JULY 2023 - PHILADELPHIA REAL PRODUCERS MAGAZINE by Josh Buchter

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4 • July 2023 @realproducers NOMINATE A COVER STORY Please send all nominations to josh.buchter@realproducersmag.com PHILADELPHIA 24 Agent to Watch: Katjya Pollard 08 Preferred Partners 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 Philadelphia 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. If you are interested in contributing or nominating Realtors for certain stories, please email us at josh.buchter@realproducersmag.com. CONTENTS TABLE OF 16 Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Je Shablin & Brian Figgs 38 Top Producer Cover Story: Gazi Ataseven 4 • July 2023 @realproducers NOMINATE A COVER STORY Please send all nominations to josh.buchter@realproducersmag.com PHILADELPHIA 24 Agent to Watch: Katjya Pollard 08 Preferred Partners 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 Philadelphia 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. If you are interested in contributing or nominating Realtors for certain stories, please email us at josh.buchter@realproducersmag.com. CONTENTS TABLE OF 16 Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Je Shablin & Brian Figgs 46 Preferred Partner Highlight: Susan TerraPodio 38 Top Producer Cover Story: Gazi Ataseven 32 Making a Di erence: Dora Johns

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REAL PRODUCERS TEAM PHILADELPHIA MEET THE

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

Philadelphia Real Producers • 13 realproducersmag.com

Josh Buchter Owner/Publisher Perspective Media LLC Heather Pluard Megan McDonnell Publisher Assistant Andrea Duren Client Relations and Sales Ryan Berridge Berridge Photography David DeSue, Jr. Social Media Manager Bryant Sanders Bryant Sanders Photography Miguel Victoria Brand & Marketing Consultant PLUSH Image Corporation Vernon Ray Creative Mind Productions Izzy Perales Image Consultant Sarah Cosentino Ad Design/Management

Philadelphia Real Producers • 13

Vanessa Dinh Graphic Design Intern Josh Buchter Owner/Publisher Christian Powell Perspective Media LLC Chris Menezes Writer Ruth Gnirk Writer Heather Pluard Writer Sara Howanski Marketing Director Megan McDonnell Publisher Assistant Bethany Williams Partner/Co-Publisher Andrea Duren Client Relations and Sales Ryan Berridge Berridge Photography David DeSue, Jr. Social Media Manager Dave Danielson Writer Bryant Sanders Bryant Sanders Photography Miguel Victoria Brand & Marketing Consultant Jamie Taylor Writer Matt Robnett PLUSH Image Corporation Vernon Ray Creative Mind Productions Izzy Perales Image Consultant Sarah Cosentino Ad Design/Management

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JEFF

BRIAN &

THE AVENUE TEAM AT COPPER HILL REAL ESTATE

Picture

is sitting in a Florida airport awaiting his ﬂight to the Dominican Republic, where poolside margaritas are calling his name. Brian “New Digs” Figgs is marinating in Philadelphia tra c - maybe also dreaming of margaritas - as he heads from one showing to the next. It’s how our virtual interview for this article proceeds, and, in the moment, the co-founders of The Avenue Team (brokered by Copper Hill Real Estate) o er a simultaneous representation for both sides of the REALTOR® coin – working hard and playing hard. Considering they have only been in the industry a short time (2018 and 2021, respectively), such work/life balance is a state Je and Brian have reached with impressive speed, thanks to, of all things, the pandemic, and the guys say that necessity - and a little pivoting - launched them to where they are today.

Picture it: Je Shablin is sitting in a Florida airport awaiting his ﬂight to the Dominican Republic, where poolside margaritas are calling his name. Brian “New Digs” Figgs is marinating in Philadelphia tra c - maybe also dreaming of margaritas - as he heads from one showing to the next. It’s how our virtual interview for this article proceeds, and, in the moment, the co-founders of The Avenue Team (brokered by Copper Hill Real Estate) o er a simultaneous representation for both sides of the REALTOR® coin – working hard and playing hard. Considering they have only been in the industry a short time (2018 and 2021, respectively), such work/life balance is a state Je and Brian have reached with impressive speed, thanks to, of all things, the pandemic, and the guys say that necessity - and a little pivoting - launched them to where they are today.

