Real Producers of Oakland County - August 2020

OAKLAND COUNTY

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 PRODUCERS

JEFF BARKER & MATT BARKER SEPTEMBER SOCIAL details inside!

Photo by Stylish Detroit

AUGUST 2020

A MORTGAGE PROGRAM SPECIFICALLY FOR PHYSICIANS. For more information about this and other exclusive offers, contact: Sandra Frith

Mortgage Loan Officer

NMLS# 564023 1040 E Maple Road Birmingham, MI 48009 p - 586.749.8355 f - 877.873.1344 c - 586.871.8002 e - sandi.frith@huntington.com www.huntington.com/mortgage/frith-sandi All loans are subject to application and credit approval, satisfactory appraisal and title insurance. Terms, conditions and loan programs are subject to change without notice. Other terms, conditions and restrictions may apply.

The Huntington National Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. a®, Huntington® and aHuntington® are federally registered service marks of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. Huntington. Welcome.SM is a service mark of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. ©2018 Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. NMLS ID #402436 (09/17)

TOP TO BOTTOM, INSIDE

AND OUT.

Home Inspection • Sewer Scope • Air Quality • Radon Testing

L E T US TEACH YO U ABO UT YO UR HO ME.

586-434-0243 | www.housecalldetroit.com 2 • August 2020

(schedule live 24/7)

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 3

TAB LE OF

CONTENTS 06

08

17

Publisher’s Note

Preferred Partners

Event Announcement: September Social at Wabeek

18

24

28

Top Producers: Jeff Barker and Matt Barker

Partner Spotlight: Michal Catari, WolfVR

Rising Star: Tory Sheffer

34

Agent Spotlight: Amy Serra Albright

40

Making a Difference: Natalie Lupo

44

48

54

59

Partner Spotlight: Mortgage Defined & Defined Title

Agent Spotlight: Sherry Pyszczynski

WAYA: Fun in the Sun

Game: Get to Know the Oakland County Real Producers!

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 N2 Publishing but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Oakland County Real Producers magazine are not endorsed or recommended by N2 Publishing or the publisher. Therefore, neither N2 Publishing 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 • August 2020

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 5

PUBLISHER’S NOTE TARGOSZ & WALKER LEGAL GROUP

Your Full-Service Real Estate Planning and Contract Law Firm • REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONAL • REAL ESTATE WILLS TRUST ESTATE PLANNING • PURCHASE AGREEMENTS

• DIVORCE RESOLUTION LIQUIDATION

• LAND CONTRACTS

• COURT ORDERS

• REAL ESTATE LITIGATION

• CONFLICT RESOLUTION

• QUIET TITLE ACTION

• MEDIATION

• REAL ESTATE PROBATE

• CONTRACT REVIEWS

Office: (248) 443-5250 Cell: 248-515-4226

www.targoszwalker.com | victoria@targoszwalker.com 15920 W 12 Mile Rd Suite 202 Southfield Mi 48076

Photo by Jessica Laine Photography

Fifty-seven years ago, on August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, which has been recognized as one of the best speeches ever given. His key message is that all people are created equal, and he delivered his powerful words with conviction and passion. He said, “We should never be satisfied” and “Now is the time,” while inspiring the nation to dream of a better, more harmonious future.

Our Real Producers community comprises a diverse group of agents and partners with varied backgrounds and ethnicities. Many of you have shared your visions of entrepreneurship and your dreams of building a better life for yourself. We have enjoyed sharing your stories, and we are so proud of the contributions you bring to our publication, to the real estate industry and to your businesses.

This month, during the dog days of summer, may you find inspiration, optimism and peace in the words from MLK’s famous speech.

6 • August 2020

Great news! Save the date — September 16, 4-7 p.m. — for our September Social at Wabeek Club in Bloomfield Hills. Thank you to Wabeek for hosting and sponsoring the event along with Josh Rubin from Horizon Financial Group and Sandi Frith from Huntington Bank. Photography is provided by Stylish Detroit, WindowStill, and Dawn Townsend Photography and Design. Check out the promo video on our social media pages created

by WayUp Media.

Invites for the event will be emailed mid-August — please remember to register for the event as spaces fill up fast. This event will be held outside along with food and beverages. We are looking forward to getting together with the Real Producers community while enjoying the beautifully renovated Wabeek Club!

Don’t forget to follow us on our social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Estate Liquidation • Consignment Full Clean Out Service Serving Metro Detroit Area.

Robert and Megan Lewis 734-890-3623 Robertaestate@gmail.com www.hotestatesales.com

We share upcoming features and events, and we encourage you to follow and comment on our posts! On Facebook, we have a private group titled, “Oakland County’s TOP 500.” This private group is just for the TOP 500 agents and preferred partners.

This is a great place to collaborate with each other and to hear about specials, private events, and updates. Be sure to check out our recent posts featuring Partner Spotlight interviews and learn more about our magazine’s partners.

THANKS to our Preferred Partners, this magazine is FREE to the Top 500 REALTORS® in Oakland County. Our partners come to us as a trusted source of business from YOU. In addition to all the great work you are doing, we hope you find a moment this summer to enjoy time with friends and family, and of course, this month’s issue of Real Producers.

CHRIS AND TERRA CSOTTY Publishers of Real Producers of Oakland County chris.csotty@realproducersmag.com 248.506.6169 terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com 586.615.8749 @realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland 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!

APPLIANCES Sargent Appliance & Video (248) 719-1270 Trevarrow Inc. (248) 377-2300 APPRAISAL Bittner Appraisal Group LLC (248) 828-8218 ATTORNEY/LEGAL SERVICES Rochester Law Center (248) 613-0007 Targosz and Walker Legal Group (248) 443-5250 BLINDS & SHADES Baker Blinds and Beyond (248) 471-1111 CAR DEALERSHIP Star Lincoln (248) 354-4900

DESIGN/BUILDERS Detroit Build Seabrook Satterlund (248) 677-0551 DRONES Hommati (248) 550-0515 Michigan Real Estate Photography (248) 660-5708 Perfect Light Photography Jermaine Buie (517) 515-1910 Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686 WayUp Media (248) 924-1011 WindowStill Photography (517) 292-4066 WolfVR (248) 910-1754

CARPET & TILE CLEANING Chet’s Cleaning Jennifer Carnaghi (248) 584-1819

ELECTRIC Premier Electric Company (248) 249-3790

CATERING Corporate Express Catering (248) 579-4602

ESTATE SALES Action Estate Sales (586) 228-9090

CLOSING GIFTS Nibbles & Nuts (248) 737-8088 NibblesGifts.com CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS Cranbrook Custom Homes (586) 781-2316

Hands of Time Estate Sales (734) 890-3623 FINANCIAL SERVICES & INVESTMENT PLANNING Equitable Advisors Randall B. Klee, LUTCF (248) 641-2617

Raymond James Sarah Henderson (248) 904-0460

en-Vision Property Inspections (586) 453-8755

FLOORING City Flooring (586) 303-5347

HomeTeam Inspection Service (586) 783-9957

Third Floor Marketing (313) 466-6498

House Call Home Inspection (586) 434-0243

FLORAL & GIFT BASKETS Rodnick, Inc. (586) 772-4350 www.rodnick.com

Total House Inspection (248) 550-9492

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS Graphic Takeover LLC Jimmy Johnson (248) 894-4464 HANDYMAN/ HOME MAINTENANCE Home Fixology (586) 690-6211 HEATING & COOLING Colonial Heating & Cooling (734) 455-6500 HOME BUILDER Lombardo Homes Melissa Cervin (586) 781-2316 Toll Brothers (248) 305-4004 HOME INSPECTION Conclusive Inspection Services (248) 399-6969

HOME STAGING Impact Home Staging Experts (248) 591-4290 Real Home Staging Judy Henson (248) 838-8616 HOME WARRANTY HWA Home Warranty (609) 569-5469 INSURANCE Community Insurance Center (248) 628-2505 Farm Bureau Insurance Aaron Blakemore (248) 760-3479 Farm Bureau Insurance David Purvis (248) 644-6364 Goosehead Insurance Wesson Gappi (248) 275-8600 Provision Insurance (248) 262-7362

INVESTMENT REAL ESTATE Michigan Real Estate Investors (248) 886-3585 KITCHEN & BATH Whiski Kitchen (248) 629-0058 KITCHEN AND BATH Transitions Remodeling (248) 260-2468 MEETINGS AND SPECIAL EVENTS VENUE The Community House (248) 644-5832 MORTGAGE LENDER Berkshire Capital Griffen Hock (248) 822-7121 First State Bank Lisa Marie Pevac (586) 354-6797 First State Bank Ken Ebaugh (248) 270-6278 Horizon Financial Group Joshua Rubin (248) 538-7162 Huntington Bank Sandi Frith (586) 871-8002 Lake Michigan Credit Union Matt Adler (248) 219-7552 Motto Mortgage Defined (248) 785-3779

Motto Mortgage First Levan Wood (248) 439-1633 Omega Lending Group (248) 792-8876 Ross Mortgage Toni Thwaites (248) 459-2089

Hommati (248) 550-0515 Jessica Laine Photography (586) 855-3822 PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY Michigan Real Estate Photography (248) 660-5708

