Real Producers of Oakland County February 2022 Issue!

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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 PRODUCER

SEAN KONJA Photo by Stylish Detroit Photo taken at Cranbrook Custom Home at Montcaret in Northville

FEBRUARY 2022

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CVED 21897

We would like to thank the Realtor community for the opportunity of being the Realtors’

248-674-3937

2 • February 2022

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS 08

11

13

Preferred Partners

Meet the Oakland County Real Producers Team

Publisher’s Note

14

16

24

Event Announcement

28

WAYA: We Ask, You Answer

42

Behindthe-Scenes All-Star: Trish Thompson

around

town

Top Producer: Sean Konja

Partner Spotlight: Chet & Sally Sadowski, Chet’s Cleaning Inc.

32

38

Dynamic Duo: Mark & Jolene Jacobs

Broker Spotlight: Sarah Patrick

46

52

Around Town

Charity Golf Outing Recap

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 • February 2022

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https://fnf.wistia.com/medias/8v4oj9jxcq

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

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

Oakland County Real Producers • 5

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• 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

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 6 • February 2022

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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 A S A

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

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.

Our law firm serves clients throughout Michigan.

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

CALL NOW!

248-884-1681 Oakland County Real 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

CLEANING & ORGANIZING Jo’s Cleaning & Organizing (810) 241-1622 CLOSET STORAGE SYSTEMS Jo’s Cleaning & Organizing (810) 241-1622 CLOSING GIFTS Nibbles Gifts (248) 737-8088 NibblesGifts.com One Hope Wine (248) 425-7897

ATTORNEY/ LEGAL SERVICES Matta Blair, PLC (248) 593-6100

CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS Cranbrook Custom Homes (586) 781-2316

Szura & Delonis, PLC (248) 716-3600

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 CARPET & TILE CLEANING Chet’s Cleaning Chet Sadowski III (248) 584-1819 CATERING Corporate Express Catering (248) 579-4602 CBD PRODUCTS CannaCore Organics (586) 615-8749 www.cannacore organics.com/terra

8 • February 2022

DRONES Hommati (248) 550-0515 Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686 WayUp Media (248) 924-1011 ELECTRICAL Quality Affordable Construction (734) 341-2689 ESTATE SALES Action Estate Sales (586) 228-9090

Hands of Time Estate Sales (734) 890-3623 FINANCIAL SERVICES & INVESTMENT PLANNING Asalyn Coachman, JD Financial Architects (248) 892-0407 FLOORING City Flooring (586) 303-5347 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 HEATING & COOLING Colonial Heating & Cooling (734) 455-6500 HOME BUILDER Lombardo Homes Melissa Cervin (586) 781-2316 HOME FURNISHINGS Home Interior Warehouse (248) 624-6700 HOME IMPROVEMENT Defined Home Improvement (248) 825-4556

HOME INSPECTION Big Moose Home Inspections (920) 570-6543 Bigmoose.us Conclusive Inspection Services (248) 399-6969 Elevate Inspection Group (586) 434-0243 HomeTeam Inspection Service (586) 783-9957 HouseMaster Home Inspections (248) 971-0144 Points North Home Inspections (248) 808-3822 Total House Inspection (248) 550-9492 HOME STAGING Fox Design and Staging (428) 425-9763 Impact Home Staging Experts (248) 591-4290 HOME WARRANTY Achosa Home Warranty Stacey Kraft (248) 303-7210

HOME IMPROVEMENT OUTLET Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County ReStore (248) 880-6969 @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

Better Rate Mortgage Jon Wojtowicz 390 Park St Suite 100 Birmingham, MI 48009 (248) 225-6728 www.MyBetterRate.com

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

Farm Bureau Insurance Aaron Blakemore (248) 760-3479

Beyond Lending (248) 330-6475

NEW CONSTRUCTION MORTGAGE Huntington Bank Sandi Frith (586) 871-8002

Goosehead Insurance Wesson Gappi (248) 275-8600 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 LANDSCAPING Michigan Landscape Professionals (810) 844-5200 www.MichiganLandscape Professionals.com MARBLE & GRANITE American Prestige Marble and Granite (313) 595-7237 MORTGAGE LENDER Anderson Financial Group Sandi Voiles (248) 417-4958

Capital Lending Suzan Stojanovski (586) 822-8122 Defined Mortgage (248) 785-3779 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 Level One Bank Lara Forte (248) 284-5178 Omega Lending Group (248) 598-8000 Team Slobin - Supreme Lending (248) 535-0465

Morse Moving & Storage (734) 484-1717

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County Women Build (248) 338-1843 PHOTOGRAPHY Dawn Townsend Photography & Design (586) 255-4495

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING The Media Mutt Don Kowalewski (917) 692-3967 donkowalewski.com TERMITE INSPECTION & PEST CONTROL CJB Pest & Mosquito Control (248) 888-7727 TITLE COMPANY Alliance Title of Michigan Kelly Anderson (586) 238-4400 ATA National Title Group (248) 341-5077 Defined Title (248) 218-1757

Hommati (248) 550-0515

Devon Title (248) 273-4300

PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY Perfect Light Photography Jermaine Buie (517) 515-1910

Fidelity National Title (248) 594-9390

Skyview Experts (586) 549-9690

TRANSACTION COORDINATOR IRL Realty Solutions (248) 318-2513

Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686

TREE CARE SERVICES Dreadknot Services (248) 884-1681

WayUp Media (248) 924-1011 PRINTING/MARKETING/ DESIGN/SHIPPING Imperial Press (734) 589-9078 REMODELING Quality Affordable Construction (734) 341-2689

