PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
GRAND RAPIDS
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
REBECCA GLAESMAN Photo by Jacob Harr with harr Creative LLC
APRIL 2022
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
Building on your property (within 20 miles of Grand Rapids) Quality Craftsmanship High Efficiency Homes 616.866.3913 | info@sablehomes.com | sablehomes.com 2 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 3
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
MEET THE
GRAND RAPIDS REAL PRODUCERS TEAM
Chris Csotty Publisher
Terra Csotty
April Shanne Subiera
Publisher
Phalesha Kyes
Relationship Manager
Jeanne Monillo
Publishing Assistant
Amanda Matkowski Editor/Writer
4 • April 2022
Robbyn Moore Writer
Chris Menezes Writer
Jacob Harr
Ad Strategist
harr Creative LLC Photographer
Erika Kruse
Event Coordinator
Dom Lombardo
West & Main Photography Photographer/Videographer
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
TABLE OF
CONTENTS 04
06
09
Meet the Team
Preferred Partners
Publisher’s Note
10
12
19
Event Promo
Top Producer: Rebecca Glaesman
Get Every Issue On Your Phone With Issuu
20
24
28
32
Easy Ways34 to
We Ask, You Answer
Partner Spotlight: Big Moose Home Inspections
Behindthe-Scenes All-Star: Elissa Howard
Agent Spotlight: Pam Merriman
36
BOOST town around
Around Town
Financial Fitness
Your Financial Literacy
If you are interested in contributing or nominating someone for a feature, please email us at 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 Grand Rapids 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.
realproducersmag.com
financial fitness
Grand Rapids Real ByProducers •5 Shauna Osborne
PREFERRED PARTNERS
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
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!
AIR DUCT CLEANING West Michigan Air Duct & HVAC (616) 308-5777 ESTATE LIQUIDATION Bridgman Estates & Services (269) 953-5805 FINANCIAL ADVISOR Drake Financial Group Abby Lininger (616) 389-0113 FINANCIAL CONSULTING Farm Bureau Insurance Ryan Loucks (616) 988-5072 FLOORING Dyer Flooring (616) 318-0783 HEATING & COOLING West Michigan Air Duct & HVAC (616) 308-5777 HOME BUILDER Sable Homes (616) 866-3913 HOME INSPECTION Alert Inspection Services (616) 662-6990
6 • April 2022
Big Moose Home Inspections (920) 570-6543 Grand Home Inspection (616) 710-1796 Pillar To Post Home Inspectors Scott Docter (616) 250-6920 HOME TECHNOLOGY Eco Smart Home Pros (231) 683-2127 INSURANCE AGENCY Crosby & Henry Insurance Tessa Misner (616) 325-2864 Farm Bureau Insurance Ryan Loucks (616) 988-5072 Goosehead Insurance Philipp Reinartz (616) 755-6411 Michigan Insurance and Financial Services Ben Kacprzyk (616) 918-6868 JUNK REMOVAL Junk Luggers (616) 227-0709
JUNK REMOVAL/ DEMOLITION We Cleanout Everything (877) 932-8922 MORTGAGE CrossCountry Mortgage Mike Milanowski (616) 481-6606 Independent Bank Pete Humphreys (616) 304-2009 Inlanta Mortgage Jonathan Arnold (616) 581-2374 Lake Michigan Credit Union Jake Williams (616) 265-3837 Lake Michigan Credit Union Zach Tebos (616) 234-6361 Ruoff Mortgage Stacy Miller-Kuiper (616) 430-4141
PAINTING DuraPro Painting (616) 514-9535 PHOTOGRAPHY Brian McDonald Photography (616) 209-8469 harr Creative (517) 974-7809 West & Main Photography (810) 356-7876 RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT S & G Property Management (616) 719-0819 ROOFING Skyline Exteriors (616) 822-7719 Summit Point Roofing (616) 622-6343
Team Mortgage (616) 974-9710 VanDyk Mortgage Corporation (616) 940-3000
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
ROOFING/ RESTORATION Roof Maxx Jeff Antvelink (616) 334-3432
VIDEO PRODUCTION/ DRONE SERVICES Brian McDonald Photography (616) 209-8469
TRANSACTION COORDINATOR Agent Concierge Services (616) 723-3290
harr Creative (517) 974-7809
MOVING
CLEAN OUT (Hoarding)
LIQUIDATION/SALES
West & Main Photography (810) 356-7876 WELL/LAGOON/ SEPTIC INSPECTIONS Andersen Well & Septic Inspections (248) 318-3943
CLEANING SERVICES
RIDGMAN
ESTATES & SERVICES LLC
JOEL BRIDGMAN 1932 S M37 HWY HASTINGS MI 49058 • 269-953-5805 • bridgmanestatesandservices@gmail.com
realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 7
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
UNLOCK THE DOOR TO HASSLE FREE INVESTMENT PROPERTIES
WHAT WE DO:
WE HELP YOU SAVE
S&G Properties eliminates the stress of property management while saving you money. We have built our reputation on a solid foundation of honesty, integrity, and hard work. Our expertise ensures that our clients enjoy maximum profits while we project their investments.
