

Jake notes that there was an organic need from customers. “We would enter a property and mitigate the water or mold damage, and the customer would ask who was coming to fix everything to its original condition. The answer to that question now is … Premier Restoration.

In addition to working with air quality and mold remediation, the company also works to restore the home’s integrity and appearance. They work with those who have suffered water damage and then seek to re-do the flooring, bath, kitchen, or other rooms that are affected. Jake

notes that he is most proud of the company for its ability to be a “one-stop-shop” for this type of need. The business is small enough to be personal but large enough to compete against other well-know companies. They are a small, local business, and the insurance companies enjoy working with them because they only must deal with one entity when solving the customer’s needs.

Jake’s company is known for its promptness, efficient communication, and honesty. In their line of work, many use scare tactics to get families to act, but Jake and his team are careful to do what is best for the customer. Jake will offer a visual inspection for anyone for free, and many like that he will work with them on a plan for the right restoration goals.

Jake’s concept of success is simple: be a good presence in the community, offer quality craftsmanship, and be professional. The many referrals that they receive tells him that his philosophy is correct. He hopes that his legacy is defined by the fact that he built a good company and that people think of his name when thinking about restoration.

Jake is married to Anna, and they have two dogs. He says that Anna is the design mastermind behind their work. He loves anything related to real estate, and he wants to work to develop a greater portfolio in his investments. He enjoys golfing sometimes, but most of his spare time is with family – doing simple things like long walks and being together. Jake is a hard working and honest businessman who is very family oriented. He likes to visit family in Montana,

and if he could choose any job in the world (regardless of money and logistics) he would pick owning a rescue shelter for dogs.

If Jake had not purchased that first investment, Premier Restoration would not be the thriving company it is today. He hopes that he will continue to have the boldness to try new things and to help others build their businesses. Sometimes a little faith and a lot of hard work really pay off.

Jake’s concept of success is simple: be a good presence in the community, offer quality craftsmanship, and be professional.

ask the expert

By Brendan Ward, Attorney, Cherry Tree Legal, PLLC

In the intricate world of Massachusetts real estate, a realtor’s role often extends beyond the transactional sphere, particularly when dealing with properties owned by individuals who have passed away. Understanding how property is sold after someone dies – whether they had a will, died intestate (without a will), or held property in a trust – is paramount. However, recognizing the opportunity to guide clients through these processes and discussing trusts and estate planning elevates a realtor’s status to that of a trusted advisor. In this article, we delve into the various ways property is sold after death and explore how initiating estate planning conversations can establish stronger client relationships.

NAVIGATING PROPERTY SALES AFTER DEATH

1. When There’s No Will (Intestate) : When someone passes away without a will, Massachusetts intestate succession laws determine how their property is distributed and who will have the ability to control the assets of the decedent. These types of transaction will also typically require additional probate court approval such as a license to sell real estate. This can extend the time that it takes for a transaction to close and should be disclosed to potential buyers as soon as possible in the process.

2. With a Valid Will : A will outlines the deceased’s wishes for their assets, including real estate and directs who will be the person with authority over the decedent’s assets. Typically a will also grants the power to sell real estate without the need for further court intervention. Realtors should be talking to their clients about whether or not the will has a power to sell real estate.

3. Trust-Owned Properties : Properties held in a trust bypass the probate process, allowing for a more streamlined transfer of ownership. Realtors should look up the trust or trustees certificate at the Registry of Deeds to make sure they are dealing with the correct person. Once confirmed, the property can be sold quickly without the intervention of the probate court.

BENEFITS OF ESTATE PLANNING CONVERSATIONS

1. Becoming a Trusted Advisor : Initiating conversations about trusts and estate planning transforms a realtor into a trusted advisor. By offering guidance on how to structure property ownership and plan for the future, you become a valuable partner in your clients’ financial well-being.

2. Tailored Recommendations : Understanding

trusts and estate planning enables realtors to provide tailored property recommendations that align with clients’ broader financial goals. This personalized approach showcases your dedication to their success.

3. Holistic Financial Strategy : Engaging clients in estate planning discussions fosters a holistic approach to financial planning. By addressing their real estate needs within the context of their broader estate plans, you solidify your role as a comprehensive advisor.

STRATEGIES FOR ESTABLISHING TRUSTED ADVISOR STATUS

1. Educational Workshops : Host workshops or seminars that shed light on estate planning nuances, probate procedures, and trust structures in Massachusetts. These events showcase your expertise and create a platform for client education.

2. Collaboration with Experts : Forge relationships with estate planning attorneys and financial advisors who specialize in Massachusetts law. Collaborating with experts ensures your clients receive well-rounded advice, reinforcing your status as a trusted advisor.

3. Proactive Client Engagement : Initiate conversations about estate planning during your consultations. By demonstrating genuine concern for your clients’ long-term well-being, you lay the foundation for a strong and lasting relationship.

In the Massachusetts real estate landscape, the process of selling property after someone’s passing is multifaceted and legally intricate. By mastering the protocols surrounding wills, intestate succession, and trust-owned properties, realtors position themselves as knowledgeable guides through these often-challenging transactions.

However, the true value of a realtor lies not just in their legal acumen, but in their ability to initiate estate planning discussions and offer comprehensive guidance. As a realtor who understands the benefits of trusts and estate planning, you have the power to become a trusted advisor – a partner who empowers clients to make informed decisions, secures their financial legacies, and navigates the complexities of property sales after death. By offering this higher level of service, you foster relationships built on trust and set yourself apart in the competitive Massachusetts real estate arena.

cover feature

By Dr. Brian Ramsey, Sr. Writer; Photography by Michelle Morello, Lightshed Photography Studio

Geri

Farrelly Realty Group - Coldwell Banker Farrelly

In her office, there is a sign that says “PUSH: Persist Until Something Happens.” It is a reminder but more importantly a mantra for Geri Farrelly; she makes it happen every day, and she teaches the agents at her brokerage to do the same.

