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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

SAM KAPLUNOV Photo by Stylish Detroit

NOVEMBER 2021

CVED 21897

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

248-674-3937

2 • November 2021

@realproducers

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

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Oakland County Real Producers • 3

TABLE OF

CONTENTS 08

Preferred Partners

Meet the Oakland County Real Producers Team

Top Producer: Sam Kaplunov

Rising Star: Geraldine James

Partner Spotlight: Joseph Leo, Conclusive Inspection Services

Agent Spotlight: Stephanie Janiga

All in the Family: Jenifer Rachel

Agent Spotlight: Sandra Treboldi

Charity Event 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.

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 4 • November 2021

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

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Oakland County Real Producers • 5

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)

The Media Mutt Content creation. Pretty simple. You do what you do, and I'll create social media posts, Blog posts, or write articles for you and everyone will think you're a social media genius. I'll schedule them. Keep you organized. And when you're at Real Producer cocktail parties people will say, "OMG, I love what you post on social." Shhhh. It's our secret.

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

6 • November 2021

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Chet Sadowski III chet3@chetscleaning.com

248- 584- 1819 chetscleaning.com

Serving the Metro Detroit area since 1986 Real Producers Special:

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

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AND OUT.

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

Oakland County Real Producers • 7

PREFERRED PARTNERS

This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses, and thank them for supporting the real estate community!

ACCOUNTING Wenderski & Associates, CPA P.C. (248) 689-7740 Your Tax Coach (810) 588-4646 APPLIANCES Sargent Appliance & Video (248) 652-9700 Trevarrow, Inc. (248) 377-2300 APPRAISAL Bittner Appraisal Group, LLC (248) 828-8218 ATTORNEY/LEGAL SERVICES Matta Blair, PLC (248) 593-6100 Szura & Delonis, PLC (248) 716-3600 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

8 • November 2021

CBD PRODUCTS CannaCore Organics (586) 615-8749 www.cannacore organics.com/terra 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 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

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

ESTATE SALES Action Estate Sales (586) 228-9090

HOME FURNISHINGS Home Interior Warehouse (248) 624-6700

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 The Third Floor Marketing Group (313) 466-6498 FLORAL & GIFT BASKETS Rodnick, Inc. (586) 772-4350 www.rodnick.com GRAPHIC DESIGN & PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS Graphic Takeover Jimmy Johnson (248) 894-4464 HEALTH, WELLNESS & SKIN CARE CannaCore Organics (586) 615-8749 www.cannacore organics.com/terra

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 HomeTeam Inspection Service (586) 783-9957 House Call Home Inspection (586) 434-0243 Total House Inspection (248) 550-9492 HOME STAGING Impact Home Staging Experts (248) 591-4290 HOME WARRANTY Achosa Home Warranty Stacey Kraft (248) 303-7210

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

INSURANCE Allstate Insurance: Faber Agency 43343 Grand River Novi, MI 48375 (248) 344-0460 www.allstate.com/ kristinfaber Farm Bureau Insurance Aaron Blakemore (248) 760-3479 Goosehead Insurance Wesson Gappi (248) 275-8600 State Farm Insurance Tammy Deane (586) 738-6385 JUNK REMOVAL 1-800-GOT-JUNK? (586) 909-9329 JUNK REMOVAL / DEMOLITION We Cleanout Everything (877) 932-8922 KITCHEN & BATH Whiski Kitchen (248) 629-0058 LANDSCAPE DESIGN Great Lakes Landscape Design (248) 543-6320 MARBLE & GRANITE American Prestige Marble and Granite (313) 595-7237 MOLD REMEDIATION Advanced Mold Services (586) 243-9991 MORTGAGE LENDER Anderson Financial Group Sandi Voiles (248) 417-4958

realproducersmag.com

Defined Mortgage (248) 785-3779 First State Bank Lisa Marie Pevac (586) 354-6797 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 Ross Mortgage Toni Thwaites (248) 459-2089 Team Slobin - Supreme Lending (248) 535-0465 MOVING & STORAGE Changing Places Moving Johnna Struck (248) 674-3937 Morse Moving & Storage (734) 484-1717

Preferred Moving & Storage (586) 463-4230

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

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

TAX PLANNING Your Tax Coach (810) 588-4646

PHOTOGRAPHY Dawn Townsend Photography & Design (586) 255-4495

TITLE COMPANY Alliance Title of Michigan Mary Reed (586) 238-4400

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

Devon Title (248) 273-4300

WayUp Media (248) 924-1011

Fidelity National Title (248) 594-9390

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

ROOFING PROFESSIONALS Clarkston Roofing Professionals Tony Missentzis (248) 934-7288

ATA National Title Group (248) 341-5077 Defined Title (248) 218-1757

Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686

REMODELING Quality Affordable Construction (734) 341-2689

Alliance Title of Michigan Kelly Anderson (586) 238-4400

Inked Title (248) 617-0004 TREE CARE SERVICES Dreadknot Services (248) 884-1681 VIRTUAL 3-D TOURS Hommati (248) 550-0515 Skyview Experts (586) 549-9690 Stylish Detroit (313) 799-3686 WayUp Media (248) 924-1011