• We find quality tenants for your property • We provide 24 hour maintenance • We do not up charge on maintenance • Reducing vacancies and late tenant payments • Identify potential problems before they appear • Preform pre-inpections to ensure no time or money is wasted in code violations or late assessments.
CALL US TODAY Let us show you how S&G Property Management is the best solution to managing your investment: Call Bert Heyboer today for a free estimate.
PROPERTY
MANAGEMENT
8 • April 2022
(616)719-0819 4124 KENOWA AVE SW GRANDVILLE, MI 49418 rentsg.com @realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
PUBLISHER’S
N O T E
“Great things in business are never done by one person. They’re done by a team of people.” - Steve Jobs
We are a TEAM here at Real Producers. This magazine has many moving parts and many people working behind-the-scenes to make this a beautiful piece — coming to YOU each month. THANK YOU to our Real Producers Team.
Check out our Meet the Team section to see the many people involved each month in making this magazine so wonderful. We also want to thank our Preferred Partners who advertise with us. This monthly magazine is free to the Top 300 real estate professionals in Grand Rapids thanks to them! All of our Preferred Partners come from your recommendations, and we do our best to screen our realproducersmag.com
advertisers to ensure that they provide the types of goods and services that you may need or want as a real estate agent. If you know a business owner who may be a good fit to potentially partner with us, recommend them through linktr.ee/ realproducers. If you want to be considered for a feature, we encourage you to get involved with the Real Producers community by attending our live and virtual events, and interacting with us on social media. Make sure to join our private group on Facebook “Grand Rapids TOP 500.” We post about upcoming events and more. Hope to see you at our Spring Social on April 13th! Chris and Terra Csotty Publishers of Grand Rapids Real Producers linktr.ee/realproducers chris.csotty@realproducersmag.com 248.506.6169 terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com 586.615.8749 Grand Rapids Real Producers • 9
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
event announcement
REGISTER NOW! Spring Social at Eastbrook Homes Home Creation Studio JOIN US!
Wednesday, April 13th | 4-7pm Eastbrook Homes Home Creation Studio 1188 East Paris Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 Enjoy food, drinks and mingling with the best of the best. REGISTER NOW at www.realproducersparty.com Thank you to Eastbrook Homes for hosting and sponsoring this event as well as our Platinum Sponsor: Team Mortgage Company and our Silver Sponsors: Big Moose Home Inspections and Ben Kacprzyk with Michigan Insurance and Financial Services.
300 GRAND RAPIDS
20
22
Photos will be done by Jacob Harr with harr Creative LLC.
20
22
Video will be one by Dom Lombardo with West & Main Photography. 10 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
West Michigan's #1 Rated Roofing Company
Quality roofs, done by quality people.
Need a roofing job done by professional, trustworthy people? Look no further.
(616) 622-6343 www.summitpointroofing.com hello@summitpointroofing.com When confidence matters...
BIG MOOSE DELIVERS!
Commercial & Residential Services • Premium Photography • Drone Photography / Video • FPV Interior Drone Video
Over many years of inspecting homes, Big Moose has earned the reputation of performing quality inspections with consistency on every property, making us your #1 choice!
• 3D Virtual Tours • Instagram Reel / Facebook Story Video • Zillow Tours • Property Websites • Video Tours • Floor Plans • Day To Dusk • Virtual Staging • Agent Videos • Object Removals
HOME INSPECTION • COMMERCIAL INSPECTIONS • INFRARED IMAGING SEPTIC WELL • WATER QUALITY • MOLD TESTING • RADON AIR TESTING TERMITE INSPECTIONS AND MORE!