Brian holds a BS and MBA from Philadelphia University (now Je erson University), and his background is in project management. He obtained his real estate license in 2018, with the intention of operating as an agent while continuing his career – a futile undertaking, as it turned out. “It’s virtually impossible to do [both] and be successful,” he admits. Once Covid hit, Brian weathered a layo from his job, and he says it was a turn of events for which he will forever be grateful, as it forced his full

16 • July 2023 @realproducers

it: Je Shablin

16 • July 2023 @realproducers

teamwork makes the dream work

realproducersmag.comrealproducersmag.com

Written by: Jamie Taylor Photography by: PLUSH Image Corp.

focus toward real estate. Determined to hit the ground running in this new phase, Brian quickly harnessed the marketing powers of social media, and he implemented the engaging approach of hosting and posting virtual neighborhood tours, aptly titled “Weekly Walks with New Digs Figgs.” “This really helped my brand and helped get [it] out there that this is what I was doing now...,” he recalls.

focus toward real estate. Determined to hit the ground running in this new phase, Brian quickly harnessed the marketing powers of social media, and he implemented the engaging approach of hosting and posting virtual neighborhood tours, aptly titled “Weekly Walks with Digs Figgs.” “This really helped my brand and helped get [it] out there that this is what I was doing now...,” he recalls.

As Brian’s real estate e orts took o , Je , also impacted by the pandemic, began to consider his own foray into the industry. “I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1986, [and] I have been in the fitness business for 28 years. First as a personal trainer, and then my husband and I opened gyms. When Covid shut down the world, [we] thought we’d lose everything we had built. I had dabbled in flipping homes before, and I have always loved real estate, [so] we decided, together, that he would continue running our gyms, and I would 100% focus on a real estate career. It is the best decision we could have made,” Je says, adding that he was lucky to enter the field with an already established network via his years in business, which allowed him to leverage his connections and quickly spread the word about his new venture.

Because Je and Brian have a 15-year friendship that long precedes their agent days, and a mutual respect for one another’s work ethic, combining forces early in the real estate game was a no-brainer for the two. “In June of 2021, Je and I, along with his husband, Yul, and my boyfriend, Mike, all went on vacation together... While sitting on the beach, Je [told] me that he was getting his real estate license and asked if [I] wanted to form a team together. The rest is history...,” Brian recalls.

It’s a partnership that works, thanks, in part, to the duo’s shared values and mindsets. “I treat every client the same. It doesn’t matter if you’re buying a $200k home or a home in the millions. I’m 100% in to get it over the ﬁnish line...,” Je shares. “The client can never be treated too well,” Brian concurs. “Je and I are extremely responsive with not only our clients but with other agents as well. In this industry, you have to be quick and jump on things as they come up...”

to their success, they’ll have no shortage of anecdotes. One of their favorites occurred in the form of a shakeup, so to speak, on Fitler Square. “I had a new listing there... I brought Je to his ﬁrst open house at this listing, and that is where we met the buyer,” Brian recalls.”[He] was just jogging by and started talking to Je ... At the time, there were two units out of four for sale, and the buyer/jogger asked Je if the two units were able to be combined. He said that he always admired the building and would love to own the whole [thing]. Well, that challenge was accepted. We immediately got on the phone to see if we could get in touch with the two other owners, and we did. After lots of back and forth and negotiations, we had the whole building under contract. Our $435k listing had turned into a $2.1 million sale. Our hustle, drive and determination are what allowed us to bring that deal to the closing table.”

A triumph, certainly, and there have been many other “closing tables” under the duo’s belts since then. Combined, Je and Brian completed $14.5 million in sales for 2022, with Brian receiving a top producer award and Je receiving a rising star award from their brokerage. With these new heights have come new sights, and, as of last year, The Avenue Team has expanded. Enter Nick Selvaggi and Adam Valone. “I have known Nick for almost ten years now...He called me one day to ask me about my career change journey and how I liked real estate. He said that he was also thinking of making the switch to becoming a full-time agent. And, boy, are we glad he did,” Brian says of the value Nick brings to the team. As for Adam, he came on board from another agency, seeking more of a squad vibe. “When we ﬁrst met him, we knew he would be a great ﬁt,” Brian recalls, adding that Adam’s background in structures and building systems positions him to o er clients unique insight. More new faces may join the team in the future, but Je and Brian are adamant about remaining selective. “We’re not just looking to run a numbers game. A lot of people just bring in bodies and hope they produce; that’s not what we want,” Je says.

