Real Producers of Oakland County December 2021 Issue

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

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-PRODUCING MOTHER-SON TEAM

JOY DIMAGGIO & DADE DIMAGGIO Photo by Stylish Detroit

DECEMBER 2021

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

CVED 21897

We would like to thank the Realtor community for the opportunity of being the Realtors’ Happy Holidays from the Gentlemen of Changing Places Moving

248-674-3937

2 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

SHOP

We are celebrating 50 years - thanks to you. The Star Treatment Continues on – elevating our personalized-luxury experience.

1 2 3

BROWSE OUR INVENTORY ONLINE ORDER YOUR VEHICLE FROM HOME WE DELIVER TO YOUR DOOR

★ SHOP NOW STARLINCOLN.COM

Kimberly C. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Just bought a Nautilus online. It was super easy!

It was delivered to my home and they sanitized it in my driveway!”

Shop in person or online. Complimentary Remote Delivery.

24350 W 12 Mile Rd. Southfield, MI 48034 • 248-354-4900 Hours: Sales Monday-Friday 9-5, Service 8-5 Monday-Friday

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 3

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

TABLE OF

CONTENTS 08

Preferred Partners

16

11

Meet the Oakland County Real Producers Team

TopProducing Mother-Son Team: Joy DiMaggio & Dade DiMaggio

Rising Star: Nick Bastianelli

Get Every Issue On Your Phone With Issuu

29

30

31

34

38

22

Partner Q&A: Corporate Express Catering

Agent Spotlight: Jessica Weisman

42

48

Agent on the Rise: James Altene

Charity Spotlight: Camp Casey

Partner Q&A: Nibbles Gifts

Behindthe-Scenes All-Star: Ronya Naimi

around

town

54 Around Town

If you are interested in contributing or nominating someone for a feature, please email us at Chris.csotty@realproducersmag.com or Terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com.

DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a Real Producers but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Oakland County Real Producers magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies.

NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.

4 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

248-594-9390 | www.Michigan.fntic.com tricia.gallagher@fnf.com

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 5

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

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)

• New construc tion • Rem odels • Additions • Elec tric a l serv ice upg ra d es • Generators • New elec tric a l instal l s

6 • December 2021

@realproducers

TOP TO BOTTOM, INSIDE

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

AND OUT.

Home Inspection • Sewer Scope • Air Quality • Radon Testing

LE T U S T E ACH YO U AB O U T YO U R H O M E .

586-434-0243 | www.housecalldetroit.com (schedule live 24/7)

Chet Sadowski III chet3@chetscleaning.com

248- 584- 1819 chetscleaning.com

Serving the Metro Detroit area since 1986 Real Producers Special:

FREE $50

gift card

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 realproducersmag.com

Carpet | Upholstery | Rugs | Leather Drapes & Blinds | Marble & Stone Tile & Grout | WoodOakland FloorsCounty | FiberReal Protection Producers • 7

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!

ACCOUNTING Wenderski & Associates, CPA P.C. (248) 689-7740 APPLIANCES Sargent Appliance & Video (248) 652-9700 Trevarrow, Inc. (248) 377-2300 APPRAISAL Bittner Appraisal Group, LLC (248) 828-8218 ATTORNEY/LEGAL SERVICES Matta Blair, PLC (248) 593-6100 Szura & Delonis, PLC (248) 716-3600

CLEANING & ORGANIZING Jo’s Cleaning & Organizing (810) 241-1622

Hands of Time Estate Sales (734) 890-3623

HOME FURNISHINGS Home Interior Warehouse (248) 624-6700

CLOSET STORAGE SYSTEMS Jo’s Cleaning & Organizing (810) 241-1622

FINANCIAL SERVICES & INVESTMENT PLANNING Asalyn Coachman, JD Financial Architects (248) 892-0407

HOME IMPROVEMENT Defined Home Improvement (248) 825-4556

CLOSING GIFTS Nibbles Gifts (248) 737-8088 NibblesGifts.com One Hope Wine (248) 425-7897 CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS Cranbrook Custom Homes (586) 781-2316 Toll Brothers (248) 305-4004

BLINDS/SHADES Budget Blinds of Milford (248) 716-7604

DESIGN/BUILDERS Detroit Build Seabrook Satterlund (248) 677-0551

CAR DEALERSHIP Star Lincoln (248) 354-4900

DRONES Hommati (248) 550-0515

CARPET & TILE CLEANING Chet’s Cleaning Chet Sadowski III (248) 584-1819

Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686

CATERING Corporate Express Catering (248) 579-4602 CBD PRODUCTS CannaCore Organics (586) 615-8749 www.cannacore organics.com/terra

8 • December 2021

FLOORING City Flooring (586) 303-5347 FLORAL & GIFT BASKETS Rodnick, Inc. (586) 772-4350 www.rodnick.com GRAPHIC DESIGN & PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS Graphic Takeover Jimmy Johnson (248) 894-4464 HEALTH, WELLNESS & SKIN CARE CannaCore Organics (586) 615-8749 www.cannacore organics.com/terra

WayUp Media (248) 924-1011

HEATING & COOLING Colonial Heating & Cooling (734) 455-6500

ELECTRICAL Quality Affordable Construction (734) 341-2689

HOME BUILDER Lombardo Homes Melissa Cervin (586) 781-2316

ESTATE SALES Action Estate Sales (586) 228-9090

Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County ReStore (248) 880-6969 HOME INSPECTION Big Moose Home Inspections (920) 570-6543 Bigmoose.us Conclusive Inspection Services (248) 399-6969 HomeTeam Inspection Service (586) 783-9957 House Call Home Inspection (586) 434-0243 Points North Home Inspections (248) 808-3822 Total House Inspection (248) 550-9492 HOME STAGING Impact Home Staging Experts (248) 591-4290 HOME WARRANTY Achosa Home Warranty Stacey Kraft (248) 303-7210

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

INSURANCE Allstate Insurance: Faber Agency 43343 Grand River Novi, MI 48375 (248) 344-0460 www.allstate.com/ kristinfaber Farm Bureau Insurance Aaron Blakemore (248) 760-3479 Goosehead Insurance Wesson Gappi (248) 275-8600 State Farm Insurance Tammy Deane (586) 738-6385 JUNK REMOVAL 1-800-GOT-JUNK? (586) 909-9329 JUNK REMOVAL / DEMOLITION We Cleanout Everything (877) 932-8922 KITCHEN & BATH Whiski Kitchen (248) 629-0058 LANDSCAPE DESIGN Great Lakes Landscape Design (248) 543-6320 MARBLE & GRANITE American Prestige Marble and Granite (313) 595-7237 MORTGAGE LENDER Anderson Financial Group Sandi Voiles (248) 417-4958

realproducersmag.com

Defined Mortgage (248) 785-3779

Morse Moving & Storage (734) 484-1717

First State Bank Lisa Marie Pevac (586) 354-6797

Preferred Moving & Storage (586) 463-4230

First State Bank Ken Ebaugh (248) 270-6278 Flagstar Bank Keith Kampe (248) 935-3591 Gonzalez Group - NEXA Mortgage (586) 201-7255 Horizon Financial Group Joshua Rubin (248) 538-7162 Huntington Bank Sandi Frith (586) 871-8002 Lake Michigan Credit Union Matt Adler (248) 219-7552

