CHICAGO 3-7-22

CHICAGO EDITION

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WAYS TO TRANSFORM RENTERS INTO OWNERS

CONNECT BEYOND REAL ESTATE TO ATTRACT FUTURE CLIENTS

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CREATIVE WAYS TO SAY THANK YOU

QUALITIES

OF EXCEPTIONAL EMPLOYEES COVER STORY

KAREN MAJERCZAK

FEATURED AGENTS

JENNY STOKES LENNY FEIL RORY THREATT STEPHANIE ABSLER-ORSI

CHICAGO EDITION

JENNY STOKES

Born and raised in Chicago, Jenny Stokes fulfilled by the way in which real estate 7 ser18 21 has always been drawn to a life of combines her compassionate personality vice. Taking inspiration from her father, with her leading edge business acumen.

The sign outside his a firefighter in the Chicagoland area who But when examining the keys to her sucdabbled in renovation projects and new invites you to “Work cess, Jenny returns to her proven standard construction, she would gain an insider’s LENNY FEIL becaus of integrity. “I’m upfront and honest with glimpse into the real estate business while goes that EXTRA M my clients,” she says. “I would rather growing up. Later, Jenny would launch butthan no they slogan can beg give them more knowledge her career as an entrepreneur; however, express the depths of Le need, than have them step into a deal feelover time, she found herself seeking a ing unprepared. At the end of the day, my to the peop fresh opportunity that better spoke to her commitment KAREN MAJERCZAK JENNY STOKES LENNY FEIL clients know that I won’t sugarcoat the see his wo communal values.

At last, she decided RORY THREATT serves. That’s because he doesn’t truth, and they can always come to me to pursue her real estate license in 2012. ® terms of Realtor -Client. for answers.” over 27working years of experience as a When he is not working with: After getting start with first on behalf of his “I end up having a new Born and raised onWith the her south side of 22 community in his professional 24 time home buyers, she quickly found herAbsler-Orsi, capacChicago, real estate agent Roryagent, Threatt licensed Stephanie every time I sell a house.” She Outside herfamily,” career, Jenny can insists. be found“I don’t just “We’re Lenny ity, Rory plays a very active role in has customer service “in his DNA.” niche asdisplays a listing specialist—and the rest a remarkable knowledge of tohis continually reach new areas spending quality time at home with her neighborhood.

He recently participated Following inisthe footsteps KAREN of his mother, history. someone buy or sell a home and then say g MAJERCZAK both the real estate field and the local in a toy drive through market andshe maintain five children.

Looking ahead, also has her base of r his men’s yoga his first job was in the hospitality indusbye. I sit down with everyone who comes int ® market. does anywhere in group, at As thehersame The Healing, raise money forbusiness. try, setting him up for a future career in business an exciting plan fortothe future ofbusiness her vol- time throu with Redfin, where she Today, Jenny is aShe REALTOR office work them to create a 5, 10 principal of her own 12-member team, “I truly love and my commureal estate. Karen Itassists was atisNorthern athe hotel in the ume school. maintains its steady growth, shewith intends on further IL,South but specializes inSuburbs commucommunity outreach.

Stephanie clients throughout the Northwest of a local plan for realaconsisestate goals. thegained Karen Majerczak She stresses he says.

He 15-year enjoys going the their Loop whereChicago he administrative scaling the boutique model oftowhen service thatgets has and the surrounding areas.Shore.

There, she hasthat, cul- nity,” nities around the Group.

North Stephanie she chance to keepI ing gym as well as discovering new roofskills and learned how important it was tently set apart in her hometown community.

“I love tivated a truly distinct workflow to meet the demands of know their children, and call them on their with her team, emphasis is on is one of 30 the agent members onher therole Jane after closing a deal; checking in tops and restaurants in town for dinner. to put people first in every situation. knowing that I’ve ableyear.” to help someone through anyatransaction. as mentor and teacher and not as a taskmaster. daybeen every Lee Team, ranked the #1 Real Estate the holidays or going out for din While a big fanstressful of traveling around His interest in pursuing real estate came one he’s of the most times of their lives,” she says.

RORY THREATT STEPHANIE ® Mega Team in Illinois with $345 milaprosdrink celebrate the“There’s world, he’s also excited theseeing severalKaren years later,listing when REALTOR When property, Jenny takes an and expert approach. nothing better by than mytoclients realizenew opportun Majerczak is aaarealtor based in of Trade, spent 10 years working ABSLER-ORSI Many of those children—who know him as U of agoals good in book. explained investment properties to him.fully Chicago and helping Naples, Florida, splitting Then, having started family, After her clients prepare their home fora pect their the market. After all, this isn’t just about lion in sales for thethere. group this year.