The proof is in the pudding, and if you ask the guys for a few examples of how this approach has contributed

In between making home ownership dreams come true for their clients, Je and Brian make the most of their free time, often spending it with their respective partners and families. Je and Yul enjoy staying active, speciﬁcally with explorations of beaches and mountains,

18 • July 2023 @realproducers

and they share a passion for animals. Just ask their Goldendoodle, Santo, who has a big presence – in both body and spirit. As for Brian and Mike, when they aren’t catering to their own pup, Billie (who gives major princess vibes), they often make time to visit the New Jersey shore house that Brian co-owns with his siblings. It is the home he and his sisters grew up in, and the trio purchased the property a few years ago as a place for their entire family to spend summers.

Moments like those are the rewards that come on the backend of relentless hustle, something Je and Brian obviously know a lot about. And while they are disciplined and intentional during their working hours, they both agree that having a team of colleagues who are also genuine friends leads to a good number of laughs in the workday as well. It’s a winning combination that even their clients can appreciate. Because what could be better than having an agent who is going to get the deal done… and bring a lot of fun to the mix along the way?

Philadelphia Real Producers • 19 realproducersmag.com

It’s a partnership that works, thanks, in part, to the duo’s shared values and mindsets.

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Katjya Pollard

KELLER WILLIAMS PHILADELPHIA

agent to watch

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24 • July 2023 @realproducers

Photography by: Berridge Photography

If at ﬁrst you don’t succeed, buckle down, and bet on yourself. If Katjya Pollard lives by any motto, that’s the one. Considering that she’s a top producing agent and a stickler for always honing her craft, one could easily assume her trajectory to the real estate mountain’s pinnacle was a smooth and meticulously planned climb. Not so, at least in the beginning, and, with complete straightforwardness and ownership, Katjya will be the ﬁrst to admit her road to success came paved with a few bumps. But the ensuing personal growth and cultivation of a solid understanding that she can accomplish whatever she sets her mind to are the byproducts of her journey, and without a doubt, these have made her success all the sweeter.

Seven years ago, Katjya was new to the real estate game and learning to lean into her talents. She had previously owned an event planning business while also working as a full-time administrative assistant at an insurance corporation, and it was a time in her life when she felt disillusioned, both with the culture of her workplace and her waning interest in her event business. She began to reevaluate her end game and yearn for something new. Enter divine intervention - in the form of an old friend and a bite to eat. “I ran into a friend at lunch. He said,‘I’m getting ready to go to real estate school. You should come too,’” Katjya recalls. The idea appealed, and she began to do some research. Shortly after, the tension at her 9 to 5 reached a tipping point, and she left her job without a solid Plan B. “I left with a bonus and a paycheck, and I didn’t know what I was going to do. The very next day, I enrolled in real estate school.”

Fast forward to her real estate exam –that last hurdle before turning the page and starting a new career. Every agent knows the excitement of this moment, but for Katjya, it was a feeling just out of her reach…three times over. She didn’t pass the exam until her fourth try, not for lack of being able to absorb the information, but, rather, for lack of

being all-in. “About the fourth time, I got tired of myself. The only thing in my way was me,” she shares. After a ﬁrm look in the mirror, Katjya laced up her metaphoric tennis shoes and got ready to go the proverbial extra mile. She ordered additional study material and devoured the information, and she passed her exam with ﬂying colors. The very next day, she made an hour drive to get her license. “That’s how serious I was,” she says of the trip and her newfound determination.

Beneﬁts, vacation hours on the table, 401K match - I walked away from all of it,” she says. In 2022, with her full focus anchored in real estate for the ﬁrst time, she experienced a banner year, receiving a top 25% producer title from Homesnap. Now licensed in two states, Pennsylvania and Delaware, Katjya is poised for continued success...and not just in the realm of realty.

As a rookie in the industry, she experienced some growing pains, but as those gradually gave way to insight and experience, Katjya’s business began a steady climb, thanks in large part to her commitment to setting systems in place and allowing them to work for her. Throughout this development phase, she maintained a second job, and it was a safety net she decided to finally cut ties with last May. “There’s power in letting go. Benefits, vacation hours on the table, 401K match - I walked away from all of it,” she says. In 2022, with her full focus anchored in real estate for the first time, she experienced a banner year, receiving a top 25% producer title from Homesnap. Now licensed in two states, Pennsylvania and Delaware, Katjya is poised for continued success...and not just in the realm of realty.

