CANADA 2-21-22

CANADA EDITION

1 Billion-Plus Reasons Why You Should be Active on Facebook

Turning Your Profession into a PASSION

FEATURED AGENTS

TIM PERRON VINCE & MONA BROWNER CAITLYN GALLAGHER RYAN JONES AMBER KENNEDY TODD LABELLE

How to CUT DOWN ON DIGITAL DISTRACTIONS and Up Your Productivity COVER STORY

CHELSEY & JAMESON FERGUSON

CANADA EDITION

VINCE & MONA BROWNER

TIM PERRON

houses withbeseptic commercial youth basketball and soccer.

While some might quicksystems, to call Vince 6 buildings—so 11be familiar 19 you have to they worked with a school tea and Mona Browner an anomaly in the with everything.” a social worker who identified real estate world, the better description students in order to purchase would be totakes use the word ‘innovators.’

Tim a very direct, targeted approach ® to marketing his listings. network is supplies, lunches, sneakers, as The tandem, REALTORS at His Keller that heRealty usually knows a number of stocking school pantries and th WilliamssuchSelect in Sydney, buyers who will beare interested any given at the local SPCA. Said Mo Nova Scotia, Canada, one ofinthe property. While he does social media ads are more hands-on. We’d rath few husband-and-wife teams in the and features listings on his company’s the hammer than tell somebod province.

And they have two children website, word of mouth tends to be his swing the hammer.”

– a situation they feel gives them an best marketing tool. He laughs. “This is a My biggest reward has been the satisTIM PERRON CHELSEY & JAMESON VINCE & MONA advantage when it comes to forging small town, so when people see me drive action I get from seeing happy clients,” AMBER KENNEDY FERGUSON BROWNER As for the future, Vince said the last year-and homes. up torelationships a property theyand kindselling of know what I’m up to.” ays Tim. “After you’ve been in this industry for a Since To The hundred-hour workweeks weren’t hile you realize that’s what matters most.

It feels good twoteam yearsbyhave extraordinary, with plen CHELSEY & JAMESON Since getting Realtor® in an to the herbeen building partner2019, Tim; er way through in the area. makelicense more of impactmessaging in Heher stays inTotouch with clients regularly, 23 24 27 hen I receive emails and text messages from20 people RYAN JONES ents to satisfy on a limited volume to purchas “We’re family-oriented.

We make no bones with our multifamily lan cutting it for Todd Labelle from FERGUSON May 2021; Amber Kennedy had her something a steady stream of referrals from one genwhenever he has comes across al estate industry. province, she’s now ready to mentorthey in- might fter a transaction letting me know how thrilled they are thethem “Wetotend be very with how clients that our family is important to us.

We have aeration be interested in, whether it is real estate related or not. over $51,000,00 Winnipeg, where he specialized as a sights set on making a big impression with thetonext willtransparent all be looking to we and enthusiasm, coming agents of her own, giving back to ith the house or how much they enjoyed the experiour clients, and we make ourselves availab lot of family time but we have a lot of clients who Charismatic and people-oriat viewings that you may have overlooked o Often, he just contacts people to let them know he’s of the newly constructed inmuch newest star for inventory. nce. should take note. If youbuyers call people chef forhomes thirteen years before finding realOntario’s ntorNew andagents Caitlyn industry that has done so for her. phone rings, we pick it up.

So we’re not diffic appreciate that because they see it reflected in themthinking of them.

When he’s not working, Tim enjoys ented, Ryan Jones’ potential always felt that he was looking out for our b ack promptly, treat them right, do the work you’re Ontario, Canada.

Still fresh to the industry, take the plunge Bygetting helping new transition into A few thingsto estate.

Open and eager to transition into outdoors, either fishing or hiking or the riding hisandfrom in touch never with and transferring information selves, and agents the way they live their lives, they but in real estate was clear or overwhelming. upposed to do—guess what? You can be successful in Amber recently started her real estate jourThroughwas building,pushy Amber has amassed We Five years later, business, she’s looking to grow her own side-by-side. proach to keep a career that would bring him a better something we hold very important,” Vince sa appreciate that,” Mona said.

“We even had a buyer the start. “I was working at a a strong to snagunderstanding a great home for a great price thank his business.” ney after transitioning from retail during of the structural overing southern team to increase her market reach.

She sees reach out to us because she read our profile online and including hisanab life-work Todd cu-partsguidance after became finishing my andwhich attention detail.

And Going Tim thought plansbalance, torestaurant hire to help pandemic.

Like forward, many, she it an assistant of homes has to helped her res-as im got his own start in the industry inthe 1994 after Added- his partner, Mona: “(The and future) isho n she new said ‘That’s what3rd we want,which we want somebody n’t bombard her too many agents quit six months into him keep up with his growing volume, may in degree, and I was serving bonus he’s a lovely, personable hilariou honest, and rious about working in sales.

Upon nswering a brokerage’s ad in a local newspaper.

He time for a career change. After was a good idential resales.

Oftentimes the current thing we focus on.

As long as we’re good, o who is like us.’

For us it’s more about our values and fact require him build theshe first team.

“IRyan want explains. to s and cold the calls, business, andtoaknows can help them a in local agent,” be around.

Ryan is younger truly, hands down, 100% ot his license following year, and today serves cli- the seeing anour adarea’s the newspaper for and anmarket a breakout year, she is now reprecan leave the generation areTODD taken care of, and we additional have money press in th helpwhen everyone I can, but Idifficult. want to continue doing it well. reflecting thatsales in relationship with our buyers “They said I would be good good ones!” friendships along things get CAITLYN GALLAGHER RYAN JONES AMBER KENNEDY LABELLE nts in Timmins with and the surrounding area sentative with Realty with Maybe RE/MAX Sarnia Realty Inc.join ReMax, feeling frustrated when trying toagents buyelaborates their Todd opportunity to who, at the I’ll be taking out a help-wanted ad of my own,” the end of the day, we’re not who sellers.

As a husband-and-wife team we set the stanetworks,follows Inc., with his business real estate, so Ifirst thought I However, Amber’s clear communication set simple onover 90 percent of and partnered he with licensed builder Timat Dillon of Tim home. laughs. standards foreverybody ourselves and out and dards different locally.