Inked Title (248) 617-0004

VIRTUAL 3-D TOURS Hommati (248) 550-0515 Skyview Experts (586) 549-9690 Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686 WayUp Media (248) 924-1011

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Oakland County Real Producers • 9

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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) 10 • February 2022

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MEET THE OAKLAND COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS TEAM

Chris Csotty Publisher

Terra Csotty

April Shanne Subiera

Publisher

Publishing Assistant

Dina Ranieri

Relationship Manager

Ad Strategist

Erika Kruse

Amanda Matkowski

Robbyn Moore

Chris Menezes

Event Coordinator

Writer

Writer

Andy Schwartz

Sasha Marceta

Dawn Townsend

Jermaine Buie

Brandon Ramsay

Jeanne Monillo

Stylish Detroit Photographer/Videographer

Editor

Skyview Experts Photographer/Videographer

Dawn Townsend Photography & Design Photographer

Perfect Light, LLC Photographer

WayUp Media Photographer/Videographer

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

Commercial Carpeting Office

Dark Walnut refinish realproducersmag.com

CITY FLOORING LLC

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

(586) 662-6466

info@cityflooringco.com | CityFlooringCo.com Oakland County Real Producers • 11

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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.

12 • February 2022

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Realtor Safety Classes Offered 2 CE Credits

Informa�ve and Fun Schedule as a Team Building Event

note

Car Safety

Showing Homes Self Defense

PUBLISHER’S

Listen to your Gut

Real Producers’ goal is to build stronger relationships in the real estate community. We do this by sharing the stories of different real estate professionals, nominated by their peers and leaders. We also gather to connect, network and build upon current relationships and create new ones! We look forward to seeing YOU at our next big event in March! Follow us on FB and IG to find out more about our March event and how to reserve your spot.

Travel Safety

Instructor/Realtor Gary Brincat Police Self Defense Trainer 7th Deg Black Belt 248-568-3441

A BIG thanks to our Preferred Partners! Because of them we are able to keep this magazine FREE to the top real estate agents in the area. Looking to add a vetted business to your vendor list? Check out our Preferred Partner section of the magazine to see our many amazing partners!

Chris & Terra Csotty/ Publishers linktr.ee/realproducers 248-506-6169/ 586-615-8749 chris.csotty@realproducersmag.com/ terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com

Kellie M. Blair, Esq. 248.568.0290

Steven A. Matta, Esq. 248.505.9993

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

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Oakland County Real Producers • 13

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event announcement

S AV E T H E DAT E !

Social St. Patty’s REAL PRODUCERS! Mark your calendar for

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9TH 4-7PM Location will be announced soon! **Make sure to wear GREEN!** Check in on our Facebook private group “Oakland County’s TOP 500” for updates!

14 • February 2022

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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)

"Jeff and his entire team were professional and efficient in their work...He has my highest endorsement." Ryan Weiss

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

Our Services:

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

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

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Individual Taxes

Business Retirement Planning

Business Taxes

Foreign Income Exclusion

Business Consulting

Business Start-ups

Trusts

Software Implementation

Bookkeeping

Accounting

frank@wenderskicpa.com 3911 Rochester Rd. Troy, MI 48083 Ph: (248) 689-7740 Fax: (248) 689-0611 www.wenderskicpa.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 15

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top producer

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Stylish Detroit Photos taken at Cranbrook Custom Home at The Heights in Rochester

RISING TO THE TOP, ONE LISTING AT A TIME After graduating with a degree in health science from Oakland University, Sean Konja thought his future career would be in physical therapy. However, his sales position at a local cellular store — a job that he held while attending college — was increasingly showing him his natural ability to connect with people as well as his ever-growing passion for sales management.

Coming from a family of real estate agents, including his father and grandfather, Sean definitely felt an attraction to the industry. Still, he wasn’t sure he was ready to depart from physical therapy, so he began to diligently research the real estate market and familiarize

16 • February 2022

himself with various aspects of the business. In 2018, and after acquiring five years of sales experience, Sean’s growing fascination to build a career in real estate was too powerful to deny.

With limitless opportunities in front of him, Sean turned his focus to real estate. “It all happened so fast,” Sean said. “One minute I was doing market research, and the next thing I knew, I was signing up for a real estate class.” His family was an incredible source of support, which enabled him to put forth his maximum effort. “My father really encouraged and guided me because he knew I would work hard and be very successful,” he added.

Sean aligned himself with Keller Williams Professionals and Jeff Glover & Associates. He immediately surrounded himself with positive influencers and soaked up every bit of advice that was thrown his way. “I knew it would be tough, but nothing worthwhile is easy, and I was excited for the challenge,” Sean recalled.

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In 2020 — Sean’s second year in the business — he sold 85 homes. He has a career volume of $24 million, $16 million of which he sold last year.

Sean shows no signs of slowing down and is on track to sell over 100 units and $25 million in sales for 2021.

“I am extremely passionate about listing and selling properties,” he shared. “My goal is to get my clients as much money as possible and into their dream home.

However, above all that, the most rewarding part of my business has definitely been all the amazing people I have had the privilege to meet.

I am blown away by how truly thankful people are for the service I provided them because I’m so grateful for the experience they gave to me.”

