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Real Producers of Wayne County April 2021 Issue

Page 1

WAY N E C O U N T Y

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 .

TOP PRODUCER

MATTHEW

TALBOT Photo by Stylish Detroit

APRIL 2021


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Wayne County Real Producers • 3


TAB LE OF

CONTENTS 07

08

16

Editor’s Note

Preferred Partners

Top Producer: Matthew Talbot

26

32

34

Rising Star: Lisa Sobell

Behindthe-Scenes All-Star: Sonia Warren

Celebrating Leaders: Troy Puste

22

Partner Spotlight: Horizon Roofing and Construction

around

town

38 Around Town

If you are interested in contributing or nominating someone for a feature, please email us at Chris.csotty@realproducersmag.com or Terra.csotty@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 Wayne County 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. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.

4 • April 2021

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editor’s note

AIM SMALL.

MISS SMALL.

The same is true in many areas of life: When we lower our expectations, we’re less likely to miss them and be disappointed. However, I knew that this inexact, broad approach to a very precise, calculated game was counterproductive to my improvement. If I wanted to see some results, I’d need to hyperfocus on a small target on the board and give myself something very specific to shoot for. I’d have to train my body and my mind to hit my target and then make adjustments along the way so that eventually I could improve my precision and consistently hit my target. So, that’s exactly what I did, and slowly but surely, I began to make progress. At first, I still didn’t even come close to winning a game, but at least I was able to hit multiple singles and close out some numbers by the time Nate seized victory. That little bit of headway gave me some hope and motivated me to stick with it, and over time, I was hitting triples and beginning to level the playing field a bit. Then, with ongoing practice and sustained focus, I reached a tipping point, and from that moment on, we had some bona fide competition … and eventually, some “bully races.”

My husband Nate and I have always filled our fun time with leisure sports and games — and friendly competition. Some of our favorites include bowling, cornhole, shuffleboard, bocce ball, Kubb and Kan Jam, but our latest obsession is darts. Over the last year, we’ve played so many games of Cricket that there have been mornings when I wake up with a sore arm. Of all the games Nate and I regularly play, up until recently, darts has been my least favorite because my skills were underdeveloped, and the learning curve seemed so steep. Nate always won, or, more accurately, he swiftly crushed me game after game after game. Most games would end with him closing out bull’s-eyes while I was still diligently attempting to hit my first three marks to close out my 20s. Eventually, by game three, I’d become increasingly frustrated with my inability to hit my target, totally lose all focus and resort to aiming for the entire board.

realproducersmag.com

Even though I could rarely hit one bull’s-eye — let alone three to win the game — I continued to focus on that ever-so-tiny circle in the middle of the board. At that point, I was determined to overcome the final hurdle and become a regular contender, and months later, during an epic game when I hit a triple 16 followed by a single and double bull’s-eye, I gleefully danced my way to the chalkboard and marked my first of many wins. As you set your goals this month, rather than aiming for generalities, I challenge you to aim small — to hyperfocus on a specific goal and to keep at it until you begin to see some results. You won’t hit your mark right away, but over time, you’ll develop the necessary skills, clarity and confidence to become a contender … and eventually, a champion. Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Managing Editor of Real Producers of Wayne County jane.asher@realproducersmag.com

Wayne County Real Producers • 7


PREFERRED PARTNERS

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

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HEALTH, WELLNESS & SKIN CARE CannaCore Organics (586) 615-8749 www.cannacoreorganics.com/terra HEATING & COOLING Colonial Heating & Cooling (734) 455-6500 Shook Heating and Cooling (734) 658-5330

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MOVING SERVICES BOS Moving & Service (248) 360-6644

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TITLE COMPANY Alliance Title of Michigan Kelly Anderson (586) 238-4400 Alliance Title of Michigan Mary Reed (586) 238-4400 Estates Title (248) 647-3600 Inked Title (248) 617-0004 Title Solutions (734) 259-7130