MOVING & STORAGE Changing Places Moving Johnna Struck (248) 674-3937

Perfect Light Photography Jermaine Buie (517) 515-1910

Morse Moving & Storage (734) 484-1717

Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686

Preferred Moving and Storage (586) 463-4230

WayUp Media (248) 924-1011

NEW CONSTRUCTION MORTGAGE Huntington Bank Sandi Frith (586) 871-8002 Motto Mortgage First Levan Wood (248) 439-1633 PAINTING Cecil’s Custom Paintings (248) 245-4876 PARTY & EVENT PLANNER DJH Event Management (585) 727-3101 PHOTOGRAPHY Dawn Townsend Photography and Design (586) 225-4495

WindowStill Photography (517) 292-4066 PHOTOGRAPHY & WEB DESIGN WolfVR (248) 910-1754 ROOFING PROFESSIONALS Clarkston Roofing Professionals Tony Missentzis (248) 934-7288 SEWER CAMERA INSPECTION en-Vision Property Inspections (586) 453-8755 TITLE COMPANY Alliance Title of Michigan Kelly Anderson (586) 238-4400

Alliance Title of Michigan Mary Reed (586) 238-4400 Compass Title and Closing Services (248) 988-4853 Defined Title (248) 218-1757 Devon Title (248) 273-4300 TREE CARE SERVICES Dreadknot Services (248) 884-1681 VIRTUAL 3-D TOURS Hommati (248) 550-0515 Michigan Real Estate Photography (248) 660-5708 Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686 WayUp Media (248) 924-1011 WindowStill Photography (517) 292-4066 VIRTUAL STAGING/ SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING WolfVR (248) 910-1754 WEB DESIGN/SEO/SOCIAL MEDIA Affordable Website Specialists (248) 770-8408 WINDOW CLEANING Kerner’s Window Cleaning (734) 834-2434

Toll Brothers (248) 305-4004 8 • August 2020

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 9

BROKERS ARE BETTER! If you are seeing rates ABOVE 3.5% on a 30 year, or ABOVE 2.875% on a 15 year, SOMETHING IS WRONG! We will give you an accurate, no obligation quote on the spot!

No Credit Check Required! No Obligation!

Check out what some of our clients have to say...

My first experience with a lender was a complete nightmare. Griffen and his team were the exact opposite.

Friendly, professional and answered any questions that I had. Can’t recommend them enough. — Jeff Griffen and Shannon Davis made our home buying the most seamless experience we’ve ever had in the past 3 home sales we’ve been through....

Thank you Berkshire Capital for an excellent job well done. — Erica

GHOCK@BERKSHIRECAPITAL.COM 33687 Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009 | (248) 822-7121 Area Development Opportunities available in Michigan, Florida and Colorado

10 • August 2020

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 11

MEET THE

OAKLAND COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS TEAM

Internet Marketing

Designed to Increase Sales

Chris Csotty

Terra Csotty

Jane K. Asher, Ph.D.

Jeanne Monillo

April Shanne Subiera

Publisher

Managing Editor/Writer

Ad Strategist

Publishing Assistant

Deborah Huston

Robbyn Moore

Jennifer Donovan Editor

Andy Schwartz

Stylish Detroit Photographer/Videographer

Jermaine Buie

Jessica Laine Gouverneur

Dawn Townsend

Brandon Ramsay

James McGing

Publisher

SOCIAL MEDIA

WEB DESIGN

SEO

(248) 770-8408 www.awspecialists.com

Rob VanDette - Owner

Event Coordinator

Writer

Perfect Light, LLC Photographer

WELCOME TO CITY FLOORING

City Flooring is your one stop shop for your new hardwood floors, hardwood refinishing and carpeting needs.

We offer in home consultations to help you decide the ideal look and feel for your home.

Fe atu re d P ro j e c t s

SERVICES Gymnasium wood refinishing

Residential Flooring

Commercial Flooring

Flooring Installation

Dust Free Refinishing

Trim and Molding

Hardwood Floor Repair

Jessica Laine Photography Photographer

Commercial Carpeting Office

12 • August 2020Dark Walnut refinish

Dawn Townsend Photography and Design Photographer

Wayup Media Videographer

Wayup Media Videographer

Alex Norris

Michigan Real Estate Photography Videographer

CITY FLOORING LLC

20586 Hall Rd | Clinton Twp , MI 48038 Newly finished basement carpeting

(586) 662-6466

@realproducers info@cityflooringco.com | CityFlooringCo.com

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 13

announcement

GET EVERY ISSUE

ON YOUR PHONE

Bittner Appraisal Group, LLC

Make YOUR Business Better

248-828-8218 (Office) • 248-701-7350 (Mobile) bittnerappraisalgroup@gmail.com 2075 W. Big Beaver Rd; Suite 222, Troy, MI 48084 www.bittnerappraisalgroup.com

We offer a wide-range of services to support the needs of various customers, including: Attorneys

Expert, unbiased testimony and consulting services.

Accountants

Accurately determine the value of your estate client’s real estate property.

Agents

Help sellers list their property at a fair price to sell your properties faster.

OAKLAND COUNTY

C O N N E C T I N G .

E L E VAT I N G .

Michigan Real Estate Photography

I N S P I R I N G .

Founded on principles of Quality, Affordability and Attention to Detail.

We deliver custom solutions to help you truly Capture the Sale.

248-660-5708 MIRealEstatePhoto@gmail.com

@mirealestatephoto @mirealestatephotography

www.MIREALESTATEPHOTO.com

Homeowners

Feel like you’re overpaying property taxes? Want to eliminate PMI from your monthly mortgage payment? We provide expert valuations in divorces and estate divisions.

Insurance Companies

Protect property portfolios for the correct amount.

Investors

Get the knowledge you need to make a great investment.

TOP PRODUCERS

JEFF BARKER & MATT BARKER

1981.

SEPTEMBER SOCIAL details inside!

Photo by Stylish Detroit

A lawyer, a tax accountant and a financial advisor walk into a bar. Seriously. That was the start of a well-coordinated plan that’s still paying off in

AUGUST 2020

2019.

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!

Managing wealth is no joke. And advice coordina�on is essen�al as wealth grows, and grows more complex. We can help pull the pieces together to orchestrate a properly synched approach. LIFE WELL PLANNED.

DOWNLOAD OUR MOBILE APP

Thank you for your business The Morse Moving Family

It’s a badge of honor to hold the printed version of Real Producers of Oakland County magazine in your hands. If you want all our issues wherever you go, download our mobile app Digapub and take them with you. On the app, search and choose Real Producers of Oakland County where you can view issues from the last two years, connect with all our Preferred Partners and share articles to Facebook.

Sarah Henderson, AAMS®

Financial Advisor (248) 540-3733 sarah.henderson@raymondjames.com www.LivingInClover.com 325 N. Old Woodward Ave, Suite 320 Birmingham, MI 48382

10049 Harrison Rd. Ste. 500 | Romulus, MI 48174

734.484.1717 | www.morsemoving.com USDOT 274486 | PUCO HHG#509459-HG

©2019 Raymond James & Associates, Inc. member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC

14 • August 2020

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 15

Jude Henson | Owner/Principal Designer www.realhomestagingsolutions.com realhomestagingsolutions@gmail.com 248-838-8616

SEPTEMBER SOCIAL AT

WABEEK

event announcement Homes that have been professionally staged statistically sell in 1/5 of the time and for 4-16% more!

With this kind of windfall in each home, how can you afford NOT to use a professional home stager?

Contact Us Today!

Come join us at the newly renovated Wabeek in Bloomfield Hills.

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, September 16 from 4 to 7 p.m.

Invites will be sent out mid-August.

Thank you, Wabeek, for hosting and sponsoring as well as our other sponsors, Sandi Frith from Huntington Bank and Josh Rubin from Horizon Financial Group.

Now Providing up to $100,000 in Total Warranty Coverage FREE with every Home Inspection.

www.en-visionpropertyinspections.com Live Customer Service 24 hours a day 7 days a week

586-453-8755 Photography at the event will be done by Stylish Detroit, WindowStill and Dawn Townsend Photography & Design.

Premier Electric Servicing real estate agents in the tri-county area for over 30 years.

Premier, realizes the importance and urgency of every deal you are completing. We understand that certain items will need to be taken care of to close the deal. Our company, emphasizes SAME DAY SERVICE so you can close your deals on time!

Specializing In: GFCI repair/replacement Panel swaps/upgrades Emergency Backup Generator full install Any Electrical Addendum Repairs

Premier Electric Company

16 • August 2020

(248) 249-3790

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 17

top producers

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

JEFF BARKER MATT BARKER A FATHER-AND-SON TEAM WITH A LOT OF HEART

18 • August 2020

@realproducers

WHEN MATT BARKER DECIDED TO GET HIS REAL ESTATE LICENSE AT THE AGE OF 18, IT WASN’T BECAUSE HE PLANNED ON BUILDING A CAREER IN REAL ESTATE. “AT THE TIME, I DON’T THINK A CAREER IN RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE EVER CROSSED MY MIND, BUT I FIGURED GETTING THE LICENSE WOULD BE VALUABLE LEARNING.” DURING THE SUMMER OF HIS FRESHMAN YEAR AT MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY, MATT COMPLETED AN INTERNSHIP AT MAX BROOCK REALTORS® IN BIRMINGHAM. Upon graduation, Matt joined his father Jeff who has been an associate broker at Max Broock for 21 years. They have spent the last eight years building a real estate team founded on ethics and integrity.