Oakland County Real Producers • 9

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

Our Services: Individual Taxes

Business Retirement Planning

Business Taxes

Foreign Income Exclusion

Business Consulting

Business Start-ups

Trusts

Software Implementation

Bookkeeping

Accounting

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

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

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

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

Tammy Deane NMLS #1794386

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

10 • November 2021

@realproducers

MEET THE OAKLAND COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS TEAM

Chris Csotty Publisher

April Shanne Subiera Publishing Assistant/ Reprints Specialist

Terra Csotty

Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Managing Editor/Writer

Relationship Manager

Dina Ranieri

Jeanne Monillo

Erika Kruse

Amanda Matkowski

Robbyn Moore

Andy Schwartz

Publisher

Event Coordinator

Sasha Marceta

Skyview Experts Photographer/Videographer

Editor

Dawn Townsend

Dawn Townsend Photography & Design Photographer

Jermaine Buie Perfect Light, LLC Photographer

Writer

Ad Strategist

Stylish Detroit Photographer/Videographer

Brandon Ramsay

WayUp Media Photographer/Videographer

Night Cap is a great product that is helping me sleep! Terra met with me shortly after we messaged back and forth a few times about the product. Both Terra and ALL of the Cannacore products are amazing! Ten out of ten! -Scot Brothers

cannacoreorganics.com/terra

586-615-8749

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Oakland County Real Producers • 11

12 • November 2021

@realproducers

Celebrating 25 years of responsible lending

We are committed to making the mortgage loan process as streamlined and as simple as possible. We work with over 30 different lenders to insure that we are getting you the very best deal. Joshua M Rubin President | NMLS#135902

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

Realtor Safety Classes Oﬀered 2 CE Credits

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

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

Over 600 5-star reviews can't be wrong. Reviews are found at: www.zillow.com/lender-profile/JoshuaRubin6/

Over a billion dollars in closed loans and top 1% originator in the county

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

Showing Homes Self Defense

Listen to your Gut

Travel Safety

It’s not closed..... untilservice! it’s INKED Fast, quality, and reliable

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

AMERICANPRESTIGEGRANITE@GMAIL.COM Oakland County Real Producers • 13

top producer

SAM

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

14 • November 2021

EMBRACING PATIENCE FOR LONGTERM GROWTH AND SUCCESS After spending over nine years in real estate, Sam Kaplunov has come to realize that patience is not only the hardest but also the most beneficial skill in this industry. “It takes time to understand a transaction, then time to realize the business as a whole, then time to be successful,” he said. “If you do it half right, then it should get easier and more enjoyable as you gain more experience — there are no shortcuts to success in the real estate industry.” Accordingly, the route that led Sam to real estate was not straightforward or full of shortcuts; he traversed a complex path that required a considerable amount of patience and perseverance … and time to find his stride in his ideal career. When Sam was contemplating what college to attend after high school, his mom suggested Indiana University, so he spent a year there as a pre-med major. Sam then decided to transfer to Miami University in Ohio where his mom recommended he major in finance, which he soon discovered wasn’t for him. Sam’s mother then urged him to attend law school, so he finally switched to political science and stuck with it in order to graduate within four years.

@realproducers

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Oakland County Real Producers • 15

“I say this with the utmost respect and love for my mother, but I made the mistake of listening to her too much — and not enough to myself,” Sam shared. “At that point, I just wanted to get out in four years, so I finished on the pre-law path only to finally start over again and blindly fall into real estate, so thank you, Mom!” Sam took the LSAT, but rather than going to law school, he decided to pursue a second bachelor’s degree in engineering. “It was the same time my then-girlfriend-now-wife, Sarah, and I moved to Michigan, her home state — after all, isn’t everyone in Michigan an engineer?” he joked. Being that Sam was an avid car enthusiast and enjoyed “how things work,” he figured engineering would be a good fit, but after about a year working toward the prerequisite courses to attend Oakland University, he realized that he didn’t want to work a desk job or be on someone else’s terms. He wanted independence, flexibility and direct control of his success — or failure. Following his move to Michigan and amidst the pressure of trying to figure out what he wanted to be when he grew up, Sam made good use of the free career counseling services at OU. “I had always thought about being a high school teacher and coach but, for whatever reason, also thought, ‘Man, real estate sounds cool,’” he shared. Coincidentally, the counselor at OU mentioned that her mother had been a real estate agent with Hall & Hunter, REALTORS® in Birmingham and offered to arrange a meeting for him. Sam was not at all familiar with Birmingham, let alone with Hall & Hunter. “Walking into the office, I had no idea what to expect, but after I spent an hour sweating through my chair, the meeting concluded with the Wolf family giving me a shot — something I will be eternally grateful for,” he said. “Thankfully for me, I didn’t fully grasp what a 1099 position entailed, so I ignorantly showed up for as many 9-to-5 shifts as I could. I fell in love with not only the day-to-day aspects of the job but also with the impact I could make on my community, on my family and on my clients who would become part of the family.” Sam knew that he liked helping people, but he admits that when he started off as a real estate agent, he really didn’t have any idea how or to what extent he would be doing so. “I was initially more preoccupied with learning something new every day, and enticed by the flexible hours and even just by the act of driving around,” Sam shared. “After building my foundation a bit and getting a few deals under my belt, I started to realize how perfect of a career choice it turned out to be — the ability to advise, guide and be part of my clients’ lives has been so rewarding for me.” 16 • November 2021