Philadelphia Real Producers • 25 realproducersmag.com

Taking her passion for helping others beyond her agent role, she has opened a business consulting firm, Sensational Business Solutions, and she is in the process of launching a nonprofit, For Black Girls (info@forblackgirlsonline), with a dear friend. She has also branched out into mentoring young real estate agents. “I know I struggled a lot my first year, and I don’t want new [agents] to give up on their careers,” she explains, adding that helping the newbies find their “I can do this” moment is her way of encouraging others to create a personal sense of achievement- the type she herself experienced when she sold her first half-million-dollar home.”[It’s] one of my favorite memories. For a long time, I couldn’t get there, but once I hit that mark, I knew that I could do anything…I never felt I could be on par with someone of that caliber before. But when I did it, I just felt so good. It was a defining moment in my career, and it makes me reach for bigger business.”

One interaction along those lines still resonates with Katjya to this day. “I had a client I helped who is now my business partner…and I’ll never forget at the conclusion of her transaction, on the last document she signed, the tears and outburst of relief that overcame her. It was a cry that I was able to recognize. The ‘I did this’ cry. The ‘I bet on myself, and if I can achieve this, then I can do anything for my children’ cry. That one was very special to me because I understood that release for her.”

Her ability to identify with her buyers on such a visceral level is one reason Katjya’s clients often see her as a longhauler when it comes to their personal relationship with her, and it’s not uncommon for her to be invited to clients’ life events (baby showers, weddings, and the like) long after the close of the sale. Her take on these organic bonds?

With that reach comes organized goals, and Katjya has a speciﬁc one in mind. “Although my niche was buyers, I am looking to change the trajectory of my business to 70% sellers. I am working actively to get my broker’s license, taking all the classes,” she says of her vision, adding that she can also help investors build their portfolios. Making more connections is also atop her priority list. “If there are other agents who want to partner with me to network, I always welcome the opportunity for that.”

When asked what she loves most about her job, Katjya sums it up in a nutshell – that she can change people’s lives and make a lot of money doing it. Of course, that nutshell has many nuances. “A lot of times, I feel like I have a lot in common with the people I help…and that’s what makes my career so rewarding. I love helping young women, especially minority women, buying one house at a time. As a girl from the urban Bronx, a six-figure real estate career wasn’t the example I saw [growing up]. I was never supposed to see six figures a year, according to data. I see a reflection of myself in each of these women I’m helping,” she shares, giving a special nod to the single moms. “I was a young mom, nineteen years old. Hence why my passion connects so deeply with [them]. [These women] work really hard to build credit and build something for themselves and their kids…I love being able to show my clients that, [with their house], they are sitting on wealth, and being able to teach them how to leverage this asset long-term to build wealth for their families.”

Katjya says she is thankful for them, and that authenticity is the key to building them. “My customer service style…I’m very much me. I think that allows a lot of like-minded people to gravitate toward me. I truly show up as my true, authentic self through the process, and I genuinely care about my clients’ needs.”

When she’s not wearing her real estate cape, Katjya enjoys spending time with her son and her Goldendoodle. She also has a healthy dose of wanderlust in her soul. “I love to travel [and] try exotic foods - everything except for reptiles. I also like to take long drives to nowhere. I literally ﬁnd myself exploring a di erent city or town.

When she’s not wearing her real estate cape, Katjya enjoys spending time with her son and her Goldendoodle. She also has a healthy dose of wanderlust in her soul. “I love to travel [and] try exotic foods - everything except for reptiles. I also like to long drives to nowhere. I literally ﬁnd myself exploring a di erent city or town.

26 • July 2023 @realproducers

Figuring it out as she goes. There it is again. That underlying theme that brought Katjya to where she is today. “I didn’t know how much my life would change when I [started] real estate. And in return, I’ve been able to reach back and help my clients,” she says with gratitude. Sure, she now has more focus at this stage in the game, but that willingness to jump into the unknown is a character trait she doesn’t plan to lose anytime soon. It’s gotten her this far, after all.