800.531.0233 bigmoosehomeinspections.com info@bigmoosehomeinspections.com realproducersmag.com
810-356-7876 westmainphoto@gmail.com www.westmainphoto.com Grand Rapids Real Producers • 11
REBECCA G L A E S M A N
DRIVEN BY THE DESIRE TO HELP PEOPLE
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
top producer By Amanda Matkowski Photos by Jacob Harr with harr Creative LLC
12 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
Rebecca Glaesman is passionate about helping people. As a real estate agent, she loves assisting clients with buying their first home, a vacation home or an investment property. When she established her own brokerage in November of 2013, however, Rebecca became especially dedicated to helping agents grow and succeed in their businesses.
realproducersmag.com
“There were some things I saw in other brokerages that I didn’t think were fair, such as inconsistent broker fees, admin fees and other hidden costs that seemed to vary by brokerage,” Rebecca recalled. “The goal of Realify Properties was to form a brokerage that was built on the principles and values that have driven my success.” Described by others as a “candid person with integral honesty,” Rebecca instilled these attributes into her brokerage. As a result, Realify Properties is on a mission to provide “sugar-free real estate facts.” “The meaning behind this tagline is to always ensure that we never sugarcoat facts or issues and that we always tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth,” Rebecca explained. Besides showing transparency, Rebecca also didn’t like how some brokerages treated real estate agents, and she sought ways to help agents succeed. “I did not like the practice of some brokerages co-listing agents so other people would get credit for other agents’ sales. At Realify Properties, everyone’s sales are under their own names because I want each agent to have an identity,” she said. Helping other agents succeed is so meaningful to Rebecca that most of them were brand-new agents before joining her brokerage. “I am a firm believer that, if my agents are able to grow with Realify Properties, we will become a brokerage of giants,” she said. Realify Properties trains agents from the ground up, and in less than a year, each agent has cracked the top 300 in sales within the Grand Rapids Association of REALTORS® (GRAR). “Most of my agents earn, in excess, six figures in a year, and I continue to strive to make them successful. Any agent who aspires to reach this level of success can depend on Realify Properties to help them achieve their financial goals,” Rebecca added. Although Rebecca has always had the desire to help people, she originally did not seek out real estate as a career. In 2003, she was working in sales before tragedy struck: Her sister was a victim of a homicide. “After that, my path changed toward wanting to help and protect people from those who take advantage of and want to hurt others,” she recalled.
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 13
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
To create a fresh start for her life away from Michigan, Rebecca moved to Colorado and became a corrections officer at a supermax prison facility in Denver. “While it seems a bit polarizing from my current role, it instilled in me how to work with a team, how to deal with stressful situations and how to remain calm and collected,” she said. Rebecca worked in the prisons while pregnant with her son until her due date, and after he was born, she moved back to Grand Rapids. Once in Michigan again, Rebecca enrolled in college at Grand Valley State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in health communications with a minor in marketing. After she graduated, she transitioned from being a stay-at-home mom to working part-time as a real estate agent in October of 2012. “I sold 34 homes in my first year, and it became a newly discovered passion,” she recalled. “In this profession, I was able to help people as well as advise them in their home sale or purchase — which may be the biggest investment of their lives. I can help educate clients and make sure they are making the right decisions that are best for them.”
Despite Rebecca’s success as a broker, she is determined to future-proof Realify Properties by embracing technology. “COVID-19 has forever changed the traditional real estate model as we know it,” she explained. “We understand that buyers and sellers are using technology to search for their real estate needs long before contacting an agent. We wish to become a real estate chameleon that can adapt and change, regardless of the environment it is in.” When Rebecca is not supporting her agents and clients, she is spending time with her family. She loves traveling, boating and participating in outdoor activities with her husband, Stephen, and her two children — Ben, 16, and Ellie, 12. Rebecca encourages agents who are not fulfilled in their current position to not give up and to seek a brokerage in their area that displays the values that align with their own. Establishing Realify Properties was Rebecca’s answer to helping people with honesty and integrity, and she will not let anything deter her from allowing her agents to flourish. “Success doesn’t come overnight,” she said. “If you set your goals, remain laser-focused and continue to preserve, success will come.”
Success doesn’t come overnight. If you set your goals, remain laser-focused and continue to preserve, success will come. Now leading her own brokerage with five agents and one transaction coordinator, Rebecca has thrived in real estate. In the past eight years, she has generated a career volume of over $98 million — over $18.5 million of which she obtained in 2021. She was even invited to be a keynote speaker at the Zillow Premier Agent event in Las Vegas where she shared her knowledge about customer acquisition and retention. 14 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 15
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
THE HUMPHREYS LENDING GROUP
Looking to BUILD, BUY, or REFI? Be Bold. Be You.
Kyle Herlein
Lending Associate, Lakeshore P: 231.670.9426 E: KHerlein@ibcp.com NMLS: ID: 994799
16 • April 2022
Pete Humphreys
Senior Residential Loan Officer P: 616.304.2009 E: PHumphre@ibcp.com NMLS ID: 630758
Hazel Ritsema
Lending Associate P: 616.430.6862 E: HRitsema@ibcp.com NMLS ID: 2048657
Chris Van Eenennaam
Sales Associate, Mortgage Account Specialist P: 616.447.8814 E: CVanEenennaam@ibcp.com NMLS ID: 756717
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
CHANCES ARE, THE ROOF DOESN'T ACTUALLY NEED TO BE REDONE... REJUVENATE! DON'T REPLACE!