Similar to many new agents, Sean’s biggest challenge has been time management. “I wouldn’t say I’ve fully mastered it yet,” he said with a laugh, “but I’ve learned that everyone has the same 24 hours in a day, so how I use that time defines my success. With a structured day, I’m accomplishing more tasks at a higher productivity rate.

When everything’s balanced, I enjoy my work and personal time, which is also very important.”

18 • February 2022

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“

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I AM BLOWN AWAY BY HOW TRULY THANKFUL PEOPLE ARE FOR THE SERVICE I PROVIDED THEM BECAUSE I’M SO GRATEFUL FOR THE EXPERIENCE THEY GAVE TO ME.

Sean values the real estate opportunities that are given to him and loves to surpass his clients’ expectations.

“It’s fun to achieve amazing results that go beyond an original plan,” he said. “I define success by exceeding business goals while helping others achieve their goals.”

Beyond his professional life, Sean likes to personally invest in various stocks and real estate properties.

He enjoys working out and eating healthy, and as an avid car enthusiast, Sean loves to follow automotive trends and customize his cars. He is very close to his brother, Austin, and two sisters, Lauren and Kaylin, and together, they like to watch movies, try new restaurants and travel.

As a new listing agent entering his third year, Sean has sold nearly 200 homes. His advice to others getting into the industry is to set realistic goals and a timeline to achieve them. “If you write your goals down and work hard, you would be greatly surprised to look back and see how much was accomplished,” he shared.

“Consistency and compounding are the keys to great success in life. Also, motivation is important, but it wears off; therefore, people need to focus on discipline and being more regimented. The mind is very powerful, so if you say to yourself that you can do something, you can — it’s that simple.”

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Oakland County Real Producers • 19

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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

HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Printing, Mailing, Marketing and Apparel

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

www.imperialpress.net 20 • February 2022

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

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

We are there when you need us most!

Thank you for your business The Morse Moving Family

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

WESSON GAPPI AGENCY OWNER

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

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

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

BRANCH LOCATION

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

Monday - Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM LICENSE #:0889970

22 • February 2022

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announcement

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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 PRODUCER

SEAN KONJA Photo by Stylish Detroit Photo taken at Cranbrook Custom Home at Montcaret in Northville

FEBRUARY 2022

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.

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Oakland County Real Producers • 23

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partner spotlight

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

CHET & SALLY SADOWSKI, CHET’S CLEANING, INC. A SPOTLESS REPUTATION FOR WORLD-CLASS CLEANING In 1986, Chet and Sally Sadowski began their journey in life together as well as their business by getting married and launching their professional cleaning company. As president and vice president of Chet’s Cleaning, Inc., the couple decided they would create a world-class cleaning business that would uphold the highest level of professionalism without compromising their principles. Thirty-five years later, they are providing sanitized, healthy environments while also educating their clients on the importance of proper cleaning and maintenance that protect their furnishings and flooring investments.

Through the use of special tools and numerous steps, the cleaning team thoroughly and effectively removes unhealthy contamination that far exceeds most other professional cleaning companies. “People assume that if an area appears clean, then it’s clean,” Chet explained. “The fact is, most harmful contamination is microscopic and undetectable by the naked eye. Carpeting, rugs, upholstery, window treatments and other soft goods act like giant air filters, trapping contamination until it can be safely removed by vacuuming and, ultimately, deep cleaning.” Sally added, “Sadly, most homes and businesses are not maintained properly, and these giant filters become full of contamination, and then when the items are used or the HVAC system turns on, the contamination is distributed back into the air, ultimately making its way into our 24 • February 2022

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PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio Both Chet and Sally agreed that their most fulfilling work comes from restoring items that, at first glance, appear beyond repair, especially when it’s an item of great worth or has sentimental value. “We have a reputation for being the company you go to when you have run out of options,” Chet shared. “Most importantly, we come from a place of ‘yes’ at a time when others find reasons not to perform the work; we take on projects with a can-do attitude.”

“It brings us great satisfaction knowing that we are helping people live in a healthier environment,” Sally said. “We’ve cleaned homes for clients who’ve had major organ transplants and cancer treatments and need a home with cleaner, more sanitary surroundings. We’ve also assisted clients who suffer from respiratory and autoimmune issues such as asthma, allergies and inflammatory issues. These customers can take comfort in knowing that experts have handled their items.”

Over the years, Chet and Sally have hired and trained the “bestin-the-biz” employees. “It’s impossible to train people to be nice,” Sally explained. “So we hire the nicest people and train them how to be professional cleaners.” The philosophy encourages an outstanding customer service experience because at the heart of each employee is a genuine and authentic person. “We want to provide a career, not just a job,” Chet added. “We want to elevate the cleaning industry to be viewed as craftsmen and women, and in the same light as the educated trade professionals.”

bodies. However, the good news is that by cleaning so thoroughly, we remove more stains than other companies, and items stay cleaner for a longer period of time.”

The cleaning team prides themselves on the “simple” things: showing up on time, answering phones in a timely manner by real people and following through on promises. “We live by three basic principles: uncompromising quality, outstanding service experience and doing the right thing,” Chet said.

To get homes move-in ready or in preparation to sell, Chet and Sally help their clients decide what is cleanable and what needs to be replaced. They are experts at stain and odor removal and offer peace of mind to their clients that their homes are as clean and healthy as possible.