@realproducers

“

THE ABILITY TO ADVISE, GUIDE AND BE PART OF MY CLIENTS’ LIVES HAS BEEN SO REWARDING FOR ME.

Through the kindness and commitment of the people Sam surrounded himself with, he began to increase his sales and gain more experience. In 2015, Sam became the youngest associate broker at Hall & Hunter and spent the next five years as the office educator and trainer. In less than a decade, Sam’s commitment to his clients and his deep respect for his colleagues blossomed into a thriving business wherein he now has a career volume of over $110 million. As the Birmingham office broker at @properties and member of SK Group, Sam is most passionate about growing. “Rather than expansion or explosion, I’m focused on natural — yet fast — growth, which is one of the biggest reasons I took the leap with @properties,” he said. “‘Growing always, in all ways!’ is a mantra I’ve embraced wholeheartedly because it best reflects my priorities and goals: growing an amazing brokerage, incorporating cutting edge techniques and technology while maintaining the strength of culture and quality, raising the industry standard in every category and, ultimately, growing my abilities to best serve my clients.”

“

For Sam, this type of constant and extensive growth is actualized through the communal values and shared contributions of the whole, which is why Sam prefers the word “group” over the word “team” and why he identifies himself as “one part” of that group alongside his fellow SK Group members: Tate Gilpin, Josh Pruett and Operations Manager Jody Wachler. “We work together, learn from each other and aid in each other’s growth. We are collaborative and cooperative, not directive,” Sam said. Combining his experience as an office educator and group leader, Sam is thrilled to give back to his new co-workers at @properties. realproducersmag.com

Sam, who was born and raised in Wilmette, Illinois, says that in addition to his mother, he has been fortunate to cross paths with a handful of individuals whose guidance and support has been instrumental in keeping him happy and successful. Of all these individuals, Sam is most thankful for his wife, Sarah, whom he describes as “pretty much perfect — the best wife and mom in the world, as well as an incredible nurse.” Sam and Sarah’s 5-year-old son, Harrison, is a big fan of sports, superheroes and race cars. Emilia, 3, loves princess dresses, talking 110 mph, riding her scooter, and being strong and independent. They also have a 1-year-old daughter named Adeline, who is always laughing and giggling at everything and is “basically the best and the easiest baby ever.” The Kaplunov family, or “The Kap 5,” enjoy playing outside together, summer getaways in Charlevoix, watching family movies, road trips and visits to the dog park with Winnie, their 1-year-old English Sheepdog. Sam’s hobbies include cars, following and playing sports, listening to every type of music and watching everything from action to drama movies. He is also a proud board member of Oakland Family Services, which he says is “hands down the most impactful organization” he’s ever served. In real estate, Sam hasn’t just found a fulfilling, lifelong career; he’s discovered an avenue for giving back, for sharing his kindness with others and for seizing the many opportunities to aid in the success and growth of his clients, his community and his fellow co-workers. “There’s plenty of business to go around, and I’m here to help those in my life — you can’t climb a mountain by knocking other people over!” he shared. “The biggest challenge is embracing the patience required to be successful for the long term. We are the calm in the midst of the storm, and that is a muscle I have enjoyed learning how to flex.” Oakland County Real Producers • 17

HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Printing, Mailing, Marketing and Apparel

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

www.imperialpress.net 18 • November 2021

@realproducers

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Oakland County Real Producers • 19

rising star By Robbyn Moore Photos by Jessica Laine Photography Photos taken at Cranbrook Custom Homes — The Heights in Rochester

James Geraldine

UNCOVERING HER WORTH WHILE FOLLOWING HER PASSION

20 • November 2021

@realproducers

When Geraldine James set out to design the professional life she always wanted, she envisioned a career that would offer her financial independence and the freedom to spend more time with her husband and son. “My workdays were long, and I felt that I was missing out on big moments with my family,” she said. “It was a struggle asking for time off from my employers, so I decided to make a smart move and create a professional life that supported my dreams.”