She when Rory then began doing own research her business between the two she the decided to takeMLS the opportunity to transaction;Lenny—have the market, she shares itmartoteam’s both regional and their it’s about changing thefree wayout people feel they were washis ranked the 3rd Best Selling Inreached her time, Stephanie enjoyg ofa which Chicagoland and the Naples/ switch careers and pursue her interIn the last year alone, Rory achieved 5 million in volon thekets topic, eventually lead him to apply for blendAgent of digital 2021. and social media campaigns. Along about real estateand and the connection canown havehome. with ready tocise, buythey their In 2021 L particularly spinning, whic CONTENTS areas.

She beganof as est in real estate.

Now, 14 years from sales.

Thisagent.” year, his goal is to double that his realTampa estate license. the way, though, her shecareer connects her listings to ume those inafter her their closed 74 transactions for a sales volume o a bond trader at the Chicago Board in the industry,number.

Karen With does all 40-50 of his efforts, it’s evident thatdoes this before work to jumpstart he extensive professional sphere, ensuring a highly efficient million, at least 75 percent that business onlyTeam, just theStephanie beginning continues to expand While he receives help from histoteam, Rory acts as Jane a isLee As catered a valuable asset to the is also passionate about of cooking and lov 4) CONNECT BEYOND 19)as he4She QUALITIES transaction each client’s needs. ing relations. from repeat orfuture, referrals.

Some ofpl his network andhaving strengthen client Whileclients solo agent who has delivers built a reputation for providing a service outstanding client while a tening to music.

For the Stephanie REAL ESTATE TO ATTRACT OF success is the cherry on top, EXCEPTIONAL ultimately, Rory isthe motihands-on approach to buying and selling residential clients are result of year, the extra miles Lenn Elsewhere, Jenny is just as committed when assistlisting specialist and transaction coordinator to supgrow her business.

This she intends to e properties. He’s only been in real estate for two years, vated to help his family and his community through FUTURE CLIENTS EMPLOYEES ing buyers, leveraging her in-depth knowledge of the in for people who did not end up buying ah port her.

Heron strong attention tohisdetail and personable her presence online to offer more resources services. sales,” he says. but his business is already thriving referrals, whichproperty Chicagoland area to uncover the right invest- “It’s not really about“Ithe one couple over thirty houses and style allow a smooth entsshowed and continue “That transactions speaks to how many to increase her social med make up about 95% oftheir his clients.

Undoubtedly, Rory ment forcommunication best interests.

In fact, she for prefers to number keepandofsuccessfind WAYS one they on liked.

Weaeven a 14) 5 WAYS TO TRANSFORM lives you are helping.”25) CREATIVE goes above in and beyond for the the people he works with, ful from start to close. tocouldn’t show more insight being real had estate touch longtransaction after closing through regular check-ins, making sureall that is there forINTO them at every step. linedTHANK upChicagoland for their current homeKeep and they cano RENTERS OWNERS TO SAY YOU to he foster a lasting relationship and make sure her clinear the Suburbs. an eye the deal because they didn’t want to move ents are Stephanie completely satisfied in their new homes.reasons. She enteredwith reallife estate for several what Stephanie has in store next year, becau The process of working with Rory begins with a phone I havenonow family on 27is grewquickly up fascinated by the historical beauty of houses shows signsrepresented of slowing that down.

Stephanie call or email and the pretty to him Over years, Jennyleads has earned ariding fantastic reputation Phone 310-734-1440 | Fax 310-734-1440 For more about Jenny Stokes because they theonwork did for around different areas showing you thePark best in with her native Highland and was looking able around theappreciated clock to take any Iissues tha throughout the you, Northwest Suburbs, as evidenced by always her email jenny.stokes@redfin.com on that occasion.” properties and hotspots.

“I’m an expert on all areas of mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com for of ways to clients stay actively involved in her community. arise for her clients, she is constantly workin strong rate repeat and referrals.

Now averagChicago. This is where I’m from and I know all the or call (773) 206-5927 goal! ingNo between and 60 transactions per year, shemanner is most With50 degree in Public Relations and Marketing, she prior towards portion ofathis issue may be reproduced in any whatsoever without consent her of theclient’s publisher.end Top Agent Magazine neighborhoods and local resources. For example, we Over the course of his 30-year with Hart is published by Feature Publications GA, Inc. Although precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy of published materials,career Top becoming a down realtor combined many of her will soon have The found Obama that Presidential Center Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors.