“It’s all about communicating effectively and consulting with our clients about all types of flooring, furnishings, window treatments and just about any other item in a home,” Sally explained. “And if we don’t offer a particular service ourselves, we have an extensive network of qualified service providers who we can recommend.” realproducersmag.com

The cleaning team has always tried to find the best “top shelf ” cleaning solutions from the most reputable companies in the cleaning industry. Using safer chemistry in their products has been a priority for many years. They use only green, plantbased products without added fragrance or color. Beyond that, they rinse virtually everything they clean, which is something other firms skip entirely. “While other companies use cheap cleaning solutions that tend to leave more residue, which cause rapid re-soiling, we are leaving items as clean and residue-free as possible,” Chet said.

The company has been financially stable for many years because of their loyal clientele and their solid work culture.

“Our business helps support more than 25 families,” Sally shared. “Our group feels more like family rather than just employees.” Chet and Sally’s son, Chet III, is currently involved in the business after attending Central Michigan University, and their nephew Mike and his wife, Nichole, are also on staff.

“Knowing that our clients rave about our employees and spend the time giving them outstanding reviews online says a lot about our team,” Chet said. “It reinforces that we have built a business that doesn’t compromise on principles and delivers a consistent, outstanding service experience.”

For more information about Chet’s Cleaning, Inc., visit chetscleaning.com.

Oakland County Real Producers • 25

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waya: we ask, you answer

What is your morning routine?

The SAVERS, from “The Miracle Morning.”

S = silence (pray and meditate), A = affirmations, V = visualization (imagine the life I am working to build), E = exercise, R = read 10 pages of a book, S = scribe (write out/update to-do list) NICK BASTIANELLI — EXP REALTY

Wake up, have coffee with Charlie the Boston terrier (I’m serious), workout, and be in the office by 8:30-9 a.m.

Coffee is paramount! Reflecting over my plans for the day with a little liquid fuel is how I start my day.

Then getting to the office and reviewing emails that need responses immediately before taking care of management duties. By 1 p.m., I am required to be done with the maintenance portion of my day and begin client follow-up. I always make sure I accomplish at least one goal for my day before ending it.

SHATAY ACEVEDO — 5TH AVENUE REALTY, INC.

KEN HIRSCHMANN — BEST LIFE & CO. REALTY TEAM - EXP REALTY ROYAL OAK

Survive! J/K Get all three kids out the door in a happy and positive way. Starting out your morning on the right foot helps them get through the day, and it’s a great way for me to be present!

Wake up, get my daughter prepared for school (wash up, dress, hair, breakfast), drop her off at school, grab my Tim Hortons coffee, head to the office, start grinding!

CHRISTIN BRACKEN — REAL ESTATE ONE

CHRISTOPHER WALLINGTON — KELLER WILLIAMS DOMAIN

I usually wake up at around 7 a.m., make a cup of coffee, turn on the Today show and read the Detroit Free Press online. Do the number and Sudoku puzzles. After that, get ready and go to my office in Troy.

CHRISTINE WINANS — BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES KEE REALTY

28 • February 2022

Exercise, make phone calls, get updates from associates, head into the office.

TUSHAR VAKHARIYA — KELLER WILLIAMS DOMAIN

Coffee, email, hopefully a workout, calls, etc.

MARIA KOPICKI — COLDWELL BANKER WEIR MANUEL

Coffee, coffee and more coffee!

LESLIE MIHALAK — RE/MAX DEFINED

Coffee, computer time, yoga, shower, onward.

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CHRISTINA GENNARI — KELLER WILLIAMS DOMAIN

Prospect from 8 a.m. to noon.

JOHN COTTER — KELLER WILLIAMS DOMAIN

My morning routine consists of being up early and heading straight to the gym to workout.

Working out gives me a healthy jumpstart to my day, and I feel refreshed — mentally and physically. After getting ready, I say my affirmations for the day and jump right into client and lead follow-ups, setting appointments for the day and having a productive afternoon.

SANDY RADEN — EXP REALTY

Wake up and prepare myself for the day. Run through my schedule and try to create an efficient and productive approach for my day.

HARLEY HADDOX — ANTHONY DJON LUXURY REAL ESTATE

5 a.m. rise, make my bed, workout, breakfast, go!

BERNARD A. SHAMOW — EXP REALTY

The first thing I do when I open my eyes is to check my emails. Typically, one prompts me to shop online, so I excitedly log into Amazon to make my daily purchases — I needed that new drawer organizer! I then get up, drink a whole lot of coffee, wrestle the teenage kids off to school, walk the dog so he can use the most cared-for yard in the neighborhood as his toilet while the owners watch … every day. I then have more coffee while I talk to my DoO about our goals for the day with added laughter and venting. It’s now 7:45. … Time to start working!

BETH WATSON — KELLER WILLIAMS PAINT CREEK - ROCHESTER

Meditate, drink coffee, take my dog for a walk, answer any missed calls and texts from the night before, and more coffee!

CHANEL SHABA — BEYOND LENDING

Have a cup of coffee and then go to my home office desk to check emails.

AMY SERRA ALBRIGHT — THE PRIORITY GROUP

Coffee, exercise (tennis, squash or running), coffee, catch up on emails/texts, coffee.

NICOLAS PETRUCCI — MAX BROOCK, REALTORS® - BIRMINGHAM

Coffee. Coffee. Coffee.

BRANDON CURRY — SIGNATURE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

I start every morning by centering myself and connecting with my wife over coffee and conversation. It’s one of the few times we get to just simply be together without distraction. Then we move on to getting a workout in. This is vital, and without it, we wouldn’t be able to be as effective in work and in life as we are. After that, it’s time to wake the kids up by 7 a.m. and make them breakfast while they prepare for their day. My wife, Jessica, or I get the kids off to school before heading into the office to pour into our people.

