Real Producers of Oakland County March 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

KATIE WRIGHT Photo by Stylish Detroit

MARCH 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 • March 2022

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS 08

11

13

Preferred Partners

Meet the Oakland County Real Producers Team

Publisher’s Note

18

26

30

38

42

51

52

Agent on the Rise: Daniel Naurato

Top Producer: Katie Wright

34

Celebrating Leaders: Jimmy Nelson

Partner Spotlight: Tricia Gallagher

46

Charity Spotlight: New Hope Center for Grief Support

around

town

Around Town

WAYA: We Ask, You Answer

Coach’s Corner: Darla Rowley

Calendar of Events

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 • March 2022

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

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

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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 • 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

CLOSING GIFTS Nibbles Gifts (248) 737-8088 NibblesGifts.com

APPLIANCES Sargent Appliance & Video (248) 652-9700

One Hope Wine (248) 425-7897

Trevarrow, Inc. (248) 377-2300 APPRAISAL Bittner Appraisal Group, LLC (248) 828-8218 ATTORNEY/LEGAL SERVICES Matta Blair, PLC (248) 593-6100 BLINDS/SHADES Budget Blinds of Milford (248) 716-7604 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 CLEANING & ORGANIZING Jo’s Cleaning & Organizing (810) 241-1622 CLOSET STORAGE SYSTEMS Jo’s Cleaning & Organizing (810) 241-1622

8 • March 2022

CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS Cranbrook Custom Homes (586) 781-2316 Toll Brothers (248) 305-4004 DESIGN/BUILDERS Detroit Build Seabrook Satterlund (248) 677-0551 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 HEATING & COOLING Colonial Heating & Cooling (734) 455-6500

HouseMaster Home Inspections Jeffrey Krause (248) 971-0144 Points North Home Inspections (248) 808-3822 Total House Inspection (248) 550-9492

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

HOME STAGING Fox Design and Staging (428) 425-9763 www.FoxDesign AndStaging.com

HOME FURNISHINGS Home Interior Warehouse (248) 624-6700

Impact Home Staging Experts (248) 591-4290

HOME IMPROVEMENT Defined Home Improvement (248) 825-4556

HOME WARRANTY Achosa Home Warranty Stacey Kraft (248) 303-7210

HOME IMPROVEMENT OUTLET 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 Elevate Inspection Group (586) 434-0243 HomeTeam Inspection Service (586) 783-9957

INSURANCE Allstate Insurance: Faber Agency (248) 344-0460 www.allstate.com/ kristinfaber Farm Bureau Insurance Aaron Blakemore (248) 760-3479 Goosehead Insurance Wesson Gappi (248) 275-8600 JUNK REMOVAL 1-800-GOT-JUNK? (586) 909-9329 @realproducers

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio JUNK REMOVAL/ DEMOLITION We Cleanout Everything (877) 932-8922 KITCHEN & BATH Whiski Kitchen (248) 629-0058 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 Better Rate Mortgage Jon Wojtowicz (248) 225-6728 Beyond Lending (248) 330-6475 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

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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

PHOTOGRAPHY Dawn Townsend Photography & Design (586) 255-4495 Hommati (248) 550-0515 PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY Perfect Light Photography Jermaine Buie (517) 515-1910 Skyview Experts (586) 549-9690

Omega Lending Group (248) 598-8000

WayUp Media (248) 924-1011

Team Slobin - Supreme Lending (248) 535-0465

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

NEW CONSTRUCTION MORTGAGE Huntington Bank Sandi Frith (586) 871-8002 NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County Women Build (248) 338-1843

Fidelity National Title (248) 594-9390 Inked Title (248) 617-0004 Old Woodward Title (248) 988-0000

Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686

Morse Moving & Storage (734) 484-1717

Defined Title (248) 218-1757 Devon Title (248) 273-4300

Level One Bank Lara Forte (248) 284-5178

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

ATA National Title Group (248) 341-5077

TRANSACTION COORDINATOR IRL Realty Solutions (248) 318-2513 TREE CARE SERVICES Dreadknot Services (248) 884-1681 VIRTUAL 3-D TOURS Hommati (248) 550-0515

REMODELING Quality Affordable Construction (734) 341-2689

Skyview Experts (586) 549-9690

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING The Media Mutt Don Kowalewski (917) 692-3967 donkowalewski.com

Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686 WayUp Media (248) 924-1011

TERMITE INSPECTION & PEST CONTROL CJB Pest & Mosquito (248) 888-7727 TITLE COMPANY Alliance Title of Michigan Kelly Anderson (586) 238-4400

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)

Printing, Mailing, Marketing and Apparel

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

www.imperialpress.net 10 • March 2022

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MEET THE OAKLAND COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS TEAM

Chris Csotty Publisher

Terra Csotty Publisher

Dina Ranieri

April Shanne Subiera

Relationship Manager

Publishing Assistant

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

Skyview Experts Photographer/Videographer

Editor

Dawn Townsend Photography and Design Photographer

Perfect Light, LLC Photographer

WayUp Media Photographer/Videographer

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Oakland County Real Producers • 11

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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.

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

CONTACT US TODAY

WESSON GAPPI AGENCY OWNER

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

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

Kelly Anderson customerservice@alliancetitlemi.com

12 • March 2022

BRANCH LOCATION

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

Monday - Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM

Mary Reed

LICENSE #:0889970

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NOTE PUBLISHER’S

Thanks to our Preferred Partners who advertise with us, our monthly magazine is free to the top-500 real estate professionals in Oakland County. All of our Preferred Partners come from your recommendations, and we do our best to screen our advertisers to ensure that they provide the types of goods and services that you may need or want as a real estate agent. If you know a business owner who may be a good fit to potentially partner with us, recommend them through linktr.ee/realproducers.

Interested in being featured in an upcoming issue?

Because it’s a free and rewarding professional opportunity to be featured in our magazine, many real estate agents are interested in being considered as a future feature. When our editorial team identifies and selects potential features for our magazine, we take several factors into consideration, including the following:

We’ve updated our mailing list! Congratulations to the real estate agents who have made it to the Top 500 and are now receiving our magazine!