Realtors,Copyright Lenny Top hasAgent closed over 1500 transac Magazine passions provided a fulfilling career opportunity the road that’s To going to serve asand a gathering for to mag@topagentmagazine.com. subscribe or change address, place send inquiry our community,” hewith says.

When comes to finalizPublished inendless the U.S. it potential. ing your listing, you’ll have access to the best team of industry professionals, from home inspectors to Contact Lenny at 708-371-1 Stephanie’s rate of repeat andTo learn referral 2 to make Currently, Top Agent Magazine more about Rory Threatt, repairman sure that you are maximizing the business is around 40%.

Her testimonials are strong, please call 312-622-7146, sale in every way possible. Of course, Rory will be email rory@mainstreetreg.com,

LENNY FEIL

STEPHANIE ABSLER-ORSI

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com

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CONNECT BEYOND

REAL ESTATE

to Attract Future Clients What kind of content are you sharing on your blog, website, and social media? Does most of it have something to do with buying or selling a home? While sharing the latest market information or tips on how to qualify for a mortgage, or when someone should buy or sell is important and demonstrates your value as a REALTOR®, it shouldn’t be the only subject you cover. If you only focus on real estate, you’ll be missing the chance to connect with future clients that might not be ready to move just yet. By sharing a lot

of industry-heavy content, you are only going to appeal to those who are currently in the market rather than a broad base of potential clients.

To pull in those other future clients you want to provide fresh, interesting content that will appeal to those possible future clients that aren’t quite ready to move yet. However, you also want to still tie this content back into your business goals.

So, how do you share content that will speak to a wider audience, but also still be relevant to your business?

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Talk About Your Philanthropic Activities

The philanthropic work you do to support your community says a great deal about who you are as a person. Many people will be attracted to working with you because of the charitable works you are involved with. While you may be hesitant to share these efforts because you feel it may come across as bragging, you also need to remember that sharing information about the charitable organizations you support will actually help those organizations. Many of them have small marketing budgets, so any free exposure you can give them helps to promote their cause.

In fact, they want and need you to promote them.

And you can promote them without coming across as a braggart. Focus your content entirely on the organization. Talk about why you support them, how they help the community, and how others can also get involved. This turns what could have been bragging into something that benefits everyone. n

Your Local Community

We humans are connected to each other through our community – our local sports teams, parks, churches, schools, and much more. What better way is there to connect with people in your community than to talk about your community? Demonstrate that you are an expert on your community, and bring that community to your followers. Share information about a local event; perhaps even share the actual event through live-stream video. Interview city officials to get the low-down on the latest development project. Share information with your followers about things they didn’t know about their community. Consult with local historians or the historical society to share interesting information about your community that your followers will want to read. You could even turn it into a series of podcasts or videos. n

Use Your Creativity to Connect

Find creative ways to engage your followers on the topic of real estate. Try engaging your followers in an interactive project such as posting photos of interesting front doors. Doors are the entry point into our homes as well as our private lives. The way we adorn our front door can give someone a sense of our style and personality. Ask followers to submit photos and choose one to post each Friday. Make sure to watermark each photo with your logo at the bottom and include an inspirational quote that ties back to the importance of home. You could also ask your followers to provide a little story or caption to go along with the photo that tells something about them and their home. These kinds of projects are interesting and unique, and clearly connect back to your business. n

Share Your Hobbies

Are you an adrenalin junkie who has bungee jumped from some of the tallest bridges in the world? Are you a foodie that grows your own organic vegetables and fruit? Do you have a Top Agent Magazine

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secret passion for photography? Everyone has hobbies that they enjoy outside of work. When you look past the surface people become quite interesting. People also happen to find interesting people interesting, and tend to remember people based on their distinctive traits. We humans love discovering a person’s behind the scenes story, the mind behind the face. While you don’t want to talk too much about yourself, sharing pieces of your personal life and things that interest you can be a great way to connect with followers. By sharing interesting facts about your life, you will find that many followers will feel a strong, personal connection to you based on your hobbies and personal interests. n

Divulge Interesting Experiences

This is somewhat similar to the idea of sharing your hobbies. Sharing some of your more interesting personal experiences such as a fateful conversation with a stranger or an exciting adventure you had while in another country can be a great way to connect with followers as long as it also relates to some kind of life or business lesson. Talk about experiences you’ve had with clients or purchasing your own home. Experiences that relate to your business are great ways to connect with future clients in a manner that goes beyond the world of business. n