JUSTIN WOODBECK — THRIVE REALTY CO.

Drinking Diet Coke, checking emails and working on social media posts.

STACEY TAYLOR — QUEST REALTY

The moment I wake up, the first thing I do is say a prayer and thank God, the great man above, for allowing me to wake up another day to my beautiful family. I try to listen to at least one motivational song or affirmation. As I wake up with my beautiful 1- and 2-year-old daughters, I change them, wash up and make them some breakfast as they are watching their morning cartoons. As they are eating their breakfast, I make myself a cup of coffee and begin my work day. I check my emails, start my morning calls and prospect as I begin setting up appointments for the week.

RITA MARKOZ — ANTHONY DJON LUXURY REAL ESTATE

I get up at 6:30 a.m. and get the kids ready for school. After that, I spend 30 to 40 minutes with God before getting ready for work. Once I get to work, I check my emails and calendar and start my day — unless I have any meetings that take place outside of the office.

ERIN WEISHAUPT — ELEVATE INSPECTION GROUP

Do you want to answer our question of the month and be in an upcoming issue? Email terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com to ask about participating.

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Oakland County Real Producers • 29

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dynamic duo

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Jessica Laine Photography

MARK & JOLENE

JACOBS A CLEARLY DEFINED PATH TO PARTNERSHIP Mark and Jolene Jacobs are a husband-and-wife team that built a top-notch real estate business by setting a firm foundation with a clearly-defined strategic plan.

They created a family-like environment that caters to both their team and clients, and developed a clear and concise training program that has not only brought them closer together but also set themselves apart from others in the business.

The couple established Jacobs Group Realty under the Keller Williams Metro brokerage after Jolene first began her real estate career in 2016, followed

by Mark’s entry into the business two years later.

“After 17 years as a human resource director, I decided I was brave enough to trust in myself to build my own business,” Jolene recalled. “Leaving a corporate job with great benefits, health insurance and retirement accounts was a very hard move to make, but I believed wholeheartedly in my ability to succeed.”

Prior to launching their business, Mark and Jolene clearly defined their roles, business goals and objectives, and a clear path to growth. “If there are no up-front discussions, you’ll be stepping on each other’s toes, causing conflict in the business, and that can spill over into your personal life,” Mark explained.

Furthermore, in early 2020, they hired a coach to help navigate short- and long-term plans as well as identify the strengths that they each brought to the team. “Having a coach really helped us clarify specific parts of the business and fine-tune how to work together, which set us on a path of accelerated growth,” Jolene said. “Additionally, I think that every couple who decides to work together should first start by reading ‘Rocket Fuel’ by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters.

The information conveyed in the book has been the foundation to our business model.”

Mark made his move into real estate when he realized he wanted something more than his previous position as director of finance. “I saw how excited Jolene was to go to work every morning and learn new things, find new challenges and work on building her own business,” Mark said. “I wanted that too, so together, we envisioned the opportunity to build something unique as a couple.”

With the help of the book, the couple was able to clarify which one of them is the visionary with groundbreaking ideas and which one is the integrator who makes the ideas a reality.

“Without an integrator, you are far less likely to succeed long term and realize your business’s ultimate goals,” Jolene shared. “If you are both visionaries, then you have to align yourself and hire an integrator.”

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 33

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio With very different skill sets and virtually no crossover, Mark was identified as the integrator and Jolene the visionary. As an entrepreneur, Jolene has endless ideas and is a master closer of big deals. Mark breaks down Jolene’s concepts and puts them into an action plan.

The difference between Jolene’s big-thinker visions and Mark’s more reserved, analytical perspectives is the secret combination that makes the Jacobs team a standout in their field. “Jolene is a very outgoing person who loves to socialize and meet new people,” Mark said. “My background in finance and data analytics, coupled with my ability to provide structure and processes, has proven to be helpful in running and growing our business. Together, the contrast in our strengths is what unites us.”

In 2020, Jolene obtained her associate broker license as a strategic move to create a corporation for their business. Serving clients is a large focus of the team, but Mark and Jolene take just as much pride in creating jobs and opportunities that their staff can be proud of. “Our attention is on building a tight-knit, supportive team that nurtures careers and families,” Jolene said. “We have found great success in letting our growth happen organically, which we’ve been able to achieve since everyone’s values and motivation aligns with ours.” In addition to Mark and Jolene, their team consists of four agents, a transaction coordinator and a marketing director.

Married for 14 years, Mark and Jolene enjoy hosting fun house parties and game nights. They also find time to golf, remodel homes, travel and explore new areas. A little fun fact about the couple is that, while they live less than two miles from their office, they do not drive to work with each other. “We must take separate cars and have our autonomy with the schedule of our day,” they both said with a smile. “It’s one example of how small details can make a big difference in all touch points of our relationship.”

“Our future consists of keeping real estate as our core business and expanding our team’s footprint into other areas,” Jolene said.

“In 2021, Mark received his builder’s license to increase the scope of services we can provide to clients.”

As highly optimistic people, Mark and Jolene naturally think about the future of real estate, their team and how to better serve their clients. “While we spend almost all of our time together, we are still madly in love with one another,” Jolene said. “We truly enjoy each other in business and in our personal lives.”

Currently, the duo is most passionate about growing their business and expanding their team into additional KW Market Centers. “Last year we experienced more than 100% growth in business,” Mark said.