Teams are a new thing to Cape is go happy, andcru time, would also assist with real estate oming from either repeat clients or referrals. His 2021 would give it a shot has and here I amhome 10 years later.”

After training, Ryan is active in hishelps community, fuI hen leverages into Partnership programs through her Dillon Homes.

This partnership allowed her toof-since and Ithorough market research steer tohosting them osed year-to-date volume is well over $12 and a half barrier.

We just want to do work keep us h Breton.

We’ve been working together joined there.” respect fro Todd took theafocused plunge, left the kitchen, andgive started his license, his efforts on delivback, with focusEarning onoffer. the Ottawa to repeat business.

85% of herthe volume fice herinearly properties through widehigh-end variety of findhelp her niche earning with success inRyan building through the bidding wars to an aaccepted “[TheyFood million.

To put that in perspective, for market the CONTENTS keep us healthy.”

2010 and people valued that from the beginning. exceptional service, whichhomes. has year, helpedcan] him grow also part of the Relations Com ofGovernment the before way, he keeps to selling residential maintained businesses andering websites.

With ntire real estate largely board wasthrough just over $157 and a half custom homes and spec homes. up bidding on five homes they get anin They see we forty have transactions a relationshipa that is greatend in our with each passing year.

Serving the greater Ottawa the local Real Estate Board, lobbying gov emails, and over shared co million, which thatlist.

Tim alone accounts around accepted offer.” m at the topmeans of her herfor focus is now onwork increasing volume continuing environment, inwhile our regular lives, and it reflects region, heestate is entirely referral-based, establishing a solid issues to protect consumer.

During any % of the total sales volume for the entire 4) HOW TOtoNortheastern ANSWER THE 17) CREATIVE MEDITATION backthethe lost art and camar While the sale side in residential real estate may It’s no question real market is on fire.

Homes serve existingthe clients the best she can.

Having that in our business.” ntario area. reputation in the area. Putting his clients’ needs first, he enjoys catching up with friends and fam are selling in aup veryWHY short period of time and closing from weekly and check-ins; hasleve clients on a Amber personal have gone well for Todd, the Aside hours still weren’t upmonthly a real estate transaction has a team will free time for her family, spending INEVITABLE QUESTION: FOR THE REAL ESTATE Ryanmore continually exceeds expectations. active and travelling (when possible of cour ® eyond the exceptional service he offers, another reason quickly.

Based out of Sarnia, Ontario; Amber and her come up with some creative ways of keeping in touch Vince has been a REALTOR for 13 years now after es of those involved.

There’s CHOOSE days with herYOU? two children or with travelling.

Volunteering to par his individual labor needs. After speak- prospecting, a little match SHOULD PROFESSIONAL or Tim’s success is simply the diverse Irange of skillsare he currently partner building homes.

Theyand have clients. deciding on6 anew career switch, Monawith joined ®him She has commissioned a local artist to ent on the part of the buyers, at the local soup kitchen, helping fund events at small ing withthrough,” a few commercial , he made andtodirect Todd ca “I always follow Ryanthe says.

“IfRealtors I say Island, I will There the is no limit Ryan’scalling, growth, as his ski rings to the table. He’s fluent in everything from sin-approach shortly thereafter.

They cover Cape Breton a special that sets them apart from other create framed drawings of her clients’ houses which is to takehomes the stress out of the totown halls, or do drop offsswitch at the community fridge keep le-family to high-end residences recreational something, I do it.

I simply listen to their wants and port system set him up for success.

“My o in that direction and has thoroughly loved his ing opportunity with buyin Sydney, Sydney River,not Westmount, Glace Bay, Realtors® in the area.

Firstly, they prefer to build she gives as a personalized gift. “Personalized gifts 21) TURNING YOUR nd commercial andthem multifamily investment ents by easing the herproperties. scheduleREASONS full.

A growing team will allow her to con8) along 1 BILLION-PLUS needs, and make sure that it lines up with their goals. best in town, and my colleagues and adm career since.

For Todd, the six years have exactly? In Todd’s industry Dominion, New Waterford of Nova subdivision Rather, byever focusing on and highDonkin end areas helplast establish ongoing relationships.”

In a lot of places, you can make a living in projects.

PROFESSION A PASSION opefully transforming what is specializing tinue to focus on personal development, through readThen, I Contact do Last everything I duo need to make itproperties happen.”INTO He remarkable,” he explains. “2021 was a recor WHY YOU SHOULD BE ACTIVE Scotia. year the closed on 52 with Tim at 705-465-2550 included his specialty in selling land for commerspec builds, her team custom designs the final prodnly one kind of property. Here we have so many difalways has hisperrontimothy@gmail.com sights set on$7 their best interests, I couldn’t have done it without them. When I event into an enjoyable one. homes, ing working improving herself while volume of under million thanks tothriving a even moretime email erent kinds of properties—waterfront country uctorand featuresout, ofaorconstantly her clients’ home to satisfy both When free it, Amber volunteers at her Todd enjoys the freedom, cial andjust residential development, asankle a allows leader ON FACEBOOK ifforit the means highlighting why a house may not be the in JuneON and couldn’t drive for monthh 25) HOW TO CUT DOWN atest resource, leading to new on the lookout next adventure. than production 50 percent quality. rate of referrals.

And inlocal addition to(Children’s their price range and Her clients CAS Aid Society) where she is on with own boss that comes in this market.

Although Todd works solo, he occarighttheir one.family-oriented “I’m not afraid to havetothe tough conversastepped up and offered help. I appreciate th f that client base. She holds approach business, it certainly DIGITAL DISTRACTIONS AND can choose to either buy a plot of land and build the Board of Corporate Services as a community Copyright Top Agent Magazine mercial real estate.

Set to he sionally does bring in a team member depending on Reach Vince and Mona Browner at 902-57 tions.

They are needed sometimes, when clients may be dously.”

As he looks ahead, he hopes to keep doesn’t hurt that Vince and Mona are extraordinarily wing clientele, which covers from the ground up, or they can buy an existing build representative. She also volunteers for Diversity Ed losing sight of why we started out in the first place.” while continuing to deliver great service. or email monabrowner@gmail.com find the right location, he the assignment. well-known in the community.

Vince has coached mercial properties. Her expeand her team will then take care of everything else. which promotes inclusivity for youth in the LGBTQ+ Throughout the transaction and afterwards, Ryan stays remain very involved, because theinvolve relationsa tributions which structions as well as rentals This successful approach has helped Amber close 18 community. Amber enjoys long family walks with her in communication, updating them on any news, changes, favorite part about this business.”

Copyright Top Agent M As a dedicated commercial real estate agent, Todd remote villages in the Phone 310-734-1440 | Fax 310-734-1440 transactions since May. two children and new puppy. Within the next 5 yearsPhilip st as a one stop shop for what and trends in the market. “I send out a newsletter which Amber plans starting businesswife with and either he odd case comes up that’s his Filipino their servesand Winnipeg, however, someon deals ex- a rental focuses onprimarily local businesses keeps clients in the loop | www.topagentmagazine.com Amber has been cultivating hera few brandhours positioning her current home orlarge an additional property.

She plans rtise, Caitlyn mag@topagentmagazine.com will find someTodd isn’t working, he en pand to away.

With his focus on about what’s happening in the area. We love where we and marketing.

She has recently been meeting with on getting her builder’s license to work more on that er and bring them in.

No portion of this issue may be reproduced any manner without prior theand publisher.

Agent golfing, enjoyin live, so Iintry to deals, make sure comes in consent all of a of hisTop puppy, land hewhatsoever isthat closing inthrough on 14-15 deals year (socialGA, media managers) to com- are side of her career. the “I like havingof the knowledge and Magazine is publishedDiscovered

by Feature Social Publications Inc. Although precautions taken to ensure accuracy published our communication.” and unplugging nature. has a 94% success and close understanding rate, which is highly pletely redesign the construction website.

New brandof the builder’s side of things. Itinreally a engagementmaterials, she maintains Top Agent Magazine cannot be heldimpressive responsiblefor for opinions expressedcontracts or facts supplied by its authors. these particular with their as he plans to map out ho ing and billboards at all her new construction sites helps to be licensed as a Realtor® and as a builder or change address, send inquiry mag@topagentmagazine.com.

Published Once the to transaction is complete, buyers and sellers in the U.S. can expect a To giftsubscribe on the one type of nature. While land deals take Ilonger and incontinue to sell retires, land, and will also be a great way to differentiate her agency. because can actively take over if my partner look back on their experience with gratitude. One buyer purchase and at holiday time.

Coupled with over 15 volve years frequent of experience brought steps back orfor justsealing needs somebelow time away.” him as well as help hurdles, Todd has a knack recently raved, “We are so lucky that we had the pleaonal with an occasional visit asAgent he canMagazine establish a health these andagent. shares; he has the abil- Top sure to snag Ryanlarge Jonestransactions as our real estate We were 2 a quick chat and business for To learn more about Amber Kennedy, email amberkennedy1919@gmail.com, first time home buyers in the peak of the crazy winter/ he will continue to be a To ity and skillset to keep sales “flowing and closing.” s going well. visit amberkennedy.ca (647) 268-4993. spring 2021 market, and having Ryan guideoruscall through For more about Ryan Jones

ou don’t have to talk to Tim Perron or very long to understand why he is ne of the most trusted Realtors in all of ortheastern Ontario. There’s a genuine armth there, and you get the sense of omeone who not only cares deeply about he people he serves, but also of a conummate professional who has the depth f knowledge about his market and indusy to ensure that they are served well.

TODD LABELLE

CAITLYN GALLAGHER

www.

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com

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How to Answer the Inevitable Question:

Why Should I Choose You? In some markets, a real estate agent is competing against thousands of other individuals and teams. There are only so many bells and whistles—so many buzz words you can throw at prospective clients. To a buyer or seller who has interviewed several other agents already, all of it begins to blend together and every realtor sounds as though they’re reading off the same script.

Your clients want to know why they should choose you. They want to know what makes you different. It’s highly likely they’ll even 4

ask you this question directly in your initial interview, but as an agent, you might have a hard time coming up with a response that either you or your clients are truly satisfied with.

To answer your client’s why you must go back to your own why.

WHAT SKILLS DO YOU HAVE THAT OTHERS DON’T? Just because there are other agents in your area doesn’t mean those agents have the

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same skills that you do. We each bring our own backgrounds and experiences to the table. What comes naturally to you? Maybe it’s your negotiating skills or your ability to connect people that sets you apart from the rest.

WHAT PART OF THE BUSINESS DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST? There are skills and then there are passions.

In real estate, there’s so much to enjoy.

There’s the opportunity to match a family with the right home and the sense of safety and comfort that brings their loved ones.

There’s the ability to give someone a sense of financial security by advocating and negotiating on their behalf. And then there’s the houses and neighborhoods themselves— the architecture, history, and community.

WHAT ARE YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS? When you look at your client list and the portfolio of work that you’ve built over the years, what are you most proud of? Sure, there are financial rewards, but there are also other accomplishments that your prospective clients will likely be eager to hear about, such as happy client testimonials, a thriving referral business, volunteer and charity work, or even how you lift and support your own team.

Everyone needs money, but those other accomplishments and how you speak about them show your client what kind of person Top Agent Magazine

you are and if that’s the type of person they want to work with.

WHAT ARE YOUR INTERESTS? Real estate might seem like your entire world at times, but you also have a life outside of work. Maybe you like music or traveling or being outdoors. The best part about being a realtor is that there are often ways you can thread these interests into your work, like hosting client functions and events.

WHAT DOES YOUR CLIENT CARE ABOUT THE MOST? Let’s face it, your clients likely care the most about only a few things: saving or making the most money, doing it as soon as possible, and making sure that doing so isn’t too stressful. Your response to your client’s question—why should I choose you?— should address these concerns.

Maybe you excel at creating systems that make the selling process efficient and profitable for your client. Or maybe you excel at providing a personalized experience for homebuyers.

Try out a few responses. You might even start with a template: My [skills or passions] helps me [provide this service] because I can [achieve my client’s goal].