What and Who Inspires You

No matter what you’ve chosen to spend your life doing, you didn’t get there alone. You may have had a mentor that made a special impact on your life or someone already in the business that you looked up to and who perhaps inspired you to get into real estate. You may have found inspiration through a love of architecture or design. People want to know why others do the things they do. Sharing who or what influences you in your personal and business life is a great way to connect with followers. Recognizing that you didn’t get to where you are now by yourself shows humility, and talking about those people that had an influence on you shows others that you stay connected to the world and people around you.

Connecting with potential clients is something that is essential to any REALTOR’S® business. If you’re doing the work to create interesting blog posts and make those connections, you want to make sure that you’re sharing the right kind of content to draw in those future clients. It takes a lot more than simply providing the latest market news. To get the most out of what you share, you need to provide a wide array of interesting content

that will draw in a broad range of followers.

Providing the right kind of content can make all the difference when it comes to connecting with future clients and building the right kind of relationship with them right from the start. Connecting through your website or social media and sharing more than just real estate advice will help you build confidence and trust with future clients before you even meet them.

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KAREN MAJERCZAK Top Agent Magazine

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KAREN MAJERCZAK Karen is the principal of her own 12-member team, the Karen Majerczak Group. She stresses that, with her team, the emphasis is on her role as a mentor and teacher and not as a taskmaster.

Karen Majerczak is a realtor based in Chicago and Naples, Florida, splitting her business between the two markets of Chicagoland and the Naples/ Tampa areas. She began her career as a bond trader at the Chicago Board 8

of Trade, and spent 10 years working there. Then, having started a family, she decided to take the opportunity to switch careers and pursue her interest in real estate. Now, after 14 years in the industry, Karen does 40-50 Top Agent Magazine

transactions a year and is the principal of her own 12-member team, the Karen Majerczak Group. She stresses that, with her team, the emphasis is on her role as a mentor and teacher (an element of the business she is very fond of) and not as a taskmaster.

Karen is highly communication- and respect-oriented in her work, and this quality shows through in both her Top Agent Magazine

repeat and referral business rates and her personal relationships with past clients. She maintains a close level of communication, and ensures her availability at all times. “To me,” she says, “it’s not just about business. You make a relationship and your clients become more like family, and so they lean on you for everything.” Karen’s clients certainly feel assured with her work as an agent: she is honest, responsive, 9

hands on, and devoted to her practice.

She eats, breathes, and lives real estate 24/7/365, and without a doubt this is a major value-add for working with her.

Karen’s clients respect her working method and trust her referrals.

Because Karen does a wide variety of transactions and her listings vary so much, she makes sure that her marketing is flexible and accommodating

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to market variables and conditions.

So, aside from utilizing the standard websites and social media for listings, she prefers to think outside the box and guarantees that “each listing is unique.” One significant element of this approach is her use of Compass’ Concierge service, which allows her to provide clients a sum of money, upfront and interest-free, in order to help fix up and make their properties more

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presentable and sellable. This is just one example of Karen’s intuitive and comprehensive approach to marketing for her clients.

In the little time she spends not working, Karen enjoys helping out at her local charities with her family, and volunteering activities. Apart from these, she greatly values spending time with her husband Jason and their two children. She also loves travel, yoga, and running, and is an Top Agent Magazine

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avid tennis player – Karen tells us her USTA team just recently won nationals. She naturally values the benefits of staying active, and lives by the mantra that, in order to take care of others, clients, family, or otherwise, you also need to take care of yourself.

Karen’s plans for the future of her business are twofold: for one, she hopes to continue to grow her business between the two markets she serves, but first and foremost she aims to support and nurture the growth of each and every one of her team members.

You can contact Karen at (847) 913-6665 or karen.majerczak@compass.com.

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Joanna White is proud to congratulate

KAREN MAJERCZAK

on being featured for the State of Illinois in Top Agent Magazine!

Joanna White | NMLS #404853 Senior Vice President of Mortgage Lending p: 847-224-1366 | f: 312-592-7972 mykeymortgage.com/JoannaWhite.html youtube.com/watch?v=56vgBCBbTzo www.

www.