NEW CONSTRUCTION MORTGAGE Huntington Bank Sandi Frith (586) 871-8002 NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County Women Build (248) 338-1843 PHOTOGRAPHY Dawn Townsend Photography & Design (586) 255-4495 Hommati (248) 550-0515 PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY Perfect Light Photography Jermaine Buie (517) 515-1910

Level One Bank Lara Forte (248) 284-5178

Skyview Experts (586) 549-9690

Omega Lending Group (248) 598-8000

Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686

Ross Mortgage Toni Thwaites (248) 459-2089

WayUp Media (248) 924-1011

Team Slobin - Supreme Lending (248) 535-0465

PRINTING/MARKETING/ DESIGN/SHIPPING Imperial Press (734) 589-9078

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

REMODELING Quality Affordable Construction (734) 341-2689

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING The Media Mutt Don Kowalewski (917) 692-3967 donkowalewski.com TITLE COMPANY Alliance Title of Michigan Mary Reed (586) 238-4400 Alliance Title of Michigan Kelly Anderson (586) 238-4400 ATA National Title Group (248) 341-5077 Defined Title (248) 218-1757 Devon Title (248) 273-4300 Fidelity National Title (248) 594-9390 Inked Title (248) 617-0004 TREE CARE SERVICES Dreadknot Services (248) 884-1681 VIRTUAL 3-D TOURS Hommati (248) 550-0515 Skyview Experts (586) 549-9690 Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686 WayUp Media (248) 924-1011

Oakland County Real Producers • 9

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Lisa Allen Loan Originator

DEFINED MORTGAGE Office: 248-785-3799 | Cell: 248-875-6535 lisa@definedmortgage.com DefinedMortgage.com

248-218-1757 ORDER ONLINE AT

definedtitle.com

Come on in…

We’re Closing!

NMLS#1252873 | NMLS# 1734362

Each Office is Independently Owned, Operated and Licensed.

EXPERIENCED ATTORNEYS. INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS.

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 10 • December 2021

Our law firm serves clients throughout Michigan.

Call Rick Delonis at (248) 716-3600 Email: rdelonis@szuradelonis.com https://www.szuradelonis.com/ @realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

MEET THE OAKLAND COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS TEAM

Terra Csotty

Chris Csotty

April Shanne Subiera Publishing Assistant/ Reprints Specialist

Erika Kruse

Event Coordinator

Sasha Marceta

Skyview Experts Photographer/Videographer

Jeanne Monillo

Dina Ranieri

Publisher

Publisher

Ad Strategist

Relationship Manager

Amanda Matkowski Editor

Dawn Townsend

Dawn Townsend Photography & Design Photographer

Robbyn Moore

Jermaine Buie Perfect Light, LLC Photographer

Writer

Andy Schwartz

Stylish Detroit Photographer/Videographer

Brandon Ramsay

WayUp Media Photographer/Videographer

Does your pet want to relax during the holiday season as well?

I can help with our CBD for Pets!

cannacoreorganics.com/terra

586-615-8749

realproducersmag.com

20% OFF

orders during the month of December! Mention this ad!

Oakland County Real Producers • 11

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

The Oakland County Real Producers Team W IS HES YO U A

Happy

Holiday AND A

JOYFUL NEW YEAR! The Budget Blinds Truth At Budget Blinds, we care about you, your home, and your community.

We've partnered with Extreme Makeover: Home Edition to help transform the homes of well deserving families.

budgetblinds.com | (248) 716-7604

12 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio ONEHOPE

Fundraising Corporate Gifting Custom Etching Private Tastings

HAS GIVEN BACK 7 MILLION DOLLARS TO DATE.

ONEHOPE Wine is a charity based wine out of Napa Valley. Each bottle has a cause partner that it donates back to and we now have a tasting room as part of our vineyard!

Give back this season by hosting a wine party! www.onehopewine.com/myshop/lisa-zubal

248-425-7897 • Lisa.zubal@yahoo.com

L END OMEGA.COM | ROYAL OAK, MI

THE MOST REFERRED MORTGAGE LENDER IN METRO DETROIT M A A M R A N I D S S A A

G A B B Y N M L S : # 12 12 7 6 0

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 13

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

The Media Mutt Content creation.

Pretty simple.

You do what you do, and I'll create social media posts, Blog posts, or write articles for you and everyone will think you're a social media genius.

I'll schedule them.

Keep you organized.

And when you're at Real Producer cocktail parties people will say, "OMG, I love what you post on social."

Shhhh. It's our secret.

DON KOWALEWSKI Bloomfield Township, MI (917) 692-3967 donkowalewski@gmail.com donkowalewski.com

14 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

One size does not fit all.

Dream homes come in all shapes and sizes. So do the hundreds of Jumbo loan options that can help your clients leverage their cash and satisfy their liquidity needs.

And, unlike most lenders, we have the tools and expertise to show them the financial impact of their purchase decision on their lifestyle—before they buy.

Jumbo Loan options: • Low down payments • Less than 20% down with no mortgage insurance1 • Piggybacks • Non-warrantable condos • Professional Loans...and many more!

Call to learn more.

KEITH KAMPE FVP | Sales Manager NMLS 771049

248-935-3591 keith.kampe@flagstar.com 35238 Woodward Avenue Birmingham, MI 48009

1. Loans closing with an LTV between 80.01 and 85% are not eligible for mortgage insurance and must meet the following guidelines: • Owner-occupied • Purchase or rate/term refinance • Maximum loan amount of $1,000,000 • Maximum DTI 36% • Escrow account must be established.

Programs for qualified borrowers. All borrowers are subject to credit approval, underwriting approval, and lender terms and conditions. Programs subject to change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. Not a commitment to lend.

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 15

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

top-producing mother-son team

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Stylish Detroit

16 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Joy DiMaggio & Dade DiMaggio A B U S I N E S S B U I LT B Y F A M I LY , DRIVEN BY AUTHENTICITY

A

s a licensed real estate agent for 30+ years, Joy DiMaggio has seen and done it all.

She has navigated through dozens of market shifts and millions of sales — developing her into the mega-agent she is today. Through the toughest of times, while raising three kids as a divorced parent, Joy was driven to find creative ways to make deals happen and provide for her family.

Seven years ago, on Joy’s birthday, one of those kids decided to return the favor. In her birthday card were two powerful words written from her son, Dade — “I’m in,” which was sketched across his newly acquired real estate license. This license has realproducersmag.com

since become a gift that keeps on giving as they quickly joined forces and began building a dynamic real estate business. Joy has been consistently successful since her debut; however, once the mother-son duo became a team, their careers rose to elite levels and made the DiMaggio name synonymous with service, experience and success.

Dade was previously immersed in the jewelry and art business where his creativity and innovation in sales flourished. He garnered a wealth of experience selling luxury items and one-of-akind pieces. Dade is also a world-class champion in combat sports and has transcended a mental toughness to the team. This was a great complement to Joy’s more traditional approach and gentleness. Dade’s savvy technical skills and artistic flair illuminated Joy’s sterling business acumen

Oakland County Real Producers • 17

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

and industry knowledge. Together, the differences in their generations became symbiotic and a welcomed attraction to all age groups of clients.