After years of being a full-time leasing agent, Geraldine obtained her real estate license in 2016 and stepped into the field of real estate. She joined the group at Keller Williams Domain: Luxury Homes International and slowly began her transition. Her first step toward business independence was finding her confidence and her worth. “Initially, it was very challenging, trying to overcome my shyness,” she recalled. “I was uneasy talking to people and wanted to stay in my shell. Therefore, I had to get uncomfortable to discover my value. I had to realize that it was possible to fulfill my dream of helping people and grow a business.” To overcome her introverted personality, Geraldine would talk to people in the grocery store and at restaurants — anything to ease her into a conversation. “I started holding open houses,

which forced me to talk to people. Once I started getting business that way, I could not stop the talking,” she said with a laugh. Through her start-up process, Geraldine began to realize her goals were not impossible. “Becoming a business owner not only helped me achieve my objective of creating my own schedule and unlimited earning potential, but it also opened the doors to fully expressing my passion for helping others,” she explained. “Helping others is a natural part of who I am. Whether it’s educating my clients on the real estate process or providing a listening ear to their needs, I am always looking for ways to help others.” Education is a passion point with Geraldine; therefore, her daily focus is to help as many families as she can during real estate transactions. “I want to make sure that I educate each and every client and make their real estate journey memorable,” she said. Geraldine is a person who is kind, caring and generous — a person with a heart of gold. In fact, Geraldine was born with a hole in her heart and was told by doctors that she would struggle in school and never reach her full learning potential. “I believe at that moment, God gave me a second chance at life,” she recalled. “I am living proof that I can overcome obstacles and rise above challenges. I am here for a reason.” Her belief in second chances fueled Geraldine throughout her life, especially when it came to taking brave and necessary steps into the real estate industry. Since launching her business four years ago, Geraldine has earned a KW Bronze award in 2018, a KW Bronze award for GCI in 2019 and a Double or Nothing award in 2019 when she doubled her numbers in one year. As a native of Oak Park, Michigan, Geraldine had many influences in her life, including her mother who taught her to always do her best and know her worth. Her dad had a strong determination to be successful in life and demonstrated to Geraldine the importance of hard work. Her father-in-law introduced her to the idea of property management, which later began the gateway into real estate. From a business standpoint, Geraldine has found great inspiration from her aunt who chased after her own entrepreneurial dreams and now owns a daycare. “I’ve watched her work so hard at achieving her dreams and never giving up, no matter the obstacles,” Geraldine said.

realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 21

HELPING OTHERS IS A NATURAL PART OF WHO I AM. Of all her supporters, Geraldine said her husband, DeSean, has been her biggest champion in life. “My husband and I do everything together,” Geraldine said. “We have fun together no matter what — just relaxing and watching TV is a good time for us.” They love spending time with their 7-year-old son, Ryan, who is a whiz at video games. Additionally, they enjoy traveling, having BBQs and talking about future business plans. As a couple, Geraldine and DeSean hope to someday start their own business and invest in real estate properties. 22 • November 2021

Currently, Geraldine is attending the Michigan Institute of Real Estate to obtain her broker license with the hope to gain an even greater knowledge of the real estate business. “As a real estate agent, I plan to educate as many families as I can to empower them with the knowledge to make sound decisions on their next home purchase or sale,” she said. “This transfer of knowledge is my commitment to provide exceptional customer service to every client.” According to Geraldine, receiving referrals and business from family is the most rewarding aspect of her work. “A referral says a lot. It’s knowing that at the end of the day, I helped change someone’s life for the better, and they shared that excitement with others,” she said. Not surprisingly, Geraldine measures her success by the number of people she can help. “By keeping my focus on helping others, I have found my worth,” she shared. “Every day I remind myself why I am on this path, and it energizes me to become an even better person than I was yesterday.” There is no doubt that Geraldine is passionate about what she does, and it shows in her work. @realproducers

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Oakland County Real Producers • 23

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

Bittner Appraisal Group, LLC

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

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

Expert, unbiased testimony and consulting services.

Accountants

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

Agents

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

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

Insurance Companies

Protect property portfolios for the correct amount.

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Get the knowledge you need to make a great investment.

24 • November 2021

@realproducers

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

• Rich & Christy Shearer •

WESSON GAPPI AGENCY OWNER

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

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

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

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Kim Riley Catering Coordinator 248-579-4602 Kim@Express-Catering.com Oakland County Real Producers • 25

partner spotlight By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

JOSEPH LEO CONCLUSIVE INSPECTION SERVICES

A Top-Notch, Timely and Thorough Inspection Team Joseph Leo started his career in the construction industry where he “built” a lot of hands-on experience and knowledge working alongside his father, an Italian immigrant who owned a small general contracting company — and who Joseph identifies as his greatest influence and inspiration in life. Joseph later put his experience to good use at Walbridge Aldinger, a worldwide construction general contractor where he worked as a superintendent and project manager.