Jeff taught Matt from the very beginning that no one deal will ever change his lifestyle. “What is most important to us is maintaining our reputation and

realproducersmag.com

always placing our clients’ interests first — we truly enjoy helping people, we’re compassionate with our clients and we’re able to be there for our clients as they encounter major life-changing experiences.”

In addition to the bond and the values they share, the father-and-son duo shares great pride in having sold over 1,200 homes and closing $500 million in sales as a result of their strong work ethic and honesty. “Never worry about the commission,” Jeff said. “If you do a great job and remain honest, the success will follow — we operate from the heart.”

With Jeff’s 20 years of invaluable experience and Matt’s knowledge of cutting-edge technology and innovative ideas, the two make a perfect team.

Jeff describes himself as “somewhat old-school” and admits he would be lost without his son’s vast knowledge of the internet.

“I am my dad’s built-in IT guy,” Matt joked. “For as great as technology is and how it has helped our industry, sometimes I think he’d be better off going back to a simple flip phone!”

Oakland County Real Producers • 19

parents many years ago. He also enjoys collecting watches, one of which he gifted to Matt for his 21st birthday, and cufflinks. Although society is becoming more casual, Jeff and Matt enjoy wearing a suit and tie almost every day. Jeff — a certified spinning instructor who isn’t sure if teaching is in his future — also loves getting in his cardio workouts at spin class. For the past five years, he has fundraised for St. Jude’s by participating in Ride for a Reason, most of the years being the top fundraiser.

Jeff’s experience and time-honored approach fused with Matt’s techno-dexterity and new-school techniques makes for a dynamic and productive partnership wherein they both pay close attention to details, remain extremely organized and highly value their reputation among their fellow real estate agents and clients.

“Having a 30-year-old as a business partner combines the best of both worlds for our clients,” Jeff said.

Working with his son has also acclimated Jeff to the generational differences that permeate today’s working world. “It’s been interesting for me to get used to the culture of working millennials,” Jeff said. “Last year, Matt got married, which meant there was a destination bachelor party, a mini-moon and then a honeymoon.

I’m anxiously awaiting a baby-moon!

I guess he has a better grasp of worklife balance than I do.”

Photo by Evis Mecolli, Visi Productions

The entire Barker family looks forward to summer getaways in Gaylord at their 1931 authentic log cabin, which has been in their family for five generations. It’s the place where the Barkers have spent their best times together at the pool and lake, biking, canoeing, paddleboarding, enjoying Liz’s delicious meals, mixing up drinks and sitting around the bonfire. “It’s hard for Matt and me to be out of town at the same time,” Jeff said, “but we always spend Father’s Day weekend up north together.”

On a daily basis, Jeff and Matt don’t just bring “the best of both worlds” to their clients; they also create an ideal working environment for themselves, one filled with fun, friendly competitions and collaboration. “We both do our own market analysis for a listing appointment and then compare,” Jeff said. “It is nice being able to have two perspectives on every situation.”

Jeff and Matt are currently focusing on growing their sphere of influence, referrals and face-to-face networking, as well as building a larger social media presence to complement their business. “While internet marketing/social media has become such a prevalent part of all businesses, the foundation of our industry is very much still ‘old-school’ in that our clients want and need that face-to-face interaction,” Matt said. “You can’t earn someone’s trust and business solely from a Facebook post.”

20 • August 2020

Matt and his wife Morgan recently purchased and renovated a home in Birmingham with a fenced yard for their Goldendoodle, Jax. Matt describes himself as a “sports junkie” who loves to golf — he and Morgan especially enjoyed their two-week honeymoon traveling around Italy.

“Since we became a team, every time someone compliments Matthew and tells me how great he is to work with, I feel like I have succeeded...maybe even succeeded a little too much when they say they would rather work with him over me,” Jeff jokes.

“Getting to spend every day with my son is the most rewarding part of my job — we are fortunate that we are father and son, as well as best friends, and I lean on him more than most people realize.”

While Jeff and Matt place great importance on building trust with their clients, they also value the close personal relationships they have developed with their fellow real estate agents. “It is important to have a strong bond with our colleagues; it takes both sides to get to the closing table,” Jeff said.

ters, Brooke and Samantha, both of whom graduated from the University of Michigan. Brooke has a master’s in education and works as a teacher, and Samantha is obtaining her doctorate in clinical psychology.

When Jeff isn’t working alongside his son, he enjoys spending time with Liz, his wife of 33 years.

In addition to Matt, Jeff and Liz have two daugh-

Jeff is an avid collector of clear Steuben glass — it’s been his passion since he inherited pieces from his grand@realproducers

“Growing up, I always knew my dad had created a great reputation within the industry, but it was not until we started working together, that I fully realized the magnitude of my dad’s reputation,” Matt said. “The extent to which so many fellow agents admire my father makes me and my entire family really proud.”

Photo by Evis Mecolli, Visi Productions

realproducersmag.com

Much like their real estate business, the bond that Jeff and Matt share is deep-seated and strong. For this father-and-son team, real estate isn’t just a matter of sales or commission — it’s an all-encompassing enterprise of the heart.

Oakland County Real Producers • 21

Give us 5% of Your Confidence, and We’ll Earn the Other 95%!

Cecil's Custom

Painting

@totalhouseinsepc�on

Home Inspec�ons can be scheduled within 48 hours.

248-550-9492 totalhouseinspec�on.com

S E RV I C I N G F E N T O N A N D SURROUNDING AREAS

(248) 245-4876 stlhder101@yahoo.com

DJH Event Management Specializing in:

• Corporate Events • Fundraisers • Networking • Open Houses • Social Engagements • And more!

Over 20 years' experience in creating unique and stress-free occasions of all sizes.

Deborah Huston

22 • August 2020

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

CERTIFIED EVENT PLANNER

Contact me at 585-727-3101 or djhustonevents@gmail.com to start planning your next event today!

Oakland County Real Producers • 23

partner spotlight

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

MICHAL CATARI Wo l f V R

T H E R E A L I T Y O F R E A L E S TAT E

How many times have you found yourself admiring a home from a distance? You drive by, maybe even peek through the windows, and wonder if the next great sale is just one “window peek” away? If you ask Michal Catari, president and CEO of Wolf Virtual Reality, LLC, he will tell you, “Why look through the windowpane when you can open the door and walk right in?!”

Three years ago, Michal saw a unique opportunity to utilize 3D technology to enhance real estate visions by immersing people firsthand into a truly deep-diving experience. “I sincerely believe our services provide an immense impact on the age-old equation of listing to sales,” Michal said. “This state-of-the-art technology allows for first-user interface with an easy-toshare function. Ultimately this frees up a huge amount of time for agents, buyers and sellers.”

Wolf Virtual Reality (WolfVR) is a comprehensive digital, state-of-theart, visualization enterprise. They transform a vision into reality. Their services range from drone fly-by

24 • August 2020

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

services to real estate floor plans with integrated 3D tours that include renderings of photo-realistic imagery. WolfVR has partnered with VRgineers, makers of the XTAL 8k headgear and winners of the Red Dot Award for 2020. More information on VRgineers can be found at www.vrgineers.com.

To better understand the advantages, Michal gave an example that involved a higher return on investment issue. “When I first started this venture, I was approached to help with a development project involving a historical building. Within four months of construction and renovation, the client netted $3 million in pre-sales. Additionally, at the end of construction, it was 100% occupied. The user-friendly interface allowed for far greater viewership because each visitor could see the actual building amenities right before their eyes,” Michal explained. “On that same note, a recent project in western Michigan involving a housing complex of 500 units serves as an exclusive opportunity where the seller stands to gain over $3 million in commissions.”

The company’s creed is “Transforming Your Vision into Reality,” a summarization that Michal and his wife, Michelle, came up with to demonstrate the value and capabilities of the company. “It is so gratifying when our clients thank us for delivering a service that provided quality and convenience at the same time,” Michal said. “Their acknowledgment is total affirmation of what I have believed for a long time.”

Michal, who is a big believer in continuing education, said, “Learning daily is essential to growth. I am constantly doing environmental scans of trendsetters, influencers and ‘disruptors’ of all sorts. I then look to see how to integrate those nuggets into my wheelhouse.”

When Michal isn’t working, he enjoys traveling with Michelle and their two children, Corina, 10, and Colin, 6.

“Our vacations have to incorporate someplace warm and a pool is a must,” Michal said. “Education is an important element to our vacations; therefore, we usually include a trip to a museum, aquarium or a scenic drive.”

Recently, the family experienced a true cowboy adventure in Texas, which included a longhorn roundup and eating some incredible BBQ. When it comes to his career, Michal said he would like to be remembered for being an innovator in an industry that moved slightly slower than other industries. “By adapting technology in unique and creative ways, we can shape different and life-changing outcomes.”