475 N Martingale Rd. Suite 100, Schaumburg, IL 60173

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5 Ways to Transform

Renters into Owners Perhaps the largest demographic of untapped business lies in the rental market. From major cities and suburbs to rural communities—renters across generations are opting to rent rather than own. The question is: why? For starters, many Americans are undereducated about the inventory and financing options available that might suit their budget and lifestyle. Secondly, many would-be homeowners have difficulty 14

visualizing the potential investment of purchasing property, and how homeownership can build wealth and security in the long-term.

As an agent, you’re always on the lookout for potential clientele. Now, to guide renters toward the real estate market, keep a few of these strategies in mind as you meet and greet this untapped demographic.

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Show renters that purchasing a home isn’t impossible

Possibly the biggest hurdle for renters is believing homeownership is possible. Beyond saving for a down payment and boosting credit scores, there are dozen more factors to consider: affording utilities, homeowner’s insurance, renovations, property taxes, and more. Besides that, assembling pay stubs, finding an agent, arranging house tours, negotiating a price, and timing the transition are all major considerations to surmount.

One way to combat this thinking is to make the process transparent and demystified. Find examples of past clients who made the leap successfully, or profile the average buyer in your marketplace and see how that renter compares. Provide evidence that it’s been done before and can be done again, then build a game plan from there.

into play. Consider making a checklist, or step-by-step road-map, that guides clients through the process from start to finish. This way, you’ll manage expectations and create a path to ownership that’s specific, instead of abstract. They won’t have to wonder what goes into buying a home when they can look at an interactive site or read a document and see the steps outlined before them, with you there to guide the way.

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Collaborate with mortgage professionals to find the right financing opportunities

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Help would-be homebuyers create a road-map to ownership

It’s no secret that buying a home can feel overwhelming. Compared to signing a yearlong lease on an apartment, taking on the house-hunting process is a daunting affair.

That’s where your expertise as an agent comes Top Agent Magazine

Many renters aren’t aware of the variety of mortgage financing options out there that cater to first-timers, offer low down payments, or down payment assistance. Most buyers believe that the standard 20% down is a hard and fast rule, when in reality, there’s far more flexibility out there to cater to renters where they are. There are even loan options catering to freelance workers, renovation options, and other unconventional routes to ownership.

Work with a mortgage pro and find the route that suits your renter best.

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pay monthly in a mortgage—while building a lasting asset.

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Compare and contrast rental rates with monthly mortgage payments One way to convince renters to make the shift is to demonstrate the savings potential of paying into a monthly mortgage, rather than throwing away rent on a property they don’t own. To do this, draw up the average rental rates in your area, then find some potential listings that would demand a similar amount in monthly mortgage payments. Sometimes placing these numbers and images sideby-side can prove to renters that what they manage to pay monthly in rent, they can

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Paint the big picture

For most, renting isn’t the most sustainable financial option when it comes to housing.

Rents rise, families grow, and retirement looms.

Building a financial future and homeownership go hand-in-hand. When planned appropriately, buying a home can create a path toward retirement and position homeowners in a better place for further investment in the future. A rental has little security or investment returns to offer, while owning a home makes a renter king or queen of the castle.

Prospecting renters as potential homebuyers may seem like a time-intensive way to cultivate new clients, but logic is on your side.

Keep these tips in mind as you broach the conversation with renters in your hometown.

All it takes is clear-cut value proposition and a listening ear.

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Laughs!

Graham Harrop Graham Harrop Cartoons Cartoons

Putting the power of humour to work for you!

Putting the power of humour to work for you! grahamharrop.com

grahamharrop.com Top Agent Magazine

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JENNY STOKES Born and raised in Chicago, Jenny Stokes has always been drawn to a life of service. Taking inspiration from her father, a firefighter in the Chicagoland area who dabbled in renovation projects and new construction, she would gain an insider’s glimpse into the real estate business while growing up. Later, Jenny would launch her career as an entrepreneur; however, over time, she found herself seeking a fresh opportunity that better spoke to her communal values. At last, she decided to pursue her real estate license in 2012.

After getting her start working with first time home buyers, she quickly found her niche as a listing specialist—and the rest is history.

Today, Jenny is a REALTOR® with Redfin, where she assists clients throughout the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago and the surrounding areas. There, she has cultivated a truly distinct workflow to meet the demands of any transaction.

When listing a property, Jenny takes an expert approach.

After helping her clients fully prepare their home for the market, she shares it to both the regional MLS and a blend of digital and social media campaigns. Along the way, though, she connects her listings to those in her extensive professional sphere, ensuring a highly efficient transaction catered to each client’s needs.

fulfilled by the way in which real estate combines her compassionate personality with her leading edge business acumen.

But when examining the keys to her success, Jenny returns to her proven standard of integrity. “I’m upfront and honest with my clients,” she says. “I would rather give them more knowledge than they need, than have them step into a deal feeling unprepared. At the end of the day, my clients know that I won’t sugarcoat the truth, and they can always come to me for answers.”

Outside her career, Jenny can be found spending quality time at home with her five children. Looking ahead, she also has an exciting plan for the future of her business. As her volume maintains its steady growth, she intends on further scaling the boutique model of service that has consistently set apart in her hometown community. “I love knowing that I’ve been able to help someone through one of the most stressful times of their lives,” she says.

“There’s nothing better than seeing my clients realize their goals in the market. After all, this isn’t just about their transaction; it’s about changing the way people feel about real estate and the connection they can have with their agent.”

Elsewhere, Jenny is just as committed when assisting buyers, leveraging her in-depth knowledge of the Chicagoland area to uncover the right property investment for their best interests. In fact, she prefers to keep in touch long after the closing through regular check-ins, all to foster a lasting relationship and make sure her clients are completely satisfied with life in their new homes.

Over the years, Jenny has earned a fantastic reputation throughout the Northwest Suburbs, as evidenced by her strong rate of repeat clients and referrals. Now averaging between 50 and 60 transactions per year, she is most 18

For more about Jenny Stokes email jenny.stokes@redfin.com or call (773) 206-5927 Copyright Top Top Agent Agent Magazine Magazine

4 Qualities of Exceptional Employees Hiring a new employee is one of the more stressful parts of being a business owner. After all, you’re taking someone on and trusting that they’ll not only be a valuable addition to the team, but won’t do anything to hurt your business’s hard earned reputation.

Sometimes a person comes in and you click right away, and other times you might be blown away by an impressive resume. But there are things you should look for that might not be as obvious at first. Employees that have the following qualities are ones you should seek out, because they will definitely be well worth the time and energy you invest in them.

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1. They have the confidence to be innovative There’s a reason people are drawn to those who think outside the box. Not only do innovations often lead to an extremely profitable business, even when that thinking doesn’t pan out, creative thinking is something that will energize your business and will motivate more employees to start taking chances.

Innovative thinkers also usually have great leadership skills. Ironically, you want an employee who isn’t afraid to speak up to authority and is someone who knows how to bend the rules without breaking them. They know that

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the success of the team and business is what’s most important, as long as it’s done ethically and with respect for everyone involved.

2. They are constantly reviewing their past performance A good employee looks forward, but they also look back. They are always evaluating what worked and what didn’t work in past performances and then adjusting their plans going forward accordingly. If they are coming off a big win, they know how to capitalize on that by using the momentum and cementing in everyone’s minds the value that they add to the team.

If things didn’t go as planned, they assess what they can do better next time, and they don’t get bogged down in insecurity. They take responsibility and they have confidence that they won’t repeat past mistakes. They know that failure is a temporary state, and are able to learn lessons from their mistakes, that will make them a better employee going forward.

While no one wants to fail, having the confidence to try something and fail will one day let you strike gold. Someone who lets failure shut them down, leads to a dead end and will soon make them a dead weight on your team.

3. They value teamwork Even though an exceptional employee might be a rising star, they realize that success is 20

not an individual endeavor, it relies strongly on who you’re working with. Exceptional employees make sure that everyone is contributing and valued for their input. They put the interests of the company above their own, and thrive in an environment where ideas and information are shared freely.

Shared success is the ultimate goal for every project. Exceptional employees have the confidence to know that even when they’re not singled out for praise, they’re an irreplaceable component of a larger machine.

4. They are self-motivated learners A key thing to remember is that while experience is a valuable commodity, intelligence and intellectual curiosity is usually something that can’t be taught. Yes, you might request employees get additional training or attend seminars, but exceptional employees will be seeking out educational opportunities constantly. Even if they don’t have a lot of money for weekend retreats, they will be getting books from the library, downloading audiobooks, and most importantly, taking advantage of one their greatest resources, YOU. Exceptional employees know that the way to stay ahead is to always be at the forefront of new technology and systems. They don’t see educating themselves as a burden, they actually enjoy it. They realize that everything they take in, will one day make them not only an exceptional employee, but an exceptional boss as well.