Top 3 Reasons REALTORS® Love Roof Maxx: 1) Handle roofing objections before they come up & make your listings even more marketable! 2) Save transactions that involve roofing concerns for your buyers! 3) Stay top of mind by referring your past customers so they can save money!
RoofMaxx.com | (616) 334-3432
AUTOMATED SHADES LIGHTING CONTROLS
Helping you live happier, safer, and more sustainably with technology
ENERGY MANAGEMENT AUDIO/VIDEO SECURITY, ETC.
231-683-2127
info@ecosmarthomepros.com www.ecosmarthomepros.com realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 17
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
Serving West Michigan for over 20 years.
West Michigan’s #1 Recommended Roofing Company
Home and Condominium Inspections Wood Destroying Insect Inspections • Radon Testing Commercial and Rental Property Inspections
616-662-6990 • www.alertinspections.com
ROOFING • SIDING • DECKS WINDOWS/DOORS • GUTTERS CALL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE!
616-822-7719 • skylineexteriorsgr.com info@skylineexteriorsgr.com
SINGLE ITEM TO MULTIPLE TRUCKLOADS We cleanout homes, basements, garages and provide interior demolition services! Convenient tri-county service schedule. Efficient, professional service. Free Estimates
WECLEANOUTEVERYTHING.COM (877-932-8972) 18 • April 2022
"Jeff and his entire team were professional and efficient in their work...He has my highest endorsement." Ryan Weiss @realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
GET EVERY ISSUE
ON YOUR PHONE WITH ISSUU GRAND RAPIDS
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
REBECCA GLAESMAN Photo by Jacob Harr with harr Creative LLC
APRIL 2022
It’s a badge of honor to hold the printed version of Grand Rapids Real Producers magazine in your hands. If you want all our issues wherever you go, download the Issuu app or visit www.issuu.com, and search Grand Rapids Real Producers.
realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 19
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
partner spotlight
BIG MOOSE HOME INSPECTIONS
By Amanda Matkowski Photos by Dawn Townsend Photography & Design
‘INSPECTING TO A HIGHER STANDARD’ 20 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
B
ig Moose Home Inspections lives up to its motto of “inspecting to a higher standard.” As a full-service home inspection company that services all of Michigan and Northern Wisconsin, it provides services such as septic and well inspections, water and air quality testing, mold and radon testing, and infrared imaging. The company is also the largest privately owned home inspection company in Michigan.
“We pride ourselves in our quality reputation,” Tom Ruemenapp, CEO of Big Moose, said. “Professionalism is our top priority — from our customer care services provided by our office staff to our inspectors in the field.” Big Moose knows that part of its success comes from their stellar team, and it employs 26 home inspectors — several of whom are certified master inspectors — to thoroughly examine a client’s house. Tom is a certified master inspector as well, but he is also certified in log-home building and has inspected custom log homes throughout the Midwest. All phone calls — even if it’s after hours or on the weekends — are answered by a fully staffed scheduling team at the company’s own call center. Other than its attentive staff, Big Moose’s success is also attributed to its ability to stay up-to-date on technological advancements within the industry. “Recently, the biggest advancements have been in infrared technology,” Tom explained. “All of our inspectors
are equipped with infrared cameras and use infrared imaging in their reports.” The CEO of Big Moose was also the first home inspector to use digital reports in Northern Michigan. Tom has been at Big Moose for 18 years, and his expertise has not gone unnoticed. He has been featured on the cover of an Alpena newspaper, and has won awards from Michigan and Wisconsin real estate boards for Affiliate of the Year. Although Tom has a background in property and rental management, it was a friend who encouraged him to become an inspector. Tom’s work ethic was inspired by his father, Ernest, who worked simultaneously as a carpenter wood crafter and a Detroit correctional officer so he could provide for his eight children. Tom is also appreciative of the support his wife, Linda, has provided for him and his business. Tom has a heart for mentorship and creates opportunities for hardworking people because he remembers a time when he was given a second chance in life. From 1992 to 2003, Tom spent those years in prison as a first-time offender for a drug infraction. He became a Christian just prior to his arrest while at a men’s retreat in Northern Michigan with his twin brother. Tom continued his faith walk
during his imprisonment, and after his release, Tom led an addiction recovery ministry and is currently involved with Christian outreach ministries. He is grateful that his faith has transformed him from the inside out and is now happy to care and provide for the needs of others. When Tom is not forming friendships with inspectors, clients and real estate agents, he is spending time with his large family. He and Linda have seven children and 15 grandchildren, and two of their children work for Big Moose. His oldest son, Chris, is an inspector, and his daughter Rachael does company marketing and events. Tom also enjoys spending time outdoors doing activities such as boating, camping, fishing, biking and hiking.