Geri studied in college to become a Physical Therapist Assistant, and she launched her career by working for a hospital (about 10 years). She was also asked to travel across the nation to teach a licensure preparation course – a job that took her to 47 of our 50 states. When she had her two sons, life shifted for her; she quit teaching and changed to home health care. In time, she realized that there was still something missing professionally, so she pursued an interest that she always had – real estate.

Geri was licensed in 2004, and for almost two decades she has been blazing a trail of delivering a great service to clients and helping them meet their goals. Along the way, she has also taken the opportunity to develop other agents, helping them become successful and assisting them to make their clients successful. It is one of the most rewarding parts of working in real estate.

Early on, Farrelly was asked this question: What are you most concerned about in working in real estate? She mentioned that she was concerned

about not having the next deal. Her mentor, Marco Corey, told her that she must consistently deliver 5 star customer service for her clients and the next deal would always be there. She was right! That mentoring moment was a gamechanger for Farrelly, and she has operated with that business philosophy since. She trusts that her legacy will be defined by her fairness, honesty, and commitment to her community. She wants people to see that she works to be collaborative and cooperative, and she helps other agents to build this same proper foundation.

Geri loves many of the aspects of working in real estate, like problem-solving. She enjoys the search for the right home, and she likes the idea that the industry brings an agent into contact with many new people and other agents. Early on, she was very concerned about not having the steady paycheck, and she knew that she was inexperienced. She shadowed others and worked very hard to assimilate the information needed to make clients feel comfortable with her ability.

Farrelly notes that the best agents are great at listening and are always seeking to put their clients’ needs first. They are very good at collaborating, and even top agents are never afraid to ask questions. She says that better agents are not just concerned about their success but are willing to give back to their community. She has never forgotten the example that her parents displayed: one of modeling hard work and of generosity in helping other people.

For those who are new to the industry, Geri teaches them to immediately observe as many agents as possible and to be prepared to work incredibly hard – for themselves and their clients. She is thrilled to have opened her own brokerage ten years ago, and it affords her the opportunity to now provide a training ground for agents that will give them a proper foundation for the work of real estate. It is not something that was present when she started. “I am so thankful, though, for all of the people –friends, agents, and family that have helped me along the way,” she says.

I am so thankful, though, for all of the people –friends, agents, and family that have helped me along the way.

Though she does not have a crystal ball to predict the future, Geri thinks that the next stretch of the market will be similar to the present – low inventory. “There are not enough homes for the next generation, and agents may see the urgency in buyers and sellers go down. It is still a great time to apply all the right principles in real estate,” she quips.

Geri has been married almost three decades to an immigrant from Ireland, Kevin, who works as a carpenter. They have two sons: Michael (26) and Kevin (24). Geri loves to ski in the winter, spend time on the Cape with family and friends, golf, play tennis, and work out in the gym. She has really enjoyed Fit Revolution

– which has enabled her to lose 100 pounds. She can be described as funny, generous, and happy, and if she had to choose a different job that she has never done, she would work/own a small boutique shop on the Cape. She is looking forward to many more years of persisting … until something happens!

It is still a great time to apply all the right principles in real estate.

NORTH SHORE REALTORS REPORT

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

Gloucester Restricts Residential Development in Floodplain: The city of Gloucester has adopted a Floodplain Ordinance which establishes new restrictions on residential development and expands the boundaries of their existing floodplain overlay district. The expanded floodplain district will now include areas subject to a ‘hundred-year flood’ based on the projected sea level rise in 2070.

The Floodplain Ordinance implements an outright ban on new residential construction in VE Zones. VE Zones are defined as areas subject to a 1% annual-chance flooding event with additional hazards due to storm-induced high velocity waves. In addition, the movement, alteration, or expansion of an existing residential dwelling or structure so as to increase its lot coverage in VE Flood Zones is prohibited.

In AE Flood Zones, which are simply defined as areas subject to a 1% annual-chance flooding event, there are now stringent regulations on new development and renovation. For new construction, residential or accessory lot coverage cannot exceed 10% of the AE zone within the lot. For renovation, the movement, alteration, or expansion of an existing residential and/or accessory structure cannot cause the lot coverage of all structures to exceed 10% of the AE zone within the lot.

The updated Gloucester Floodplain Ordinance has been approved by the City Council and went into effect on June 1, 2023. Stand above the crowd by educating property owners and buyer clients about these new regulations. This is critical information for your property owners and potential buyers with interests on the coast.

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.

Last month, North Shore REALTORS® was honored to deliver $2,500 in grants from the MAR Charitable Foundation to Citizens Inn and Greater Lynn Senior Services. These amazing organizations, based right here on the North Shore, were nominated for grant consideration by the NSR Community Involvement and Investment Committee.

Based out of Peabody, Citizens Inn works on an individual basis to help families and individuals who are experiencing a housing crisis or food insecurity. All grant funding from the MAR Charitable Foundation will be utilized to renovate the Inn Between Family shelter. To celebrate this burgeoning relationship, NSR members turned out in force for Citizen’s Inn first annual REALTOR® Volunteer Day!

Greater Lynn Senior Services is the nonprofit Aging Services Access Point and Area Agency on Aging serving people aged 60 and older and adults living with disabilities in Greater Lynn. Grant funding will be used to help clients stay in their homes and maintain their independence pay for home delivered meals.

Patrick Maguire - Chief Executive Officer, North Shore Realtors