267-240-7753 K.pollard@kw.com

Philadelphia Real Producers • 27 realproducersmag.com Philadelphia Real Producers • 27 realproducersmag.com

”

I truly show up as my true, authentic self through the process, and I genuinely care about my clients’ needs.

“ Contact Information: Katjya Pollard

When I need to escape mentally, I take a nice long drive and ﬁgure it out as I go that day.”

28 • July 2023 @realproducers SCAN TO GET YOUR CLIENTS FINANCED TODAY! @WhoIsJoshG Let Our Family Bring Your Family Home! 28 • July 2023 @realproducers JOSHUA GIDDINGS Branch Manager NMLS# 39634 856.287.2532 802 Tilton Rd., Ste. 102D Northﬁeld, NJ 08225 Licensed by the NJ Department of Banking and Insurance SCAN TO GET YOUR CLIENTS FINANCED TODAY! @WhoIsJoshG Let Our Family Bring Your Family Home! Partnering With Any Other Lender Would Be Unthinkable!

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6-HOUR

Our

CLOSING

Last,

7-DAY

Next,

Philadelphia Real Producers • 31 realproducersmag.com

Lear n how the 6-7-1 Process can help your business!

Our Process

UNDERWRITING*

goal is to have a completely underwritten loan within 6 hours.

we aim to complete processing in 7 days.

PROCESS*

CONTROL*

UNDER

our closers work with a settlement agent to close the loan in as little as 1 day.

it is Movement Mortgage's goal to provide underwriting results within six hours of receiving an application, process loans in seven days, and close in one day, extenuating circumstances may cause delays outside of this window Gabe German: FL-LO70990, NJ, NY, PA-75294 | Movement Mortgage LLC. All rights reserved. NMLS ID #39179 (For licensing information, go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). Additional information available at movement.com/legal. Interest rates and products are subject to change without notice and may or may not be available at the time of loan commitment or lock-in. Borrowers must qualify at closing for all beneﬁts. GABE GERMAN LOAN OFFICER | NMLS# 1584294 917.574.2611 gabe.german@movement.com lo.movement.com/gabe-german 1031 Route 11, Ste 203, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 SCAN FOR CO-BRANDING MARKETING MATERIALS Philadelphia Real Producers • 31 realproducersmag.com Our Process Lear n how the 6-7-1 Process can help your business!

UNDERWRITING* Our goal is to have a completely underwritten loan within 6 hours. Next, we aim to complete processing in 7 days.

*While

6-HOUR

PROCESS*

UNDER CONTROL* Last, our closers work with a settlement agent to close the loan in as little as 1 day.

CLOSING

*While

Dora

making a di making a di erence erence JOHNS

JOHNS Written by: Dave Danielson

Written by: Dave Danielson

Photography by: Bryant Sanders

Photography by: Bryant Sanders 32 • July 2023 @realproducers

Dora

KELLER WILLIAMS MAIN LINE

Active Advocate

Clients who set out to buy or sell their property are like new arrivals to an unfamiliar land.

As they make their way into uncharted territory, they are confronted with an unfamiliar language, and plenty of unknowns that pop up along the way.

At the same time, their chances of success are boosted by having an experienced guide on their side who is knowledgeable and an active advocate they can count on to see them through.

That’s a role that Dora Johns is proud to fulﬁll as a REALTOR® with Keller Williams Main Line in Pennsylvania, and Keller Williams New Jersey.

In addition, she has also completed the hours needed for her Broker’s license and will be testing for that shortly.

“I enjoy being there for the people I work with,” Dora says. “Having someone as an advocate will decrease their anxiety in order to create a smooth transaction.”

Philly Born and Raised

Dora grew up in Philadelphia with her parents and a sister. Her father worked as a Philadelphia public school teacher and her mother was a homemaker.

As Dora came of age, she started her working career in the medical ﬁeld, becoming an RN in 1985. Eventually, Dora decided to expand her career path and she earned her real estate license in 2017.

“I was becoming more entrepreneurial-minded. Real estate seemed to lend itself to what I wanted to do. I’m not a person who enjoys sitting in the o ce. At the same time, I also like to teach, just like when you’re a nurse and you’re explaining things to patients,” she says.

“I did both at ﬁrst and then my real estate business became much larger and I turned to real estate full-time. I think there are a lot of similarities between both careers. You have to like people and you have to care for people during these high-anxiety times and anticipate their needs.”