The two began their careers together at Real Estate One where Dade was given the Rising Star Award for selling 22 homes in his inaugural year. Joy and Dade are past recipients of Real Estate One’s Gold Award, President’s Council of Excellence Diamond Award and President’s Circle Award throughout their time there.

The team made a decision to move to KW Domain in 2018 and launch DiMaggio Homes. Since that time, they have been recognized as recurring Top 1% producers in the nation and achieved numerous accolades including the KW Quadruple Gold Award. In 2021, DiMaggio Homes is on track to surpass $25 million in sales volume. “I really give my mom

18 • December 2021

so much credit for our success. I owe her a lot,” Dade said.

One of Joy’s greatest awards is the “Junkyard Dog” Award — a mock office award — but one that both Joy and Dade hold in high regard.

“I love this award because it’s proof that there’s no deal I will ever give up on,” Joy said proudly. “Regardless of circumstances, I will bring a deal to fruition.” The “junkyard dog” mindset is a shared core value that Dade has built his career upon.

“While different in personality and style than my mom, I have always built on the foundation of being a ‘junkyard dog,’ just like her,” he said. “We will never let a deal die, and we’re as loyal to our clients as we are to each other.”

Joy and Dade share a bond that allows them to understand each other in unique ways, giving them the

ability to be stronger, individually and collectively — a force to be reckoned with. When asked what makes their team successful, they each respectively said the other person’s name.

“We’ve been best friends and partners for a long time,” Dade said.

As a team of two with no additional support or expensive marketing, the pair thrives on their unflappable ability to make their clients feel comfortable. “Our business is built entirely from our sphere of influence and referrals,” Joy said. “We put it on our own shoulders to do the work from top to bottom. Our interest is in being equitable and profitable, by being ourselves. Our experiences, personalities and style is unique and multifaceted.

We are able to come in and out of each deal with different approaches because we have different mindsets, experiences and common goals.”

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio In November 2021, as the #1 team in sales at KW Domain, the DiMaggios made their biggest move yet: Joy and Dade left to become managing partners at two of the most promising and quickly growing brokerages — RE/MAX Eclipse in Bloomfield Hills and Waterford. Their main focus is to build solid relationships with clients and agents to help them achieve their real estate dreams and objectives.

“We are always putting the client first. The money comes secondary,” Joy explained. “We are always honest and ethical, and will exceed expectations with any agents at our new home at RE/MAX Eclipse.”

of two can physically do,” Joy shared. “We are opening our eyes to expanding our team not only in Michigan but by also bringing DiMaggio Homes to Florida. We have recently purchased our first two investment properties in the Naples area, and we’re currently obtaining our Florida real estate licenses.”

Additionally, they would like to grow to $50 million in annual sales by 2024.

Joy has three children — Dade, Carella and Sierra — who have always supported her career and been her biggest cheerleaders. “This job can have long hours and crazy schedules,” Joy shared. “I remember making my youngest a bed at the office so I could get things done. My kids have seen me rise from financial ruin to achieving my dreams through hard work and determination.

There’s nothing better in life than knowing your kids are proud of you.”

The key to success at DiMaggio Homes is simple: Be yourself. “The brightest part of you is you!” Dade said enthusiastically. “Uniqueness is what shines through and allows you to win clients.

Authenticity has sustainability. That has set us apart from other teams.”

The duo is passionate about taking their business to the next level. They are ready to set new goals and potentially grow their team by adding more agents in the near future. The two are excited to announce the addition of daughter and sister, Sierra, to the team. She will be transitioning from her current job in corporate marketing to join her family as the director of marketing and sales.

“We know we have met, if not exceeded, the kind of numbers a team

WE FIND SUCCESS WHEN BOTH RESPECT AND EMPOWERMENT ARE ESTABLISHED AMONGST OURSELVES AND OTHERS. realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 19

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio Joy loves traveling around the country, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, hiking in the mountains, and just about any other shared activity with her friends or family.

business when she truly started at the very bottom,” Dade said. “I remember when she would have to reschedule showings because her car wouldn’t work properly. I’d watch her grind herself to the bone over a $900-lease deal — the same as she would do for a $2-million-purchase client. That’s my mom: never wavering, and true to the business as anyone has ever been.”

Dade and his wife, Amber, have four children — Vesper, 7, Terce, 5, Lauda, 1, and Prime, born June 2021. Dade is currently a semi-professional soccer player, avid skimboarder and a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Both Joy and Dade agreed that success is measured by the level of happiness achieved in their lives. “If we’re both happy and if all of our clients are happy, then we are the most successful team in the business,” Joy said. The two are notoriously competitive and often challenge each other to meet certain goals in and out of the office. Dade added, “We find success when both respect and empowerment are established amongst ourselves and others.”

“

OUR BUSINESS IS BUILT ENTIRELY FROM OUR SPHERE OF INFLUENCE AND REFERRALS. Joy finds great comfort knowing that all her years of hard work will continue with her son. “It warms my heart that the DiMaggio name in the real estate business will grow and do great things for many years to come,” Joy said. “Who knows? It may continue on into the next generation with one of Dade’s children or any more grandchildren to come! Fingers crossed!”

Dade shared that his greatest professional reward is knowing that he and his mother built a solid business that will allow his mother to retire earlier than planned.

“My mom will walk out on top of the 20 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Asalyn Coachman is a Registered Representative of and offers Securities through The O.N. Equity Sales Company, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through O.N. Investment Management Company. Financial Architects, Inc. is not affiliated with The O.N. Equity Sales Company or O.N. Investment Management Company.

Retirement Investments Insurance Tax Strategies Debt Analysis asalyn@financialarch.com

248.482.3600 (o) 248.892.0407 (m)

Financial Architects, Inc.

39395 W 12 Mile Rd, Suite 102 Farmington Hills, MI 48331

AMERICAN PRESTIGE MARBLE AND GRANITE Fully specializes in natural stone fabrication and installation of fine custom granite, quartz, marble or engineered stone, countertops, tile flooring, backsplash and more.

Call us today for a free quote on life, home and auto insurance!!!

How much life insurance do I need? ASK US!!!

We want to provide you with Amazing Service STATE FARM® INSURANCE AGENT

Tammy Deane NMLS #1794386

Business: 586-738-6385 Cell: 248-535-5677 Fax: 586-238-4427 tammydeaneinsurance.com realproducersmag.com

Fast, quality, and reliable service!

Contact us at (313) 595-7237 for more details.

AMERICANPRESTIGEGRANITE@GMAIL.COM Oakland County Real Producers • 21

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Nick Bastianelli rising star

By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts Photos taken at Cranbrook Custom Homes — Montcaret in Northville

“SO DANG GRATEFUL”

he and his wife desired for their family. Inspired by his dad’s career as a builder and his mom’s penchant for art and design, equipped with home renovation knowledge from his previous job at William James Carpentry, and fueled by the confidence of his first sale, Nick discovered his “natural fit” in real estate and decided to sell his gyms.

Nick Bastianelli commenced his entrepreneurial journey in 2013 at the age of 23 when he and his wife, Nicole, opened their first CrossFit gym in Farmington Hills. By 2018, Nick and Nicole had not only two young daughters but also a second gym in Ferndale, so when Nick’s friend encouraged him to give real estate a try, he was intrigued but also a bit hesitant.