Although Tom takes great pride in the success of Big Moose, he would ultimately like to be known for his generosity. One way Tom shows his spirit of giving is by sponsoring several local real estate offices and donating to their charity fundraisers. “Building relationships with our real estate agents and clients, seeing the deals close and then hearing families move into their homes are the most fulfilling parts of our jobs,” Tom admitted. As a company that is “inspecting to a higher standard,” Big Moose Home Inspections certainly remembers to care for others as it continues to provide high-quality services throughout Michigan and Northern Wisconsin. For more information about Big Moose Home Inspections, visit bigmoosehomeinspections.com.
realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 21
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
Family owned and operated since 1998 Unmatched service
Mark Dyer
616-318-0783
Mark@dyerflooring.com Home, Auto, Life, Business, Flood
COME FLY WITH US + dozens more! Philipp Reinartz CIC, LIC Independent Agent
BUILT FROM THE GROUND UP TO PARTNER DIRECTLY WITH LENDERS AND REALTORS
Tom Voglewede Independent Agent
616-755-6411 Certified Insurance Counselor and Licensed Insurance Counselor
22 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
Virtual Transaction Management Agent Concierge Services Pending to Close Transaction Coordination/Management Services. Temporary or Long Term Solutions for Individual Agents, Teams & Brokerages. Social Media management packages available.
Specializing in complete and proper water well and septic system inspections t h r o u g h o u t We s t M i c h i g a n .
(248) 318-3943 Awsi.wmich@gmail.com Registered Sanitarian (REHS/R.S.) State licensed, nationally accredited, insured, industry recommended
realproducersmag.com
Emmy Jandernoa | Broker/Owner team@virtualacs.com | virtualacs.com 616-723-3290
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 23
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
we ask, you answer
What is a must-read book for every real estate agent? “The Miracle Morning” by Hal Eldrod. I start every morning with SAVERS: silence, affirmations, visualization, exercise, reading and scribing. By claiming my morning, I am able to claim my day.
“Profit First” by Michael Michalowicz. Real estate agents need to view themselves as their own business and run themselves as a business.
KENDRA HAVEMEIER — BELLABAY REALTY GRAND RAPIDS NORTH
“Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins
“Eat That Frog!” delivers an important message that says if people wish to be successful in their lives, then they have to take immediate and necessary actions without overthinking too much. ANGELA WORTH — BELLABAY REALTY
RYAN OGLE — BLU HOUSE PROPERTIES
GINGER BAXTER — KELLER WILLIAMS GRAND RAPIDS NORTH
“The Millionaire Real Estate Agent” INGRID ANASTASIU — ANASTASIU HOMES - KELLER WILLIAMS GRAND RAPIDS EAST
The Bible TODD MOELKER — ALERT INSPECTION SERVICES
“7L: The Seven Levels of Communication” by Michael J. Maher MICAH CHILDRESS — FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE
“Essentialism” by Greg McKeown. It’s easy in this industry to get lost in the transactional day to day. This book really helped put life back into perspective.
“Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It” by Chris Voss with Tahl Raz
ANDY SMITH — FIVE STAR REAL ESTATE
BROOKE SINES — RE/MAX GRAND RAPIDS
“7L: The Seven Levels of Communication” and “The E Myth” DREW DENHAM — KEY REALTY
24 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
“You Don’t Have to Be a Shark” by Robert Herjavec
“Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It”
MEGAN TEFFT — CENTURY 21 AFFILIATED
BRIAN MCDONALD — BRIAN MCDONALD PHOTOGRAPHY
Everyone running their own business should read “Find Your Why” by Simon Sinek. I think it really helps people understand why they do what they do. Once you understand your “why,” you will start to enjoy the work more, and you’ll have something to help get you through the hard stuff. STEVEN DONLEY — ECO SMART HOME PROS
“The Millionaire Real Estate Agent” STEVEN PETTIT — KELLER WILLIAMS GRAND RAPIDS EAST
“Atomic Habits” by James Clear JUSTIN BLEVINS — GREENRIDGE REALTY GRAND RAPIDS EAST
“The Go-Giver” by Bob Burg and David Mann KEVIN KROONDYK — GREENRIDGE REALTY
“Purple Cow” was great; it reinforced how important it is to speak to your desired audience when marketing. MICHAEL SMALLEGAN — KELLER WILLIAMS GRAND RAPIDS
“Ask for More” by Alexandra Carter JON AUSTIN — PREMIER PROPERTIES OF WEST MICHIGAN
“The Honest Real Estate Agent” by Mario Jannatpour (especially for newer agents) JEREMY CRUMP — BELLABAY REALTY
I’d check out the psychology section because we become therapists. EMMY JANDERNOA — AGENT CONCIERGE SERVICES
“People Buy You” by Jeb Blount KARI KIPPEN — ENSLEY REAL ESTATE
“Extreme Ownership” PHIL REINARTZ — REINARTZ AGENCY GOOSEHEAD INSURANCE
“The One Thing” JAY KILGO — SMALLEGAN REAL ESTATE - KELLER WILLIAMS GRAND RAPIDS
Do you want to answer our question of the month? Email Terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com to ask about participating.
realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 25
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
With every closing, we’re
clear. concise. communi cation
• Real-time information regarding your loan’s progress. • Includes status updates and/or requested documents. • Alerts you when your loan enters a new stage. • Keeps you informed throughout the entire process: from application to funds wired.
Stacy Miller-Kuiper VP, Branch Manager NMLS: 503826
616.430.4141
stacy.miller-kuiper@ruoff.com Ruoff.com/stacymillerkuiper Ruoff Mortgage Company, Inc., d/b/a Ruoff Home Mortgage, is an Indiana corporation. For complete licensing information visit: http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/EntityDetails.aspx/COMPANY/141868. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. All loans must satisfy company underwriting guidelines. Information and pricing are subject to change at any time and without notice. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS#141868. 06262020
26 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
RISK AND INSURANCE SOLUTIONS S
I N C
E
1 8 5 8
Tessa Misner
590 Cascade West Parkway, SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546-2182 Direct number 616.325.2864
www.crosbyhenry.com
Did you know there are more victims held against their will today than ever before? That’s why The N2 Company – the company behind this publication and 850+ others like it – is financially committed to end human trafficking.
FOR EVERY AD WE SELL, N2 DONATES ENOUGH MONEY TO FREE 2 SLAVES FROM CAPTIVITY. The average Fortune 500 company donates about 1% of their profits to charity. The N2 Company donates more than 2% of their gross revenue.
Thanks to the businesses within these pages, our Area Directors, and readers like you, we’re able to break the chains of this horrible reality.
DONATED THIS YEAR TO HELP END MODERN-DAY SLAVERY. realproducersmag.com
Visit n2gives.com to learn more about our fight.
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 27
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
agent spotlight By Chris Menezes Photos by Jacob Harr with harr Creative LLC
PAM
An Inevitable SUCCESS
MERRIMAN
Real estate was inevitable for Pam Merriman. Every part of her professional history involved the industry in some way, which initially began when she took a banking job in high school. The skills and experiences that she gleaned from each position — combined with her natural care and compassion for people — proved that Pam had the tools to be successful as an agent as well.
Originally from Rockford, Pam was inspired by how hard her father worked to provide a good life for his family, which, after finding herself as a single mother, drove her to do the same. She had climbed her way up as a high-school bank teller to management before jumping into title work. Eventually segueing into mortgage origination, she continued to learn the ancillary components of real estate as she began to also buy, rehabilitate and sell her own homes. The more time Pam spent working on the rehabs and being involved with titles and mortgages, her love for homes, interior design and working with people only grew. Eventually,
she decided that it made sense to become a real estate agent — especially when she considered the type of life she could provide for her daughters. “I wanted to make sure that even though I was a single mom, life could be good,” Pam explained. “I wanted to make sure that they knew the value of work and family. I wanted them to see that hard work pays off.” Fully grown with careers and families of their own now, Pam’s daughters definitely saw their mother work hard. Pam obtained her real estate license in 2014 and worked part time for two years, building her business to the point where she could transition full time in 2016. Fully committing herself to real estate and to serving her clients, Pam went on to earn her Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA) certificate and Graduate REALTOR® Institute (GRI) designation as well as interior decorating and staging certifications while growing her business more and more each year. She is also an Independent Real Estate Professional (IREP) and a Diversity Equity Fair Housing Inclusion (DEFI) advocate. With her experience in title, mortgage origination, interior design and staging, Pam is known as a “quadruple threat” to her clients. She prides herself on her “old school” approach to service and relationship building as well as her “modern approach” to marketing. Pam has a whole storage unit filled with staging materials, and she is always keeping up with design trends. “If I could flip houses all day, I would,” she said. Instead, Pam directs all that passion into assisting her clients with their homes. While Pam has done extremely well thus far in real estate, she admits that one of her biggest challenges is her need to control every part of her client’s experience, which in many ways is a double-edged sword. Her clients love how she makes them feel like they are her only client — 90% of her business comes from past clients and referrals — but Pam is also only one person, and her business is growing!
28 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 29
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio Photo sent by Pam
“I would love to have an assistant one of these days, but I have a hard time letting go,” Pam said. “I have started to let go a little by having another agent help with buyer showings, but only after I have made them feel comfortable with me.” “I run my business as if my clients are family,” she continued. “I want to be able to see them at any function, store and restaurant, and have them greet me like we are family. I set high standards for myself — my goal is to keep increasing my business while maintaining the same care and dedication to my clients’ individual needs, to keep meeting new people and to sell until I’m 100 years old.” When Pam can step away from her business, she enjoys being with her partner of 22 years, Bob, and spending time at their lake home in Newaygo, where their whole family can come together to relax. Pam and Bob have a large blended family of 19, including eight grandkids, which she loves spending as much time with as possible, whether that’s watching them play sports or just by being a fun grandmother to them. Pam also loves boating, crafting and playing golf. To this day, Pam is grateful for the life real estate has provided for her and her family, and she will never stop doing her best to help others achieve their dreams in real estate as well — whether that is for clients or for agents whom she mentors at 616 Realty. “To me, success is not measured by the amount of money or the number of houses sold: Success is doing right by your clients and that they are grateful for all the effort you put into finding them the right home,” she said. “That is what will keep me going.” 30 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
M
BR EL
LA
|L
IF
E
|B U
SI
N
ES
S
WE ARE THE PREMIER HOMETOWN/LOCAL HOME & AUTO INSURANCE BROKER.
realproducersmag.com
TO U |A E
O M H
Purchasing your dream home is a huge milestone. Place your trust in us to protect it. We offer total protection for your home, auto, life & business
|U
MICHIGAN INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES
We believe our core mission is to bless the communities that we live and work in. Therefore it is our mission as an agency to give back to the Michigan communities that we serve. We refer everyone to our mission via #MIAFSGivesBack.
Benjamin T. Kacprzyk
Agency Partner, Michigan Insurance and Financial Services Phone: 616-918-6868 Cell: 616-821-5950 ben@miafs.com www.miafs.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 31
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
E L I S SA
HOWARD behind-the-scenes all-star q&a Name: Elissa Howard Position/Title: CEO Office/Company: Lucas Howard Group How long have you been working for/with the person who nominated you? For life! How long have you been working in the real estate industry? 16 years
What does your typical workday look like?
Depending on the business that I’m working in, my day could consist of coaching, being on Zoom calls, having team meetings, hiring people or building ancillary businesses. Every day is a new adventure! How would you describe your job in one word?
Empire-builder Why do you think you excel at your job?
I am skilled in growth and implementation. I have high standards and excel in following up with clients.
What did you do before you began working in your current position?
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
I was a loan officer.
Helping others achieve what they never thought possible.
32 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Finding talent.
How do you feel about being nominated as a Behind-the-Scenes All-Star?
Honored! What is one thing about you that others might find surprising or interesting?
I used to be a speed skater! When you’re not working, what do you like to do for fun?
Work. Other than that, I like spending time at our cottage, traveling and creating experiences with our family.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself, about your job or about your relationship with the person who nominated you?
The person who nominated me is my husband of 17 years. Needless to say, I am thankful that he pulled me into this crazy business where we can make an impact in our community, in our lives and in others’ lives.
If Lucas Howard, CEO of Lucas Howard Group, had one word to describe Elissa, it would be “giving.” “Elissa is always willing, ready and available — and not just because she’s my wife,” he said. “She can be found trying to discover ways to better this team and our business at any hour of the day. She has an incredible gift for networking, which has opened numerous doors and opportunities for this company.” Although Elissa joined Lucas in real estate several years into his career, Lucas could not imagine running the business without her. “Elissa is the glue that holds the team together and is its driving force,” he explained. “She pushes each of us to discover and use our gifts and talents to the fullest as well as pushes us to channel our passions toward the betterment of ourselves, our team and our community.” Lucas respects and appreciates the way Elissa shines in everything that she does. “I am blessed to know her and to have her in my life, and I hope one day you will be able to meet her!” he said.