“This created opportunities for us to bring on new team members and show them how to rapidly achieve success by following the fundamentals of our business model.” Jolene added, “We worked very hard to build an exciting value proposition for our team members, including team splits, training and development, technology and systems/processes. As a result, we have helped our team members build their own businesses without relying solely on team leads.”

One distinct area of growth for the group has been within the healthcare sector. “Our backgrounds and relationships in this industry helped us carve out a niche market,” Jolene shared. “We have developed special relationships with some of the largest healthcare systems by helping relocate employees’ source housing.” Additionally, the couple has diversified their business and created a new investment venture called Plaid Shirt Properties.

34 • February 2022

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broker spotlight

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Dawn Townsend Photography & Design

Sarah

Patrick A MENTORING HEART WITH AN ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

For 22 years, Sarah Patrick has aligned her real estate efforts within large and small agencies. While each environment has its benefits, Sarah is drawn to a smaller office setting because of her passion for coaching and training agents, which allows her to get close with agents and help them grow their business. “I love the collaboration and team spirit that comes with a boutique brokerage,” she said. “Early in my career, I worked at a small agency, and I had a mentor who took me under his wing and taught me invaluable lessons. He showed me how to build up my business with confidence and knowledge that would have otherwise been very difficult without the support from a seasoned professional.”

Sarah was influenced so much by her mentor’s guidance that she decided to create her own nurturing and encouraging environment, offering agents and clients the same engagement.

In October of 2021, Sarah and her partnering broker, Jennifer Tait, launched Oak & Stone Real Estate in Rochester. The brokerage is a female-owned and -operated real estate company that focuses on trust, integrity and service to the community. Its mission is to create memorable, lifelong experiences for their clients and provide ongoing education to their agents.

“The real estate transaction should be more than a business deal,” Sarah explained. “I am very client-centric and, therefore, want our clients to 38 • February 2022

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know they can trust us throughout the process and that we always have their best interest in mind. If we can confidently do that after each day, then success and growth will follow us.”

To reach the highest level of client service, Sarah has invested in her team by developing programs that encourage confidence and growth.

“My mission is to help agents who might feel alone in this business because of a lack of direction or education,” she said. “As long as the agent has a heart of service, we can teach them the business. I put the agents first because I want them to put their clients first. The internal support we provide successfully translates to happy clients.”

Since her first job at age 16 as a broker assistant, Sarah knew real estate would always be a part of her life. She earned her real estate license during college and, soon after, started working at a small boutique brokerage in Grosse Pointe.

During the real estate crash, Sarah took a brief hiatus from real estate and worked at Apollo Group as a sales director across the United States. In 2014, she resumed her real estate profession full-time, and in 2019, she became an associate broker at Brookstone, REALTORS®.

A firm believer in lifelong learning, Sarah is currently working on the Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB) designation. “I think, in the real estate world, things are always changing and updating, so learning is something that never goes away,” she said. realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 39

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio Years ago, Sarah met with a life coach who helped her realize her limitless potential and self-worth. “My coach was a beacon during a difficult time in my life,” Sarah shared. “I discovered my strengths and became determined to not depend on anyone or anything to reach my goals. I just needed to continue to work as hard as I always have, and everything would fall into place.” The following year, Sarah sold almost $15 million in real estate, finished her broker license and was invited to participate with Hour Detroit Magazine’s top real estate agents in Metro Detroit. “Ever since then, I have been 100% committed to helping others with the next chapter of their life,” she added.

admitted. “However, my team and I look at it as an opportunity to go the extra mile for our clients. We will stick with them as long as it takes to ensure we are doing what is right for them.”

Sarah’s biggest challenge in the business is the current climate of the industry. “It’s not an easy market right now for real estate agents,” she

For agents just starting out in real estate, Sarah recommends keeping things simple by focusing on pieces of the business that lead to more

40 • February 2022

Sarah knows that selling real estate is a huge responsibility and goes to great lengths to ensure her team takes their jobs just as seriously as she does. “We know that when we market a home, someone is entrusting us to take care of their biggest asset, and that means everything to us,” she explained. “We spend countless hours learning and relearning the legal aspect of real estate, and we teach on this topic every week — it is the most important topic of training to us.”

business as well as setting new goals on a frequent basis. “No matter how busy things get, stay in it,” she said.

“If you keep doing the right things, you will have a good, consistent business, but if you get distracted by shiny objects, you will always struggle.”

Outside of real estate, Sarah enjoys spending time with her four children — Christian, Morgan, Payton and Dax. She and her husband, Brad, also like to golf and take their HarleyDavidson bikes out for a ride.

Sarah’s heart for servant leadership comes from years of experience and from partnerships that have made a difference in her career. “I want my agents to know they have a real partner in me,” she said. “Finding the right brokerage that offers education and support are secret ingredients to take any agent’s career to the next level.”

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Trish Thompson

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behind-the-scenes all-star Photos by Ryan Zeller

Name: Trish Thompson Position/Title: Executive Administrator Office/Company: Thrive Realty Co How long have you been working for/with the person who nominated you? 3 years How long have you been working in the real estate industry? 3 years What did you do before you began working in your current position?

Before Thrive Realty Co, I had spent about 15 years in business administration. Most recently, I was an office manager for hearing aid clinics — glamorous, right?

What does your typical workday look like?