“We had scaled both of our gyms to a place where our staff was running most of the day-to-day operations, which allowed some free time — or as much as you can have with two babies and functioning as CEO of two facilities,” Nick shared. “This led to me being reluctantly open to the idea of trying something new. I gave real estate a go and loved it!”

After getting licensed in June of 2018, Nick didn’t initially devote much time or attention to real estate, but that started to change after he made his first sale and as he began to realize that the gyms did not provide the level of income that 22 • December 2021

“Growing up around the building industry and my previous experience in home renovations gave me a huge advantage when I entered the industry,” Nick said. “I helped rebuild a house from the studs up in Northville and, as a result, can walk into a home and feel really comfortable spotting areas of concern and giving ballpark estimates on repair, etc. I also have a solid understanding of real estate investment as a result of reading everything I could get my hands on from BiggerPockets and other real estate investment sources early on in my career.”

In 2019, as Nick brokered a merger of his Farmington Hills location with another local gym and began focusing more on real estate, his initial goal was to sell 10 houses as a part-time agent. Closing out 2019 with 19 sales and one referral, Nick doubled his goal. The following year, Nick completed an outright sale of his Ferndale gym and sold almost $9.5 million, and he is on track to surpass $15 million in 2021.

“My prior mentor and broker, Brian Kirksey, had a very positive impact on me and helped develop my skills during @realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

my first couple of years in the business,” Nick said. “My recent move and partnership have aligned me with Anthony Gargaro and Sherry Swift of eXp, and I have learned so much so rapidly since partnering with them — it’s so fun to be putting all the pieces together, and I am so excited for the future.”

Nick says that the most rewarding part of his business is his ability to be “of genuine service” to others. “The process of buying and selling often brings me into close contact with my clients’ realproducersmag.com

personal lives, and I am so grateful I get to know and be of service to them,” he shared. “My goal is to always maintain an extremely high level of customer service and to keep my clients informed and educated. I want to connect my clients with their dream homes and make that purchase a possibility.”

In addition to his affinity for helping and teaching others through real estate, Nick possesses a strong desire to excel, to improve, and to physically,

emotionally, spiritually and financially provide for his family. “I consistently work to embrace the present and focus on what is happening here and now — to be with my family, to slow down and participate in my daily life instead of always hunting down the next goal,” he said. “I believe I have a responsibility to live my life to the fullest in order to set an example for those around me. Tomorrow is not guaranteed, so I’m trying to squeeze out every ounce of life while I’m here hanging with those I love.”

Oakland County Real Producers • 23

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Nick and Nicole have two daughters — Gracie, 6, and Myla, 4 — as well as several extended family members who live nearby. The Bastianellis all have strong ties to fitness and athletics: Nick does CrossFit and jiu-jitsu, Nicole engages in traditional strength training, and Gracie and Myla practice gymnastics.

Describing himself as a “natural introvert,” Nick likes to recharge by reading, watching movies and hanging out at home with his family.

Inspired by his eagerness to “give freely” and abundantly, Nick regularly donates to Volunteers of America and encourages all of his listing clients to do the same. The Bastianellis also adopt at least one family at Christmastime every year, a tradition they started in 2014 and plan to continue so that they can help more families in the future.

24 • December 2021

Nick’s genuine passion for serving others, the personal fulfillment that it brings him and his commitment to living a purpose-driven life, stem from his teenage struggles with drugs and alcohol, the heartbreak of losing several of his close friends to drug addiction and alcoholism and his journey to sobriety at the age of 20. “Getting sober as well as everything that led up to and followed that transformative experience has completely shaped who I am as a man today,” Nick shared. “As a result of all of that, I have had the opportunity to learn a lot of really hard-won lessons — I am doing my best to learn and live up to my highest potential on a daily basis, and I am just so dang grateful to be alive and spending time with my family and friends.”

Of course, Nick is also “so dang grateful” for his thriving career and for the opportunities and freedoms that it affords him. In real estate, Nick has not only found an industry to nurture and grow his entrepreneurial spirit; he has also built a business founded on personal conviction and fueled by his propensity to serve and share the best of himself with others. @realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Realtor Resources FOR YOUR CLIENTS’ NEEDS

Home Furnishings • Interior Design • Closing Gifts Whether your clients need a single piece or a whole room makeover we are here to help. From design consulting services, to an impressive array of artwork & furniture lines, to fabulous accessories in a variety their home.

EVERYONE DESERVES A

Beautiful Home Walled Lake Location

make the perfect closing gift. Say ‘thank you’ in style with the perfect accessory or a gift card for merchandise or design service. Stop in and let one of

1017 E West Maple Rd, Walled Lake, MI 48390 (248) 624-6700

Plymouth Location 942 W Ann Arbor Trail, Plymouth, MI 48170 (734) 667-2416

www.homeinteriorwarehouse.com Get social with us...

perfect gift.

Photos • Video • Drone • Virtual Staging • Free Virtual Dusk Photo Sasha Marceta • 586-549-9690 marceta@skyviewexperts.com realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 25

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

26 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Realtor Safety Classes Offered 2 CE Credits

Informa�ve and Fun Schedule as a Team Building Event Car Safety

Showing Homes Self Defense

Listen to your Gut

Travel Safety

It’s not closed..... until it’s INKED Instructor/Realtor Gary Brincat Police Self Defense Trainer 7th Deg Black Belt 248-568-3441

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) realproducersmag.com

"Jeff and his entire team were professional and efficient in their work...He has my highest endorsement." Ryan Weiss Oakland County Real Producers • 27

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Wenderski & Associates, CPA P.C. Certified Public Accountant and Management Consultants

Our Services: Individual Taxes

Business Retirement Planning

Business Taxes

Foreign Income Exclusion

Business Consulting

Business Start-ups

Trusts

Software Implementation

Bookkeeping

Accounting

WHEN CONFIDENCE MATTERS…

BIG MOOSE DELIVERS!

FREE RADON TESTING

frank@wenderskicpa.com 3911 Rochester Rd. Troy, MI 48083

with Home Inspection for our Real Producer Agents.

Mention code #RP10021 - Offer Expires 6/30/2021

Ph: (248) 689-7740 Fax: (248) 689-0611 www.wenderskicpa.com

SERVING SE. MICHIGAN

tlwitt@wowway.com

Terrance Witt

28 • December 2021

800-531-0233

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

announcement

GET EVERY ISSUE ON YOUR PHONE WITH ISSUU

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-PRODUCING MOTHER-SON TEAM

JOY DIMAGGIO & DADE DIMAGGIO Photo by Stylish Detroit

DECEMBER 2021

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 the Issuu app or visit www.issuu.com, and search Real Producers of Oakland County.

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 29

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

partner q&a

Nibbles Gifts Name: Kim Riley Position: Operations Manager Number of Years at the Company: 10 Website: nibblesgifts.com Phone: 248-737-8088

What services do you and your team provide?

We create gift baskets, fruit bouquets, flower bouquets, dipped and decorated strawberries, candy and nut trays and more for any occasion, including new home, thank you, birthday, anniversary and new baby.

What sets you apart from similar businesses?

Every item we design is a unique, one-of-a-kind piece. We are able to take the client’s ideas, add in our experience and create the perfect result. For example, during the holidays, we help many of our corporate clients create the perfect “Corporate Gift Basket” by joining together their promotional items and business cards with our tasty cookies, candies and other treats. We decorate these custom gift baskets with ribbons and bows in their company colors and finish each one with a complimentary holiday card containing the client’s individualized greeting and message.