Thankful for Positive Inﬂuences

Dora carries a great deal of gratitude for her family, including her father, Theodore; her mother, Merle; and her sisters — Vivian and Athelda.

Thankful for Positive Inﬂuences Dora carries a great deal of gratitude for her family, including her father, Theodore; her mother, Merle; and her sisters — Vivian and Athelda.

In her free time, Dora has a passion for playing tennis. In fact, she is a member of a USTA team. She also teaches a soap-making course.

Crafting is a big part of Dora’s life.

“I teach a class through Mount Airy Learning Tree and I teach a real estate topic there, as well,” Dora says.

“I started o teaching crafts and decided to add a real estate class called ‘Listing Your Home for Sale’ three to four times a year. I assist people with knowing the steps they can take through the whole process of selling their home in order to increase their net proﬁts.”

34 • July 2023

34 • July 2023 @realproducers

Travel is another favorite, active pur suit for her. Italy has been her number one destination through time. Years ago, she had moved to Colorado for about 10 years.

While there, she fostered her love for skiing which has continued to grow through time. She often combines travel with skiing — in places such as Switzerland, France, Italy, Canada and points across the United States.

Impact that Matters

Dora’s e orts on behalf of her clients and community have not gone unnoticed.

As a result of her consistent, positive e orts for others through time, she has earned the reputation of being kind, smart and generous.

When it comes to giving back, Dora has a strong passion for volunteering, includ ing supporting local food bank e orts to help ﬁght hunger.

“I think we should all give back to our community. Giving back should be every one’s goal no matter how big or small,” Dora says.

“It gives you the opportunity to get to know other people that you wouldn’t normally meet.”

Philadelphia Real Producers • 35 realproducersmag.com

GROW YOUR BUSINESS. Sara Howanski | CEO 267.582.0334 | WLCgrowth.com

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top producer cover story

Written by: Ruth Gnirk Photography by: PLUSH Image Corp.

GAZI ATASEVEN

• 39 LIVING TO MAXIMUM POTENTIAL

@realproducers 40 • July 2023 @realproducers

RECORD-BREAKER

Gazi Ataseven has always been self-motivated and driven to excel. Even as a young boy growing up in Turkey, he was unafraid to challenge himself to accomplish di cult things. He had dreams of greatness through helping others.

He decided that the best way to prepare himself for the future was to push himself out of the comfort zone and enrolled in a very competitive school majoring in mathematics program for his undergraduate studies.

While enrolled at Wilmington University, DE earning his MBA, Gazi met Amy. They both shared a passion for improving themselves through education. The couple married shortly after Gazi completed his master’s degree.

Gazi broke the university record by scoring a perfect 100 (A+) on the ﬁrst test he took from the toughest professor on campus. Working part-time on the side and attending classes full-time required a high level of discipline. He remained resolute, determined to gain the knowledge he needed from his studies while being a diligent employee and making an income that would support him through his college years.

Inspired by the memory of his mentor’s encouragement, Gazi looked for meaningful jobs that would allow him to help make others’ lives better. For a time, he worked for a nonproﬁt organization, promoting the common good and giving back to the community on a large scale. Gazi also worked as an assistant math teacher, impacting and empowering young students. By 2016 he was working for a real estate construction company.

“The numbers always work,” Gazi shared, “because numbers never lie. And while you are teaching your clients, your actions show people who you really are. You don’t have to tell them that you keep clients number one; just show them. I am able to build trust with my clients. That allows me to guide them throughout the process. I want to help them ﬁnd the solution they need!”

Last year the independent agent completed over 91 transactions. This year Gazi created a team so that he could help even more families. Inspired by his family, who is always on the move, Gazi named the team Fidget. He and his team never stop working for their clients.

“I always tell my clients,‘If you stop, the market will stop. So keep moving!’” Gazi continued, “I know I can’t be perfect, but I can get better every day. I don’t ‘only’ understand the ins and outs of real estate. I’m living in it.”

During one particularly di cult week, Gazi was approached by his mentor who was proud of Gazi’s focus and drive. The mentor did not want Gazi to feel undue pressure as his coursework became increasingly di cult. He believed in Gazi’s potential, and assured young Gazi that his position and pay rate would remain secure as long as Gazi did his best at school. This freed Gazi’s mind and he not only learned how to study, but he invented himself during his time at the university.