Like most things in life, coming up with a compelling and concise response for why clients should hire you will take time and practice.

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TIM PERRON You don’t have to talk to Tim Perron for very long to understand why he is one of the most trusted Realtors in all of Northeastern Ontario. There’s a genuine warmth there, and you get the sense of someone who not only cares deeply about the people he serves, but also of a consummate professional who has the depth of knowledge about his market and industry to ensure that they are served well.

“My biggest reward has been the satisfaction I get from seeing happy clients,” says Tim. “After you’ve been in this industry for a while you realize that’s what matters most. It feels good when I receive emails and text messages from people after a transaction letting me know how thrilled they are with the house or how much they enjoyed the experience. New agents should take note. If you call people back promptly, treat them right, do the work you’re supposed to do—guess what? You can be successful in this business.”

Tim got his own start in the industry in 1994 after answering a brokerage’s ad in a local newspaper. He got his license the following year, and today serves clients in Timmins and the surrounding area with Realty Networks, Inc., with over 90 percent of his business coming from either repeat clients or referrals. His 2021 closed year-to-date volume is well over $12 and a half million. To put that in perspective, the volume for the entire real estate board was just over $157 and a half million, which means that Tim alone accounts for around 8% of the total sales volume for the entire Northeastern Ontario area.

Beyond the exceptional service he offers, another reason for Tim’s success is simply the diverse range of skills he brings to the table. He’s fluent in everything from single-family homes to high-end residences to recreational and commercial and multifamily investment properties.

“In a lot of places, you can make a living specializing in only one kind of property. Here we have so many different kinds of properties—waterfront homes, country 6

houses with septic systems, commercial buildings—so you have to be familiar with everything.”

Tim takes a very direct, targeted approach to marketing his listings. His network is such that he usually knows a number of buyers who will be interested in any given property. While he does social media ads and features listings on his company’s website, word of mouth tends to be his best marketing tool. He laughs. “This is a small town, so when people see me drive up to a property they kind of know what I’m up to.”

He stays in touch with clients regularly, messaging them whenever he comes across something they might be interested in, whether it is real estate related or not.

Often, he just contacts people to let them know he’s thinking of them. When he’s not working, Tim enjoys getting outdoors, either fishing or hiking or riding his side-by-side.

Going forward, Tim plans to hire an assistant to help him keep up with his growing volume, which may in fact require him to build the area’s first team. “I want to help everyone I can, but I want to continue doing it well.

Maybe I’ll be taking out a help-wanted ad of my own,” he laughs.

Contact Tim at 705-465-2550 or email perrontimothy@gmail.com Copyright Top Top Agent Agent Magazine Magazine

Maisonneuve Dawkins Professional Corp is proud to congratulate

TIM PERRON

on being featured for Canada in Top Agent Magazine!

MAISONNEUVE DAWKINS PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION

T. 705.264.2385 | F. 705.268.3949 luc.maisonneuve@ML-law.ca 15 Balsam Street South | Timmins | Ontario | P4N 2C7

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1 Billion-Plus Reasons Why You Should Be Active on Facebook

By Bubba Mills

The number is staggering and potentially career ending for REALTORS® who ignore it: 1,440,000,000. That’s the total number of monthly active users on the social medium Facebook.

That number alone is reason enough to use it regularly in your real estate business. But Facebook can also help turn you into the expert in your community. Just by sharing knowledge and relevant events about the community you can become the go-to source for all things local – a perfect way to capture the attention of prospective buyers.

Plus, Facebook advertising also gives you tons of targeting layers like age, location, recent life events and interests. Plus, it constantly adds new targeting filters and functions that help you reach even more niche prospects who closely meet your customer criteria. Talk about pinpointing a target audience.

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Another Facebook real estate ad tool is Website Custom Audiences that lets you create Facebook ads that target users who have visited your website.

And several apps specifically for Facebook have emerged. Consider these: • Heyo.com: Helps you host contests, showcase promotions and high-

light special offers.

• Woobox.com: Let’s you easily create quizzes and other fun tools for engaging content.

• Pagemodo.com: Helps you make your Facebook business page both sleek and stylish and tabs allow for easy lead capture.

But the latest offering is just as cool. It’s called Facebook Live and it lets you stream live video on the internet. I recently wrote about Periscope, another live video streaming app, but when you use Facebook Live you’re automatically featured at the top of Facebook users’ news feed. What’s more, statistics show that live video is viewed more than recorded video.

How can REALTORS® use Facebook Live?

Open Houses: Broadcast a walk-through of a new listing

and highlight all the great features.

Webinars: Host live webinars targeted to buyers and sellers. They can sub-

mit questions just like a real-life seminar.

Real Estate Talk Show: Offer the latest news in the industry plus share lo-

cal events and your newest listings. In short, become the Lester Holt or Diane Sawyer of real estate in your town with your own “TV” show!

Facebook offers these tips for using Facebook Live: Promote: Tease upcoming Facebook Live broadcasts for more viewers.

Plan better: Take time to plan what you want to do in the video, whether

it’s a few key talking points or to have a few questions ready ahead of time in a Q&A, in case incoming comments slow down.

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Invest in some equipment: A shaky live stream turns off viewers so con-

sider a tripod or other stabilizing tools, especially if you’re taking viewers on a tour of an open house. And check the shot before going live.

Get the lighting right: If you’re indoors be sure you have plenty of good

lighting and avoid a lot of light directly behind you because it’ll wash you out.

Sound good: A common mistake for beginners is overlooking sound.

Consider an external microphone to make sure your viewers can actually hear you.

And if the live option makes you a little nervous, you can also stream pre-recorded videos. Hey, that has worked like a charm for TV for decades. Some businesses promote their web series to “air” on Facebook Live at a certain time like TV shows. After they are streamed, Facebook Live videos function as normal Facebook videos. Some business owners believe videos may perform better if they begin as live ones.

NowThis, a news company that publishes entirely on social platforms, experimented by streaming a 38-minute compilation of its favorite viral videos via Facebook Live. The stream received over 20,000 views and over 500 comments, according to Facebook’s counters.

Yes, all the new-fangled internet tools, apps and options for REALTORS® can be a bit overwhelming. Just take it one step at a time and you’ll slowly be right there in the business-winning mix. E-mail me today at Article@CorcoranCoaching.com and I’ll send you more free information about how technology can help your real estate business.

Copyright©, Bubba Mills. All rights reserved.

Bubba Mills is the CEO of Corcoran Consulting and Coaching Inc. (www.corcorancoaching.com/programs, 800-957-8353), an international Real Estate, Mortgage, and Small Business coaching company committed to helping clients balance success in business, while building value in life. Bubba Mills is a nationally recognized inspirational and education speaker, coach and mentor to the top real estate agents and mortgage companies. To find out more about Corcoran Consulting & Coaching, call 1-800-957-8353 or visit us at www.CorcoranCoaching.com.

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CHELSEY & JAMESON FERGUSON Top Agent Magazine

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CHELSEY & JAMESON FERGUSON “We make sure we get to know our buyers and sellers.

For us, their friendship matters most of all. At the end of the day, it’s so gratifying to be invited to their baby showers, birthday parties, and life events.”

Throughout their lives, Chelsey and Jameson Ferguson have been drawn to real estate. For eighteen years, they built and sold homes around the 12

New Brunswick area, which later inspired Chelsey to pursue her license.

Soon after, Jameson decided to join her in the business, combining his Top Agent Magazine

construction background with her in-depth knowledge of the local housing market to quickly distinguish themselves in the region.

Buyer Specialist, the two possess the integrity, expertise, and tireless work ethic needed to meet the needs of any transaction.

Today, Chelsey and Jameson lead Dare to Dream Realty, powered

by Keller Williams Capital Realty, where they assist clients throughout Woodstock and the surrounding areas of New Brunswick. With her serving as a Listing Specialist and him a

When listing a property, Chelsey and Jameson prefer a hands-on approach.

After helping their clients prepare their home for the market, they share it via a blend of highly targeted campaigns.

Along the way, they utilize proven resources like Facebook Ads or guided

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3D tours to give their sellers an added advantage. Comfortable working remotely or in-person, they personalize their service to each client, ensuring a seamless transaction.

Elsewhere, Chelsey and Jameson are just as committed when assisting their buyers. Leveraging their insights into the region, as well as their strong foundations in construction, they carefully guide their sellers to the right investment for their best interests. In fact, they keep in touch long after the deals are done to provide ongoing support and ensure their clients are thriving in

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their new homes. “We make sure we get to know our buyers and sellers,” Chelsey says. “For us, their friendship matters most of all. At the end of the day, it’s so gratifying to be invited to their baby showers, birthday parties, and life events.”

Through the years, the Fergusons have earned a fantastic reputation throughout New Brunswick, as evidenced by their strong rate of repeat clients and referrals. More than anything, though, they are inspired by the ways in which their career has allowed them to forge countless connections in their community.

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“In real estate, you never know whom you’re going to meet,” Jameson says.

“From celebrities to workers in the entertainment industry, I love fostering new relationships in our hometown.”

Outside their career, Chelsey and Jameson can be found renovating their home, tending to their burgeoning hobby farm, or visiting the various parks and nature preserves around their hometown. Devoted parents, they also enjoy spending quality time with their three children.

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Going forward, Chelsey and Jameson have strong plans for the future of their business. On pace to close out 2021 with 54 units in volume, they intend on doubling their production in the coming year while expanding their volunteer and advocacy work. Above all, they are excited to scale the model of boutique

client service that has brought them so much success in real estate. “In our career, we’ve had the ability to cultivate so many lasting relationships,” Chelsey says. “We have been blessed to meet so many different clients, show them into our area, and make them feel welcome in our community.”

To learn more about Chelsey and Jameson Ferguson email letsgetmoving@kw.com, visit daretodreamrealty.ca or call (506) 425-5049. www.

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Creative Meditation

for the Real Estate Professional The real estate world can be an industry of intense emotional and psychological pressure. Deadlines, meetings, employee needs, client needs and a hundred other items on which one needs to focus on a daily basis can create an environment that is not only not conducive to mental well-being, but can be outright detrimental.

Learning to quiet the mind has been the focus of meditation for millennia. While those not familiar with the concept of meditation may instinctively think of yoga mats, incense, and chanting when the word “meditation” arises, there are in fact, many forms of meditation that can integrate quite Top Agent Magazine

easily into the daily hustle & bustle world of the busy real estate agent.

First, think about when you are alone each day. Here are some possible times to practice mediation during the work day: • When driving to the office in the morning • When driving to a showing or to meet a client • Before your open house begins • After the open house • Driving home in the evening 17

Repeating a mantra can be very calming, particularly when you are trying to rid yourself of negative, self-defeating thoughts.

These are just five examples of times when you can take advantage of meditation techniques to quiet your mind and, by extension, increase productivity. A calm mind is a more thoughtful, better tuned instrument.

Here are some examples of meditations you can try:

1

For when you’re driving, download and listen to any number of audio Guided Meditations available on the internet. YouTube has a generous selection of these, many of which are geared towards success in business.

2 Repeating a mantra can be very calm-

ing, particularly when you are trying to rid yourself of negative, self-defeating thoughts. It doesn’t matter what words you choose, as long as you feel good about your choice. “I am a success” or “I will approach all of my clients with love today” are two examples. Whatever works for you and gets you into the desired mindset.

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3 Something as simple as listening to pleasant music in your car can be considered meditation, provided it brings you to a place of comfort as opposed to one of spiritual discordance.

4 The most important thing, however, is to take time to find gratitude in everything you do. Count your blessings, be grateful the exciting career in real estate you have built for yourself.

Once you’ve mastered some of these techniques at quieting your mind, you can attempt to find some that work even better for you. Walking, plain silence, or even exercise can have meditative qualities and benefits if practiced on a regular basis.

When you’re truly feeling calm, your clients can sense this. And with this comes the feeling that you can be relied upon to stay focused and calm in any unforeseen circumstances. And in the world of real estate, that’s a highly prized commodity.

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VINCE & MONA BROWNER While some might be quick to call Vince and Mona Browner an anomaly in the real estate world, the better description would be to use the word ‘innovators.’

The tandem, REALTORS® at Keller Williams Select Realty in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada, are one of the few husband-and-wife teams in the province. And they have two children – a situation they feel gives them an advantage when it comes to forging relationships and selling homes.

“We’re family-oriented. We make no bones with our clients that our family is important to us. We have a lot of family time but we have a lot of clients who appreciate that because they see it reflected in themselves, and the way they live their lives, and they appreciate that,” Mona said. “We even had a buyer reach out to us because she read our profile online and she said ‘That’s what we want, we want somebody who is like us.’ For us it’s more about our values and reflecting that in our relationship with our buyers and sellers. As a husband-and-wife team we set the standards different locally. Teams are a new thing to Cape Breton. We’ve been working together since I joined in 2010 and people valued that from the beginning.

They see we have a relationship that is great in our work environment, in our regular lives, and it reflects in our business.”

Vince has been a REALTOR® for 13 years now after deciding on a career switch, and Mona joined him shortly thereafter. They cover the Cape Breton Island, Sydney, Sydney River, Westmount, Glace Bay, Dominion, New Waterford and Donkin areas of Nova Scotia. Last year the duo closed on 52 properties with a volume of just under $7 million thanks to a more than 50 percent rate of referrals. And in addition to their family-oriented approach to business, it certainly doesn’t hurt that Vince and Mona are extraordinarily well-known in the community. Vince has coached Top Agent Magazine

youth basketball and soccer. Together, they worked with a school teacher and a social worker who identified at-need students in order to purchase children supplies, lunches, sneakers, as well as stocking school pantries and the shelves at the local SPCA. Said Mona: “We are more hands-on. We’d rather swing the hammer than tell somebody how to swing the hammer.”

As for the future, Vince said the last year-and-a-half to two years have been extraordinary, with plenty of clients to satisfy on a limited volume to purchase locally.

“We tend to be very transparent with how we deal with our clients, and we make ourselves available. If the phone rings, we pick it up. So we’re not difficult to get in touch with and transferring information to clients is something we hold very important,” Vince said.

Added his partner, Mona: “(The future) is not something we focus on. As long as we’re good, our clients are taken care of, and we have money in the bank at the end of the day, we’re not agents who set these big standards for ourselves and go out and crush every barrier. We just want to do work to keep us happy and keep us healthy.”

Reach Vince and Mona Browner at 902-577-7025, or email monabrowner@gmail.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 19

CAITLYN GALLAGHER Caitlyn has worked her way through various positions in the real estate industry.

After seeing her passion and enthusiasm, an agent became her mentor and Caitlyn was soon encouraged to take the plunge and get a license herself. Five years later, she’s flying solo and covering southern Saskatchewan. She doesn’t bombard her clientele with newsletters and cold calls, but instead looks to form friendships with them. This can start with simple follows on social media, which she then leverages into relationships and converts to repeat business. 85% of her transactions are referrals, maintained largely through social media with Instagram at the top of her list.

Caitlyn understands that a real estate transaction has a massive impact on the lives of those involved. There’s a huge emotional investment on the part of the buyers, and her number one goal is to take the stress out of the process. She serves her clients by easing them along the path of the transaction, hopefully transforming what is traditionally a high stress event into an enjoyable one.

Happy clients are her greatest resource, leading to new sales, so she takes care of that client base. She holds yearly events for her growing clientele, which covers both residential and commercial properties. Her experiences in new home constructions as well as rentals put her at the top of the list as a one stop shop for what her clients need. When the odd case comes up that’s out of her sphere of expertise, Caitlyn will find someone who knows the answer and bring them in.

in the area. To make more of an impact in the province, she’s now ready to mentor incoming agents of her own, giving back to the industry that has done so much for her.

By helping new agents transition into the business, she’s looking to grow her own team to increase her market reach. She sees too many new agents quit six months into the business, and knows she can help them along when things get difficult.

Partnership programs through her home office help market her properties through a wide variety of businesses and websites. With forty transactions a year, her focus is now on increasing volume while continuing to serve existing clients the best she can. Having that team will free up more time for her family, spending days with her two children or travelling. Volunteering at the local soup kitchen, helping fund events at small town halls, or drop offs at the community fridge keep her schedule full. A growing team will allow her to continue to focus on personal development, through reading or working out, constantly improving herself while on the lookout for the next adventure.

Besides the social media engagement she maintains with her database, they can expect a gift on the one year anniversary of their purchase and at holiday time.

She gets even more personal with an occasional visit to their home or place of business for a quick chat and checkup that everything is going well.

Currently, she sits on the board of directors at the Saskatchewan Realtors® Association, maintaining a solid overview of the market and changing conditions 20

For more information about Caitlyn, please call 306-209-9617 or email caitgallrealestate@gmail.com Top Agent Magazine

Turning Your Profession into a Passion The old adage goes that if you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.

On the other hand, it’s easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day worries and responsibilities of your career, even if you generally enjoy what you do. While there’s no guaranteeing that every day on the job will be a picnic, there are a few steps you can take to vastly improve your morale and transform your profession into a passion.

After all, cultivating a passion for what you do will not only add to your quality Top Agent Magazine

of life, but will likely make you more successful in the long run.

BUILD YOUR BASE OF KNOWLEDGE Knowledge builds confidence, and confidence breeds success. A sure way to light a fire in your heart for your daily work is to challenge yourself to learn more and expand your understanding of your field. By doing so, you equip yourself for success, create challenges, and find the most inter-

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esting features of your work—especially those that most appeal to your interests and talents. Try reading the top five books on the topic of your industry, or subscribe to a podcast where thriving professionals offer their two cents. Either way, learning more about your industry is bound to reveal a source of inspiration worth pursuing.

THINK ABOUT THE BIG PICTURE

and excelling in your field, you may find that others’ approaches inspire your own.

Likewise, what you learn from other successful, passionate people in your field can help you shape your own office and work life, in turn creating more opportunities for you to fall in love with what you do, all over again.

TAKE RISKS

CONNECT WITH LIKE-MINDED PROFESSIONALS

One of the biggest hindrances of professional passion is falling into a rut. Routines are familiar and everyday responsibilities vie for our energy. But the next time you tackle a task the way that you always have, take a moment and try to refresh your perspective—is there a more clever or efficient way you could approach this project?