Joseph “loved the work” and the pay at Walbridge, but after many years, the stress of his position was beginning to wear on him. “As fate would have it, while I was vacationing in Marquette, I met an older gentleman who was a home inspector, and our conversation — and the long drive home I spent contemplating my options — prompted me to put in my two-week 26 • November 2021

notice at Walbridge and pursue a new path,” Joseph said. “At the time, I knew all aspects of construction but nothing about the home inspection business, so when we started the company, we felt our way through the learning process. Now, almost 20 years later, we have become the model for successful inspection companies.” Joseph and his partner, Karen Clover, established Conclusive Inspection Services (CIS) in 2003. During their first month in business, they performed one home inspection and finished their first year with only 40. “Karen told me to get a second job as a bartender because it wasn’t working out at first, but I had no doubt in my mind that our business would succeed,” Joseph said. “And I was right: This year we will perform over 1,000 inspections.” @realproducers

practices. Backed by the “We Provide Peace of Mind” motto, CIS inspectors make client education a top priority and are always eager to share their knowledge and expertise with others. “We are not alarmists, and we always try to frame the negatives in a positive way,” Joseph said. “We provide our clients all the facts, as well as all the solutions.” For the first 12 years, Joseph and Karen managed all aspects of the business: advertising, scheduling, inspecting, providing reports and conducting additional testing. Then, in 2014, they hired their first female inspector and continued to expand their company. Today, CIS includes two male/female teams, office support staff and couriers who transport radon kits and test samples to the lab. Joseph, whose credentials include a construction engineering degree, a builder’s license since 1990 and ASHI membership, serves as the company’s chief inspector. Karen, who has a degree in accounting and work experience in construction accounting, manages the administrative end of the company.

CIS provides inspection services for residential, commercial and industrial properties — including churches — as well as radon, air quality, fungus, asbestos and pest inspections. Depending on the size of the property, CIS arrives on-site with at least two inspectors — always at least one male and one female — who can conduct a thorough inspection of a 3,000-square-foot property in two hours or less. In addition to their timely inspection process, CIS makes themselves readily available to clients by working seven days a week during daylight hours. The company also maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, CIS generated hard copies of their inspection reports on-site — a practice they will resume as soon as possible — but for the time being, CIS sends every client an electronic copy of the report on the same day of the inspection. Joseph and his team also provide clients a maintenance package that details seasonal and life-cycle recommendations as well as a cost package containing labor and material costs for repairs and replacements to the property. All CIS inspectors are certified by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and required to complete annual continuing education courses in order to ensure that they remain current with the industry’s standards and best realproducersmag.com

Joseph is a cancer survivor who was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer in 2011. His doctors said that he wouldn’t live more than six weeks … It has now been seven years since his last chemotherapy treatment, and he is as strong and healthy as ever. Joseph is also a first-generation American and a family man. Although both of his parents are now deceased, their legacy of love, kindness, honesty and hard work lives on in Joseph, who is a father of two. His son, August, 27, is a freelance cinematographer, and his daughter, Isabella, 25, is the head of human resources at a large dental firm. Joseph, Karen and his children all enjoy Sunday gatherings together. Joseph also enjoys golfing with his son, spending time up north, entertaining and the occasional casino trip.

“I was 40 years old when I started this company, and I know that it was what I was meant to do,” Joseph said. “After completing over 10,000 inspections, I am still energized every time I arrive on-site. I love to help people make important life decisions, and buying a home is one of life’s biggest decisions.” For more information about Conclusive Inspection Services, call 248-399-6969, email conspect@hotmail.com, or visit conclusiveinspect.net. Oakland County Real Producers • 27

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

30 • November 2021

@realproducers

Stephanie

Janiga

A B u s i n e s s B u i l t o n Au t h e n t i c i t y For years, Stephanie Janiga modeled her real estate business based on the desires of what other agents wanted for themselves. When she came to the realization that she needed to shift her mindset and go after what she wanted and what made her happy, all of her dreams had come true. “After a series of events, I decided to focus on building my business in a way that made me much happier, and as a result, I am a much stronger and more confident person,” Stephanie shared. “My strengths include solid negotiation skills and finding solutions to tough problems. I understand how to work with an array of different personalities, and I thrive on building lifelong relationships with my clients.”

specializing in skincare — and was struggling to make her way. “I was 24 years old with acne and trying to sell expensive anti-aging cream to older women, and it wasn’t working for me,” she recalled. “I had to get out of the scuba business due to a declining economy, and I needed something more promising than selling Arbonne.” At the time, a good friend of Stephanie’s had started selling real estate. Stephanie closely watched her friend’s real estate career and admired the opportunities he found to schedule his own hours, grow his business and change his lifestyle. Moreover, Stephanie’s dad also got into real estate after he retired, which further piqued her enthusiasm.