LAND OF OPPORTUNITY

Even after graduating in ﬁrst place out of 500 students, Gazi had a hunger for more. He wanted to pursue further education in the USA. Because of his position as a top student, Gazi was granted an academic visa in 2007. He decided to start his new life in Philadelphia.

He was committed and determined to not only succeed for his family, but for the community. He got out of his comfort zone and pushed his boundaries. It was during his time with the real estate construction company that Gazi caught a vision for creating a generational impact.

OUT OF THE COMFORT ZONE

Gazi is proud of his wife Amy, who has earned ﬁve degrees (so far). Her passion for learning and sharing her knowledge still inspires Gazi every day. The pair love to spend time with their daughters who are ages 10 and almost two.

FIDGET

When Gazi became a licensed REALTOR® in 2017, he was determined to become the best resource for his clients. He found that a knowledge of mathematical principles and numerical operations helped him educate and inform his clients.

“A mentor can be a parent, teacher, or friend who helps you learn to succeed in life,” smiled Gazi. “To this day I am grateful for all my mentors and the people in my life who have encouraged and supported me. Life is continuing education. Your journey starts when you are born. You’re constantly being impacted and a ected, and you are constantly impacting and a ecting others. Amy and I learned things from our parents that we are teaching our daughters, and we are also learning new things each day.”

Philadelphia Real Producers • 41 realproducersmag.com

BEING A TOP PRODUCER IS ONLY A SMALL PART OF MY LIFE. I WANT TO LIVE TO MY MAXIMUM POTENTIAL IN EVERY AREA.

CELEBRATING SUCCESS

Gazi is a multi-faceted agent. He specializes in residential, commercial real estate, and works closely with land developers and builders. He is always ready to o er advice and support to clients and fellow agents.

This June RealTrends awarded Gazi as the #1 Solo Agent in Philadelphia on the transaction side, in the category of Solo Residential Sales. Gazi was also ranked #24 of all the agents in the State of Pennsylvania, based on his successful closings this past year!

“I am grateful for the trust of my clients and teammates,” he shared. “Being a top producer is only a small part of my life. I want to live to my maximum potential in every area. No one can get to the ‘next level’ without commitment and hard work. You have to get out of the comfort zone.”

Gazi continued, “I am so thankful for my mentors who encouraged me to get ‘uncomfortable’ so I could grow into the man, the agent, and the community member that I am now. It took hard work to learn to study, communicate, be successful, and run my business, but it has been so rewarding! I am glad I have taken opportunities that empower me to live to my maximum potential!”

42 • July 2023

42 • July 2023 @realproducers

TO THIS DAY I AM GRATEFUL FOR ALL MY MENTORS AND THE PEOPLE IN MY LIFE WHO HAVE ENCOURAGED AND SUPPORTED ME.

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Philadelphia Real Producers • 45 realproducersmag.com Choose a Notary 215.987.2802 ext: 4 Khalia is a mobile notary, as well as a RON (remote online notary), all specializing in real estate documents/transactions. SCAN HERE FOR FACEBOOK sankofasignings@gmail.com • Settlements/Deeds • Loan Signings • Deed Preparation • Expedited Recording • Renunciation Letters • Agreement of Sales • Power of Attorney • Operating Agreement • PHA Letters • "Cash for Keys" Agreements • And More! Sankofa Signings: REAL ESTATE NOTARY SERVICES Creative Strategy Video Production Post-Production Philadelphia Real Producers • 45 realproducersmag.com Choose a NotaryYou Can Trust! 215.987.2802 ext: 4 Khalia is a mobile notary, as well as a RON (remote online notary), all specializing in real estate documents/transactions. SCAN HERE FOR FACEBOOK SCAN HERE FOR INSTAGRAM sankofasignings@gmail.com • Settlements/Deeds • Loan Signings • Deed Preparation • Expedited Recording • Renunciation Letters • Agreement of Sales • Power of Attorney • Operating Agreement • PHA Letters • "Cash for Keys" Agreements • And More! Sankofa Signings: REAL ESTATE NOTARY SERVICES Let us tell yours. A POWERFUL STORi CAN CHANGE THE WORLD. Leverage our modern media talents to generate a ROI for your business or brand TODAY! Creative Strategy Video Production Post-Production Dylan Rubin Founder, Creative Director STORiGroup.TV 973.930.4276

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46 • July 2023 @realproducers

Photography by: Bryant Sanders

SUSAN TERRA-PODIO

In today’s ﬁercely competitive market, time is money, and no one wants to lose a deal due to loan delays. Thankfully, Lending Capital Group o ers rapid and e cient mortgage solutions that simplify life for all involved. Known as the ‘Home of Seven Day Closings,’ the company consistently delivers on time, catering to its clients’ needs.