Oakland County Real Producers • 25

Navigating you to homeownership 3250 W Big Beaver Road, Suite 228, Troy, Michigan 48084

Office: 248-98TITLE (8 4 8 5 3) | Fax: 248-731-0020 info@mycompasstitle.com | www.mycompasstitle.com

• • • •

Earn reccurring revenue * Recession proof industry Offer clients 5-year claim history on property Monthly commission payments

• • • •

Turn key solution to earn renewable commissions Align with one of the fastest growing agencies in Michigan Sales and service provided by Provision Insurance Ability to write tough-to-place accounts

 � � �� ­€  ‚ƒ„ …†‡ ˆˆˆ�

 � �

26 • August 2020

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 27

TORY SHEFFER

rising star

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

M A K I N G A L I V E LY L I V I N G I N R E A L E S T A T E In 2015, Tory Sheffer, then a student at Saginaw Valley State University, realized that he better start exploring his career options, so he took to the web and began researching and applying for jobs. During his search, he happened to come across a real estate agent simulator; and, according to the results of his personality and skills assessments, Tory checked all the boxes of a great agent.

A few days later, Tory met with the managing broker and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan and started studying for his licensing exam.

“When I got my license, I was also a full-time student, so I would go to class in the morning, then go to the office for floor time and then head back to class in the evening,” Tory said. In addition to managing a full college course load and the demands of his new real estate career, Tory also owned a commercial and residential playground building company, so he spent his weekends and summers building playgrounds at Michigan and Ohio schools. Needless to say, Tory didn’t need a simulation or skills test to confirm his fit for real estate: His liveliness, drive, work ethic and knack for juggling a multitude of tasks and responsibilities showcased his hustle and potential to thrive as an agent.

Tory says that there were not “any crazy life events” that drew him to a career in real estate. “I’ve always had an infatuation with houses and thought it’d be cool to sell big ones — real estate looked like fun, and I just went for it,” he said, “This pretty much sums up my theme in life. Work, to me, needs to be fun and fulfilling rather than just work.”

Now, after being in the business for five years and reaching a career volume of approximately $30 million, $9 million of which

28 • August 2020

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 29

with learning, so being able to learn while doing is incredible,” Tory said. “I’m very fortunate for the opportunities that have come up from my real estate career.”

Tory grew up in Hartland, Michigan, graduated from Hartland High School and is currently completing his bachelor’s in finance at Oakland University. He is the third of nine children — both of his parents came from big families, so Tory was always surrounded by a ton of aunts and uncles and cousins and says that his childhood was a blast.

When Tory was a teenager, his father left his longstanding career at Ford to establish Penchura, a company that develops commercial parks and playgrounds throughout the Midwest. “My dad left a comfortable corporate job to work for himself, which was a big risk for a father of nine children,” Tory said.

“Seeing his tireless work ethic and what it takes to be an entrepreneur inspired my drive to succeed.”

he generated in 2019, Tory has had the opportunity to not only sell “some incredible homes” but also to meet so many amazing clients.

“I’ve had clients from around the world, and it’s incredibly interesting and inspiring to hear stories about their career path and what bits and pieces I can try to emulate to also be successful,” he said.

As a REALTOR® and an associate broker at Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, Tory is grateful for the local and international connections he has made with agents through the Sotheby’s network. He enjoys so many aspects of his job, but he says his favorite is negotiation.

“I’m somewhat of a deal junkie,” Tory said. “I really enjoy every part of going back and forth to fight for my clients to get the best deal.”

Right now, in his business, Tory’s newfound passion is multi-family investment opportunities. Currently, Tory is working on a deal with a purchase price of just over $15 million, which he will soon own along with a partner and some investors. “I’ve been fortunate to make a good amount of money and meet awesome people, which brings opportunity to put that money to work achieving my long-term goal and building a multi-family investment portfolio,” Tory said.

Tory also just recently closed on a home for himself and navigated all the “classic first-time homebuyer scenarios,” and he finds that this firsthand experience is helping him pass along more knowledge to his clients. “I don’t claim to know everything, and I’m obsessed 30 • August 2020

Tory has known his “amazing wife” Emmie Sheffer since childhood. She was his sister’s friend and attended the same church as him, and as teenagers, Emmie and Tory joked about getting married someday. “I’ve always been a big dreamer and am fully convinced I can get anything I want in life,” Tory said. “If I can marry the woman of my dreams, everything else should be easy.”

Emmie, who was named one of the Top Athletes of the Decade in Livingston County, played golf at Brighton High School and University of Tennessee and then played a year professionally.

In their free time, Tory and Emmie love to golf — even though Tory admits that Emmie is the better golfer — ski and play tennis. They also enjoy spending time on his parents’ boat in Grand Haven and summer getaways at his in-law’s vacation property in the Upper Peninsula. “My mom grew up on a farm, so we never had a TV — she saw it as a complete waste of time,” Tory said. “I was always outside running around and that’s still the most fun for me today.”

Tory may not have as much time to run around outside like he did when he was younger, but he has purposely carried his fun and adventurous spirit with him to make a lively living and shape a thriving career in real estate. “From listing appointments to showings to closings, there is always something that can be fun about this business,” he said. “I once wore my wedding tuxedo to a showing at my listing because the buyer was looking to turn the property into a wedding venue.” @realproducers

ASK ABOUT OUR FREE ATTIC INSPECTION

QUALITY THROUGH THE ROOF! RoofingProsMI.com

realproducersmag.com

YOUR ROOFING SPECIALISTS

(844) 917-ROOF

Oakland County Real Producers • 31

Would you like to know how to fix and flip or buy and hold real estate?

I HAVE OVER 25 A-RATED CARRIERS AND 96.7% CLIENT SATISFACTION RATE TEAM THAT SPECIALIZE IN HOME CLOSING PROCESS.

Attend your first meeting for FREE!

Learn about Real Estate Investing Strategies and Techniques!

Meetings held on the 3rd Thurs night of each month 6-9pm. (networking starts at 5:15pm) MSU - Management Education Center 811 W Square Lake Rd | Troy, MI 48098

WESSON GAPPI AGENCY OWNER

Direct: 248-275-8600 Office: 248-946-8500 wesson.gappi@goosehead.com https://www.gooseheadinsurance.com BRANCH LOCATION

6443 Inkster Rd Suite 260 | Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301 OFFICE HOURS

Monday - Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM

Come learn how to get your commissions working for you vs. you always working for them.

LICENSE #:0889970

248-394-0150 • MichiganRealEstateInvestors.com

We Transform Your Vision into Reality Your service at Kerner's Window Cleaning begins with a free, no obligation, estimate and ends with a professional cleaning of the windows at your home or business. kernerswindowcleaning@gmail.com

(734) 834-2434 kernerswindowcleaning.com

DRONE • PHOTOGRAPHY • RENDERINGS • 360 TOURS • MARKETING We know first impressions matter; especially when it comes to purchasing real-estate.

248-910-1754 • info@wolfvre.com www.wolfvre.com 32 • August 2020

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 33

agent spotlight Amy Serra Albright, REALTOR® and associate broker at The Priority Group, admits that she could probably talk non-stop about real estate. “My husband always cringes when we are in social situations and someone asks me a real estate-related question because he knows that they have opened the gates for me to go on and on,” Amy said.

“If you love what you are doing, it doesn’t feel like a job.”

By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Jessica Laine Photography

There’s no question as to why Amy seizes the opportunity to enthusiastically share her real estate knowledge with others: She’s spent the past 21 years doing what she loves and can’t contain her passion for the industry that has profoundly shaped her professional and personal life.

AMY SERRA

ALBRIGHT SEASONED TO SUCCEED AND SERVE

34 • August 2020

@realproducers

Amy, who grew up in Waterford in a family of 10 children — five boys and five girls — says that her family plays a pivotal part in who she is today. “I couldn’t have asked for better parents or siblings,” she said. “I believe that every event in our lives, both good and bad, shapes who we are today, and I wouldn’t give up any of them if I could do it all over again.” Amy credits her mother, Lois Serra, for equipping her with strong morals and family values.

Amy’s father, Al Serra, immigrated to the U.S. from Italy when he was a child, worked as a car salesman, went on to open several auto dealerships and eventually became a successful, realproducersmag.com

self-made businessman and number one car dealer in the state.

Amy embraced her father’s strong work ethic and ambition, and after graduating from Our Lady of the Lakes in Waterford, she went on to Albion College where she double majored in economics and visual art — and earned her bachelor’s degree in three and a half years. After college, Amy moved to Hilton Head, South Carolina where she worked in a home decorating shop helping clients choose carpet, paint and wallpaper for their new homes. She also spent time working in a ceramic tile store and with an interior decorator. “It was through those experiences that my love of staging and making a home look picture perfect really started,” Amy said.

After moving back to Michigan and becoming a wife and stay-at-home mom to three children, Amy wanted to reconnect with her passion and

rejoin the workforce. At the time, her husband Jack Albright was growing increasingly unhappy with his job; so, after Amy got her license in 1999, he retired from his career and became a stay-at-home dad so that Amy could sell real estate full-time.

Amy, who has a career volume of over $100 million in sales, just under $7 million of which she generated in 2019, has built her business on the simple tenants of honesty, ethics and hard work. “I am very passionate about doing things the proper way,” Amy said. “It is important for our business and the professionalism of the business that we all play by the same rules. We all need to treat each other with respect and work together for the best experience for our clients.”

Amy has a long-standing history of volunteering her time and expertise to actively serve the industry and uphold its integrity. She has held positions, including president of the North Oakland County Board of REALTORS® (NOCBOR) from 2008 to 2009, president of the North Oakland Women’s Council of REALTORS® in 2010, and member of the NOCBOR Grievance Committee from 2011 to 2015. She also regularly attends NAR conventions. “After spending over two decades in real estate, I’ve learned how Oakland County Real Producers • 35

important it is not just to be in a business but to give back and participate in the business by getting involved with and serving the industry that you make your living at,” Amy said.

Amy is overjoyed when she receives referrals because they attest that her clients are happy with the service she provided. She has always appreciated the unlimited earning potential of her job as well as the flexible schedule. “As I am now in the senior years of my life, I am winding down some with real estate. I no longer have to or want to hustle quite as hard as in the past,” Amy said.

“However, real estate fits very well into this part of my life as it still allows me to generate income and to work when I want … and if I am traveling or taking time off, I am able to 36 • August 2020

refer my business to a fellow agent for a referral fee.”

For Amy, success is a personal matter and a series of accomplishments that transcend quantitative terms. “My idea of success is not how many millions of dollars of homes that I have sold — for years before our MLS made it easier to acquire that information, I never even knew what that number was,” she said. “For me, success is making enough to provide for my family and loved ones, it’s a matter of being happy, being healthy, being loved and having someone to love.”

Amy says that her children are her greatest accomplishment in life. She and her husband Jack, a music enthusiast who buys and restores old guitars and amplifiers,

have three children: Hayley Albright, Jenny Albright and Alec Albright. Hayley, the oldest, is working as a social media manager as she finishes her studies at the Savannah College of Art and Design for Graphic Design. She also is a cosmetologist and owner of Drop Dead Gorgeous, an onsite hair and makeup business.

Amy’s middle child, Jenny, is newly married to Bill Britenbach and lives in Colorado.

She recently earned her MA in English from Colorado State University and will begin her doctorate program in English at the University of Denver in the fall. Alec, Amy’s youngest, is a medically retired U.S. Air Force airman who is exploring his career options and living in Ferndale with his pitbull Ziggy. Amy and Jack also have a Schnauzer Poodle named Bo.

As Amy’s real estate career winds down a bit, she is looking forward to spending more time with her family and more time traveling, especially to warm beaches and quaint little towns.

She is planning on spending the entire month of June at her favorite place: Mackinac Island.

Amy likes to escape and relax by doing jigsaw puzzles and dining at nice restaurants.

Amy’s 21 years of success have been fueled by her passion and by good old-fashioned hard work and dedication. She knows firsthand that there is “nothing easy” about real estate. “Nothing is handed to you, and it shouldn’t be,” Amy said.

“Those of us who are successful in this business — and I consider myself one of the many successful ones — work hard every day to be in that category.” @realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 37

home matters

By Shauna Osborne

back to school POST-COVID

We offer a personalized,

Dreadknot Services was established to re-create a bond between the community and those willing to work at heights at an affordable price.

CALL NOW!

248-884-1681

38 • August 2020

in-person approach to floor buying, taking into account the importance of our client’s time and busy schedules.

For all your flooring needs

- Carpet | Vinyl | Wood

Events | Commercial | Residential (313) 466 - 6498 thethirdfloormarketing.com sclemons22@yahoo.com

One of the most stress-inducing repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic for parents was the closure of schools and childcare facilities. While undoubtedly the smartest move to contain the virus’ spread, parents were abruptly left in the lurch, trying to juggle childcare, homeschooling / crisis schooling, and, in many cases, their own careers. Now that summer is ending, our thoughts turn to the new school year and the difficult questions parents must ask themselves: Should I send my child back to school? Should we worry about a second wave of the virus?

There is no one “right” answer to these questions. On the one hand, parents recognize that sending their children back to school will be beneficial in many ways. They can return to work, and students will regain healthy social interaction and access to essential support services. On the other hand, though we now know that most cases of COVID-19 in children are mild, gathering kids in a confined space could play a role in transmitting the virus to other kids and to vulnerable adults. Looking at other countries whose pandemic timeline is ahead of ours can offer a preview of how things might soon look in schools here in the U.S.

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Countries where students returned to classrooms in the spring or never officially closed include Germany, Sweden, and Denmark in Europe, and China and Japan in Asia, among others. Universally, the school landscape has changed drastically, with pupils in most countries expected to wear masks and maintain strict physical distancing at all times. In Denmark, where schools reopened in April, new handwashing and disinfecting protocols for contact surfaces are in place, and teachers are required to hold classes outdoors whenever possible. Schools in Taiwan have instituted daily temperature checks and plastic desk partitions for students.

We can expect a similar environment in U.S. schools. In May, the CDC released a detailed treatise of considerations for schools that includes limiting shared objects, closing communal spaces, and increasing classroom ventilation. As with so many tricky situations we’ve been faced with during this “new normal,” parents will need to take a deep breath, adapt, and move forward.

Oakland County Real Producers • 39

making a difference

By Robbyn Moore

EMPTY BOWLS DETROIT A HEARTY SERVING OF COMMUNITY SERVICE Natalie is a board member and volunteer for Empty Bowls Detroit, which raises money and awareness for food programs at Cass Community Social Services (CCSS).

The Detroit-based agency provides food, housing, health services, and job programs to those in need.

When Natalie Lupo, associate broker at DOBI Real Estate, is not working with her real estate team, she can be found filling empty bowls for Detroit citizens who are struggling with hunger.

40 • August 2020

What started in 1990 as a high school teacher’s challenge to his art students to make 120 ceramic bowls — and a difference — has evolved into providing more than 700,000 meals annually to those in need. “I truly love to help

people,” Natalie said. “When I was working as an appraiser in Detroit, I would see so many homeless people and it would break my heart knowing they were hungry with nowhere to go.” Natalie added, “I wanted to find a way to give back — giving my time and service to Empty Bowls Detroit has allowed me to do that.”

Natalie helps with bowl painting workshops where members of the community including youth, church and corporate groups join in fellowship while painting bowls that will eventu-

@realproducers

ally be displayed and used at annual events. Natalie shared, “The work we do is unique because we can involve the entire family — especially the workshops — where children can help and learn about hunger and homelessness that affect people right here in Detroit. It can be very impactful.”

realproducersmag.com

Additionally, Natalie is involved with the organization’s annual event held at Detroit’s Historic Eastern Market.

This year’s event — which hosted 1,000 guests and raised $90,000 — featured soups, bread, cheese, crackers, fruit and desserts generously donated by local restaurants, grocers and merchants.

Each bowl serves as a reminder that someone’s bowl is always empty — a message that made me realize how truly blessed I am.

Oakland County Real Producers • 41

“While attendees were socializing and eating, they could also choose a hand-painted bowl to take home as a reminder that someone’s bowl is always empty,” Natalie explained.

Natalie has organized several workshops for her colleagues and their families at DOBI Real Estate.

“It’s fun to get everyone together with their families and paint bowls,” Natalie said. “It’s even more fun to know our agency is committed to giving back to the community.”

Through her time working with the organization, Natalie has met many of the people living at CCSS who have expressed their gratitude for money given to the food program. “Knowing they are not going without meals warms my heart,” she said.

The group is supported by its volunteers with 100% of the money raised put into food programs — ensuring no person in the city of Detroit goes without a meal. Funding also helps support additional programs such as urban gardens and greenhouses, which provide Cass kitchen and neighborhood residents access to free, fresh and organic vegetables.

“Each bowl serves as a reminder that someone’s bowl is always empty — a message that made me realize how truly blessed I am,” Natalie expressed.

“I believe the success in my life has come from the success in helping others.”

Celebrating 24 years of responsible lending

We are committed to making the mortgage loan process as streamlined and as simple as possible. We work with over 30 different lenders to insure that we are getting you the very best deal.

To host your own event, attend a monthly workshop or to find out how to get involved, please visit www.emptybowlsdetroit.com or email

Joshua M Rubin President | NMLS#135902

T: 248.538.7162 | C: 248.797.5206 JRubin@HorizonFinancialGroup.com 30150 Telegraph Rd, Suite 320 Bingham Farms, MI 48025

emptybowlsdetroit@gmail.com.

42 • August 2020

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

We specialize in: ◊ Conventional, Jumbo, FHA, VA and USDA ◊ New construction and renovation loans ◊ Cash Out, debt consolidation, rate and term refinances ◊ Bank statement programs, non-warrantable condos, asset depletion ◊ 90 day Look and Lock Program

Over 500 5-star reviews can't be wrong.

Reviews are found at: www.zillow.com/lender-profile/JoshuaRubin6/

Oakland County Real Producers • 43

waya — fun in the sun

My favorite summer vacation is going to the west side of Michigan around New Buffalo with my Mom, my three sisters and their families. We rent a house by Lake Michigan where we grill, swim, celebrate recent birthdays and discover what the area has to offer. Now that we are grown with our own families, my siblings live all over the world (Germany, UK, NY), so this time is precious and never taken for granted.