My typical workday starts at 7 a.m. I run through emails and check the calendar for meetings and events — for myself as well as for Jessica Woodbeck. Next, I work on projects for a few hours. This can be everything from event planning, onboarding new agents and staff, business development, recruiting, marketing, or coaching.

Overall, I create and execute processes across our organization. I also function as the office manager for our new brokerage — approving documents for compliance and processing commission payments; planning events such as team meetings, workshops, client events and operations meetings; managing team and brokerage expenses; reporting on overall business and transactions; acting as a cheerleader for internal contests; planning for our ancillary businesses; onboarding and offboarding agents; and managing licenses. … You name it, I probably do it!

How would you describe your job in one word?

Exciting!

42 • February 2022

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Why do you think you excel at your job?

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

I am extremely detail-oriented and compulsive about closing loops, and I thrive in a position where I can support and serve others.

I am incredibly humbled to be nominated; I have never been very comfortable in the spotlight. I love to serve the team at the highest level!

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

My team culture. I truly love the people I get to work with and the growth I have experienced. I love knowing that I’m helping each and every one of them live their life by design.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself, about your job or about your relationship with the person who nominated you?

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Many things involved in the sale or purchase of real estate are out of your control. Setting the proper expectations is a lifesaver!

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

I have a huge family, and I have seven tattoos. I have also been told I am very funny.

Oh! And I am an online-shopping ninja!

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

I love to travel, whether that’s around the state, the country or the world!

I also like to camp, hike, shop for antiques, try new foods and drinks, be a cat mom and spend time with my husband, my family and my friends.

I am very grateful to have found a team that feels like a family — making the transition from corporate to real estate has been extremely rewarding! It’s the best thing I’ve ever done, and I wish I would have done it years ago.

Jessica Woodbeck, founder and CEO of Thrive Realty Co, described Trish as a caring person who also loves to cheer for those around her.

“Trish is a unicorn. She closes my loops and understands how to hold us all accountable to the vision we have for redefining how to have a career in real estate,” Jessica said. “She questions me, stretches me, holds me accountable to my wild ideas and continues to keep our real estate brokerage organized and thriving.”

Despite Trish’s deep commitment to making sure agents and clients are taken care of at Thrive Realty Co, Jessica says that Trish will not stop looking for ways on how to improve. “I appreciate her willingness to get uncomfortable in her own growth cycle.

It speaks volumes to her integrity and how bright her future will continue to be,” she said.

Trish is also known for making people laugh. “One time, we did a comedy show during the pandemic to bring our office community together,” Jessica explained. “Trish organized the whole two-hour event and then hosted it in an accent with a prom dress on! It was out-of-this-world funny, and to this day, it is something that people refer to as one of their best times during the shutdown.”

Do you want to nominate someone Behind-the-Scenes?

Email terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com.

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Oakland County Real Producers • 43

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Photo by Dawn Townsend

Welcome new preferred partner, Keith Kampe with Flagstar Bank.

Photo by Dawn Townsend

Justin Barton from Hommati Detroit

Publisher Chris Csotty with Ashley Ruokis and Grace Querciagrossa from ATA National Title

46 • February 2022

Photo by Dawn Townsend

DMS Moving representing at our Client Appreciation Event

Dawn Townsend Photography & Design

Rick Delonis from Szura & Delonis, PLC

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Asalyn Coachman from Finacial Architects and Elise Lievois from Devon Title

Photo by Dawn Townsend

Justin Hillier from Preferred Moving with Ron St. Amant from Changing Places Moving

Photo by Dawn Townsend

Real Producers Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri with Dan Joandrea from Total House Inspection and Jacque Gorris from Supreme Lending.

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Omega Lending Group representing at our Client Appreciation Event

Photo by Dawn Townsend

Oakland County Real Producers • 47

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Sarah Cramb, Shannon Piwinski and Dan Lievois from Devon Title with Toni Thwaites from Ross Mortgage

Photo by Dawn Townsend

Welcome new preferred partner Suzan Stojanovski with Capital Lending, Inc.

Jimmy and Melissa Johnson from Graphic Takeover

Dan Joandrea from Total House Inspection

Steve Johnson from Cranbrook Custom Homes in attendance with his lovely wife, Raeanna

Darla Rowley & Tina Stratton from Impact Home Staging Experts

Ron St. Armant from Changing Places with Stacey Kraft from Achosa Home Warranty

Jermaine Buie with Perfect Light LLC

Submit a photo of you with your magazine or at an event to be in our Around Town feature. Email terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com

48 • February 2022

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Realtor Resources FOR YOUR CLIENTS’ NEEDS

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charity golf outing recap

By Amy Wilczynski

SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN RE/MAX OFFICES HOST GOLF OUTINGS, RAISE MORE THAN $120,000 TO SUPPORT CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK HOSPITALS® “We are grateful for our brokers and agents who continue to step up year after year in their support of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals®,” said Pam Bellante, marketing director, RE/MAX of Southeastern Michigan. “The funds raised will ensure local children with speech and language impairments continue receiving the treatment and services they so urgently need.”

Troy, Mich. (Nov. 15, 2021) – Three RE/MAX offices in southeast Michigan recently hosted golf outings raising more than $120,000 to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® (CMNH). The participating offices include RE/MAX Eclipse, RE/MAX Nexus and RE/MAX First.

The funds raised will benefit the RE/MAX Communication Preschool Program, part of Beaumont Children’s. The program is Michigan’s first hospital-based preschool program for children with speech and language difficulties.

It is designed to meet the needs of children ages three through five diagnosed with speech or language impairments. The program is funded entirely through annual contributions made by local RE/MAX brokers and agents through the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals®.

52 • February 2022

RE/MAX ambassadors for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® coordinated each event, including Jessica Belanger of RE/MAX Eclipse, Linda Wells of RE/MAX Nexus and Candice Thompson at RE/MAX First. The golf outings are important traditions for each office and ensure support for the RE/MAX Communication Preschool Program.

Additional events are already planned for 2022, including a golf outing in June 2022 hosted by RE/MAX Metropolitan.

RE/MAX Metropolitan also recently raised nearly $5,000 from a raffle event to help support the RE/MAX Communication Preschool Program.

With the support of these golf outings and agent donations, RE/MAX of Southeastern Michigan expects to raise $200,000 to support the RE/MAX Communication Preschool this year.

RE/MAX of Southeastern Michigan will also participate in the 104.3 WOMC Turn Up the Miracles Radiothon on Nov. 19, 2021, to raise additional funds.

About RE/MAX of Southeastern Michigan

A metro Detroit real estate leader, RE/MAX of Southeastern Michigan covers Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties.

With nearly 900 sales associates and nearly 60 offices, RE/MAX of Southeastern Michigan has helped hundreds of thousands of Michigan families with their homebuying and selling needs. For more information, visit www.remax-semichigan.com.

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

The Anderson Financial Group NMLS #135320

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

• 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 realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 53

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

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habitatoakland.org 54 • February 2022

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healthy living

By Shauna Osborne

F E B R UA RY I S FO R

HEALTHY

HE RTS!

February is American Heart Month. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is a leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, responsible for more than one in four deaths annually. While this statistic is dire, heart disease can be prevented – and even reversed – with healthy choices regarding diet, exercise, and maintaining health conditions. Doctors’ time-tested advice of controlling blood pressure and cholesterol still holds true; however, these less conventional techniques can be used cooperatively to help make hearts healthier and stronger.

Get Enough Sleep. Getting enough good-quality

sleep has innumerable benefits, from aiding in weight loss to improving memory. Studies have shown a marked increase in heart disease in those who sleep less than six hours per night, as sleeping too little can disrupt underlying health conditions and biological processes. Experts say seven to nine hours of sleep is ideal for heart health. And, consistency is key; maintaining a reliable sleep schedule regulates the body's internal clock and can help you fall asleep and wake more easily.

realproducersmag.com

Drink Some Java. The probable benefits of regu-

lar coffee consumption are pretty compelling. For example, caffeine, especially derived by drinking filtered, black coffee, boosts energy levels, which can help sharpen mental acuity and enhance mood, and lowers inflammation levels, which are a precursor to many concerning health conditions.

Interestingly, habitual coffee drinking has been linked to lower levels of cardiovascular disease, particularly in women.

Floss. This seemingly inconsequential chore our

parents and dentists nag over can play a surprising role in heart health. Beyond just improving smiles, flossing daily reduces inflammation and improves gum health, which, in turn, prevents the introduction of harmful bacteria into the bloodstream.

Healthy gums are directly correlated to a slower progression of plaque buildup on artery walls.

Don’t Forget to Laugh. As the old saying goes,

“Laughter is the best medicine.” Laughter has many emotional and physical benefits, including reducing stress, easing pain and depression symptoms, and boosting our immune system. It also has been shown to expand blood vessels by more than 20 percent, allowing for markedly better circulation and blood flow in the heart.

Oakland County Real Producers • 55

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home matters

By Shauna Osborne

When Was the Last Time You

CLEANED...?

It’s February, which means most lawn and garden maintenance is long done, and you’ve (probably) packed away any lingering pieces of holiday decor. Outside, the weather is still frightful, but you know spring is just around the corner. If you find yourself feeling a bit stir-crazy, why not tackle some of these overlooked chores now and get a jump-start on welcoming spring?

• Clear dryer vent: A clogged dryer vent

can, at best, cause the dryer to run inefficiently and increase energy bills and, at worst, cause a fire. To clear any lingering lint and/or nesting pests from your warm and cozy vent, remove it and clean the duct that connects the back of the dryer to the outside using a wet/ dry vac or a brush tool made especially

same team, new name 586-434-0243 elevatemichigan.com 56 • February 2022

for the job (found at hardware/home stores). Consider covering the outside vents with a fine-mesh screen to prevent birds from nesting.

• Freshen mattresses: We spend a lot

of time choosing and changing our bed linens … but shouldn’t neglect our trusty mattress, which can make all the difference in quality of sleep. Start by vacuuming the box springs and the top and bottom of the mattress. Then, rotate the mattress, if you have one padded side, or flip, for a two-sided mattress, to prevent sagging.

• Inspect roof and foundation: Now –

before those spring rains hit – is the time to determine whether any cracks

or leaks exist that could cause problems with mold or insulation damage. Inspect the roof for missing shingles and observe how well it handles your area’s snow-load, if applicable. Also, examine the home’s foundation for cracks, especially those that seem to be growing, and for bulging or leaning walls.

• Clean fridge: Refrigerator condenser

coils are located on the back or bottom of the appliance. When coils are clogged with dust, hair, and/or cobwebs, they can’t efficiently release heat, which results in undue pressure on the compressor. Save energy and wear on the refrigerator by using a vacuum to clean the coils as well as underneath and behind the fridge itself.

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Mortgages made Personal and Easy Suzan Stojanovski

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Oakland County Real Producers • 59

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