What do you find most fulfilling about your work?

My co-workers — after over seven years of working closely with each other, we have become our own little family.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with the real estate community?

I know that everyone is always looking for that perfect closing, housewarming or thank-you gift: Nibbles Gifts has got you covered with our wide range of custom baskets. For example, our popcorn and movie theater boxed candy container is a great option for movie buffs or for a family moving into a new home with a home theater. We also feature baskets full of fresh fruit, mixed nuts, cheese and crackers, and a small amount of dark chocolate, which are great gifts for health-conscious or athletic clients. Our Michigan basket full of Mittenmade items is the perfect way to welcome a newcomer to our state. We also have a variety of smaller candy and nut gifts starting at $35.

Why did you pursue a career in this industry?

I think I can speak for the team that for all of us, in one way or another, this was a hobby we loved and found a way to turn it into a career that we love!

30 • December 2021

@realproducers

Express

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

CO RP O RAT E

partner q&a

CAT E RI N G

receive an email the next day complimenting my entire staff, from the kitchen to the delivery and set-up.

When you aren’t working, what’s your favorite way to spend your time?

Gardening or watching BritBox Is there anything else you’d like to share with the real estate community?

In these complicated times, we are able to individually package virtually any meal — hot or cold. If you order snacks or sandwiches or an open house, we have covered trays and bowls.

Name: Kim Riley Position: Operations Manager Number of Years at the Company: 10 Website: express-catering.com Phone: 248-579-4602 What services do you provide?

We are a full-service caterer that provides tasty and tempting meals from our scratch kitchen for both corporate and private meetings and events. We offer lunch, dinner, hors d’oeuvres, parties and BBQs, as well as a wide variety of cuisines, including American, Mediterranean, Mexican and more. We also supply professional staff, linen and rentals as needed.

What sets you apart from others?

Care — all of our staff members take great pride in producing delicious and beautiful food. Quality — we only use the best ingredients from top vendors.

realproducersmag.com

Imagination — I love creating unique and fun menus for special events and holidays such as “The Vomiting Pumpkin” for Halloween and “Mini Leprechaun Corned Beef Sliders” for St. Patrick’s Day. Our “Dipped & Decorated Dessert Trays” are a gorgeous and delicious option for any holiday or special event.

Why did you pursue a career in this industry?

Because food is happy! Like a lot of folks, I started waiting tables and bartending in college and quickly realized that whether it is simply going out to eat or having lunch served during a meeting or at a full-blown party, food is almost always a happy occasion!

What do you find most fulfilling about your work?

The greatest reward is when I

Oakland County Real Producers • 31

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Printing, Mailing, Marketing and Apparel

844-31-PRINT Phone 734.728.5430 • info@imperialpress.net

www.imperialpress.net 32 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Since 1954 Realtors like you have counted on Morse Moving/Allied Van Lines as your trusted partner.

Let your team count on our team to carry the load!

We are there when you need us most!

Thank you for your business

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

The Morse Moving Family

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

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

realproducersmag.com

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

Oakland County Real Producers • 33

Jessica

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Weisman R E A L E S TAT E THERAPY

34 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

agent spotlight

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Jessica Laine Photography

A

ccording to a recent real estate study, 73% of surveyed home sellers agree that their agent was as valuable as a therapist, and 64% of homebuyers agree that their agent knows them better than their next-door neighbor. So when Jessica Weisman made the change from a licensed clinical social worker to a licensed real estate agent, it was an easy transition.

“My entire professional life prior to real estate was based on building trusting relationships, assessing people’s needs and helping them reach their goals,” Jessica explained. “Selling real estate goes beyond the sale. It has more to do with the importance of dialogue, communication and building relationships than the actual sale of a home.”

For over five years, Jessica has been with Hall & Hunter, REALTORS® — Meredith Colburn Real Estate, which has been the top-producing team at the brokerage since 2018. Jessica’s decision to launch her real estate career is not surprising considering her mother is an interior designer who owns her own business.

“I grew up watching my mother run her business, and I developed an appreciation for design and architecture,” Jessica recalled. “I also was inspired by her career and saw how dedicated she was as a mother, a wife and a businesswoman. She showed me it was possible to build my own business and to have a family at the same time.”

As a therapist at heart, Jessica is always listening to her clients’ needs and searching for the ideal home environment that will bring the best possible emotional state, health, energy and success. “I am passionate about helping people find a home that contributes to their well-being and success, and is a place where they can build family memories,” Jessica shared. “I am extremely enthusiastic about building new relationships and understanding the needs of people when looking for the right home.”

Jessica began her career as an associate for Meredith Colburn on her all-female team and was inspired by the group to build her business. “Along with this very empowering team of women, Meredith has been an incredible mentor and teacher,” Jessica said. “I am in awe of the business she has built and amazed by her reputation among her peers, clients and community — it’s incredible and very admirable.”

Beyond the influence of her mother, Jessica also married into a real estate family, which encouraged her decision to transition into the industry. “I watched my husband — who works in industrial real estate — negotiate deals, and I thought to myself, ‘I could do that, too,’” she said. “I also knew I wanted to start a family of my own, and real estate seemed like a great way to have my own business/career and still be available for my family.”

As a native of Bloomfield Hills, Jessica attended and graduated from Cranbrook Kingswood. This experience had a tremendous impact on her life and shaped her as an adult.

“Learning from inside and out of those beautiful walls began my understanding of how important one’s work and home environment are to one’s well-being, passion and success,” she said. “It was such a privilege to go to school there every day.”

Jessica went on to the University of Michigan and majored in art history, which she said expanded her view on the importance of art and the environment and how it has shaped people and history for centuries in all different cultures. She received her master’s in social work from Loyola University Chicago as a result of her interest in serving and understanding people, and in how the environment — with genetics — plays a role in behaviors. realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 35

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio Getting started in the business was initially challenging for Jessica: Her lack of experience was intimidating and unfamiliar. However, because of her personality that doesn’t shy away from difficult tasks — coupled with a supportive team — Jessica learned the importance of reputation in this business and how it played a crucial role when building a clientele. “Challenges motivate me and make me want to work harder and to learn more,” she said. “I view them as small hurdles that require a good strategy. Once I work through the obstacle, it just makes me more qualified, more experienced and better equipped for the future.”

Helping people achieve their goal of finding a home that suits their lifestyle needs is what’s most fulfilling to Jessica. “I also love meeting new people and building new relationships, and I continue to check in with all my clients even after a transaction is complete,” she said. “The relationship with my clients does not end at the closing table.”

Jessica and her husband, Ethan, have two children — Alec, 2, and Reese, who was born on February 16, 2021. The family enjoys spending time at home by cooking, having dance parties, playing sports and painting. Jessica is also very active and finds time to work out every day, play tennis, travel and play with the family’s Toy Goldendoodle.

“To succeed in this business, you must be patient,” Jessica said. “It is easy to have a good year selling homes; however, it is those who endure the test of time who succeed.

It’s also critical to stay relevant and present within the industry.”