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Wayne County Real Producers • 9


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M E E T T H E W AY N E C O U N T Y R E A L P R O D U C E R S T E A M

Chris Csotty Publisher

Terra Csotty Publisher

Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Managing Editor/Writer

Dina Ranieri

Relationship Manager

April Shanne Subiera

Robbyn Moore

Amanda Matkowski

Jermaine Buie

Jessica Laine Gouverneur

Brandon Ramsay

Publishing Assistant/ Reprints Specialist

Perfect Light, LLC Photographer

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Writer

Jessica Laine Photography Photographer

Editor

WayUp Media Videographer

Jeanne Monillo Ad Strategist

Andy Schwartz

Stylish Detroit Photographer/Videographer

Alex Norris

Michigan Real Estate Photography Videographer

Wayne County Real Producers • 11


announcement

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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 .

TOP PRODUCER

MATTHEW

TALBOT Photo by Stylish Detroit

APRIL 2021

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Wayne County Real Producers • 13


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Wayne County Real Producers • 15


16 • April 2021

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PURSUING A PROFESSIONAL PATH WITH PURPOSE

MATTHEW


top producer By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Stylish Detroit

For Matthew Talbot, true success is a dynamic process driven by one’s commitment to helping others. “It’s the act of becoming the person the world needs you to be and enjoying the journey along the way,” he said. Fortunately, in real estate, Matthew has found the means to actualize success on his own terms. By becoming an ally for people during life’s transitions, Matthew is not only endeavoring to “redefine an aging industry,” but he’s also enjoying every step of his journey. After earning his bachelor’s in marketing from Western Michigan University in 2012, Matthew worked in business-to-business sales for Xerox. After about six years, Matthew, who had learned a bit about real estate from his close friend Erik Wright, decided to enter the industry as a part-time agent in May 2017. “Both of my parents ran small businesses, and I’ve always wanted to do the same,” Matthew said. “Real estate allowed me to use my knack for marketing, hone my entrepreneurial skills and help the community.” In January 2018, Matthew committed to real estate full time, and now, after almost four years in the industry, he has sold over $50 million and earned the Best of Zillow title, as well as countless 5-star reviews. “Seeing how my guidance has been genuinely helpful to my clients is my greatest reward,” Matthew said. “That’s something not everyone gets to see firsthand in their business.”

on being an individual agent was uber important to me and always my plan. Rich had a huge part in providing me the ability to do this. I thank him for that,” Matthew said. “I have the pleasure of working with one of the best humans on this planet: Nimesh Patel. He was the first addition to the team and is an absolute rock star agent and a truly inspiring guy. His work ethic and selflessness to serve our community is something I have never seen in my career.” In addition to Team Leader Matthew and Nimesh, The Talbot Team includes six other agents, a full-time marketing coordinator and a transaction coordinator. Matthew also surrounds himself with a “kick-ass team of creatives” — the many unofficial teammates who play a crucial role in Matthew’s execution, brainstorming and ideation process. “At first, one of my greatest challenges was delegating tasks — I tend to be pretty obsessive when it comes to making sure all the right things are happening at the right time,” Matthew said. “So, surrounding myself with a team who I trust will do right by our clients and the community was my biggest concern; now that we have started to do so, it makes the future exciting! ‘Good to Great’ — a book I read a long time ago — refers to this process as ‘getting the right people on the bus.’ We have a great start on that and hope to continue that trend.” Matthew, who grew up in Plymouth, says that “everything good” in him has stemmed from his parents, family and the community he was born into. “My parents taught me to always go with my gut and be of service to others — without them, I don’t believe that I would be as involved in the emotional aspects of this market as I am,” he said. “Because of my upbringing, I want to ensure that everyone I work with has the same chance at the awesome feeling of doing right by others.”