Do you want to nominate someone Behind-the-Scenes? Email terra.csotty@ realproducersmag.com.
realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 33
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
around
town
Erin Fester with eXp Realty & Relationship Manager Phalesha Kyes
Photo by Jacob Harr with harr Creative LLC
Photo by Jacob Harr with harr Creative LLC
34 • April 2022
Kindell Rerucha with Lucas Howard Group & Relationship Manager Phalesha Kyes
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
Photo by Jacob Harr with harr Creative LLC
Malinda Root with Lucas Howard Group - Keller Williams & Relationship Manager Phalesha Kyes
Susan Kazma from Success Realty West Michigan & Relationship Manager Phalesha Kyes
Mark Hewitt from Miller Real Estate – Hastings & Relationship Manager Phalesha Kyes
Paul Spica with Spica Real Estate & Relationship Manager Phalesha Kyes
Submit a photo of you with your magazine or at an event to be in our Around Town feature. Email terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com
realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 35
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
Easy Ways to
BOOST Your Financial Literacy
financial fitness By Shauna Osborne
April is Financial Literacy Month, a national campaign to raise awareness about financial literacy and promote financial education. In this month, organizations nationwide carry out a variety of events, learning opportunities, and initiatives to improve financial literacy, especially among our nation’s youth. Financial ignorance can lead to a variety of negative future consequences, including irresponsible spending, dangerous debt levels, and high amounts of stress, especially for financially vulnerable populations. Education is key; making informed financial decisions is more important than ever. Read financial books and newspapers (and listen to podcasts). Dive into newspapers and magazines (think the financial section of local / regional newspapers as well as The Wall Street Journal, Barron’s, Fortune, Forbes, and Money) as well as books geared toward money matters. Also, there’s a podcast for every subject nowadays, and the arena of finance is no exception. Just want the basics? Try Planet Money or So Money. What about info on investing? You want Money for the Rest of Us or The Disciplined Investor. Woman-focused financial info? Look for Women & Money or The Fairer Cents. Utilize social media and your network. Make your social-media time more industrious by following financial experts on Twitter or LinkedIn or joining a personal finance / support Facebook group. Also, don’t overlook the knowledge you have close at hand through your immediate network; utilize the financial expertise (and lessons learned) of your circle of influence – successful friends, family members, colleagues, even your boss. 36 • April 2022
Ask the experts. Who better to turn to with your burning financial questions than a professional? They can listen and assess your current situation and how you are handling credit and debt; uncover solutions, whether about day-to-day money situations or more complex, long-term scenarios; make suggestions for how to pay off, consolidate, and manage finances; and help you plan for future financial needs and stay on track going forward. A study undertaken by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority in 2019 showed that rates of financial literacy among Americans have taken a nosedive since the Great Recession, yet, for many, financial situations are more complicated than ever, between retirement accounts, investments, student loans, medical debt, credit cards, pandemic stimulus payments, and mortgages / rent and other household expenses. It’s crucial to keep our financial literacy knowledge base growing as aspects of our health, career, family, and living situation change over the years. Knowledge is power! @realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
Insuring from the house to the lives that make a home.
From home to life insurance we have you covered Ryan Loucks Farm Bureau Agency 616.988.5072
realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 37
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
38 • April 2022
@realproducers
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
Photography | Drone Photography & Video | Video Tours 3D Virtual Tours | Floor Plans | Virtual Staging
Brian McDonald | (616)209-8469 brian@brianmcdonaldphotography.com www.brianmcdonaldphotography.com
realproducersmag.com
Grand Rapids Real Producers • 39
PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio
Prepare your home for the Spring!
Clean off the roof from debris, soft wash, & check for damaged shingles. Remove debris from clogged or backed-up downspouts and gutters. Replace torn window screens & clean windows. Scrub the porches, decks, & patios. Clean out vents. Service air conditioner. Trim landscaping and remove dead plants. Check underground sprinkler heads.
Mike Milanowski
Senior Loan Officer 2041 Raybrook St. SE Ste. A Grand Rapids, MI 49546 P: (616) 481-6606 W: mikemccm.com E: mikem@myccmortgage.com Personal NMLS127721 Branch NMLS2074687 Company NMLS3029
Equal Housing Opportunity. All loans subject to underwriting approval. Certain restrictions apply. Call for details. All borrowers must meet minimum credit score, loan-tovalue, debt-to-income, and other requirements to qualify for any mortgage program. CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC NMLS3029 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC is an FHA Approved Lending Institution and is not acting on behalf of or at the direction of HUD/FHA or the Federal government. CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC is not affiliated with or acting on behalf of or at the direction of the Veteran Affairs Office or any government agency. Certificate of Eligibility required for VA loans. Subject property and borrower income and credit must qualify to USDA guidelines.