Even better: why not take the plunge and do the things you’ve always been meaning to—throw that client appreciation event you’ve put off planning, take the continuing education course you keep forgetting to register for, even try a creative activity that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

There’s no better way to inject some passion into your life than by going outside your bubble and taking a risk.

Have you ever chatted with someone who was overflowing with energy for what they do? That sort of passion tends to be infectious—often causing us to beg our own questions about professional engagement.

By participating in local organizations or networking with those who are active

Passion comes from all directions—from your own interior journey and from the world around you. To transform your profession into a passion worth having, invest in yourself and venture into the vast world around you. You’ll surely reap the rewards.

Sometimes reinvigorating your passion for your work is about looking outward, rather than inward. Gain some perspective and consider who your work helps in the long run. As a real estate professional—whether you work as an agent, broker, in mortgages, home inspections, or otherwise—your work positively impacts someone else’s home-sweet-home. You make a difference. While it may seem like just another day at the office, taking a moment to visualize exactly who you are helping in the world at large is a great way to add some motivational fire to your daily tasks.

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RYAN JONES Charismatic and people-oriented, Ryan Jones’ potential in real estate was clear from the start. “I was working at a restaurant after finishing my 3rd degree, and I was serving a local agent,” Ryan explains.

“They said I would be good at real estate, so I thought I would give it a shot and here I am 10 years later.” After earning his license, Ryan focused his efforts on delivering exceptional service, which has helped him grow with each passing year. Serving the greater Ottawa region, he is entirely referral-based, establishing a solid reputation in the area. Putting his clients’ needs first, Ryan continually exceeds expectations.

at viewings that you may have overlooked otherwise. I always felt that he was looking out for our best interest but was never pushy or overwhelming. We were able to snag a great home for a great price thanks to Ryan’s guidance and attention to detail. And as an added extra bonus - he’s a lovely, personable and hilarious person to be around. Ryan is truly, hands down, 100% one of the good ones!”

“I always follow through,” Ryan says. “If I say I will do something, I do it. I simply listen to their wants and needs, and make sure that it lines up with their goals.

Then, I do everything I need to make it happen.” He always has his sights set on their best interests, even if it means highlighting why a house may not be the right one. “I’m not afraid to have the tough conversations. They are needed sometimes, when clients may be losing sight of why we started out in the first place.”

Throughout the transaction and afterwards, Ryan stays in communication, updating them on any news, changes, and trends in the market. “I send out a newsletter which focuses on local businesses and keeps clients in the loop about what’s happening in the area. We love where we live, so I try to make sure that comes through in all of our communication.”

There is no limit to Ryan’s growth, as his skills and support system set him up for success. “My office is the best in town, and my colleagues and admin are truly remarkable,” he explains. “2021 was a record year, and I couldn’t have done it without them. When I injured my ankle in June and couldn’t drive for months, everyone stepped up and offered help. I appreciate them tremendously.” As he looks ahead, he hopes to keep expanding while continuing to deliver great service. “I want to remain very involved, because the relationships are my favorite part about this business.”

Ryan is active in his community, hosting fundraisers to give back, with a focus on the Ottawa Food Bank. He is also part of the Government Relations Committee with the local Real Estate Board, lobbying government on issues to protect the consumer. During any free time, he enjoys catching up with friends and family, getting active and travelling (when possible of course).

Once the transaction is complete, buyers and sellers look back on their experience with gratitude. One buyer recently raved, “We are so lucky that we had the pleasure to snag Ryan Jones as our real estate agent. We were first time home buyers in the peak of the crazy winter/ spring 2021 market, and having Ryan guide us through the process made it so much easier. He really listens/ takes into account what YOU, the client, are looking for in a home and goes the extra mile by pointing out things Top Agent Magazine

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For more about Ryan Jones, please call 613-314-5075 or email ryan-jones@coldwellbanker.ca Copyright Top Agent Magazine 23

AMBER KENNEDY Since getting her Realtor® license in May 2021; Amber Kennedy has had her sights set on making a big impression with buyers of newly constructed homes in Ontario, Canada. Still fresh to the industry, Amber recently started her real estate journey after transitioning from retail during the pandemic. Like many, she thought it was a good time for a career change. After a breakout year, she is now a sales representative with RE/MAX Sarnia Realty Inc. and partnered with licensed builder Tim Dillon of Tim Dillon Homes. This partnership has allowed her to find her niche with early success in building high-end custom homes and spec homes.

It’s no question the real estate market is on fire. Homes are selling in a very short period of time and closing quickly. Based out of Sarnia, Ontario; Amber and her partner are currently building 6 new homes. They have a special approach that sets them apart from other Realtors® in the area. Firstly, they prefer not to build subdivision projects. Rather, by focusing on high end spec builds, her team custom designs the final product and features of her clients’ home to satisfy both their price range and production quality. Her clients can choose to either buy a plot of land and build from the ground up, or they can buy an existing build and her team will then take care of everything else.

This successful approach has helped Amber close 18 transactions since May. Amber has been cultivating her brand positioning and marketing. She has recently been meeting with Discovered Social (social media managers) to completely redesign the construction website. New branding and billboards at all her new construction sites will also be a great way to differentiate her agency.

Coupled with over 15 years of experience brought

to the team by her building partner Tim; a steady stream of referrals from one generation to the next will all be looking to Ontario’s newest star for inventory.

Through building, Amber has amassed a strong understanding of the structural parts of homes which has helped her residential resales. Oftentimes the current market can leave the younger generation feeling frustrated when trying to buy their first home. However, Amber’s clear communication and thorough market research helps steer them through the bidding wars to an accepted offer. “[They can] end up bidding on five homes before they get an accepted offer.”

Aside from weekly and monthly check-ins; Amber has come up with some creative ways of keeping in touch with clients. She has commissioned a local artist to create framed drawings of her clients’ houses which she gives as a personalized gift. “Personalized gifts help establish ongoing relationships.”