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LENNY FEIL The sign outside his office invites you to “Work with LENNY FEIL because he goes that EXTRA MILE, but no slogan can begin to express the depths of Lenny’s commitment to the people he serves. That’s because he doesn’t see his world in terms of Realtor®-Client.

“We’re family,” Lenny insists. “I don’t just help someone buy or sell a home and then say goodbye. I sit down with everyone who comes into my office and work with them to create a 5, 10 and 15-year plan for their real estate goals. I get to know their children, and call them on their birthday every year.”

Many of those children—who know him as Uncle Lenny—have reached out when they were grown and ready to buy their own home. In 2021 Lenny closed 74 transactions for a sales volume of $14 million, at least 75 percent of that business coming from repeat clients or referrals. Some of those clients are the result of the extra miles Lenny put in for people who did not end up buying a house.

“I showed one couple over thirty houses and they couldn’t find one they liked. We even had a buyer lined up for their current home and they canceled the deal because they didn’t want to move. But I have now represented that family on 27 deals because they appreciated the work I did for them on that occasion.”

Over the course of his 30-year career with Harthside Realtors, Lenny has closed over 1500 transactions.

Based in Midlothian, Illinois, he represents clients within a 75-mile radius, including all of Chicago’s southwestern suburbs. He is also licensed in Indiana. He never says no to a deal, no matter how big or small the transaction may be. “I don’t think of my work like that. When I finish one deal, I send up a prayer: ‘Okay, Big Guy, I’m ready for the next one.’ And the phone always rings.”

Lenny has also answered the call when it comes to community service. He has served as a Youth Director for his church, helped organize 2 parades for Midlothian every year, and has been a past director of the town’s Chamber of Commerce. He’s a past Chairman for Luminaria as well, a nonprofit organization that raises around $40,000 a year for the Food Pantry by selling candles that light up Midlothian every Christmas Eve. In his leisure, Lenny loves to cook for his family on Sundays, and travel when opportunity affords.

Going forward, Lenny wants to continue providing his agents with the support and resources to help them reach their own goals. To him, that includes making sure they are able to live a balanced life.

“I want to see my agents happy, and better off than I was at that stage of my career. And I want to continue doing everything in my power to make sure we are meeting the needs of the people we serve. I go that extra mile for everyone I work with because I was put here to make a positive difference in people’s lives.”

He laughs, before adding, “I hope they know that already. The main function of the sign is to show people how to pronounce my name!”

Contact Lenny at 708-371-1910 or email lenfeil@topproducer.com.

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RORY THREATT Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, real estate agent Rory Threatt has customer service “in his DNA.” Following in the footsteps of his mother, his first job was in the hospitality industry, setting him up for a future career in real estate. It was at a hotel in the South Loop where he gained administrative skills and learned how important it was to put people first in every situation.

His interest in pursuing real estate came several years later, when a REALTOR® explained investment properties to him.

Rory then began doing his own research on the topic, which eventually lead him to apply for his real estate license.

While he receives help from his team, Rory acts as a solo agent who has built a reputation for providing a hands-on approach to buying and selling residential properties. He’s only been in real estate for two years, but his business is already thriving on referrals, which make up about 95% of his clients. Undoubtedly, Rory goes above and beyond for the people he works with, making sure that he is there for them at every step.

The process of working with Rory begins with a phone call or email and pretty quickly leads to him riding around different areas with you, showing you the best properties and hotspots. “I’m an expert on all areas of Chicago. This is where I’m from and I know all the neighborhoods and local resources. For example, we will soon have The Obama Presidential Center down the road that’s going to serve as a gathering place for our community,” he says. When it comes to finalizing your listing, you’ll have access to the best team of industry professionals, from home inspectors to repairman to make sure that you are maximizing the sale in every way possible. Of course, Rory will be by your side the whole time to provide reassurance as you make your move.

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When he is not working on behalf of his community in his professional capacity, Rory plays a very active role in his neighborhood. He recently participated in a toy drive through his men’s yoga group, The Healing, to raise money for a local school. “I truly love my community,” he says. He enjoys going to the gym as well as discovering new rooftops and restaurants in town for dinner.

While he’s a big fan of traveling around the world, he’s also excited by the prospect of a good book.

In the last year alone, Rory achieved 5 million in volume from sales. This year, his goal is to double that number. With all of his efforts, it’s evident that this is only just the beginning as he continues to expand his network and strengthen client relations. While success is the cherry on top, ultimately, Rory is motivated to help his family and his community through his services. “It’s not really about the sales,” he says.