Stephanie’s keen objectivity to business and elite professionalism is credited to years of watching her parents run various businesses. “As a young girl, I would pay close attention to how my parents handled customer service issues and sales negotiations as well as all the hard work they put into their professions,” she said. “Their influence played an enormous part in my different career paths.” Stephanie is the CEO and broker of Janiga Estates and associate broker with Keller Williams Advantage. For 16 years, Stephanie has been a top-producing real estate agent, earning accolades such as Hour Detroit Real Estate All-Star, a Double Platinum Award from Keller Williams and ranked in the top 5% of Metro Detroit REALTORS®. However, prior to launching her real estate career, Stephanie owned a scuba diving shop in Dearborn Heights, Michigan. “We sold and repaired dive gear, certified people to become scuba divers and escorted divers on various dive trips all around the Caribbean and the eastern coast of the U.S., including Florida and the Great Lakes,” she said. Along with her scuba business, Stephanie also sold Arbonne — a multi-level marketing group realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 31

Because she was good at working with people and could effortlessly work a sales job, Stephanie knew a profession in real estate would be a great fit. As she launched her career in October 2006, she found herself immersed in the middle of a real estate market crash, but that didn’t stop her efforts. “I am hardwired to push my way to the top,” Stephanie explained. “As a kid, I placed first at a national competition for competitive roller skating. I mastered a skill that required hard work and dedication — all prerequisites to having a successful career. I’ve also trained for a marathon, which takes incredible determination, drive and strength.”

Beyond her leisure activities, Stephanie started doing a video series to focus on and support local businesses. “This started with me supporting the restaurants because they were hurting so bad from the COVID shutdown,” Stephanie said. “I was giving away $100 gift cards each week to a different restaurant and promoting them all over social media. After the restaurants opened up, we moved on to helping other struggling businesses.”

During Stephanie’s first five years in the business, she absorbed all the training and education she could find. She helped build up teams, she survived the fallout of divided teams and grew from her failures as well as her achievements. She also surrounded herself with flourishing agents who championed her success. “The owner of my KW office, Wendy Patton, has always been a huge supporter of me,” Stephanie said. “It’s awesome to have someone so close to me be a great example of what powerful women can accomplish.”

Stephanie’s strong allegiance to her clients and her community is what makes her unique. What’s even more impressive is Stephanie’s steadfast commitment to being honest to herself and her business. “My advice to new agents is that success doesn’t happen overnight,” she said. “Be willing to work harder than you’ve ever worked before, be willing to do the things that others are not willing to do and eventually the hard work will pay off. Most importantly, take responsibility to build a dream that is true to yourself.”

Currently, Stephanie is most passionate about building relationships. “Somewhere along the way, I stopped staying in touch with my sphere,” she explained. “I had a ‘transactional business’ for a handful of years and realized that I wasn’t getting the same joy out of my day-to-day anymore. For the past four years, I’ve focused on getting back in touch and staying in relationships with my clients. My referral business is thriving, and I am so much happier helping the friends of my friends versus always competing on an appointment.” Stephanie has one other agent on her team — Drew McNeil, who is also a full-time firefighter — so she is positioned to focus solely on doing what she loves to do, which is helping people buy and sell real estate. “It’s so much more than that, though,” she said with a laugh. “I’m a problem solver and work hard to navigate through different challenges by finding creative solutions. I’ve experienced a lot in the last 16 years of real estate that has allowed me to anticipate challenges before they happen and circumvent any foreseen issues.” In her free time, Stephanie enjoys being out on the water as much as possible. She also takes time to ride her bike, practice yoga, camp, travel, garden and scuba dive. 32 • November 2021

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announcement

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JENIFER RACHEL

A Client-Focused Business Motivated by Family all in the family By Robbyn Moore Photos by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Jenifer Rachel was raised by a divorced mother who was a role model of determination.

At an early age, Jenifer was inspired to work hard for her dreams, uphold honesty at all times, and find ways to give back to others and her community. Her desire to achieve her goals put Jenifer at the top of her game in life and in real estate. Jenifer’s road to real estate success began after eight years as a Clarkston mail carrier and when her youngest daughter went to kindergarten. Leading up to her career move, Jenifer and her husband, Dennis, shared their love for the housing business and invested in home rental and renovations. At the urging of her husband, Jenifer got her builders and real estate licenses, and naturally transitioned into becoming a full-time agent. Today, Jenifer is the associate broker at Keller Williams Premier and a team lead for Rachel Realty Team. Since launching her career in 2006, she has achieved a career volume of over $90 million and has earned numerous awards. Jenifer has consciously surrounded herself with a talented team that consists of family and friends. “We all have unique strengths and exclusive responsibilities that complement one another,” Jenifer said. “And we all share a common love for real estate and for providing the best experience for our clients.” 36 • November 2021