When free time allows it, Amber volunteers at her local CAS (Children’s Aid Society) where she is on the Board of Corporate Services as a community representative. She also volunteers for Diversity Ed which promotes inclusivity for youth in the LGBTQ+ community. Amber enjoys long family walks with her two children and new puppy. Within the next 5 years Amber plans on starting a rental business with either her current home or an additional property. She plans on getting her builder’s license to work more on that side of her career. “I like having the knowledge and understanding of the builder’s side of things. It really helps to be licensed as a Realtor® and as a builder because I can actively take over if my partner retires, steps back or just needs some time away.”

To learn more about Amber Kennedy, email amberkennedy1919@gmail.com, visit amberkennedy.ca or call (647) 268-4993. www.

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How to Cut Down on Digital Distractions

and Up Your Productivity As a real estate professional, staying tethered to your phone and computer are likely par for the course. When your office is on-the-go and you’re fielding round-the-clock questions from clients, it’s only natural that you’ll be drawn to your phone for professional updates. From refreshing your inbox and engaging with clients on social media, to drafting email blasts and coordinating with colleagues by text message— Top Agent Magazine

it can feel impossible to untangle yourself from the worldwide web.

As a professional, you may not be able to withdraw from the digital world completely, but there are a few techniques you can use to limit your extraneous digital distractions and streamline the time you spend online. After all, it’s entirely common to faithfully begin one task and then

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get unexpectedly drawn down the digital rabbit hole. To save yourself time and virtual burnout, here are a few ways to unplug, recharge, and make the most of your time online and off.

Focus on one digital task at a time.

While multi-tasking may seem like a sound approach to productivity, this method usually results in surface-level progress across a few tasks, rather than reaching the finish line on any.

Instead of opening multiple tabs and trying to do it all at once, hone in on one digital task at a time. Have emails to return? Allocate an hour to work exclusively on this to-do list item. Need to post a new blog entry? Pencil in a dedicated half hour. If you focus on one task a time and exclusively devote your energy and productivity to it for a set period, you’ll make a far bigger dent in your list of duties for the day.

Give yourself a curfew.

In the real estate business, the hours may seem never-ending, but if you don’t want to slow your productivity with fatigue, you’ve got to set some boundaries. Try setting up a digital curfew for yourself and put your phone away after a certain hour. Devote an hour or two before bedtime to time away from your computer and your phone—read a book, prep your lunch for the next day, or try a round of mindful meditation. Carve out space and time to disconnect from your technology and stick to the habit. By morning, you’ll be refreshed and ready to dive back in.

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Mute social media notifications and create dedicated check-in times instead.

Instead of taking a reactionary approach to social media—waiting for the dings and pings that lure you back to your screen—try muting some of your social media alerts and instead dedicate three timed windows per day to check-in on your timelines and engagement. If you’re constantly interrupted at unexpected intervals when someone likes a post or leaves a comment, your whole workflow can be derailed. Instead, unchain yourself from the instant gratification of responding to every buzz and beep your phone emits. Systematize your professional social media life and you’ll stay organized and on task.

Keep your inbox organized.

While it may take some time and effort to create a sorting system for your email inbox, it can go a long way to limiting distractions and stress. Create folders and an organizational flow and every communication will have a place and a priority.

That way, when you open up your inbox and have to go digging for old emails or exchanges with past clients, you won’t have to waste time sorting or feel overwhelmed by the clutter. If everything has its place, you’ll have an unobstructed, streamlined canvass to conduct business from.

Digital distractions don’t have to derail your day or sap your productivity. Email, internet, social media—all are tools to be commanded. With the right planning, understanding, and consistent execution, you’ll be able to wield the power of each without the downside of distraction.

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TODD LABELLE The hundred-hour workweeks weren’t cutting it for Todd Labelle from Winnipeg, where he specialized as a chef for thirteen years before finding real estate. Open and eager to transition into a career that would bring him a better life-work balance, Todd became curious about working in sales. Upon seeing an ad in the newspaper for an opportunity to join ReMax, who, at the time, would also assist with real estate training, Todd took the plunge, left the kitchen, and started selling residential homes.

While the sale side in residential real estate may have gone well for Todd, the hours still weren’t up to par with his individual labor needs. After speaking with a few commercial Realtors®, he made the switch in that direction and has thoroughly loved his career ever since. For Todd, the last six years have included his specialty in selling land for commercial and residential development, thriving as a leader in this market. Although Todd works solo, he occasionally does bring in a team member depending on the assignment.

As a dedicated commercial real estate agent, Todd primarily serves Winnipeg, however, some deals expand to a few hours away. With his focus on large land deals, he is closing in on 14-15 deals a year and has a 94% success and close rate, which is highly impressive for these particular contracts with their type of nature. While land deals take longer and involve frequent hurdles, Todd has a knack for sealing these large transactions and shares; he has the ability and skillset to keep sales “flowing and closing.”

Since 2019, Todd has sold 69.3 acres of multifamily land with a sales volume of over $51,000,000.

A few things stand out in Todd’s approach to keep clients coming his way, including his ability to stay transparent, honest, and hold back from applying additional pressure on potential buyers.

Todd elaborates, “The best deal is when everybody is happy, and I try to find a path to get there.” Earning respect from his clients every step of the way, he keeps in touch through phone calls, emails, and over shared cocktails, where he brings back the lost art and camaraderie of getting to know clients on a personal level. Finally, through heavy prospecting, a little matchmaking, proper research, and direct calling, Todd can find the best fit, merging opportunity with buying. What does that mean exactly? In Todd’s industry, it means closing deals!

Todd enjoys the freedom, hours, and ability to be his own boss that comes with being an agent in commercial real estate. Set to help buyers and developers find the right location, he also makes worldly contributions which involve assembling essentials for remote villages in the Philippines, organized through his Filipino wife and their family and friends. When Todd isn’t working, he enjoys spending time with his puppy, golfing, enjoying summers at the cabin, and unplugging in nature. Todd’s future looks busy as he plans to map out how to grow his business, continue to sell land, and look at building a team below him as well as helping other agents. As long as he can establish a healthy work and life balance, he will continue to be a Top Agent.

To learn more about Todd, email Todd.Labelle@avisonyoung.com or call 204-479-9710

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