LENDING CAPITAL GROUP | NMLS #1680087 NMLS #135659

“We do everything possible to make deals work,” states Branch Manager Susan TerraPodio. “Our underwriting, processing, and closings are all handled in-house, with the entire operations team collaborating to get the job done. This makes us faster than companies that outsource their operations. For instance, if I receive a clearto-close at 9 am, I can have documents sent to the title company by 9:30 the same morning. We strive to honor commitment dates and close loans more quickly and smoothly than the industry standard.”

Unable to resist ﬁnance, Susan remained in the industry, ﬁrst as an operations manager and later as a Loan Originator. With her operations background, she mastered the intricacies of the mortgage process. She gained a reputation for genuinely caring about her clients and always acting in their best interest. When a returning client informed her that he found a better interest rate at Lending Capital Group than she could o er, Susan advised him to take the lower rate. Unsettled by another lender’s better interest rates, she met with the owners of Lending Capital Group the next day to learn more about the company.

the company’s owners are also employees who understand the mortgage business. Every time I attend a closing, and yes, I try to go to all of my closings, the title companies praise my closers. It’s a fantastic feeling knowing I have this incredible team behind me, making me look like a superstar. We operate like one big family.”

REALTORS® are also treated like family at Lending Capital Group. “We value relationships and go above and beyond to make things work,” Susan explains. “I’m a 24/7 kind of girl, and so is my company. It’s not unusual for us to be underwriting loans at midnight because we don’t turn our phones o . If I call my underwriter, he knows it’s because I need something, and he answers regardless of the time. We’re the same with emails. Communication is a priority. Real estate agents always have the information they need to support their clients. We provide every tool necessary to ensure a smooth and satisfying process.”

Clients appreciate the experience as well. “I love getting to know them,” Susan says. “I listen and genuinely care when people share their

Susan immigrated from Italy at the age of seven and went directly to her family’s restaurant upon arrival. Growing up in the restaurant business, she learned the signiﬁcance of forming relationships with clients and catering to their needs.

“I understood the importance of exceptional service,” she explains. “I also learned how to be an entrepreneur. At 24, my brother invited me to join him in launching a mortgage brokerage ﬁrm. We ran Terra Financial Group together for ten years until the market crash.

“I joined Lending Capital Group about a week later,” Susan recalls with a smile.

“I love what we can offer clients, including an unbeatable operations team. I can walk into the office and sit with my underwriters and processors at any time of the day. They will stop what they’re doing and make time for me. I appreciate that

I appreciate that

48 • July 2023 @realproducers

life stories, families, and dreams. If they need help with things like improving their credit scores, I guide them and check in on their progress. Seeing people achieve their goals is my favorite part of this business. That’s why I do what I do.”

my boat most weekends. I love my job and feel fortunate to collaborate with such a fantastic team. I take pleasure in mentoring loan o cers and eagerly anticipate adding new talent to Lending Capital Group as we continue to expand.”

In her leisure time, Susan enjoys cooking and hosting family dinners. Family and health are her top priorities in life, followed closely by boating. “Working 24/7 doesn’t prevent me from enjoying life,” she says.

“From April to October, you’ll ﬁnd me working from

For more information, please contact Susan at 267-7675759 or visit stpodio.com. Discover how Lending Capital Group’s commitment to fast, efficient mortgage solutions and exceptional customer service can make your home-buying experience a breeze.

Philadelphia Real Producers • 49 realproducersmag.com

WE VALUE RELATIONSHIPS AND GO ABOVE AND BEYOND TO MAKE THINGS WORK.

I’M A 24/7 KIND OF GIRL, AND SO IS MY COMPANY.

Soar to Success!

50 • July 2023 @realproducers 50 • July 2023 @realproducers

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