Matthew, an associate broker at RichRealty, went on to establish The Talbot Team in 2019, an endeavor which he successfully accomplished because Rich Eisiminger, his managing broker, provided him a platform for growth. “Cultivating a team rather than hinging my business

realproducersmag.com

Wayne County Real Producers • 17


One of the ways that Matthew is sharing his positivity — and serving others — is through Moving Motown, a community organization that highlights Metro Detroit culture, business, food and life via its blog, vlog and podcasts. “My sister Samantha and I both live in Detroit and are passionate about the city, its people and its communities,” Matthew said. “She has taught me that a life of community service is a life worth living.” Matthew explains that Moving Motown originated as a “real estate project” — a vehicle for showcasing the communities he was working in throughout Southeast Michigan — but he later decided to separate it from the real estate world and let it morph into “its own thing.” Moving Motown is committed to supporting and marketing local businesses and people through entertaining and educational content. Matthew anticipates that the organization will eventually receive 501(c)(3) status and become “an official nonprofit.”

18 • April 2021

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realproducersmag.com

Wayne County Real Producers • 19


While doing right by others and giving back to the community is what drives him, Matthew is focused on “redefining the way real estate is sold” by “redefining marketing.” “We consider ourselves a media/marketing company that happens to sell real estate,” he said. “This involves services like professional photography, videography, custom commercials, branding and paid marketing campaigns for every client. Our goal is to reach as many people as we can via modern marketing, for each and every listing — that is the only way to truly do right by your clients for every sale.” In his personal life, Matthew enjoys dinners with his parents who live in Plymouth, golfing with his dad, working out and Euchre game nights. He and Nicole, his girlfriend and fellow foodie, also love trying out new restaurants and coffee shops, attending concerts and traveling to new countries. “Nicole is my best friend and absolute rock in my personal life,” Matthew said. 20 • April 2021

ESPECIALLY WHEN NO ONE IS LOOKING, DO THE RIGHT THING FOR THE PERSON YOU REPRESENT AT ALL TIMES. MOREOVER, WORK EXTREMELY HARD, AND BE YOURSELF.”

“

As Matthew continues to achieve success in real estate and to adapt and grow to become the person who the world needs him to be, he remains steadfast in his belief that “doing the right thing” will always be the right choice. “In every possible scenario, the advice and direction that you provide to clients should be the same as you would give to your closest loved one,” Matthew said. “Especially when no one is looking, do the right thing for the person you represent at all times. Moreover, work extremely hard, and be yourself.” Matthew knows that true success materializes from a selfless and purposeful commitment to others — from an earnest desire to serve and engage the people and community who fuel his journey. “My team and I are available and willing to be a resource for the Southeast Michigan community — we are here for clients and agents alike,” Matthew said. “I want to make sure that I can help others get where they need to be and become who the world needs them to be. This business is going to be essential for the rest of my life.” @realproducers


Since 1954 Realtors like you have counted on Morse Moving/Allied Van Lines as your trusted partner. Let your team count on our team to carry the load! We are there when you need us most!

Thank you for your business The Morse Moving Family

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Wayne County Real Producers • 21


partner spotlight

ROOFING AND CONSTRUCTION A Candid Perspective on Roofing

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Jermaine Buie with Perfect Light, LLC

As the owner of Horizon Roofing and Construction (HRC), Jim Edwards’ no-nonsense approach to his business is refreshing, approachable and honest. With 25 years in the roofing and construction industry, Jim and his roofing team pay close attention to detail, find solutions and get the job done right. “I’m on-site every day,” Jim said. “I’m a hands-on business owner: talking to customers, trouble-shooting, providing answers.” The Gold Star-rated team takes great satisfaction in using the best materials on the market and are also certified CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicators. With a 95% referral rate, the company has an impeccable track record for getting a job done correctly the first time and on time. “I jokingly tell people that if they don’t see me again, it’s a good thing,” Jim said with a chuckle. “We have a solid crew of experienced roofers and builders who know what they’re doing. When you combine our use of high-end products and attention to detail, there’s confidence in a job well done.” To know Jim is to appreciate his honesty. He is steadfast in his commitment to his customers

22 • April 2021

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products and services. “I’ve got all sorts of exciting plans to expand into solar, renewable energy and eco-friendly solutions,” he said. HRC’s ever-present personalization to their customers is well-respected within the industry, and their enthusiasm for finding solutions is second to none. “We put 100% into every job, no matter how big or small,” Jim said. “We can solve problems. Period.” For more information about Horizon Roofing and Construction, visit horizonroofing construction.com.

by providing them with truthful explanations for what needs to be done and the correct way to do it. “I don’t cut corners or sugarcoat issues — I address them,” he said. “Most people want straight answers and a real interpretation of a job. I have found that my knowledge and truthfulness with my clients are what leads them to choose us over everyone else.” The company’s vision is to provide high-level service and value. They pride themselves in making a weatherized, functional and safe environment inside and outside a home while enlisting their experience and craftsmanship to enhance a property. “Through passion, hard work and quality products, we will make you proud to call your house your home,” Jim said. HRC services include roofing, siding, windows, gutters and insulation. They inspect a home, review a customer’s needs, present the best possible plan and provide a solution-based budget. Construction has always been in Jim’s life. Growing up, his family owned a commercial electrical contracting company where he learned the fundamentals as an electrician and how to run a business. He went on to study urban planning and design at Arizona State University and later became a licensed builder. Looking to the future, Jim’s allegiance is to his team, his clients and his integrity. His plan is to remain as a small boutique-style company while also offering forward-thinking realproducersmag.com

Wayne County Real Producers • 23


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24 • April 2021

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Wayne County Real Producers • 25


rising star By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Dawn Townsend Photography & Design

26 • April 2021

@realproducers


Lisa Sobell

Finding Old-School Happiness in a New School of Work Lisa Sobell became interested in real estate in 1993 when her boyfriend-now-husband purchased his first home with the help of a passionate and knowledgeable agent who left a lasting impression on Lisa. “Since then, I always knew that real estate would be my retirement career,” Lisa said. And so, in 2015, as she was wrapping up her 21st year as a public K-12 special education teacher, Lisa put her “very solid plan” into action by taking an online pre-licensing course and dedicating her evenings and weekends to preparing for the next chapter of her career in real estate. After researching several brokerages, Lisa, who sought top-notch education and excellent agent services, decided on Real Estate One and found her home at the Southgate office. She then passed her exam and began the on-the-job training that she was looking forward to. “Until my last school year was over in June of 2017, I attended every training opportunity my company provided me,” Lisa said. “As a teacher, I knew from my own practice that in order to successfully implement a new skill or idea, you need to practice or apply what you learned within 24 hours to increase your rate of retention — for me, continuing to learn has always been the key to success.”

misses her students — she says she’s been very happy since her retirement from education. With a career volume of almost $13 million — over $5 million of which she generated in 2019 — Lisa has also been successful in meeting and exceeding her personal, professional and financial goals in real estate. In 2018 and 2019, Lisa earned a place in the President’s Circle of Excellence, and in 2019, she was elected by her office as one of two co-chairs to the Real Estate One Charitable Foundation. In this role, Lisa, along with Co-Chair Deanna Coleman, has more than doubled the Southgate office’s charitable contributions from the previous year, which resulted in their office being recognized at the corporate level. Additionally, Lisa became a licensed broker in December of 2020.

Although Lisa’s career move into real estate was calculated and carefully planned, it was, nonetheless, a “huge, scary decision” to relinquish the security — and full benefits — that she had grown accustomed to as a public school teacher over the last two decades. However, given the salary restrictions, growing number of mandatory after-school meetings and stress, Lisa knew it was time to make a change in her life. Moreover, the federal, state and district initiatives to increase standardized testing and the increased number of timed online tests were taking a toll on Lisa and on her special needs students who had many other precipitating factors to deal with. The big kidney bean-shaped group tables in Lisa’s classroom where she and her students used to play fun, pressure-free learning games and practice tying their shoes were now filled with daunting computers for online testing. “I had students melting down left and right,” Lisa said. “It was really unfair to them and difficult to witness.” August 2021 will mark the end of Lisa’s fifth year in real estate, and although she still experiences the back-to-school excitement — and realproducersmag.com

Wayne County Real Producers • 27


Having been involved in team sports from a young age, Lisa values teamwork and the contributions of every team member. “I’ve had leadership roles on teams and played second string center field — everyone is important on the team,” she said. Lisa’s personal and professional path has been fueled by her desire to help people and shaped by the many people who have influenced and inspired her along the way: her mom who never gives up, her dad who has a great work ethic, her sister who reminds her that it’s important to be kind, her son who keeps her on track and her hardworking husband who is skilled at managing and coaching. “My dad, an Army vet and retired steelworker, would always ask, ‘You aren’t going to put up with that, are you?’ My mom, a retired RN who went back to school in her 30s to get her degree, would always say, ‘Don’t make a habit of relying on others,’” Lisa said. “My family only knows the blue-collar work ethic and that’s my motivation.”

which is run by one of her friends from school, and she previously volunteered at the Wyandotte Animal Shelter during the summer months when she wasn’t teaching. During the quarantine, Lisa dusted off her sewing machine and made tons of fabric masks to give away to anyone who needed them. Recently, Lisa has been involved with Waynewright Community Meals — also known as the Wyandotte Soup Kitchen. “I like to support many causes, but I generally give my time and funds locally,” Lisa said. In real estate, Lisa has discovered not only the freedom to control her own schedule but also a renewed sense of purpose. “I plan to stay active, happy and busy in real estate for the next 15-20 years,” she said. “I love this career. I am so relieved that I can get up in the morning and do what I love again.” Lisa may no longer be leading fun learning activities at a kidney-shaped table, but she still gets to facilitate “lightbulb moments’’ — and have fun — with her clients. Albeit not in a classroom, Lisa continues to fulfill her desire to help others, encounter new opportunities for learning and growth, and, most importantly, enjoy the newfound happiness of her second career in real estate.

“For me, continuing to learn has always been the key to success.”

Lisa and her husband Mike are high school sweethearts who have known each other since elementary school. Mike is the senior metallurgical laboratory supervisor at U.S. Steel in Ecorse where he has been employed for over 30 years. Lisa and Mike both grew up in Riverview and raised their son Michael in the same Riverview neighborhood of their youth. In her free time, Lisa enjoys reading new and classic historical fiction — she is contemplating the idea of writing a historical novel based on her ancestry — and listening to a wide variety of music from heavy metal, classic rock and new wave to punk, hip hop and classical. “When it comes to music, it just depends what I’m doing,” she said. “I’ve been pulled over for speeding while listening to Kickstart My Heart. Lucky for me, the officer was a Mötley Crüe fan.” Lisa says that when she’s happy, she likes to bake and make desserts; she also enjoys gardening her flowerbeds and veggie pots. Lisa is a big advocate for animal rescue work and has a lot of respect for the teams of volunteers at all the Downriver animal shelters. Lisa regularly supports Shelter to Home in Wyandotte, 28 • April 2021

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announcement S p e c i a l O p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r YO U t o C o n t r i b u t e t o

REAL PRODUCERS COACH’S CORNER Do YOU have special skills, helpful tips, expertise or insight to share with the real estate community? We welcome article submissions (500-700 words) that educate and engage local real estate professionals. Topics may include but are not limited to the following: • • • • • • • •

Game-changing social media strategies New directions in marketing and advertising How-to instructions focused on specific situations or processes Tips on hiring, retaining and motivating employees Building a brand Creative approaches to problem-solving Finding work/life balance REALTOR® Board Updates

B E YO N D T H E B O O K

Have YOU or one of your colleagues written a book? If so, we’d like to consider you as a featured author for an upcoming issue. If chosen, you will have the opportunity to share some information about your published work and your writing journey with the local real estate community.