What is YOUR favorite summer vacation and why?

LINDSAY LAWRIE, DOBI, REALTORS®

Riviera Maya, Mexico — I go every year and hope to retire there.

Albania because it has the best hiking in the world, amazing beaches and the friendliest people.

EVAN WEBER, MAX BROOCK, REALTORS®-BIRMINGHAM

JOHN GOCI, EXP REALTY LLC

Higgins Lake cottage.

My favorite summer vacation is none other than Northern Michigan. Charlevoix is my favorite because you can visit so much gorgeous coast — you get beaches, heaven-like sunsets, huge lakes, islands, trails, forests, small towns, art, great food, and breweries. The people you meet are always welcoming, and it’s all just a few hours away.

Every time I’m there, it just gets better and better.

BRANDON MULRENIN, BROOKSTONE REALTORS LLC

My favorite summer vacation is up in the Traverse City area, specifically beautiful Elk Lake where we can find a house big enough for the entire family, stay for a week and enjoy all the lake fun, which includes our favorite trip up to Torch River to the sandbar at the south end of Torch Lake. We take this trip in July or early August when the water is nice and warm and the sun doesn’t go down till about 9:30 p.m. It’s something I so look forward to.

JENNIFER ZARDUS, COLDWELL BANKER WEIR MANUEL-BIR

My family loves to go to our lake house near Traverse City! We love getting out on the water and visiting all the small wineries/breweries.

My favorite summer vacation is spending a week in Leelanau County where my family loves boating on Glen Lake and exploring the beautiful beaches of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. With Traverse City nearby, miles of hike and bike trails, and fantastic restaurants and shops, you just can’t do any better for the classic All-American summer vacation than “Up North” in Michigan!

JAY TAYLOR, GOOD COMPANY

KATE HAYMAN, KW DOMAIN

MARK DEMERS, RE/MAX CLASSIC

44 • August 2020

Our very favorite summer vacation is spending time at our cottage, “Flora Danica,” in Canadian Lakes, Michigan. We love the dinners, boating, dancing, sitting around the campfire with family and friends, and getting baked goods and fresh produce from the Amish. Nothing is better than time at the lake.

GARY NEWVILLE, HALL & HUNTER-BIRMINGHAM

AuGres, Michigan — my family lives there and my cottage is there! Plus we love that is not a high tourist area.

CANDICE VAN SLEMBROUCK, MAX BROOCK, REALTORS®-BLOOMFIELD HILLS

We enjoy long weekends in Traverse City. The variety of restaurants, ways to enjoy Grand Traverse Bay, golf courses, wineries and breweries make it a great place to go over and over!

My favorite summer vacation is Jamaica — I love the culture! Jamaica is so relaxing with no hustling and bustling. Not to mention, the food is awesome wherever you are in Jamaica: fresh lobster and crab pulled out of the ocean, paired with fresh veggies and all cooked on the beach — so tasty. No rush and no worries — just relax, and everything will be alright.

MIRANDA MORROW, NATIONAL REALTY CENTERS

I grew up on Newfound Lake in New Hampshire (similar to Torch Lake here in MI), so my favorite summer vacation is going back home to spend downtime with family and friends boating, playing games, enjoying the views, barbecuing and sipping some nice wine or fun cocktails.

CARRIE SYMONDS, REAL LIVING KEE REALTY-ROCHESTER

Gotta say definitely Torch Lake — close getaway, beautiful sandbar and clear, aqua blue water! I enjoy ending the night with a bonfire — Northern Michigan in the summer is awesome.

SHAWN ARNAOUT, SIGNATURE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

AARON BLAKEMORE, FARM BUREAU INSURANCE

My favorite summer vacation is going to Mexico and enjoying the ocean view, sand, palm trees and nice weather.

Every summer we go up north to the Petoskey area. I love shopping downtown, walking on the break wall and looking at boats, golfing on Bay Harbor right on Little Traverse Bay, and eating at the Dam Site Inn and Legs Inn.

My favorite spot in the summer is taking the kids up to Mackinaw. It gets them away from the electronics and gives us all a chance to connect together versus all going our own way — and, of course, it’s beautiful.

DANIEL SALMO, EXP REALTY LLC

Anywhere on a cruise with the girls! Bars, pools, great food and gambling — what else would a girl need?

A lakefront rental with all my kids and grandbabies.

ALEX NUGENT, REAL ESTATE ONE-TROY

MARGO BORKIN, REAL ESTATE ONE-WB/FH

LORRIE BAILEY, KW SHOWCASE REALTY

@realproducers

AMY DUNLAP, DOBI, REALTORS®

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 45

My favorite summer vacation is traveling up north Michigan with my family in Traverse City.

Most days are spent swimming, golfing and shopping downtown. We will do a day trip to the sand dunes and spend all day by the lake.

Mackinac Island — it is so magical. Once the last ferry leaves for the mainland and you are staying at one of the wonderful hotels, you really feel special and relaxed!

I wish I liked to travel.

ERIKA BURKE, HEALY HOMES REALTY INC

DONNA BARLOW, SIGNATURE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

Our favorite summer vacation is hiding away at our house on Big LaSalle Island in the eastern Upper Peninsula and Lake Huron.

Malta.

Oh, it’s Torch Lake on the Fourth of July for sure!

CHRISTINE WINANS, REAL LIVING KEE REALTY

PHIL CINI, CENTURY 21 SAKMAR & ASSOCIATES

DARRYL CROSS, EXP REALTY LLC

Harbor Springs and Northern Michigan — I love being able to ride my bike and walk everywhere.

My happy place/favorite vacation spot is Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. My family has been going every year for the past eight years, and it’s perfect. We are five minutes from the perfect sandy beach, there are bike paths everywhere, the golf is amazing, the restaurants are the best and the weather is great. Plus, it is dog friendly, so our dog can go on the beach and join us at outdoor cafes, too. It’s a simple place that focuses on family and just chilling out, which is perfect!

STACEY KRAFT, HOME WARRANTY OF AMERICA

Going to Mackinac Island — love B&Bs and summer nights in Michigan!

JEFF TODD, KELLER WILLIAMS PAINT CREEK

Without a doubt, my favorite place to visit is La Jolla, California. Aside from the obvious perfect weather, La Jolla has a beautiful sunset, and it’s even more beautiful when you’re standing on the cliff tops overlooking the ocean.

Downtown is a breath of fresh air as you’re literally walking oceanside.

JEFFREY BRIKHO, BRIKHO PROPERTIES, INC.

Torch Lake is my absolute favorite summer vacation! White sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and a quaint little town are just what the doctor ordered for summer fun. The ability to rent a house directly on the beach and have a boat delivered to your dock while you sleep makes Torch Lake my best-kept summer vacation secret. For an evening out, after beach time fun, Traverse City is only a short, 30-minute drive away. Afterward, we get back to the beach house, start a bonfire and roast marshmallows. Torch Lake is the Bahamas of Michigan!

SHATAY ACEVEDO, 5TH AVENUE REALTY INC.

Being on Otsego Lake at our cottage in Gaylord — nothing better than summers Up North!

KYLE DESMOND, HALL & HUNTER

My favorite summer vacation is going to Lake Michigan with the family. The lake is warm, there are no sharks and it’s relaxing!

MICHAEL MOORE, NEXTHOME THE BOULEVARD

My wife Annie and I like to take our two girls (ages 4 and 2) to Mackinac Island. They love the ferry, horses and, of course, the fudge and ice cream.

NOAH COHEN, MAX BROOCK, REALTORS®BLOOMFIELD HILLS

LESLIE DORAN, COLDWELL BANKER WEIR MANUEL-ROCH

My favorite trip is to Bora Bora — beautiful getaway, beautiful beaches, sipping on adult beverages, enjoying the sun and having the person you love by your side.

I loved going to former Yugoslavia when I was a kid (from age five to 18, I spent two months there every summer). We would travel to all the amazing beaches and see all the history. It was fun learning all about the different cultures. Fun summers!

VIC SIMJANOSKI, DOBI

Up north with my friends and family … time to get away. Nothing like fresh air and exploring new beaches. Guaranteed to have lots of fun and plenty of giggles. Best way to unwind.

CHRISTIN BRACKEN, REAL ESTATE ONE-MILFORD

We rented a house on Grand Traverse Bay — big beach and great views. We took the boat to lunch in Suttons Bay and lived in our bathing suits.

Great food and beverages, dogs ran the beach and slept wonderfully. We sunbathed, swam, ate and drank — didn’t have a care in the world.

EMILY DAY, MAX BROOCK, REALTORS®-BIRMINGHAM

JAMES ALTENE, REAL ESTATE ONE-CLARKSTON WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU AND PUBLISH YOUR ANSWERS! CHECK YOUR EMAIL AND SUBMIT A RESPONSE, SO YOU CAN BE FEATURED IN NEXT MONTH’S WAYA.

EVAN TREHARNE, HALL & HUNTER-BIRMINGHAM

We love Western Michigan — nothing better than relaxing on Lake Michigan!

DARLA ROWLEY, IMPACT HOME STAGING

My favorite summer vacation is at my cottage on Lake Michigan with friends and family.

MARGIE DUNCAN, COLDWELL BANKER WEIR MANUEL-BIR

My favorite summer vacation is Boyne City. I have a small condo in town on Lake Charlevoix, and I can walk everywhere…Why? Because it feels like a little old fashioned town, and I love sunsets.

KATHY WILSON, BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES HWWB

My favorite summer vacation is exploring Michigan’s different areas and cities with my family. We love Mackinac Island and its history — the bike ride around the island gets better and better with time. Harbor Springs is one of the most beautiful areas that we’ve seen, and we are world travelers. Holland, with its sandy beaches, is very warm to our hearts. We look forward to more summers enjoying our beautiful state.

FADL BADREDDINE, MAX BROOCK REALTORS®

My favorite vacation was Disney World with my husband and children. It was so great to live the experience through my kids’ eyes! Too bad we couldn’t just move into the castle. I recommend every family try to make a trip out there at least once if possible.

ADRIANE KIZY, REAL ESTATE ONE

46 • August 2020

Renting a house with friends in Big Sky, Utah. The views were amazing, and we enjoyed lots of hiking and fun times hanging out in the quaint downtown area with outdoor restaurants and concerts.

JODY LOCKWOOD, SIGNATURE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 47

we can offer several lenders who provide an array of options to the consumer to ensure it is the best choice for their particular and unique situation.”

ANDREA ESSE

Additionally, Andrea said most cases can close in less than 30 days, allowing agents to close more deals while still paying attention to details and keeping service at the highest level.

“As for our title company, we are 100% focused on being a resource for our customers and referring agents,” Andrea said. “Being proactive in communication goes a long way and we are innovative in our approach.”

MOTTO MORTGAGE DEFINED & DEFINED TITLE

A PARTNER IN THE REAL ESTATE BUSINESS

Andrea and her team pride themselves on streamlining the process by offering solutions that promote money-making activities. Andrea said with a smile, “We love to say, ‘Come on in, we’re closing!’”

With 17 years of real estate experience, Andrea Esse is no stranger to the industry marketplace. She owns four RE/MAX Defined real estate offices as well as a mortgage and title business. As the owner of Motto Mortgage Defined & Defined Title, Andrea achieved her goals with consistent focus and determination, and by surrounding herself with likeminded individuals who have a similar vision for greatness.

In 2010, Andrea and her fiancé, Troy, opened their first RE/MAX Defined real estate office in Rochester. Four years later, they signed the franchise agreement to open another office in Troy. The economy was on the rebound and business was good. But in September 2014, Andrea’s world was forever changed. Four months before their wedding, Troy suddenly passed away.

Andrea was devastated. “I was so very grateful to everyone in the real estate community during that difficult time in my life,” Andrea said. “My agents were just like family — amazing.”

With the outpouring of love and support, along with Andrea’s optimistic approach to life, she was able to successfully move forward. In 2015 she was presented with an opportunity to open a mortgage company. Being the 48 • August 2020

The relationships Andrea has with real estate agents are paramount to all her activities. She values their role in her business and protects their reputation as she would her own.

“We understand that when a person or business is referred to us, it is a reflection of the agents in their business,” Andrea said. “We take that referral as an honor and do everything in our power to exceed expectations and to be a true business partner.”

With the ever-changing world of technology, Andrea said innovation is the key factor to staying ahead of the curve. “We offer online quotes, easyto-access email/text communications and keep customers updated on industry trends with our blog site,” she said.

partner spotlight

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Jessica Laine Photography

savvy businesswoman that she is, Andrea seized the chance to be the first franchisee for this new concept — a mortgage brokerage franchise. She had excellent growth with her first RE/MAX Defined office, she hired more than 20 agents and opened the second real estate office in Troy. She continued to reach her goals of expansion and growth in 2017 when she opened two additional offices in Oakland Township and downtown Oxford. As her journey for growth continued, Andrea decided it was time to open a title company, which she did successfully during the 2020 quarantine.

“One thing I’ve learned throughout the years is that we can’t do everything alone,” Andrea said. “That is why I teamed up with some wonderful, talented individuals that share the same values and who understand the importance of providing great customer service — not only for our customers but also for our real estate partners.”

When it comes to service, Andrea said it is what sets her apart from other similar @realproducers

businesses. Her mortgage company has partnered with seven different lenders to provide the best options to the consumer. “Everyone is different and has different needs,” Andrea explained. “With banks, you are limited to what they can offer, however as a mortgage broker, realproducersmag.com

With their title business, the team’s pledge is to help customers overcome any roadblocks. “When we provide title insurance, we’re providing peaceof-mind that our customer’s property is protected and well-covered against lawsuits or claims that could result in disputes over the title,” Andrea said.

When Andrea sets out to accomplish a goal, she is cognizant of how her

actions can affect others. It is her top priority to make a positive difference in other people’s lives. To her, that is the definition of success. “People don’t care about what you acquire, they may not even remember your name, but they will remember the impact you had on them and how you made them feel.”

When Andrea isn’t working at one of her real estate, mortgage, or title offices, she can be found visiting friends and family. She has a son, Giovajhn, 18, who is graduating this year and aspires to be a musician, and daughter, Alia, 17, who will be graduating in 2021. Andrea is grateful and blessed to have such great kids that are supportive and understanding. Single mother of two, Andrea welcomed the kids’ grandmother, Carol, to live with them and as a family, they enjoy dinner, watching movies and just spending quality time together.

Andrea firmly believes in the power of perspective and the strength of mental mentality. “I have had my share of ups and downs,” Andrea said. “But I don’t let my downs define me; rather, I learn and grow from them.” To stay motivated, Andrea listens to inspiring audiobooks and learns best practices from other successful people. “We are the only ones who set our limitations — no one else. It’s important to keep the saw sharpened — it helps us stay relevant and at the top of our game.”

Because failure is inevitable, Andrea views it as an opportunity to grow. “If we view failure in a positive — almost welcoming way — it will be worth the experience so we can adjust and be better because of it,” Andrea said.

“Knowledge and action are key. It’s never too late to start, so let’s get started!” Andrea is always looking for opportunities to partner with others and continue to grow.

For more information on Motto Mortgage Defined & Defined Title, visit www.mottomortgage.com/ offices/defined-rochester and www.definedtitle.com.

Oakland County Real Producers • 49

Focus on your full-time job.

We love our side hustles because they are so much fun. It’s easy to get distracted by them during regular work hours, but a side hustle, no matter how tempting, is never worth sacrificing your full-time income. When starting up a side business, your goal is to be excellent at both your full-time job and your side hustle. Before taking on a new venture, be sure your performance at work is already stellar.

financial fitness

YOUR SUCCESSFUL

SIDE HUSTLE

By Shauna Osborne

Sneaker resale. Uber driving. Designer clothing consignment.

Freelance writing. What do these things have in common? These are all examples of side gigs friends and acquaintances, who also have stable day jobs, work to fulfill their creative sides, delve deeper into their interests … and, of course, bring in extra money.

Heralded by Forbes as the “new must-have career accessory,” the side job has become extremely popular, with tens of millions of Americans eagerly clocking back in after regular work hours.

Successful hustlers make it all work by following a few key rules:

Title Issues?

We Can Help.

Set “work hours” and stick to them.

In the planning stages, decide how many hours per day or week you want to commit to your side hustle, write it down, and stick to it. When we’re passionate about a project, it’s easy to let it take over our free time, but the goal is to avoid taking away from your current responsibilities (e.g., relationships, exercise). Sacrifice time spent scrolling social media or watching TV first.

CHRIS ATALLOH, ESQ.

Founder and Managing Partner

HELPING YOU TO BETTER YOUR BUSINESS F R O M S TA R T T O C L O S I N G !

Consider your side gig “me time.”

The beauty of the side hustle is you get to devote your time and attention to something you choose, something you love. Not only will you feel capable and accomplished, achieving your business goals, but you’ll feel good about the time you spend on it, leaving you more personally fulfilled.

Have You Ever Had Your Closing Stall Because of Unexpected Title Issues? We Can Provide:

Contact us today and we will be happy to walk you through the closing process

Fast and Easy Probates For Property Owned by A Deceased Party All Required Documents to Sell a Property Owned by a Trust Quiet Title Actions to Remove Improper 3rd Party Claims to Title Help Settling Earnest Money Deposit Issues Contract Reviews • Quick LLC Formation Simple Answers to Seemingly Complex Problems

313-447-0058

customerservice@alliancetitlemi.com

Kelly Anderson

Mary Reed

248-613-0007 | ROCHESTERLAWCENTER.COM VISIT US AT 543 N. MAIN ST., SUITE 222 | ROCHESTER, MI 48307

Be ready to hustle.

Ask yourself how badly you want your venture to succeed. After all, they don’t call it a hustle for nothing! Expect to work hard, put in the hours, and hang in for the long haul, making sacrifices, sometimes painful ones, along the way. Don’t expect success overnight.

MOVING YOU SAFELY DURING THE PANDEMIC! Opening doors for Michigan homebuyers for 70 years.

LOCAL - STATEWIDE - OUT OF STATE

PACKING • MOVING • STORAGE

248.674.3937 50 • August 2020

Happily serving local residents at our new Birmingham branch!

Toni Thwaites Birmingham Branch Manager 401 S. Old Woodward, Ste. 455 Birmingham, MI 48009 NMLS #291301

248-459-2089 tthwaites@rossmortgage.com

CHANGINGPLACESMOVERS.COM @realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 51

announcement 586 • 463 • 4230 www.preferredmoving.net

A CALL FOR LOCAL

LOCAL • LONG DISTANCE • INTERNATIONAL • FREE, NO OBLIGATION IN-HOME ESTIMATES

• FULL SERVICE PACKING AND CUSTOM CRATING

• LONG- AND SHORT-TERM STORAGE SOLUTIONS

• CERTIFIED RELOCATION CONSULTANTS

• SERVING THE ENTIRE SOUTHEASTERN MICHIGAN AREA

CONTRIBUTORS Real Producers of Oakland County invites YOU to submit an original, informational article for publication consideration in a future issue.

We welcome article submissions (500-700 words) that educate and engage Oakland County 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 Local REALTOR® Board Updates

For additional information about this publication opportunity, please contact Managing Editor Jane K. Asher at jane.asher@realproducersmag.com.

52 • August 2020

www.rodnick.com | (586) 772-4350 @realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 53

“

SHERRY PYSZCZYNSKI F A M I LY A N D R E A L E S T A T E

I LOVE SHARING MY EXPERIENCES AND HELPING PEOPLE MAKE T H E I M P O RTA N T DECISION ABOUT WHERE THEIR FUTURE WILL HAPPEN.

”

agent spotlight

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Stylish Detroit

In 1999, Sherry Pyszczynski and her husband, Donald, got into real estate to ensure they would have a financially secure retirement. Considering they are a family of seven, this was a smart source of long-term investment for retirement income. However, what started out as a part-time job, has now become a full-time business, earning top awards with a solid team of family members.

Every year since 2014, Sherry has been recognized in the top 5% of REALTORS® by Hour Magazine. An Associate Broker at Keller Williams Metro, Sherry has a career volume over $120 million and has earned triple and quad gold awards every year at the agency.

Prior to becoming a REALTOR®, Sherry ran a commercial cleaning service with 20 employees and took care of her rental properties. When Sherry was looking to buy her third or fourth house, she came across a VA foreclosure. However, her agent at the time did not know the process of how to sell a foreclosure. Therefore, Sherry took it upon herself to find out how to handle the process. “My agent 54 • August 2020

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

spoke to his broker and they invited me to teach a class to their real estate team on how to sell these types of foreclosures,” Sherry explained. “Since I was not an agent myself, I declined.”

As a result of Sherry’s foreclosure experience, she began thinking about selling real estate for herself. “When I brought up the topic to a friend of mine who was a real estate agent, she told me I would not be a good fit and I should concentrate on other things,” Sherry said. Since this person was someone that Sherry trusted, she believed her and did not pursue it at that time. “It wasn’t until my accountant suggested the idea that I finally got my real estate license.”

Oakland County Real Producers • 55

ACTI ON

E S TAT E S A L E S , L L C

• Rich & Christy Shearer • Twelve years later, Sherry is still loving everything real estate. She and her husband, along with their son, Spencer, are licensed agents. “Donald is also a licensed builder and professional remodeler, and often steps in and helps me when I can’t be in two places at once, or if we run into a problem that can be repaired,” Sherry said. “Spencer is another wonderful partner however his main focus is finishing the nursing program at Madonna.” Their daughter, Samantha, is Sherry’s administrative assistant and their son, Connor, helps with miscellaneous duties and errands. “My right-hand woman is Della, who oversees everything for the rental homes and anything that has to do with billing or accounting. She has also been my BFF for more than 20 years and we would be lost without her.”

E S TAT E S A L E S APPRAISALS CLEANOUTS 755 W. Big Beaver Rd. Suite 2020 Troy, MI. 48084 586-228-9090 | actionestate.com Visit us on Facebook and instagram

Many of Sherry’s clients have become a part of her inner circle of friends. “The most rewarding part of my business has been the amazing people I have met and worked with,” Sherry said. “I love sharing my experiences and helping people make the important decision about where their future will happen.”

Sherry attributes her success to the simple task of sitting down with a journal and figuring out her life goals. “Journaling has helped me visualize what I want in life and how I can make it happen,” she said. “It also helps that my husband and I are on the same page in most ways.”

Sherry defines her success as the ability to take care of her family and go to sleep every night knowing she has helped someone else.

Sherry and Donald have five children — Jonathan, 35, Anne, 31, Spencer,

56 • August 2020

24, Sam, 23, and Connor, 20. They also have three grandchildren. Together, they enjoy biking, kayaking, board games and watching basketball.

Currently, Sherry is most passionate about helping her clients through these difficult times. Some of that includes real estate, some of it is just listening or lending a shoulder to lean on. “I want to guide people and give them all their options so they can see opportunities from different perspectives.”

Sherry explained, “No matter how many transactions you have done, you have not seen it all!” Her advice to upand-coming agents is as fundamental as the “Golden Rule”: Do the right thing and treat others as you’d like to be treated. Additionally, she suggested, “Make sure to always put your clients first — above everything else, do what is best for them.”

@realproducers

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 57

CITY $79.99

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Same Day Service and Installation HEATING, COOLIN G, IN D OO R A IR Q U A L I TY & A P P L I A NC E REPAIR

Southside

Eastside

Northside

( 73 4 ) 455-65 0 0

( 5 86 ) 5 3 3 -5 5 25

( 248 ) 6 18- 7 299

game

Get to know your

CERTIFICATION

Westside

( 5 17 ) 85 3 - 3 2 3 3

OAKLAND COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS! Untitled

C OLONIA L HE ATI NG@ YAHO O .CO M | 4117 0 JO Y RD, P LY MO UT H , MI C H I G A N 4 817 0 , UN I T ED S TATES

1

Jennifer Carnaghi jennifer@chetscleaning.com

248- 584- 1819 chetscleaning.com 2

Serving the Metro Detroit area since 1986

3

4

Real Producers Special:

FREE $50

gift card

Carpet | Upholstery | Rugs | Leather Drapes & Blinds | Marble & Stone Tile & Grout | Wood Floors | Fiber Protection

to give to your clients as a closing gift or at a listing, call to find out how to take advantage of this special offer

5 6

Conclusive Inspection Services

ACROSS

WE PROVIDE PEACE OF MIND RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND CHURCH EXPERTS WE ALSO PROVIDE: •

Radon Testing

•

Air Quality Testing

•

Fungus & Asbestos Sampling

•

VA WDO

ASHI, NAHI, ACI, 203K Consultants | HUD/FHA Certified (248) 399-6969 | conspect@hotmail.com | www.conclusiveinspection.net 58 • August 2020

@realproducers CERTIFIED INSPECTOR

DOWN

Across Down 1. This is the person who inspired and drove Tory 1. This plays a pivotal part in who Amy 1. This is theto person 1. This plays a pivotal part in who Amy Serra Albrigh Sheffer succeed.who inspired and drove Tory Serra Albright is today.

Sheffer to helped succeed. today.

4. This has Sherry Pyszczynski visualize what 2. This is whereisthe Barker family she wants in life and how she can make it happen. spends most of their get- Barker family spends most of 4. This has helped Sherry Pyszczynski visualize what 2. This is summer where the 5. This is anin important of Michal Catari’sit happen. aways in Gaylord.

2 words) she wants life andelement how she can make their (hint: summer getaways in Gaylord. (hint: 2 words) family vacations.

3. Andrea Esse said that this is the key 5. This is an important element of Michal Catari’s 3. Andrea Esse said that this is the key factor in 6. When Natalie Lupo is not working with her real factor in staying ahead of the curve. family vacations. staying ahead of the curve. estate team, she can be found filling these in the 6. When Natalie Lupo is not working with her real Detroit community. estate team, she can be found filling these in the Detroit community. realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 59

Do YOU want to

NOMINATE

someone to be featured? announcement Email nominations to terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com.

Fine catering for all occasion

Your Dream. Our Expertise.

SM

Home welcome gifts & Home closing gifts From $50-$500 with company logo and special message

Catering

NMLS# 1313851 | 1700 W Big Beaver Suite 300 | Troy, MI 48084

OPEN HOUSE, Breakfast, lunch or snack delivered and professionally set-up

CORPORATE EXPRESS CATERING 248-737-8088 | NibblesGifts.com 32550 N.W. Hwy. | Farmington Hills, MI 48334 60 • August 2020

Kim Riley Catering Coordinator 248-579-4602 Kim@Express-Catering.com @realproducers

ALISHA PENN

alisha.penn@mottomortgage.com 313.399.3762 NMLS# 1312389

realproducersmag.com

LEVAN WOOD

ELI GONZALEZ

levan.wood@mottomortgage.com eli.gonzalez@mottomortgage.com 248.770.1029 313.459.3097 NMLS# 1052300

Oakland County Real Producers • 61