“That number of transactions speaks to how many lives you are helping.”

To learn more about Rory Threatt, please call 312-622-7146, email rory@mainstreetreg.com, or visit RoryThreatt.com www.

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STEPHANIE ABSLER-ORSI With over 27 years of experience as a licensed agent, Stephanie Absler-Orsi, displays a remarkable knowledge of both the real estate field and the local market. She does business anywhere in Northern IL, but specializes in communities around the North Shore. Stephanie is one of 30 agent members on the Jane Lee Team, ranked the #1 Real Estate Mega Team in Illinois with $345 million in sales for the group this year. She was ranked the team’s 3rd Best Selling Agent of 2021.

As a valuable asset to the Jane Lee Team, Stephanie delivers outstanding client service while having a listing specialist and transaction coordinator to support her. Her strong attention to detail and personable communication style allow for a smooth and successful transaction from start to close.

Stephanie entered real estate for several reasons. She grew up fascinated by the historical beauty of houses in her native Highland Park and was always looking for ways to stay actively involved in her community.

With a degree in Public Relations and Marketing, she found that becoming a realtor combined many of her passions and provided a fulfilling career opportunity with endless potential.

Currently, Stephanie’s rate of repeat and referral business is around 40%. Her testimonials are strong, with one client stating: “Stephanie was very hard working and determined to help us find a home even in this competitive market. She is honest and doesn’t try to make you fit the house but rather the house fit you to become your home. It was a pleasure working with her.”

Though many of her transactions are with new clients, she always connects with the people she works 24

with: “I end up having a new friend every time I sell a house.” She is able to continually reach new areas of the market and maintain her base of referral business at the same time through her community outreach. Stephanie enjoys when she gets a chance to keep in touch after closing a deal; checking in during the holidays or going out for dinner or a drink to celebrate new opportunities.

In her free time, Stephanie enjoys exercise, particularly spinning, which she does before work to jumpstart her day.

She is also passionate about cooking and loves listening to music. For the future, Stephanie plans to grow her business. This year, she intends to expand her presence online to offer more resources to clients and continue to increase her social media use to show more insight on being a real estate agent near the Chicagoland Suburbs. Keep an eye out for what Stephanie has in store next year, because she shows no signs of slowing down. Stephanie is available around the clock to take on any issues that may arise for her clients, she is constantly working hard towards her client’s end goal!

You can reach Stephanie at 847-682-6774 or stephanie@thejaneleeteam.com, and visit janeleehomes.com for more information www.

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Creative Ways to Say Thank You

Most top real estate agents find ways to welcome their clients to their new home. A common theme is a bottle of wine and some wine glasses for that first post-threshold toast, or a bouquet of flowers to brighten up that empty living space until the furniture arrives.

But are you truly being as creative as you can with your appreciation? Here are some innovative gift ideas that will truly keep you front of mind with your valued customers and assure their gratitude and repeat business, not to mention a slew of referrals.

1. How about a streaming video device, like a Roku

or Amazon Fire Stick? There’s a good chance your clients will not have their cable service up and running for a few days, and this is an excellent way for them to enjoy their television before they get that connection going. Bundle it up in a basket with some DVD’s for the kids, and don’t forget all necessary cables.

2. Matching bathrobes and Bath kits: Fleece or ter-

rycloth bathrobes and a basket filled with highend his and her body scrubs, bubble bath and other luxurious pampering items can make the first night in a new home feel like a check-in at a fabulous resort and make the memory of that first night one to cherish. Again, don’t forget the kids!

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3. Arrange a catered meal from a local vendor. As-

certain in advance dietary preferences and restrictions, and have a wonderful, healthy meal delivered on move-in night. To complete the magic, provide brand new plates, silverware and glassware to serve it all on.

4. For homes with swimming pools or Jacuzzis, a

stack of fluffy pool towels is always appreciated and will be used by family and friends for years to come. Additionally, acrylic stemware for celebrating safely can be provided alongside them.

5. If it’s winter time and the home has a fireplace, make sure there’s plenty of wood to burn. Some fireplace accessories and a log holder will certainly make your clients appreciate you on every chilly night to come.

So when it comes to gifting your buyers, the trick is to be creative. A bottle of wine lasts one night, and the flowers wilt in a few days. Try coming up with something a little more creative that will remain with your clients in their day-to-day lives and remind them of you consistently. The little bit extra you spend to show your gratitude can reap huge dividends when it comes time for your client to purchase a second home or refer a friend.

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