@realproducers

Five years ago, Dennis — who also worked at the Clarkston Post Office — retired and got his real estate license to help Jenifer with home showings. “Dennis has always been my biggest fan,” Jenifer said. “He has shaped my career path through his encouragement and belief in my abilities.” In 2013, Jenifer added Lorraine Kalish as her administrative assistant. “I met Lorraine through our children’s ministry program at our church,” Jenifer recalled. “I saw how organized she was and I liked her personality, so I asked her if she wanted a job, and she’s been amazing ever since.” Jenifer’s daughter Holly got her real estate license right out of high school but didn’t join the team until she came home from college. She began working as a buyer’s agent and is successfully building a very strong clientele. Holly also has a son, Easton, who brings absolute joy to the entire family. “My son is the greatest motivation to strive for success, and I have the privilege of working with an amazing team who helps me achieve that goal,” Holly said. Ariyana McDonald is a longtime family friend who always thought she wanted to be a nurse. However, in 2017, she was offered the opportunity to be a real estate agent and realized that the job was more in line with her personality. She also discovered that she could take care of people just as she always wanted to do, albeit through real estate. “The best part about this job is that it doesn’t feel like a job when you’re doing something that you love,” she said. The newest member to the team is Morgan Johnston, who is overseeing all of the marketing activities. Morgan — who is the daughter of Jenifer’s

realproducersmag.com

oldest friend — is currently attending Grand Valley State University and is pursuing a career in marketing. “I am responsible for creating the marketing strategies and campaigns to reach new customers,” she said. Jenifer said that the most rewarding part of building a team with her family is seeing them rise to higher levels than she could’ve ever imagined. “I wanted to create a platform of excellence filled with education and systematic procedures that gives my team the opportunities to grow and exceed to a level beyond my own,” she explained. At the heart of her business is Jenifer’s community-focused mindset. She firmly believes success comes from getting involved, becoming a leader and joining a committee. “If you give yourself to something else, you will always get something in return,” she said. Most recently, Jenifer stepped down from her government affairs position on the North Oakland County Board of REALTORS® (NOCBOR), which she served on for 12 years. However, she is still NOCBOR’s national director, local director, a representative for Realcomp’s shareholders and is also on the state’s public policy committee.

Oakland County Real Producers • 37

Jenifer’s involvement on state and national real estate committees provides knowledge and insight that supports her passion for protecting people from bad real estate situations. “I want to be involved and educate myself as much as possible so I can be the solution for my clients,” she explained. “I love seeing the joy our team can bring to people when we can resolve their issues.”

“My faith in God showed me how to weather any storm and how to prioritize what really matters,” Jenifer said. Along with her faith, Jenifer’s allegiance to her family, to her work and to her community is making the world a better place. “I am a producer, not just a consumer. I bring everything God has gifted me to the table every day.”

When Jenifer steps away from her real estate work, she spends time with her husband and their children. Married for 25 years, they have a total of four children — the couple’s two girls plus Dennis’ two sons from a previous marriage — and now four grandchildren. Dennis’ son Ryan is married and has three children — Ryan, Rowan and Reagan — and Dennis’ youngest son Paul works and lives in Waterford. Daughter Holly is a thriving young agent on Jenifer’s team and has one son, Easton. Paige is the youngest of the group and is currently finishing her studies to become an architect. As a family, they like to vacation in Cancun, play tennis and ride snowmobiles.

Jenifer acknowledged that real estate is hard work but incredibly rewarding. “Never stop learning, and love your clients more than you love the money,” she said. “I am exceptionally good at looking out for my client’s best interest. I continually put their needs first in an effort to achieve success for everyone.”

Jenifer is also very active within her church at Mt. Zion in Clarkston where she has been involved in the children’s ministry for 21 years. 38 • November 2021

Jenifer affectionately refers to her team as a team of experts because of the collective knowledge, experience and expertise they bring to the group. “We’re always learning new things from each other,” she said. “And we take care of each other, which nurtures trust and stability. If you treat your family members on your team as employees and treat your employees like your family, you will always come out on top.” @realproducers

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42 • November 2021

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agent spotlight

A TOUGH NEGOTIATOR WITH A PASSION FOR PEOPLE Sandra Treboldi describes her passion for real estate as the fuel that gives her strength, drive and tenacity. For more than eight years, she has built her real estate business on this foundation, which has created genuine, trustworthy and loyal client relationships. “Without passion in your work, what are you really doing it for?” she asked. “I have always had a passion for real estate, a love for people and an appetite for negotiation.” Sandra decided to launch her real estate career after years of working in Royal Oak and Birmingham as a business owner in the clothing industry. “After I had my two boys, I chose to take some time off to focus on them and reevaluate the direction of my professional life,” she explained. “I was craving to do something that would allow me to utilize my strengths while also giving me the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others — real estate fit that description.”

to get resourceful,” she said. “It’s critical to be creative with your networking and marketing, and a great time to reach out to colleagues and find pocket listings.” In a tough marketplace, Sandra’s stellar negotiating skills have propelled her into a top-producing agent. “Negotiating is my ‘thing,’” Sandra said. “I love getting my client the best deal and leaving nothing on the table.” Along with her love for helping her clients, Sandra cherishes the freedom real estate offers, allowing her the flexibility to design her family time. When she’s not working, Sandra can be found with her two boys — Rocco, 11, and Julian, 9. They enjoy traveling, dancing, playing video games and simply hanging out, laughing.