As I’m sure many of our members will attest to, Real Producers of Oakland County is more than just a monthly magazine: It’s a platform for informing and inspiring Oakland County’s top-producing agents, connecting them socially and building stronger relationships across the real estate community.

In addition to our print publication, which will be mailed to your office each month, Real Producers of Oakland County cultivates relationships and engagement through our annual social events and social media platforms – check us out on FB and IG. Along with these public social media sites, we also host “Oakland County’s Top 500,” a private Facebook group for Oakland County’s top-500 real estate agents and our Preferred Partners. This is where we post special announcements and updates on private events – make sure you request to join our private group so that you can stay in the loop with all things Real Producers of Oakland County. realproducersmag.com

• • • • • •

whether the person was nominated their level of engagement with us on social media their participation in our events their past and present sales record their contributions to the industry and the community their “story” that they share with us in their questionnaire during the initial review period

If you want to be considered for a feature, we encourage you to get involved with the Real Producers of Oakland County community by attending our live and virtual events, and interacting with us on social media.

To nominate yourself or someone else for a feature do so through linktr.ee/realproducers.

Whether this is your first time receiving our magazine or if you’ve been reading it for several months or even years, we hope that this March issue puts some “spring” in your step!

Chris and Terra Csotty Publishers of Real Producers of Oakland County linktr.ee/realproducers chris.csotty@realproducersmag.com 248.506.6169 terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com 586.615.8749 Oakland County Real Producers • 13

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event announcement

Social St. Patty’s REAL PRODUCERS! Wear GREEN for our St. Patty’s Social at The Morrie 260 N Old Woodward Birmingham, MI 48009

THURSDAY, MARCH 10TH 4-7PM Appetizers, drinks and prizes raffled off!

Thank you to The Morrie for hosting us and to our Sponsors!

Platinum Sponsors: ATA National Title and The Gonzalez Group Powered by NEXA Mortgage.

Silver Sponsors: Sandi Frith with Huntington Bank, Joshua Rubin with Horizon Financial Group, Omega Lending Group and Morse Moving & Storage.

Register now at www.rpoaklandevents.com *This is a private event for the Top 500 REALTORS® in Oakland County and our Preferred Partners. No outside vendors.*

14 • March 2022

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The Kitchen is the Heart of the Home.

Come see the finest in appliances to create your Dream Kitchen!

During your visit, tour our beautiful, professionally designed kitchens showcasing the wide variety of Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove appliances. Our trained client consultants will provide you with personal attention as you select the perfect products for your home.

COME WITH IDEAS, LEAVE WITH INSPIRATION!

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Oakland County Real Producers • 15

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SHOP

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16 • March 2022

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OVE R 10 YE ARS O F L END I NG EXPERI EN CE Purchase closings in record-breaking time!

Fast, reliable, honest, and confident lending! Residential lending, cash-out refinances, jumbo loans, bank statement investor loans, multi-family financing, government loans.

Chanel Shaba

C EO + PRI NC I PA L B RO KE R 248-330-6475 cshaba@beyondlending.com 6755 Telegraph Rd, Suite 330 | Bloomfield Hills MI 48301

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.

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Home Inspections • Radon Testing • VA Termite Water Quality • Air Quality • Mold Testing Guaranteed Inspections since 1979 248-971-0144 We answer 7 days a week!

HouseMaster.com/OaklandCounty OaklandCounty@HouseMaster.com Oakland County Real Producers • 17

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top producer

18 • March 2022

MANIFESTING HER BEST IN REAL ESTATE AND LIFE

KATIE

By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Stylish Detroit Photos taken at Cranbrook Custom Home at Montcaret in Northville

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B

efore real estate, Katie Wright felt like something was missing — like she was not truly reaching her potential. Her previous service industry and office jobs afforded her a decent quality of life, but she desired more: She wanted a fulfilling professional path paved with challenges, opportunities, longterm relationships and passion.

“My step-mom, Margie Kelly, is a retired real estate agent, and I think that was always in the back of mind,” Katie said.

“So finally, at the age of 28, I woke up one morning and thought to myself, ‘there will never be a better day than today to become a real estate agent,’ and that was the day I signed up for the test preparation course.”

That was also the day that Katie experienced an unforgettable wave of emotion.

“It was like a second wind in my life,” she said. “I was always meant to become an entrepreneur; it just took me some time to realize and put the wheels in motion.”

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After getting her license and diving into real estate full time, Katie coupled her organizational skills with her entrepreneurial spirit and experienced the fulfillment of assisting people in one of life’s most important decisions.

As a personable, dedicated, intelligent and street-savvy individual, Katie reaffirmed that she possessed the skills necessary for success in real estate. She also quickly discovered that the industry is full of many ups and downs.

“Real estate is a real roller coaster — pure excitement one moment and total disappointment the next,” she said. “A real estate agent has to be equipped to handle an overabundance of emotions, and fortunately, I am one of those people who fit the bill in terms of my diverse skill set and ability to navigate emotional situations.”

Oakland County Real Producers • 19

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio Over the past seven years, Katie’s ability to traverse real estate’s ups and downs, combined with her unwavering commitment to her clients, has culminated in a career volume of over $66 million, more than $18 million of which she generated in 2020. She has also received many RE/MAX recognitions, including Platinum Club awards in 2018 and 2019, Hall of Fame and Chairman’s Club awards in 2020, and the 2020 Top Fundraiser award through RE/MAX Children’s Miracle Network.

Katie is an associate broker and leader of The Wright Team, which includes two licensed agents — Lindsay Baylis and Kate Russell — as well as Malinda Mitchell, a transaction coordinator with Contract 2

20 • March 2022

Closings, Inc. “What makes our team unique is our superpower ability to get things done working together,” Katie said. In the future, Katie plans to expand her team and transition from her duties as an agent into more advisory and leadership roles.

“Right now, I’m most passionate about growth and training, and when I say growth, I mean beyond numbers: I want to grow in a way that helps my community and in a way that provides a path for others,” Katie said. “I want to become more involved with charitable organizations, host more fundraisers, raise more awareness and make a greater positive impact — I believe that in order to keep, you need to give.”

Katie not only serves as the Children’s Miracle Network ambassador at the RE/MAX Eclipse, Waterford office; she also personally supports the organization by donating a percentage of her commission for every transaction in each of her clients’ names and by participating in numerous regional fundraisers for the RE/MAX Communication Preschool Program, which assists children with speech and language impairments. Katie’s son struggled with speech challenges, so she knows how difficult it is to be the parent of a child who struggles to communicate, and she wants every child to get the support and tools they need to navigate such challenges.

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PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio August of 2019. “Travis was everything but ordinary: He owned and operated an arborist company that he started from scratch, he could dive into deep conversations with just about anyone, and he was extremely smart and well-spoken,” Katie said. “Travis was the kindest, most sincere and strongest person in my life.”

Katie grew up in West Bloomfield and says that her atypical childhood forced her to become independent, hardworking and self-reliant at a young age. As a result of her unconventional upbringing, Katie had a void in her life, and her attempts to fill that hole didn’t always lead her in the right direction. Fortunately, after meeting Jason Wright, the man who would become her husband and her “rock,” Katie began to reroute her path. “It was not always easy, but I am who I am because I decided to make those life changes, and Jason was there to not only support me but also join me in that journey,” she shared.

“

“

I BELIEVE THAT IN ORDER TO KEEP, YOU NEED TO GIVE. Katie’s desire to be the best person she can be — her kindness, her ambition, her honesty, her strong work ethic, and her dedication to her family, her clients and her colleagues — stems from many good and bad life experiences and from the people who have inspired and influenced her along the way. One of these people who will forever hold a special place in Katie’s heart is her brother, Travis Kelly, who died of cancer in realproducersmag.com

Katie and Jason have been married for seven years and have two children: Alexis, 6, and Patrick, 5. Alexis, who is extremely outgoing and empathetic, loves crafts, coloring, swimming, riding her bike and making new friends at the playground. Patrick, who is sweet, brave and very independent, enjoys building things — and knocking them down. He also is an animal-lover who spends hours playing with the family’s German Shepherd named Dakota and their recently rescued pit bull named Duke.

Jason, who is a licensed electrical journeyman with R.A. Lee Electric, assists Katie with her business whenever he can and regularly creates her marketing materials. “I consider Jason part of my real estate team,” Katie said.

As a family, the Wrights enjoy reading books, playing games and snuggling up for movie nights, as well as a lot of outdoor activities such as riding bikes, swimming in their pool or at the beach, taking Dakota and Duke for walks, picnics and playing at the park. When Katie has time to herself, she loves completing outdoor and indoor projects around the house, walking the dogs and focusing on her thoughts, eating — but not cooking — and lunch dates with friends. She has always been interested in the piano, and last year, Jason surprised her with one. “Between work and the kids, I have not yet found the time to learn to play, but it is definitely going to happen eventually, hopefully sometime before retirement,” Katie said with a laugh.

In her personal life, Katie wants to be remembered as a caring and dedicated mother, wife and friend. In her professional life, she also wants to be remembered for her kindness and dedication but also as a “stand-up agent” who goes the extra mile and who fights alongside her agents to get results.

“Honesty goes a far way, patience is a virtue, kindness is absolute and hard work pays off,” she said. “Don’t give up — great achievements don’t come easily. Remember that work is important, but there are more important things in life. Believe in yourself, and good things will come. … Be the best person you can be.”

Oakland County Real Producers • 21

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Mortgages made Personal and Easy Suzan Stojanovski

Licensed Loan Originator NMLS ID 162681 suzan@capitallendingonline.com direct line: 586-822-8122 office: 586-786-5500 www.CapitalLendingOnline.com We are licensed Lender in the state of Michigan and Florida

22 • March 2022

We Specialize in: • Conventional, Jumbo, FHA ,VA and USDA • Cash out debt consolidation, rate and term refinances • Construction loans, Bank Statement loans for Self Employed Borrowers • Low Credit or No Credit • We do not charge FEES ( no application fee, origination, processing or underwriting fee) @realproducers

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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 PRODUCER

KATIE WRIGHT Photo by Stylish Detroit

MARCH 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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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.

24 • March 2022

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Fundraising Corporate Gifting Custom Etching Private Tastings 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

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• 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

Oakland County Real Producers • 25

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agent on the rise

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts Photos taken at Cranbrook Custom Homes at Montcaret in Northville

26 • March 2022

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Daniel

Naurato RISING ABOVE ADVERSITY TO F I N D V I C TO RY I N R E A L E STAT E

While playing Division I college hockey at the University of Connecticut, Daniel Naurato suffered four concussions in the span of 18 months. After graduating, he was still dealing with severe symptoms, which forced him to take a year and a half off of work to focus solely on his recovery. Daniel’s situation left him nearly out of money and in search of a career that could provide income along with a flexible work schedule to support his ongoing health concerns. Real estate was that answer.

through adversity, the ups and downs, failure, success and criticism has prepared him for the everyday challenges of growing a business. “My concussions have completely changed my life, and as a result, so has my perspective on it,” Daniel explained. “I see the world from a different lens and don’t take things for granted anymore. I am more compassionate and have a stronger understanding of what others are going through, which has led to positive outcomes within my business.”

In 2015, Daniel launched his real estate career, and soon after, aligned himself with Keller Williams Advantage. “I saw real estate as a viable option, simply out of necessity and intrigue,” Daniel recalled. “My family has always been involved in construction, development and owning different real estate properties, so it was a natural fit for me.”

As a competitive athlete, Daniel is no stranger to hard work and determination. In his first year of real estate, Daniel earned Rookie of the Year. He has continued to grow his business, and in 2021, he was recognized as a Keller Williams Top 100 individual agent in the Michigan/Northern Ohio region. Daniel has built his business primarily on referrals and has sold nearly $40 million of real estate in his career.

“Right now, I’m really passionate about growing my business while also keeping the client experience at a high level,” Daniel shared. “My business is mostly word of mouth, so building genuine, longterm relationships and taking care of my clients is my top priority. I take the client experience very seriously.”

Daniel contributes much of his success to the many life lessons he learned while playing hockey. Going

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If there is one thing Daniel would change early in his career, it would be his fear of the unknown. “I think there were times I missed out on opportunities because I didn’t implement quickly enough or take the risk,” he said. “I would question myself or the strategy rather than just doing it and learning from the results. I think a driving factor in my growth has been having more confidence in myself. My biggest piece of advice for anyone entering the real estate industry is to figure out how you want to generate business, trust your gut, then go all in.”

Beyond seeing his clients happy at closing, the most rewarding aspect of Daniel’s work is helping them navigate through the whole process. “A transaction can have many twists and turns,” he shared. “Being able to guide my clients through all that is very fulfilling — especially when you exceed their expectations.”

In 2019, Daniel donated a portion of his commission from every transaction to a charity called Hockey has Heart, which is a nonprofit organization that helps people in the hockey world who have either suffered a health issue or have been severely injured as a result of playing hockey. “Helping people who have suffered from a sports injury is deeply personal for me,” Daniel said. “Just a few years ago, several people stepped up to help me when I was at my worst, and now, I’ll pay that forward for the rest of my life.”

Daniel and his wife, Kiley, welcomed their first child, Emilia, in May 2021. They love getting together with family and spending time with their nieces and nephews. Daniel and Kiley also enjoy exploring new restaurants and trying new foods.

A hallmark of Daniel’s reputation is putting his clients’ needs before his own. “If something isn’t right for them, we won’t do it,” he said.

“We’re in the relationship business, so it’s imperative that my clients trust me and know I have their best interest at heart.”

Whether Daniel is on the ice, in the community, or at the closing table, his passion is what drives him. His competitive nature and desire for helping people are the qualities that allow him to keep pushing the envelope, always looking for new and innovative ways to best serve his clients.

28 • March 2022

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waya: we ask, you answer

If you could sell real estate in any other market, where would it be and why?

California.

NICK BASTIANELLI — EXP REALTY

Nashville, Tennessee, because it’s a booming market and a cool place to live and work.

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

I would love to sell real estate in Tennessee (Nashville & surrounding areas). My wife grew up down there, and we have close friends who live there as well. It is such a happening place to live right now — the communities are continually growing and the market is booming. It is an exciting place to visit and live!

CHRISTOPHER WALLINGTON — KELLER WILLIAMS DOMAIN

Florida. My husband and I need to live near water … lots of it. We love to boat and fish.

CHRISTINE WINANS — REAL LIVING KEE REALTY - BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES

30 • March 2022

Probably New York because I was born and raised there. It’s fast-paced, and I speak that New York language.

Fast-paced and quick-witted are two absolutely mandatory skills needed to strive in a city like NYC. SHATAY ACEVEDO — 5TH AVENUE REALTY, INC.

Colorado — the different architecture and scenery would be completely different than in Michigan.

CHRISTIN BRACKEN — REAL ESTATE ONE

California, because I used to live there.

TUSHAR VAKHARIYA — KELLER WILLIAMS DOMAIN

Florida — I love palm trees. I’m currently getting my Florida license.

MARIA KOPICKI — COLDWELL BANKER WEIR MANUEL

Sarasota, Florida.

My daughter lives there.

LESLIE MIHALAK — RE/MAX DEFINED

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New Orleans — old nostalgic homes plus waterfront real estate.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico. I just love it there; I feel complete and most happy there.

JENNIFER ZARDUS — COLDWELL BANKER WEIR MANUEL

STACEY TAYLOR — QUEST REALTY

Tahiti/Mo’orea/Bora Bora — I have been twice. Gorgeous landscape and kind people. They also have strong family roots — three generations often live together.

CHRISTINA GENNARI — KELLER WILLIAMS DOMAIN

Charlotte, North Carolina, for its yearround climate and beautiful landscape.

JOHN COTTER — KELLER WILLIAMS DOMAIN

If I could sell real estate in any other market, it would be Colorado! It’s my favorite state. Every spot in Colorado is breathtaking, and there’s so much to see and do. Also, with no humidity, as a woman, I could curl my hair in the morning and it would look perfect all day long! LOL For us ladies with long hair, that is a little slice of heaven!

SANDY RADEN — EXP REALTY

Probably Los Angeles.

I would love the challenge.

HARLEY HADDOX — ANTHONY DJON LUXURY REAL ESTATE

Naples, Florida, because there is so much growing opportunity.

NICOLAS PETRUCCI — MAX BROOCK, REALTORS® - BIRMINGHAM

You know, I really love what I do and wouldn’t change a thing!

BRANDON CURRY — SIGNATURE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

I would look for a geographically isolated small metro area with good weather because the ability to capture market share over time and dominate the market exists. It’s more challenging to do in larger metro areas due to them being overly saturated with agents.

JUSTIN WOODBECK — THRIVE REALTY CO.

New York — embracing the challenge to negotiate at the highest level in some of the most expensive real estate in the country.

BERNARD A. SHAMOW — EXP REALTY

California. My heart skips a beat when I look at beautiful homes. Between the homes and the views, my heart would pitter-patter all day. I have a lot of passion for beautiful things.

BETH WATSON — KELLER WILLIAMS PAINT CREEK - ROCHESTER

I am already licensed in North Carolina as well as Michigan. We are building a home there and will spend most of the year there.

AMY SERRA ALBRIGHT — THE PRIORITY GROUP

If I can sell real estate in any other market, it would definitely be California. I am in love with the natural characteristics of the entire area of California. It would be my dream to sell a home in the middle of the mountains or directly on the ocean. I am obsessed with the show, “Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles.” I have learned so much about the California market just by watching that show.

RITA MARKOZ — ANTHONY DJON LUXURY REAL ESTATE

The Ohio/Cleveland market. I am from Ohio and have a huge network and following.

DAVID WINTERMYER — RE/MAX ECLIPSE

Colorado — beautiful weather, great people, and most importantly, great hair days every day because … no humidity.

STACEY McDUFFIE — COLDWELL BANKER WEIR MANUEL

France. Because I miss it there so much.

GINA VILLENEUVE — IRL REALTY SOLUTIONS

Paris! At $1,500 a foot, I’d enjoy the income opportunity, and the fashion is the best! That’s always something to be considered.

LINDSEY SUNDIN — ARTERRA LUXE

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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TRICIA GALLAGHER partner spotlight

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

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Aligning Real Estate Services to Homeownership 34 • March 2022

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PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio Tricia Gallagher, vice president at Fidelity National Title Insurance Company, has spent more than 30 years working in the real estate business and making a difference for her team and her clients.

“I didn’t even know the title industry existed until I took a position in the accounting department of a C21 office in West Bloomfield,” she explained.

“From there, I was introduced to the title side of real estate where I started my career in customer service and worked in every facet of title — from closing, disbursing, sales and management.”

Since 1996, Tricia has been with Fidelity, where she has successfully led her team to #1 in market share for the state of Michigan and #2 within 40 states.

The Fortune 500 company is best known for offering customers the most complete real estate services in the nation. “We provide title and escrow services for residential resale and refinance transactions as well as national commercial title and escrow services,” Tricia said. “We handle every transaction from small lot sales to billion-dollar transactions, and have the reputation and longevity of serving our customers with accuracy and efficiency.”

industry, she worked and owned a recording studio that eventually turned into supplying blank audio and video tapes to organizations around the nation. The company became one of the largest distributors in the country as a result of their successes.

Tricia’s work ethic was influenced by her father, who owned a cleaning supply company. “From the age of five, my dad had me working by his side,” she recalled. “He showed me how to ‘give it my all’ every day and taught me what it means to be a hard worker. My father also demonstrated the importance of always being kind to everyone.”

While Fidelity has six precepts that Tricia firmly believes in, what she values the most is providing operational

The company prides itself on the ability to customize services to fit every customer’s needs. Their unparalleled financial strength allows them to back any policy, which provides the proper tools for success.

Tricia graduated from Walsh College with a degree in business, and prior to her career in the title

excellence every day at their local establishment. “We do all we can to help solve problems and get the transaction to the table,” she said.

Moreover, Tricia explained that Fidelity doesn’t just provide operational excellence: They also provide personal care in each and every transaction. “As the leading provider of web-based real estate marketing and CRM software such as CINC Pro, Fidelity offers top-producing agents the tools to stay in touch with their clients, keeping them ahead of the curve,” she said.

What sets the Fidelity team apart from other title companies is their innovative technology, which helps their clients’ businesses to grow. While their evolution in technology has been a realproducersmag.com

critical element to their success, it has not come without challenges. “Keeping up with the every-changing world of software and electronic processes is a difficult task but one that we welcome,” Tricia said. “We have moved to paperless transactions in most aspects. This has improved delivery time tremendously and is a key tool to help agents grow their businesses. Our products are delivered electronically via Start inHere technology. This gives the consumer and real estate agents the ability to watch their transaction through the entire process.”

When Tricia isn’t working, she enjoys traveling to warm, tropical locations with her husband, Bob. The couple has been married for 30 years and has two grown children. Their daughter, Chelsea, who graduated from Albion College and works for Fidelity’s corporate accounting division, is married to Chris Galea, who owns G’s Pizzeria in Lake Orion. They have two children — Fitzgerald, 5, and Grace, 9 months.

Tricia and Bob’s son, Keegan, graduated from Western University in 2020 and recently moved to Chicago where he works at IPX1031. “We all make it a priority to travel together at least once a year,” Tricia said. “We get together at least once a week for dinner, which is my most cherished time of the week.”

Tricia said the greatest reward she receives from her work is the daily collaboration with her team. “Hands down, my staff is an incredible source of enthusiasm, support and encouragement,” she said. “Of course, we have amazing clients who are like family, but success starts inward with our team, and we build out from there.”

For more information about Michigan Fidelity National Title Insurance Company, visit michigan.FNTIC.com.

For parent company information, visit FNTG.com and FNF.com, which includes material about title insurance, mortgage and real estate services, real estate technology, annuities and life insurance.

Oakland County Real Producers • 35

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celebrating leaders

Jimmy

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts Photos taken at Cranbrook Custom Homes at Montcaret in Northville

NELSON

A COACH FOR LIFE

mortgage bankers on how to understand the fundamentals of business analytics as well as how to plan for sales.

Whether it’s in the field of real estate or on the court in basketball, Jimmy Nelson has dedicated his life to helping others succeed. His leadership efforts have developed careers, won championships and, most importantly, changed lives.

Through his work at Quicken Loans, Jimmy acquired extensive knowledge of industry team building and a coaching style that easily transferred from the court to the office. His experience eventually led him to Keller Williams Metro in Royal Oak where he became a productivity coach, showing agents how to develop customized business plans while arming them with the necessary tools to stick to it. “I have always been a coach for people in my career,” he said. “Whether it’s in sport or business, the same rules apply: create a goal, develop a plan to reach that goal and then put in the work to achieve it.”

Prior to his work in real estate, Jimmy was the high school basketball coach at Center Line High School where he was named the 2010 Coach of the Year for Macomb County’s Silver Division. After 15 years of leading and mentoring athletes, Jimmy decided to leverage his experience and launch a new career.

In 2011, he was hired at Quicken Loans as a team leader and trainer. In this role, he coached regional

38 • March 2022

Jimmy’s work soon became the catalyst to bigger dreams. “I was ready to take my career to the next level,” he recalled. “I read the book ‘Rich Dad Poor Dad,’ and it was life changing

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PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio for me. It made me realize that the only way to make a true living was to think outside the box. I have always enjoyed building relationships, creating conversations and helping others achieve their goals; therefore, real estate was the perfect fit to leverage my greatest strengths.”

When Jimmy joined the team at Brookstone, REALTORS®, it was there that his real estate career jumped into high gear. He took his passion for helping others and applied it to the real estate industry.

In 2019, Jimmy had the highest volume for the fourth quarter within his brokerage, and in 2020, he became the top listing agent.

Currently, Jimmy is the agent development director at MARK Z Real Estate Experts powered by eXp Realty. He works closely with their team of over 80 agents to ensure that they are all finding their own successes. “Along with three other team leaders, I help our agents discover their goals and provide them with a plan to get there,” Jimmy explained.

“Our team’s culture is what separates us from everyone else. Our support staff, agents and administrators are second to none.”

Jimmy has worked hard to build a 90-day business program that helps guide new agents into real estate. “The greatest reward is seeing agents succeed as a result of my coaching on a daily basis,” he shared. “There is no other thing in my life that I enjoy more than watching others become successful.”

Jimmy’s biggest challenge is helping his agents keep their businesses under control. “We are currently having an issue with too many leads, and our agents are struggling to juggle so many clients. Our focus is to keep our agents feeling comfortable with their current businesses while maintaining good command of their calendars,” he said. realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 39

PDF Studio - PDF Editor for Mac, Windows, Linux. For Evaluation. https://www.qoppa.com/pdfstudio In addition to his work at the brokerage, Jimmy is also a co-host on the podcast, “Free for All Friday,” which is the #1 Q&A-style podcast for real estate agents. “Being the co-host of the podcast has been a true blessing for me,” he said. “We get to communicate with real estate agents from all over the world via this platform — another medium for me to continue helping others.”

Jimmy is also the freshman basketball coach at De La Salle Collegiate High School where he continues to commingle his positive energy and optimistic mentality in and out of the gym. “I believe in falling-forward thinking,” he said. “Falling forward enables people to dream big and make mistakes. There is only one way to create a path in life and that is to keep going in the midst of failures. There will be times in our lives when we fall, and that’s good, because the real growth comes when we pick ourselves up, learn from the fall and continue to move forward.”

Jimmy defines success as adapting and overcoming each and every obstacle. He said it’s important to have the ability to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. “You cannot grow unless you get uncomfortable,” he shared.

Twenty-one years ago, Jimmy married his wife, Chrissy, whom he said changed his life with her unwavering support and insight to family and faith, making him the man he is today. Together, they have two sons — Jack, 17, and Nick, 10. The boys are very active in sports, and as a family, they enjoy attending various sporting events, fishing and taking annual trips to Alabama and Florida.

Jimmy is always looking for agents who need help in their businesses.

“Whether it’s through 90-day business planning or just general questions on how to leverage their business partners, I am happy to provide assistance,” he said. “This business can be isolating, especially at the beginning or when there’s a market change, leaving agents feeling like they’re on an island. I want to help eliminate any frustration by providing support and business solutions through my mentorship.”

His biggest advice for anyone wanting to become a leader in this business is to be a role model for others to follow. “Don’t expect others to do something that you are not willing to do yourself,” he said. “If the garbage needs to be emptied, empty it.”

Jimmy’s advice, words of encouragement and leadership skills have made his clients into his friends, his colleagues into his mentors and his athletes into successful adults. Jimmy’s family is the cornerstone for everything he does, which has allowed him to make a positive impact on as many people as possible in business and in life.

40 • March 2022

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coach’s corner

By Darla Rowley

THE TOP 7

DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2022

Over the last two years, everyone has spent a tremendous amount of time at home. Whether we are working from home, participating in homeschooling or embracing “staycations,” we have placed an increased focus on the functionality and comfort of our home. As a result, many people have taken on projects — small and large — to better their living spaces. Never before have we seen such a huge demand for home décor items, and it is predicted that this trend will stay in place for years to come.

If you are looking to re-design or remodel your home, these are the top design features that are trending in 2022 based on our research: #1- Simplicity in design never goes out of style. Most families have purged a massive amount of items that are no longer needed or used. If you have items that are not truly special, you may want to replace them with décor that is more inspiring to you.

Erase the notion that it was handed down or that it was important in a different phase of life. If it is not special now, then place it in a secondary location or gift it to someone else who would appreciate it. Clearing the space of items no longer useful or loved is the first step to simplifying a design.

An extreme version of this would be to have a minimalist style. This type of design usually has a striking focal point like a dramatic view, wood beams, an impressive fireplace, a unique ceiling or an accent wall. The function of the space takes center stage with little adornment. We see this more often in modern architecture. Clean lines and neutral colors are all trademarks of a simple design.

Visit theluxeinterior.com for amazing inspirations if you like the minimaliststyle look! #2- Green is the color for 2022. This year, you will start seeing décor items, art and furnishings infused with more green than we have in the past three years! Green has been growing in popularity since 2018, and we now believe it is considered mainstream.

Benjamin Moore’s color of the year is “October Mist” #1495. This is a softer version to the brighter green of the past few years. Incorporated into a design scheme, the color evokes almost a spa-like feeling.

As for Sherwin-Williams, its color of the year is “Evergreen Fog” SW9130.

42 • March 2022

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Both colors are really great for allowing the outside to come into the home. Warmer neutrals are on trend as well — they are easier to live with and have longevity in design. The bright whites and icy grays are still in use but mostly for a super modern aesthetic. #3- Natural elements in the weathered and worn appearance, as well as the use of natural wood, wicker or rattan are adding a touch of warmth and comfort to the décor scheme. This Bozeman mirror from Uttermost is a good example of rustic yet refined.

#5- Gold and antique brass as well as satin gold accents are a fresh way to update a look.

You will find it easy to locate this high-style look on most décor websites. It is a great way to add a little glam to any home without being too ostentatious, especially when mixed with black and/or bronze accents.

Tip: If you are adding gold to your design scheme, try to keep the metal colors more minimal. Doing a mix of gold and silver is good or a mix of gold and black … but using all three in a space can be a challenge.

Source: houzz.com

#4- Curves are really important when selecting furniture — especially when you have a floating piece of furniture. In our staging, we often have a circular vignette of four chairs, and the round shape is quite stunning.

These are examples of great silhouettes you can find on a budget from wayfair.com:

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#6– Creative ceilings are showing up everywhere — wood beams, wood accents and masterful woodworking. There are many creative ways to make the ceiling the star of the show.

Faux beams are also a great way to add the modern farmhouse look on a budget.

#7- Home offices and places with hidden storage will continue to be very important. Many believe that the work-from-home scenario is no longer a temporary lifestyle, and professionals will need the functionality of being able to work in a quiet, organized space. Extra storage can serve double duty within the office by also tidying up the house.

Bookcases, armoires and cube-like storage are all good options.

Source: decoraid.com

No matter your taste or budget, current trends in home décor and design have a little bit of something for everyone. So many looks and styles can be curated together for an eclectic look — after all, a blending of textures and warm colors help make the home cozier than ever! Sometimes it can be overwhelming to choose which items complement each other, and we recommend enlisting a professional to help you pull it together to create your perfect style. If we can help, please call us at 248-591-4290, or visit our interior design website at impactids.com for more inspiration.

Do you want to write for Real Producers? Reach out to terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com.

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charity spotlight

By Chris Menezes

NEW HOPE Center for Grief Support Providing New Hope in Troubled Times With all the devastation the COVID-19 pandemic has caused, there are many people who are suffering from grief and trying to pick up the pieces of their life. Losing a loved one is never easy, and grief is complicated. When left unchecked, it can become unhealthy, leaving one in a dark and hopeless place. No matter the circumstance, New Hope Center for Grief Support is here to help those suffering from loss.

46 • March 2022

“Unresolved grief can fester into unhealthy habits, decisions and lifestyles, negatively impacting a person physically, mentally and spiritually,” Jennifer Frush, executive director of New Hope, said. “Seeking out help is not a sign of weakness: It takes tremendous strength to identify that you cannot do it alone. If you need the support of others, there is support available.”

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As a bereavement resource center for Southeast Michigan, the vision of New Hope is to create a safe, supportive community for others in grief. ““We do this through two methods: by offering direct grief support services and by providing community outreach, training, and practical resources,” Jennifer explained. The organization also looks to help change the way society responds to grief and loss.

New Hope not only provides assistance through its age- and loss-specific peer support and grief education — as well as its ability to connect with others who are experiencing similar situations — but they also equip and empower their members to use their experiences to serve others. “Service is healing. It brings meaning and purpose after loss,” Jennifer said.

Service after loss is exactly how Cathy Clough founded New Hope, with the support of John and Betty Baird, in 2000. “Cathy experienced the pain of grief after the loss of her husband and faced the challenges of being a young widow raising three children,” Jennifer shared.

“As she healed, she found new beginnings in life by supporting others of all ages and losses through their own grief journey. Since then, New Hope Center for Grief Support has serviced thousands of grieving individuals and families throughout southeastern Michigan.”

Jennifer came to New Hope nine years ago when her father passed away. Through New Hope, she and her family experienced healing, which inspired Jennifer to stay involved with its program efforts for the next six years. She first became an “ambassador of hope” — a volunteer who was once in the shoes of those grieving — but ultimately became the executive director.

“From the support my grandfather received after the loss of his wife of 65 years, the support my mom received after losing both of her parents and then the loss of my father, this organization has helped our family find hope and healing after so much loss. Even today, I continue my healing by serving in this amazing organization,” Jennifer said.

Among the many events New Hope successfully conducts throughout the year, Jennifer recalls the success of their annual Kids Camp during COVID-19, which was aptly called “2020 Grow Through What You Go Through” Kids Camp. Despite the pandemic, they still had 36 campers in 2020 and 76 campers in 2021, along with many volunteers and teens who have experienced loss, serving as camp counselors.

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Seeking out help is not a sign of weakness: It takes tremendous strength to identify that you cannot do it alone. If you need the support of others, there is support available.

“This camp was powerful!” Jennifer recalled. “I’m sure COVID19, the restrictions and the lack of human connection — especially ones the same age — helped fuel the immense connection and bonds that took place at these past two camps. There were many powerful moments while we played and sought to navigate and understand the grief journey by learning tips and tools to help us. Most importantly, the message was conveyed, ‘You are not alone,’ and New Hope is a safe space that will always be here to support your grief needs.”

New Hope celebrated their twentieth anniversary last year and is looking forward to bringing even more hope to the community for decades to come. Because their services are free, they are always seeking funding opportunities to help expand their impact and to ensure they never have to limit the scope of their services due to a lack of finances.

The Packer Group 2nd Annual Charity Golf Outing June 14, 2019

To learn more about how you can become involved with New Hope Center for Grief Support and its mission — whether you’re suffering from grief yourself and need support or if you want to help support others — check out newhopecenter.net, email griefhelp@ newhopecenter.net or call 248-348-0115.

“Please continue to share New Hope Center for Grief Support to family, friends, colleagues and your community,” Jennifer said. “The programs and services are free and welcome to all.

Help bring hope, healing and new beginnings to those impacted by the death of a loved one or get involved at New Hope Center for Grief Support to help make life transformations possible.”

48 • March 2022

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Oakland County Real Producers • 49

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around

town Thank you to those who joined our Virtual Monthly Mingle! Special thanks to Dawn Townsend for talking about CRMs and 17hats.

Dimitri Abro from Anthony Djon Luxury Real Estate - Troy & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

Selma Pesch from MARK Z Real Estate Experts powered by eXp Realty – Novi & Relationship Manager Dina Ranieri

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Monthly Morning Mingle with some great Preferred Partners!

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

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

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CA LE NDA R O F E V E NTS March 10, 4-7pm- St. Patty’s Social- WEAR GREEN! Location: The Morrie 260 N Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009 May 5, 10am-12pm- Real Producers Masterclass Featuring Certified Guide on Exactly What to Say, Jessica Woodbeck. A masterclass on communicating with purpose.

Location: The Community House in Birmingham July 13, 4-6pm- Happy Hour with Oakland and Wayne County Location: Valentine Distilling Co. in Ferndale August 17, 3-6pm- September Social Location: TBD- ideally outside November 16, 3-6pm- Client Appreciation Event-PARTNERS ONLYLocation: TBD- possibly 215 West in Ferndale Oakland and Wayne Partners invited *Dates and times are subject to change* Other events: Magazine Release Parties- invite only Want to suggest a place for an event or sponsor?

Reach out to one of our staff members: erika.kruse@realproducersmag.com terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com

52 • March 2022

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networking opportunities

Leaders Made Here!

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Average Women’s Council member’s income from real estate: $134,470 Median Women’s Council member’s income from real estate: $87,690 Average transaction volume of a Women’s Council member: $8.5 Million Sales Volume Median among Women’s Council: $3.6 Million For more information on the network as well as upcoming events, please visit our website at: https://www.wcr.org/charper-sites/michigan/greaterrochester-area/ or our Facebook page at WCR Greater Rochester Area

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home matters

By Shauna Osborne

A Spring-Cleaning

CHECKLIST

Ah, spring cleaning. Let’s face it: It’s difficult for most of us to get excited about any activity that has “cleaning” in the name … and it’s not like we don’t clean every other season of the year! Indeed, cleanliness and sanitation have been ever-present in our minds over the last two years, and a deep cleaning undeniably makes the home environment healthier – removing harmful dust, microbes, mold, and mildew – thus boosting the immune system and reducing illnesses and allergies.

The month of March, in particular, has always been an ideal time for an intensive home scrub. Why now? To answer that, look back to 19th-century America: In many areas of the country, March was the perfect time for intensive dusting because we could open windows without getting too cold but also not worry about insects; the windy weather March is known for was perfect for drawing dust up and out of homes.

Now that we have more modern conveniences, this process is less a necessity, yet we cannot deny the lingering desire for a deep and satisfying clean.

Get started on your spring clean with this preliminary checklist of tasks, applicable to every room in your home: 56 • March 2022

• Wash baseboards, windows (inside and out), doors, and walls: Always

moving from the top down, dust/ vacuum first, then wipe or wash down. Don’t forget windowsills and tracks.

• Replace air filters and clean air vents.

• Reseal grout: The grout between the

tile on your floors and countertops is porous and shows stains easily.

Scrub and then apply a grout sealer to protect.

• Wash window treatments and screens and dust blinds. Many

draperies and curtains are machine-washable (check labels).

Most blinds and screens can be wiped down with warm water and mild dishwashing soap.

• Ensure fire safety: Changing/checking the batteries in your smoke detectors should be completed twice per year. It’s also a convenient time to confirm every family member knows where extinguishers are located and how to operate them.

• Sanitize light switches, door handles, and knobs.

• Vacuum/shampoo rugs and upholstered furniture: Use a shampooing

machine or have rugs professionally cleaned, depending on whether they have a waterproof backing.

Take cushions outdoors to beat them; use the crevice tool on your vacuum to collect hard-to-reach dirt in corners and cracks.

• Wash light fixtures, dust fans and lampshades, and replace burntout bulbs.

• Dust shelves and contents thoroughly: Remove everything and

wipe or vacuum shelves clean. Dust items as you replace them on the shelves, using a clean, soft cloth to wipe down leather-bound books or valuables. Don’t miss the undersides of nearby chairs and tables!

It's been a long winter. Throw open the windows and welcome in the sunshine … to a clean and sanitary home!

Happy spring! @realproducers

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Oakland County Real Producers • 57

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financial fitness

AVOIDING

TAX-SEASON

SCAMS this spring

By Shauna Osborne

With major distractions like a global pandemic, market disruption, and ensuing hardships and stressors (emotional, physical, and financial alike) on our plates, no one would be surprised if paying taxes is the last thing on our minds right now. However, Tax Day (April 18, 2022) is just around the corner, and being an already fraught and emotional time for some, it’s crucial to stay focused and one step ahead of potential tax scams and deceptive practices. Use the following tips to ensure your hard-earned money and personal information stay secure this spring!

File Early

The IRS will process one return for each given Social Security number; therefore, if you file as soon as you are able, you can beat scammers who might later fraudulently attempt to use your information, gaining an extra layer of protection for your finances.

Avoid Pandemic Hoaxes

The ongoing Covid-19 crisis has thrown financial lives into disarray for many taxpayers, resulting in widespread confusion about unemployment benefits, stimulus checks, child tax credits, and more. And tax scammers are preying on the unprecedented chaos, offering pandemic-related grants or faster or bigger payments in exchange for personal financial information and / or advance fees. According to the Federal Trade Commission, Americans have lost nearly a billion dollars to pandemic-related scams since the start, with seniors bearing the greatest loss (three times more than any other age group).

Beware Phone-y Scams

Phone scams have been and continue to be a persistent and pervasive problem (to the tune of millions of dollars lost every year!) for taxpayers – especially for “vulnerable” populations such as the elderly and English language learners. Remember, the IRS will never call you on the phone, demanding immediate payment or sensitive information. In fact, this government agency almost realproducersmag.com

exclusively communicates with taxpayers by mail, so if you receive a call claiming to be from the IRS or another financial agency or collector, it is almost certainly a scammer impersonating the proper authority.

Instead of conversing, hang up and contact the IRS or organization the call purportedly came from at an official phone number to verify its authenticity.

Don’t Fall for Phishing

Again, the IRS will never reach out to you via email or social media regarding tax responsibilities. Carefully examine

tax-related emails you receive, look for spelling mistakes and unusual URLs and email addresses (often very similar to the real ones), and avoid clicking on links in messages or downloading attachments.

Additionally, if using an online tax preparation software or website, be vigilant that you don’t get redirected to a phishing site, which may look and feel very similar to the real ones and can trick you into divulging personal information. If you do receive a suspicious email regarding taxes, you can forward it to phishing@irs.gov.

Oakland County Real Producers • 59

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announcement

Do YOU want to

NOMINATE

someone to be featured?

Nominate a real estate agent, behind-the-scenes all-star, broker, leader or potential partner at linktr.ee/realproducers.

Email nominations to terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com.

same team, new name 586-434-0243 elevatemichigan.com 60 • March 2022

now known as Elevate Inspection Group @realproducers

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62 • March 2022

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