The key to Jessica’s success has been her ability to build lasting, trusting relationships while also identifying a positive home environment that contributes to her client’s longterm well-being. “My fundamental knowledge of assessing people and my desire to make a positive difference in their lives is why I am in this business,” she said. “And what’s exciting is that I am just getting started!”

36 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

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 at u 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

Commercial Carpeting Office

CITY FLOORING LLC

20586 Hall Rd | Clinton Twp , MI 48038 Dark Walnut refinish

Newly finished basement carpeting

(586) 662-6466

info@cityflooringco.com | CityFlooringCo.com

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

MICHIGAN’S MOST EXPERIENCED HOME STAGING COMPANY. Did you know…

Most home sellers need some level of staging support- We provide cost effective and flexible services for Occupied and Vacant properties.

Call to learn how to incorporate staging into your overall selling strategy!

Quotes are always FREE!

ImpactHomeStagingExperts.com or call 248-591-4290 realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 37

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

behind-the-scenes all-star

RONYA NAIMI DEDICATED TO HELPING AGENTS AND CLIENTS THRIVE

Position/Title:

Transaction Coordinator Office/Company:

Quest Realty How long have you been working with the person who nominated you?

5 years How long have you been working in the real estate industry?

5 years What did you do before you began working in your current position?

Prior to working at Quest Realty as the transaction coordinator, I was a paralegal for the UAW. What does your typical workday look like?

My typical workday includes reviewing and approving documents to ensure everything is correct and sequential throughout each transaction; entering data into all databases/systems for each transaction; and emailing documents and information to clients, lenders, and title companies — and being sure to follow up throughout the course of each transaction to ensure we are on top of deadlines and making it a smooth and stress-free process for each client. I also assist each agent on the back end as much as possible to alleviate their stress and provide them with more time to directly focus on their clients as well as help with the planning of team events and outings.

How would you describe your job in one word?

Rewarding!

Why do you think you excel at your job?

I believe I excel at my job because my focus is on helping the office, agents and clients thrive. By establishing relationships with each agent, learning their 38 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio very dedicated to Quest Realty.

Knowing that my work helps the office, agents, and clients thrive and accomplish their goals makes me love my job even more.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

When I started this position, I never imagined that it would have created the amazing relationships that I have established today in and out of the office. Quest Realty has taught me that success is not just a matter of money or status; more importantly, it’s also about establishing relationships and helping each other grow. Here at Quest Realty, we are truly a family! Teamwork makes the dream work! strengths and aiding them in areas they seek assistance, I am contributing to our clients’ satisfaction with the process and outcome of their transaction. In turn, this benefits the office’s reputation.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

The most rewarding aspect of my job is working with the agents and consecutively establishing unique relationships with each of them to help them understand the quirks of the office and how to have a successful and smooth transaction.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

The most challenging aspect of my job is maintaining the workload brought in by all our agents.

What is one thing about you that others might find surprising or interesting?

My passion for writing — in college, I actually had one of my papers published and received the opportunity to teach a collegiate-level English class.

When you’re not working, what do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends. Whether it be having movie nights with my two kids, trying new restaurants with the girls or taking vacations, I dedicate time to the people I love!

How do you feel about being nominated as a Behindthe-Scenes All-Star?

I am honored to be nominated as a Behind-the-Scenes All-Star because I truly enjoy the work I do and am realproducersmag.com

Quest Realty Broker/Owner Ali Berry describes Ronya as one of the most selfless people he has ever met. “Ronya truly cares about our company’s success,” Ali said. “She works non-stop — literally 24/7, she is on top of her job to make sure things are expedited for our agents and clients.”

Ali says that “dedicated” is the best way to describe Ronya in a single word. “I appreciate that she is always willing to help our agents with whatever they need even if it’s not technically her responsibility,” he said. “Ronya is my sister-in-law, but she’s the kind that you are actually extremely happy to have!”

Oakland County Real Producers • 39

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Opening doors for Michigan homebuyers for 70 years.

Happily serving local residents at our Birmingham branch!

Toni Thwaites Birmingham Branch Manager NMLS #291301

248-459-2089 toni@rossmortgage.com 40 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

We’re an ally for our real estate and lending partners, ensuring the homebuying experience ends on a high note for ever yone involved.

CONTACT US TODAY

EASIER

THAN BEING A MOM See if we have an opening in your area. n2co.com/opportunities

realproducersmag.com

Contact us today and we will be happy to walk you through the closing process 313-447-0058

Kelly Anderson customerservice@alliancetitlemi.com

Mary Reed

Oakland County Real Producers • 41

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

agent on the rise

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts Photos taken at Cranbrook Custom Homes — The Heights in Rochester

42 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

UNCOVERING AN OPPORTUNITY TO GROW IN EVERY EXPERIENCE While at the top of his game — and after more than 30 years in the retail profession — James Altene decided it was time for a change: He wanted to run his own business and be his own boss. He knew he would find great success in the real estate world if he listened to his intuition and followed his heart, and his instinct to venture out on his own proved to be a smart choice. In less than six years, James earned Rookie of the Year and achieved an elite status as a top 1% producer among real estate agents in the country. He also has a career volume totaling over $50 million and a lengthy list of clients, mostly established through referrals. Much of James’s inspiration comes from personal experiences, reading motivational books and the belief that anyone can be successful.

While he was growing up, James said his family lived modestly. They struggled in many ways, and when James was 18 years old, his parents divorced. Determined to create his own success story from nothing, James left home and never looked back. With an inner drive that was motivated by his goals in life, he set his sights on building relationships, honing his sales skills and discovering limitless opportunities within himself.

Today, James is leading his Altene Team as an associate broker at Keller Williams Premier. However, prior to launching his real estate career, James worked at Thom McAn in Flint, Michigan. There, he was an assistant manager, a store manager and eventually a district manager overseeing 14 stores. He later became a regional sales manager, managing more than 250 stores in the Midwest. When the company closed its doors, James joined Circuit City as a store director until he was promoted to district manager. Years later, he was heavily recruited into the Best Buy chain and took on the role of general manager, where he was responsible for running a $60-million store. realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 43

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio While James successfully kept his Best Buy stores in the top 10% of the company for many years, he slowly watched the corporation diminish with some of its internal support; therefore, despite his high-achieving performance, he knew it was time to take matters into his own hands and build a business that would allow him to work on his own terms.

With a vision to be retired by 65 and living on a catamaran that he could sail around the world, James’s goal parallels that of his clients: making dreams come true. “I know it sounds corny, but making dreams come true is a real passion of mine,” he said.

“After years in retail sales, a career in real estate made perfect sense for me to reach my life goals, and it also gives me the opportunity to work with my friends and clients, helping them through one of their most important investments.”

One of the more rewarding aspects of James’s business is seeing his clients get to the finish line of either selling or buying a home. “The feeling of accomplishment is just amazing to me,” he shared.

“I have had people so thrilled with excitement that they’ve cried on my shoulder — that’s something that can’t be measured.”

welcomed their first child, and Jessica, who lives in Troy and is a highly successful field rep, managing over 100 accounts for Jamison Products.

Given James’s sales expertise and background, his advice for up-and-coming real estate professionals is to put together a solid database along with a manageable CRM. “Above everything else, build lasting relationships,” he suggested. “And always ask for referrals!”

“I’ve built my business by working by referral,” James explained. “If you focus on your clients and treat them as close friends, call them on a consistent basis, send them personal notes and show them how much you appreciate them, you will reap the rewards of growing your business.”