Sandra first started as a buyer’s agent with SKBK Sotheby’s International Realty in 2010 and later joined Max Broock, REALTORS® in 2016. Today, Sandra is part of DOBI Real Estate, located in the Rail District of Birmingham, Michigan. Since launching her business, Sandra has a career volume of nearly $90 million. “I absolutely love what I do and can’t imagine doing anything else,” she said. Day to day, Sandra is a one-woman show; however, she has solid resources at her real estate firm to help her with her social media efforts and other miscellaneous transactions. Currently, her core focus is helping her clients move from one phase in their lives to the next, making that transition as seamless as possible. “I work a lot with families who are going through or adjusting to a divorce,” Sandra shared. “Since I’ve been through that experience myself, I understand firsthand how difficult and overwhelming it can be, and therefore, I’m very sensitive in helping my clients navigate through the process and get to a better place.” Like so many real estate professionals, Sandra’s biggest challenge these days is finding inventory, specifically at certain price points. “This is the time realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 43

As the daughter of Chaldean immigrants, Sandra learned from her parents the value of hard work, sacrifice and uncompromising ethics. The legacy of Sandra’s parents continues through her efforts as a single mother working full time, teaching her boys the importance of chasing a dream, rising above the struggles in life and the rewards that come from helping others. “I think being a real estate agent has made me feel like I’m really doing something that makes a difference,” Sandra explained. “I listen to what my clients want and treat them how I would want to be treated. As a result, I have built genuine relationships with clients who are very loyal to me. There’s no doubt: A career in real estate was the best decision I ever made.”

44 • November 2021

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event recap Photos taken at Cranbrook Custom Homes — The Heights in Rochester

Charity Event supporting Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County Women Build great!” said Ashley Ruokis from ATA National Title Group. “It was great networking and seeing so many amazing people in the industry who I have collaborated with,” said recent feature and Women Build member Maria Kopicki from Coldwell Banker Weir Manuel. Our first charity event was a huge success! Top real estate agents and our Preferred Partners gathered at Cranbrook Custom Homes — The Heights in Rochester to have some fun touring the stunning home all while generously supporting a great organization. Attendees enjoyed delicious food from Delectabowl Gourmet Food Truck & Catering. The event ended with the cooler of cheer, 50/50 and grand prize raffle drawings. Congratulations to the winners: Matthew Berney, Shannon Piwinski and Stacey Taylor. “It was my first event. From the house to the valet to the food and bar stations, everything was

48 • November 2021

Special thanks to our Platinum Sponsors and hosts — Cranbrook Custom Homes and Lombardo Homes. Thank you to our Gold Sponsors — Changing Places Moving, ATA National Title Group and Imperial Press — as well as to our Silver Sponsors — Justin Barton from Hommati, Omega Lending Group, Defined Cafe and We Cleanout Everything. Thank you to Toll Brothers for sponsoring the valet. Additionally, thank you to Andy Schwartz with Stylish

Detroit and Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts for capturing photos as well as to WayUp Media for capturing video. We also want to thank Angela Stopczy, Amanda Matkowski, Beth Vostokov, Johnna Stuck, Robbyn Moore and Dina Ranieri for helping with check-in and raffle ticket sales, as well as Erika Kruse for doing a great job with event coordination and set-up. We are so grateful to all of you who joined us and helped support Habitat For Humanity Women Build of Oakland County. After the event, we posted on social media to solicit a few more donations, and after 24 hours, we hit our goal of raising $5,000. Thank you all so much! We look forward to making more memories with you at our next event.

@realproducers

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

realproducersmag.com

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Oakland County Real Producers • 49

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

50 • November 2021

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

50/50 winner – Shannon Piwinski

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Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

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Oakland County Real Producers • 51

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Grand Prize TV Winner: Stacey Taylor Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

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Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Oakland County Real Producers • 53

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Photo by Stylish Detroit

54 • November 2021

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Photo by Stylish Detroit

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Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Cooler of cheer winner — Matthew Berney

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Photo by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

realproducersmag.com

Photo by Stylish Detroit

Oakland County Real Producers • 55

announcement

Do YOU want to

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

56 • November 2021

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

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

Lisa Allen Loan Originator

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

248-218-1757 ORDER ONLINE AT

definedtitle.com

Come on in… We’re Closing! NMLS#1252873 | NMLS# 1734362

Each Office is Independently Owned, Operated and Licensed.

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Oakland County Real Producers • 57

• 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 58 • November 2021

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Keith Kampe Home Lending Producing Sales Manager NMLS ID: 771049 Whether you're a first-time buyer, purchasing a second home or simply refinancing, I can personalize a home lending solution that’s tailor-fit to your needs.

35238 Woodward Avenue | Birmingham, MI 48009 KEITH.KAMPE@FLAGSTAR.COM OFFICE (248) 205-4309 • MOBILE (248) 935-3591 • FAX (866) 422-2597 Equal Housing Lender | Member FDIC 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.

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