For additional information about Coach’s Corner and Beyond the Book publication opportunities, please contact Managing Editor Jane K. Asher at jane.asher@realproducersmag.com. realproducersmag.com

Wayne County Real Producers • 31


SoniaWARREN behind-thescenes all-star

Removing the Stress From Every Move Title: National Account & Consumer Move Coordinator Company: Morse Moving & Storage with Allied Van Lines How long have you been working with the person who nominated you? 3 years What did you do before you began working in your current position?

I worked as a restaurant manager for over 20 years and then switched to real estate and worked as a real estate agent for about six years. What does your typical workday look like?

My daily responsibilities include setting up and coordinating corporate relocations from beginning to end and coordinating consumer cross-country and local moves. My goal is to make sure that every move — whether it is a corporate account or a consumer move — exceeds the shipper’s expectations. How would you describe your job in one word?

Rewarding Why do you think you excel at your job?

I enjoy working with people and helping them start the next chapter of their lives with their new home. It means a lot to me that I give people an amazing moving experience, so I do everything in my power to make sure everyone has a great experience they remember for a lifetime.

32 • April 2021

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What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

The most rewarding aspect of my job is when I can alleviate as much stress from the shipper as possible and when they feel comfortable leaving the move to me and our team. What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

My job can be very challenging at times, but my goal is to make sure the shipper does not feel stressed, nervous or anxious. If I cannot accomplish this, then I like to know how and where the move went wrong. I get frustrated when I am unable to fix something, so I search for all possible solutions. Sometimes, I may even spend too much time trying to ensure that a single move is perfect. What is one thing about you that others might find surprising or interesting?

My grandmother was a Rosy who worked at the World War II bomber plant near Ypsilanti and then became a real estate agent. She won several industry awards throughout her career and worked in real estate until her mid-70s. My grandmother is the reason why I love real estate so much. I used to stuff envelopes, sit at open houses and answer phones with her, and I loved every second of it. When you’re not working, what do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy spending time with my two daughters and my dogs or binge-watching a good TV show. How do you feel about being nominated as a Behind-the-Scenes All-Star?

I feel honored and grateful to be nominated. Whether or not I am chosen, it is rewarding to know that someone I work with thought of me for this and took the time to nominate me. Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself, about your job or about your relationship with the person who nominated you?

A few years ago after I was diagnosed with some issues that caused me to stop working as an agent, I found a position where I could work behind the scenes and still help people with one of the biggest decisions in their lives: moving. Kyle and I work together as a team, and we are both extremely passionate about what we do. We are patient and share the same goal: to ensure every move is a success.

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According to Kyle Meagher, district sales manager at Morse Moving & Storage, Sonia is a rock star who does everything she can to ensure that each customer’s move is stress- and anxiety-free. “It was very important for me to recognize Sonia because she has a very tough, exhausting job,” Kyle said. “A lot of her work goes unnoticed, and I wanted to make sure she knows that I appreciate everything she does for me and the company.” Sonia goes above and beyond in so many ways, but what Kyle appreciates the most is how well she interacts with customers. “I appreciate the time and effort Sonia takes with each individual customer to ensure they are properly taken care of, and I respect the fact that she gives it 110% every single day,” Kyle said. “She is very patient with our customers and empathetic to what they may be going through. Sonia is readily available any day or time to answer customers’ questions — she is an example of an ideal employee.” Kyle says that Sonia carries herself in a very professional manner and never lets her emotions get the best of her. “It’s a testament to her character and how strong of a person she really is,” he said. “I’m forever thankful for her hard work.”

Do you work with someone who truly makes a difference in the industry, in your business or at your office? Email Terra Csotty at terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com to nominate them to be featured as a Behindthe-Scenes All-Star in an upcoming issue.

Wayne County Real Producers • 33


celebrating leaders By Robbyn Moore Photos by Stylish Detroit

T P

roy uste Pursuing His Passion Through Life Lessons and Mentorship

34 • April 2021

More than nine years ago, Troy Puste was a full-time registered nurse with a newfound love for redesigning and renovating properties. As he was completing his first renovation project on a waterfront property, his obsession grew more and more for real estate investing, and soon, he found himself rethinking his future career plans. Once the property closed, Troy was astonished to see the broker’s commission on the sale. From that day forward, he shifted his focus to real estate and quickly earned his real estate license. A few years later, he acquired his broker’s license. @realproducers


very unique. We take a ‘boots on the ground’ approach with our sellers, buyers, investors, builders and developers, and work with a reliable group of contractors to assist our investors with projects.” Troy is passionate about training and developing diligent agents in the business. His enthusiastic approach and uplifting perspective helps his team understand the importance of relentless hard work and the value of perseverance. As a leader, Troy instills in his agents the

mentality that failing is the gateway to thriving. Most importantly, he emphasized the significance for action. “In this business, it’s critical to learn how to fail often while still moving forward — I call it failing forward,” Troy said. “No one has to know all the answers or solutions; however, finding opportunities to learn, grow and improve will always lead to success.”

Today, Troy is president and owner of Rise Real Estate & Co., an established boutique real estate brokerage located in the financial district of Detroit. He is also the associate broker for eXp Realty - Detroit and leads a dynamic team of eight agents. His role is to serve as a mentor and coach for all agents with the goal to lead by example. “I’m extremely hands-on with all my clients, and I encourage my team to be the same way,” Troy shared. “I understand many neighborhoods that most agents don’t understand and that has made us realproducersmag.com

Wayne County Real Producers • 35


As an experienced real estate investor and a loyal Detroit resident, Troy has become a trusted source to individuals, developers and investors looking for some of the most sought-after properties in the downtown area, including Midtown, Corktown and other historic district neighborhoods.

To reach his level of achievement, Troy became his own best advocate. “I was self-influenced by my own experiences,” he said. “While I did read a lot of inspiring books and found really good mentors — which is maybe why I feel so strongly about my role as a mentor to others — I also paid attention to my failures and learned from them. My failures influenced me to become stronger and more consistent in my actions, and above all, it kept me on a path to pursue my potential.”

Some of the biggest challenges Troy faces in his daily business practice is the need for consistent innovation. “With technology, times change quickly,” he said. “Social media and overall strategies need to stay on trend. My team and I overcome these obstacles by consistently analyzing the industry, brainstorming and learning ways to do better and be more efficient for our clients.” Troy believes that success without fulfillment is the ultimate defeat. “Success takes massive and determined action,” Troy explained. “I believe life is constantly testing us for our level of commitment, and life’s greatest rewards are reserved for those who demonstrate a never-ending commitment to act until they achieve.” Troy’s ambition earned him an Icon Agent Award in his first year at eXp Realty, and he was recognized as a Top 3 Broker in Detroit by Three Best Rated. Additionally, Troy finds fulfillment in coaching other agents to maximize their full potential in both earnings and other professional goals. “Real estate gives back whatever you put in it,” Troy said. “There’s a direct correlation between hard work and income potential — it’s essentially limitless.” Outside of real estate, Troy enjoys going to the gym, playing golf and hockey, and most importantly, spending time with his family. He and his wife Marissa recently welcomed their first child, Teagan. “Having my daughter brought new meaning to my life,” he said. “We enjoy the power of ‘now’ and the ecstasy of each and every moment together.” 36 • April 2021

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Wayne County Real Producers • 39


announcement

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Wayne County Real Producers • 43


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