According to James, real estate is about giving back to your clients. “If you focus on your people — their needs and dreams — everything will fall into place.”

To James, what can be measured is success through learned experiences. “Whether I had a good or bad outcome, it’s what I learned and grew from that makes life successful,” he said. “There is something to be learned in every experience — the important part is finding the value of the lesson and allowing it to enrich your life. The amount of money I’ve earned is not the success; rather, it’s the result of the experiences I’ve created.”

After launching his real estate career, it didn’t take long before James realized that the profession often required long hours, sometimes seven days a week, and was filled with many ups and downs. “While I welcome having my own schedule, it does come with its challenges,” James said. “There are weeks where I’m working around the clock, and then other times it’s so slow I feel like I’m missing out on something.

It could be my short experience in the industry, but I would rather be busy all the time; it keeps me level.”

When James does have some downtime, he enjoys vacationing, being outdoors and out on the water, watching science fiction movies, gaming online and going to the rifle range. He has two amazing daughters — Sarah, an architect who lives in Colorado with her husband and recently 44 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

586 • 463 • 4230 www.preferredmoving.net 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

CITY $79.99 CERTIFICATION

Same Day Service and Installation HEATI NG , C OOL I NG , INDOOR A IR QU A L I TY & A PPLI A NCE R EPAIR

Southside

Eastside

Northside

( 7 3 4 ) 455- 6500

( 586 ) 53 3 - 552 5

( 2 48 ) 61 8- 7 299

Westside

(517) 853-3233

COLON IALHE ATIN G@ YAHOO. COM | 41 1 7 0 JOY RD, P LYM OU TH , M I CH I G A N 4 81 7 0 , UN I TED S TATES

Conclusive Inspection Services

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 realproducersmag.com Oakland County Real Producers • 45 CERTIFIED INSPECTOR

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Bittner Appraisal Group, LLC

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.

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

@totalhouseinsepc�on

Home Inspec�ons can be scheduled within 48 hours.

248-550-9492 totalhouseinspec�on.com

Agents

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

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.

Fine catering for all occasion

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

Catering 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 46 • December 2021

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

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 47

Camp Casey

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

charity spotlight

By Robbyn Moore

Bringing Equine

Throughout human history, people have loved, owned and ridden horses because they silently speak to our hearts, teaching us to live in the moment. Interacting with horses can naturally bring about feelings of wellness, empowerment, peace and confidence.

Camp Casey, a nonprofit organization, has been spreading the healing power of horses to children and families affected by cancer, Sickle cell disease and other life-threatening illnesses since 2004.

Its mission is to provide safe and fun experiences through its horseback riding programs.

48 • December 2021

Joy in Uncertain Times

Founder and Executive Director Molly Reeser established the nonprofit organization in memory of Casey Foote, a 12-yearold horseback rider who passed away in 2003 from bone and brain cancer. Molly met Casey while attending Michigan State University and working part-time teaching horseback riding lessons. Camp Casey was intended to be a one-time event to honor the life of Casey but evolved into a nonprofit organization that spreads joy to over 1,600 participants annually.

Camp Casey offers several cost-free programs to vulnerable children and families in Michigan: Cowboy Camp Outs provide all-expensepaid family getaways at dude ranch resorts, Lone Star Getaways bestow free stays for families at privately-owned vacation rental

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio properties, Outlaw Outings offer year-round recreational activities and Horsey House Calls deliver “horse camp” to homebound children who are, oftentimes, too sick to attend regular summer camp.

The event that sticks with Molly the most was the first-ever Horsey House Call, which started by accident in 2006 after a camper experienced a nosebleed during one of Camp Casey’s one-day horseback riding events. The child had to immediately dismount the horse and head to the hospital where she received a blood transfusion. Feeling awful that cancer had once again disrupted an attempted day of normalcy, the team took the one-day horse camp on the road and went to the family’s home.

“The girls were as shocked as they were thrilled to answer their front door — in the middle of a Farmington Hills subdivision — to find a saddled-up horse ready for them to ride around their neighborhood,” Molly said.

A gentleman who was driving by stopped to ask what a horse was doing in his subdivision. Without missing a beat, Molly told him about Camp Casey and explained that this was a “Horsey House Call,” which she completely made up on the spot. “He asked if this is what our organization did on a regular basis,” she recalled.

“Of course, it wasn’t something that we had ever done before, but I explained to him that if we were able to raise enough funds for a truck, trailer and supplies, then we could make it happen.” When the gentleman asked how much the group needed to make that happen, Molly responded, “Fifty thousand dollars.”

A few months later, Camp Casey received an anonymous $50,000 check. “It was undoubtedly a gift from an angel,” Molly shared, “But quite frankly, it was terrifying to receive that kind of money because, at the time, we only had about $500 in our bank account; however, our

realproducersmag.com

anxiety quickly subsided when we saw the date of the check: August 26 — Casey’s birthday. We’ve considered it a gift from Casey, which continues to give to countless children.”

The following year, Camp Casey hit the road, completing eight Horsey House Calls, 16 the year after that and 30 visits every year beyond that. They have also opened a satellite Horsey House Call hub in Grand Rapids which allows them to deploy from two separate locations at the same time.

“Camp Casey is proof that out of hardship can come beauty, and our first Horsey House Call is just one of the examples,” Molly said.

Another memory that Molly recalled happened in 2019 when the organization was contacted by a kindergarten teacher whose student was going through cancer treatment, and as a result, missed out on most of his kindergarten year. The child was not responding well to the treatment, so the family made the difficult decision to stop treatment and let the child live his numbered days comfortably. The teacher arranged for her student to enjoy a Horsey House Call at the school with his classmates.

“While we typically deploy in June due to rainy spring weather, the Horsey House Call program is set up in a way that we can be at a child’s home at a moment’s notice, no matter the time or the place. So, we quickly loaded the horse trailer with one of our therapy horses, Queen B, and hit the road,” Molly shared.

The plan was to bring the horse to the playground where the boy and his entire kindergarten class would be surprised. However, when the volunteers arrived at the school, it was raining. The team’s equine therapist suggested moving the surprise event to the school gymnasium, and the janitor agreed to be on standby with a mop.

Oakland County Real Producers • 49

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio “We were most nervous that Queen B’s booty would not fit through the school doors,” Molly said with a laugh. “But once in, she calmly looked around and was not fazed at all by the indoor space.”

The team quickly set up and signaled the kindergartner to lead his class of 25 students into the gym where they were all elated. They conducted a grooming and safety lesson, followed by the chance for each child to ride Queen B around the gym. The children had an extraordinary day.

“The young boy’s parents were overwhelmed with gratitude to have had an experience, just days before he passed — a day they will remember forever in their hearts,” Molly said.

“While it was an emotional day for everyone, it was a beautiful experience and one that made me most proud of my team and our commitment to spreading joy, regardless of the challenges put in our way.”

While all of the programs are completely free for children and their families, funding the programs is costly. As a result, Camp Casey is on a continuous cycle of fundraising and hosts its biggest annual fundraising event — Gold Rush Gala — in September during Childhood Cancer and Sickle Cell Awareness Month.

Additionally, the organization is supported by donations, sponsorships, monthly gifts, third-party fundraising, tribute donations or simple one-time gifts. “Because of hospital privacy laws that prohibit direct contact with patients, we rely on word-of-mouth to be able to reach vulnerable families,” Molly shared.

“Simply telling someone about us who might not yet heard of us is the best way to get the word out.”

Camp Casey is dependent upon a robust group of volunteers for every house call; the summer months are busiest with events 4-5 times a week.

“It is not required that our volunteers be horse-savvy to be a part of what we do,” Molly said. “Volunteering with us is convenient, and both the application and training is done online and can be found on our website.”

To find more information about volunteer opportunities or to donate, call 877-388-8315, email molly@ camp-casey.org or visit camp-casey. org. Camp Casey can also be found on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

By far, Molly’s most challenging part of running Camp Casey is to experience the loss of a camper. “That just never gets easier,” she said. “I’d like the real estate community to know that no matter how they get involved, the local nonprofit community needs as much help as we can get right now.”

50 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio I HAVE OVER 25 A-RATED CARRIERS AND 96.7% CLIENT SATISFACTION RATE TEAM THAT SPECIALIZE IN HOME CLOSING PROCESS.

Kellie M. Blair, Esq. 248.568.0290

Steven A. Matta, Esq. 248.505.9993

WESSON GAPPI AGENCY OWNER

Matta Blair, PLC Real Estate Transactions | Real Estate Litigation Over Fifty Years’ Experience

• Representing buyers, sellers, brokers, agents, title companies and lenders in all aspects of residential and commercial real estate transactions • Litigating quiet title, boundary and riparian rights, zoning, contract disputes, licensing claims, commission disputes and arbitrations, agency issues, earnest money deposit disputes, buyer/seller liability, and probate issues.

• Plus, you’ll love us, we promise!

39572 Woodward Avenue | Suite 200 | Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 248.593.6100 | www.mattablair.com

realproducersmag.com

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 LICENSE #:0889970

Oakland County Real Producers • 51

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Transforming spaces and lives using nature and innovative design. info@greatlakeslandscapedesign.com 248-543-6320 www.greatlakeslandscapedesign.com 10631 Capital St, Oak Park, MI 48237

Landscape Design  Outdoor Kitchens  Fire Features Water Features  Pavers  Softscaping  Low Voltage Lighting Drainage  Synthetic Turf  Seasonal Decor  Bed Maintenance Spring & Fall Cleanups  Pruning  Annual Flowers  Mulch

52 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 53

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

around

town

Matt Marsoupian from Keller Williams Advantage & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Linda Hiller Novak from Max Broock — Birmingham & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Jimmy Nelson from Mark Z Real Estate Experts & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Jolie Abreu from Keller Williams Realty & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Trevor Foster from eXp Realty & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Tina Peterson & Katelyn Zin from Real Estate One — Clarkston with Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

54 • December 2021

Joe Samona from KW Domain & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Victoria Safran from RE/MAX Eclipse — Lake Orion & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Katie Wright from RE/MAX Eclipse — Waterford & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Matt Verbaan from Brookstone, REALTORS® — Troy & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Sara Ston from Brookstone, REALTORS® — Troy & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Jeff Higgins from KW Domain — Birmingham & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Paul Meldrum & Ben Meldrum from Max Broock — Birmingham with Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Jerry Nahhas from Anthony Djon Luxury Real Estate — Troy & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Sarah & Brad Patrick from Brookstone, REALTORS® — Troy with Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri Brittany Valensky from Quest Realty —Troy & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Coti & Ty Brown from eXp Realty — Troy with Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Dan DeYonker & Emily DeYonker from eXp Realty — Rochester with Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Jane Evans from Real Living Kee Realty — Rochester

realproducersmag.com

Jesica Spencer from Spencer Real Estate — Clarkston & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Oakland County Real Producers • 55

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

home matters

Holiday Home Help –

DELIVERED

By Shauna Osborne

To say many of us have a full plate is an understatement.

Between job(s), academic responsibilities, social engagements, kids’ events, charitable endeavors, travel, and hobbies, we might be lucky to snag half an hour for a cup of coffee some days. Now, the holidays are here, so add to that already-overwhelmed schedule lots more to celebrate, yes, but also to exhaust your time and energy. What if you could take some of those responsibilities away, so you can focus on what’s really important to you during this special time of year? After all, one thing about convenience the Covid-19 pandemic has taught us is that, for a premium, you can get pretty much any product or service delivered right to your home!

Errand / Shopping Concierge Decorations and Lights Displays

Everyone loves seeing homes in our neighborhoods cheery and bright with lights and decorations, but not everyone can or wants to tackle the extensive bedecking process. Instead, consider hiring professionals to manage your decor this year. Your initial consultation with the company will establish what theme or design you want for your home; be sure to ask whether they will provide the lights or will expect to use yours.

These companies will also take down decorations after the holidays, so you can relax and enjoy your post-celebration bliss.

Dining

Many are already familiar with indispensable grocery delivery services like Instacart and Shipt, which will bring every ingredient you need for a fabulous holiday meal – plus, eggnog and festive snacks – right to your front door (in under an hour, in some cases!). Not feeling up to cooking this year? You might choose to have a healthy and delicious meal catered, instead, or even bring in a professional chef for your gathering, freeing up your time and efforts to focus on your guests.

56 • December 2021

A personal assistant / concierge service can lighten the load significantly for families during the holidays, including gift-buying and -wrapping, preparing the space for houseguests, standing in lines, commuting children safely to and from events, decorating, party planning, and much more.

Tree Delivery

If there’s no time in your busy schedule for picking out a tree this year, you can arrange to have a fresh-cut tree delivered to your front door via a tree delivery service. There are several nationwide delivery services (e.g., ChristmasTreesNow has been delivering trees to homes all over the country for over 20 years!), allowing you to choose the most convenient day for your tree to arrive. If possible, support local business; check with your local farms, hardware stores, or nurseries to see if they deliver.

Outsourcing these services will be well worth the peace of mind you’ll get when you’re able to relax and enjoy the holidays with family and friends! Happy holidays!

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

Together, using Level One Bank’s wide variety of residential mortgage products; we will help design a mortgage plan that works for you!

LARA FORTE

SENIOR MORTGAGE BANKER NMLS 1169665 ALL LOANS SUBJECT TO CREDIT APPROVAL.

COVE�AGE A�EA: MICHIGAN

248-284-5178 | LFORTE@LEVELONEBANK.COM 1712 W MAPLE RD | BIRMINGHAM, MI 48009

Join the Habitat Women Build Team and make a difference in Oakland County!

Building now in Southfield, no experience needed!

Contact denav@habitatoakland.org for more membership or sponsorship information

@HabitatforHumanityOC

habitatoakland.org realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 57

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

58 • December 2021

@realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio

• Rich & Christy Shearer •

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

COMMITTED TO PROVIDING CUSTOMERS WITH MORTGAGE SERVICES THAT EXCEED THEIR EXPECTATIONS.

The Anderson Financial Group NMLS #135320 realproducersmag.com

Sandra K Voiles Loan Originator | NMLS# 135672 For Home Loan Financing Options Call | 248-417-4958 Email Me Sandi@andersonfinancialgroup.com 2950 W Square Lake Rd, Suite 102 Troy, MI 48098 Oakland County Real Producers • 59

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio