CHICAGO 11-15-21

CHICAGO EDITION

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HABITS OF HIGHLY PRODUCTIVE AGENTS FEATURED AGENTS

BRANDI HAMPTON ARELIS SANTAMARIA STEVE JURGENS VALERIA GUBENKO THE DAILY SCHEDULE OF A

SUCCESSFUL REAL ESTATE AGENT

IS BRANDING THE WAY TO TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL? COVER STORY

JULIE LATSKO 5 WAYS TO TRANSFORM

RENTERS INTO OWNERS

CHICAGO EDITION

ARELIS SANTAMARIA For Arelis Santamaria, real estate isn’t a job

As a long-time resident “I like to17 view beau7so much as a passion.

tiful homes as aofway to relax,” and she laughs.

Chicago a “Looking at them with people who I have an veteran the real estate opportunity to help is evenof better.”

JULIE

property before it goes live. As market, she conducts open h does targeted marketing in the s neighborhood.

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Arelis owns 6 Chicago properti industry, Top Agent Julie She started in 2006 when she began investquently flips houses with her hu Latsko is a capable ing in properties.

After talking to an agentreal is a GC contractor. That experie who was very inspiring and motivated by her to give great advice to in estate professional who her work, Arelis got her own license and fell whom she does market analyses toyears further in love with the works business.hard Fifteen later the they are thinking of investing she leads a team of two agents with Exit of sure there’s room for a nice gai best interests of each Strategy Realty, serving clients in Chicago’s LATSKO BRANDI HAMPTON ARELIS SANTAMARIA the comps. She also advises them her clients.

Logan Square, Humboldt Park, Irving Park, repair value of properties that ne Edgewater, Belmont Cragin, West Town, BRANDI HAMPTON Wicker Park, Bucktown, Chicago Loop, Portage Park, and She stays in touch with clients through mon For 15 years, Julie Latsko worked in resBridgeport. Heridential office’s central location is convenient for letters, updating them on the current market interior design, and was closely tied to theTop realits estate industry.

A little –With servicing all of Chicago and surrounding suburbs. know how theirgraduated homes havefrom appreciated Agent Steve Jurgens Manag-themSteve, who Hope thaning 3 years ago, ashe decided a reputation for more superior service and deep knowledge of reaches out on birthdays and other special oc Broker/Owner at to312 Estates Entrepreneurial Certificate from th take closes her relationship with real estate a with the industry, Arelis 24 -36 Real transactions ain year, just toBusiness let them know she’sUniversity been thinking abou Luxury Estate Chicago – at the of Pe step further, getting licensed as a Realtor an enviable 90 and percent coming from isofCompass. abusiness hardworking, joining During that innovative time, repeat and Doctorate at the John Marshall Schoo clients and referrals.

She earns theirthetrust by listening, and Arelis is very dedicated to her communit she has been serving community of truly dedicated real estate proaccomplishments have been pivotal i tailoring her service to their Chamber of Commerce member, and donate Chicago, usingneeds. her background to help fessional who works diligently to exceptional value to his many clients. people navigate the process of buying or to the Boys and Girls Club, as well as the 60 ensure that each of his many clients selling a home.

As a long-time resident of “Everyone’s situation is different, and it’s important to other Chicago park systems. A bilingual Re Chicago and a veterantop-of-the-line of the real estate customer receive Another factor that comes play E get to know clients to discover how best to help them.

I taught first-time homebuyer classesinto to both industry, Julie is a capable real estate proservice.

Having built his thriving ever-growing success story would be pride myself on finding solutions to any problems, and Spanish speakers in Chicago’s Little Village fessional who VALERIA works hard to further the STEVE JURGENS GUBENKO business onher aclients. solid foundation and cutting-edge, comprehensi I’m very accessible.

I also them along the way, ofhood.skills “Those education efforts are particularl best interests ofeducate each of and try to steer them intohonesty good decisions.

I’m very Steve honest hasin Latino communities, where many people cd and integrity, These strategies include a custom One ofand Julie’s greatest motivators straightforward, I’ll advise clients togrow walk advocate away standlisting the process home buying.

I’m oft moreand than earned his stellar reputation as a to trusted whichofprovides invaluable d real estate career is her desire to help from aand dealsellers if ither isn’t in in their best interest.

It’s not about olderTo residents with basic things as well,agen like for buyers alike the Windy City.

Steve’s knowledge no other the people around her. She takes pride in getting a commission—it’s about helping people.” emailmarketing account.” strategies include top-tier her thorough and personal customer ser-

VALERIA GUBENKO

Since 2003, Valeria has built an im-24 pressive career on a foundation of remarkable client service and expertise and has established a reputation as a Top Producing agent in Chicago. Valeria was attracted to real estate it offered NICKbecause VLASIDIS an opportunity to truly help people, making a difference in their lives and helping fulfill their dreams.

STEVE JURGENS 27

providers, and graphic in marketing her client optimal prices for their ket extensively online, and the MLS to garne wide range of potential individual domain nam to make it easily search

In her free time, Vale Consistent communication is a prominentCONTENTS active in the communit vice along with making sincere efforts to feature of Valeria’s service that Ukrainian Village.

Steve,provides who previously worked for Arthur Anderson doing floor plans, and deft utilizationAs of v Arelis helps sellers prepare their homes for the market When not THE working, Arelis enjoys running, rea 4) 5 WAYS TO 20) mergers and acquisitions, began his careerIS in BRANDING real estate in property in theWAY best light possible. The by alerting them to easy repairs that could prevent buyof course!—looking at homes.

Going forwar a gratifying and effortless experience for Russia, she maintains 2002ers armed a business plan.

“ITO went onehelps of thethem privatecontinue aBUSINESS fast dollar,new not methods to mentio TRANSFORM RENTERS TAKE YOUR fromwith asking for a huge discount.

Sheto also to sale growfor by top exploring o her clients. “Everything I do is geared family and culture equity firms,” he before recalls,creating “hopingprofessional to get the money in orderand staying and referring customers. with staging photographs familiar– with the industry’sback latest INTO OWNERS to execute TO THE NEXTinical LEVEL? my each plan.property’s A wise mentor told me to brokerage’s try working capturing best features.

Her tools. also English always looking to share towards helping my clients find the maxinShe’s both and R the industry first, for posts six months, and that if I 1000 still wanted he’s and not surrounds working, herself Steve with enjo marketing team the listings to over web- towith When other agents, sites, while Arelis reaches outcould to agents andself-professed potential Arelis looks many years imum level success when they are buying or we selling animal lover - she ho real estate for a living then talk about how to putpeople. spending time forward with histofamily.

Steve 14) of 6 HABITS OF do 25) SCHEDULE buyers within her sphere to give themimmediately a THE preview DAILY ofworking the the highest of serviceteam. to herHe clients. it together.”

Steve found success almost Wellesquality Park baseball is also a home.HIGHLY They know they have a trusted adviser on their teered for anti-cruelty organizations for ReMax and being named their Rookie Year, and in who gives back to his community in PRODUCTIVE OF Aof the SUCCESSFUL was part Contact ofin opening aArelis boutique agency.

Since then, he notably as former President and boar side who is keeping their best2003 interests mind,” Valeria constantly working to find animals at 773-403-2796 orhas email arelisismyagent@gmail.co AGENTS REAL ESTATE AGENT built his business to the point where he is now selling between Presbyterian Trustees. In this capacity says. “I treat every client like20 they are my number one homes. She also works with the Great – 30 million in sales volume annually. and oversee the charitable organizatio assists children in need. priority, Phone I have 310-734-1440 helped with decorating and staging their to fight the growing hunger epidemic Copyright Top Agen | Fax 310-734-1440 Currently, the entirety of Steve’s considerable business is homes. Imag@topagentmagazine.com have even taken care ofupon pets.”

Valeria’s brand based referrals, repeat clients and positive word-of“I’d like to keep growing, and to c | www.topagentmagazine.com As Valeria continues to grow her urb Contact Robin Wilson at 847-207-1975 or email Robin@ChicagoToNorthShore.com mouth.

“I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that I’m cutting-edge technologies and market of personalized service has earned her a large followNo portion of this issue may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior consent of the publisher. Top Agent Magazine very hands-on with my clients,” he says, when starting asked how he when asked the future ofof hisC to focus on about the suburbs is published by Feature Publications GA,ninety-eight Inc. Although precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy of published materials, Top ing in Chicago.

An astonishing percent of has managed to generate such impressive levels of trust and to add more agents under the 312 Es Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts suppliedclients by its authors. looking to relocate.

If you’re loyalty amongst those heclients works with.

“My clients never have all, however, remains Steve’s constanl Valeria’sTobusiness is based upon returning and subscribe or change address, send inquiry to mag@topagentmagazine.com. to play the telephone game with me. I stay in constant providing his many buyers selle with contact extensive experience and and a willi in the U.S. referrals.Published Her experience and admirable ethicof result with them duringwork every aspect each transaction. customer service that has long been hi and beyond, get in touch with Valeria in shorter market times and higher sale prices.

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With nearly two decades worth of knowledge, on top

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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 4

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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JULIE LATSKO

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As a long-time resident of Chicago and a veteran of the real estate industry, Top Agent Julie Latsko is a capable real estate professional who works hard to further the best interests of each of her clients.

NICK VLASIDIS

For 15 years, Julie Latsko worked in residential interior design, and was closely tied to the real estate industry. A little more than 3 years ago, she decided to take her relationship with real estate a step further, getting licensed as a Realtor and joining Compass. During that time, she has been serving the community of Chicago, using her background to help people navigate the process of buying or selling a home. As a long-time resident of Chicago and a veteran of the real estate industry, Julie is a capable real estate professional who works hard to further the best interests of each of her clients.

One of Julie’s greatest motivators to grow her real estate career is her desire to help the people around her. She takes pride in her thorough and personal customer service along with making sincere efforts to

8Copyright Top Agent Magazine

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listen to her clients to pinpoint their specific wants and needs and make them a reality. “I love connecting with my clients, and I believe I provide a comfortable experience for them when we’re working together,” Julie says. “I Top Agent Magazine

keep them up to date throughout the transaction, and through getting to know them, the service I offer becomes enhanced.” Through maintaining a high level of correspondence with her clients, Julie builds lasting, trusting Copyright Top Agent Magazine9

With a wealth of experience with the home business and a keen eye for design and construction, Julie is well-equipped to handle any problem a client might encounter during the transaction process. relationships with them, enabling her to cultivate a strong referral network and an extensive sphere of influence throughout Chicago.

With a wealth of experience with the home business and a keen eye for design and construction, Julie is well-equipped to handle any problem a client might encounter during the Copyright Top Agent Magazine 10

transaction process. Her expertise provides her with the foundation to guide clients towards making sound decisions at every stage of the process. Through the combination of her work ethic and business sense, it’s no surprise that Julie consistently reaches a high level of production, projecting more than 40 transactions total by the end of this year - clients know that Top Agent Magazine

when they work with Julie, they are going to see results.

When it comes to marketing her listings, Julie uses drone video and high-quality professional photography to highlight the best features of each home, then promotes each listing heavily across MLS and various social media platforms to garner maximum exposure for each property. Through networking with Top Agent Magazine

other agents, she can generate interest locally for them as well. Julie’s marketing technique has proven successful for her buyers, as she is able to get consistently competitive prices for their homes.

In her free time, Julie enjoys traveling and spending time with her girls. She loves living in Chicago and relishes the opportunity to show people moving there everything the Copyright Top Agent Magazine 11

city has to offer. Looking forward, Julie hopes to keep growing and maintaining her strong referral base, while continuing to go above and beyond to offer the best possible service to all

her clients. If you’re looking for a hard-working agent in Chicago with generosity and professional integrity abound, get in touch with Julie Latsko today!

You can contact Julie at (312) 543-2832, email JLatsko@JulieLatsko.com, or visit her website at julielatsko.com www.

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6 Habits of Highly Productive Agents In a business that can be constant chaos, you’re constantly on the go and dealing with things as they hit you. It can be difficult to take a second and regroup. But there is a better and smarter way to work. If you take the time to create some better habits, in the end, you may end up being more productive. If you want to make better use of your time, as well as have more focus, here’s some habits that you’re going to want to pick up - all common to top-producing agents.

1. Learn how to prioritize Although it might be your instinct to get some of the boring work out of the way first, things 14

that actually generate income (or are time-sensitive!) should be the first thing you focus on when you start your day.

Lists are your friend! Make a list of things you want to accomplish for the day, the week, and even the month. Always list them in the order of priority. If things get cut off when you run out of time at the end of the day, at least it’ll be the things that are not as important or time sensitive. As with anyone, your time is your most valuable commodity and should be used wisely. When you make your list, you can even schedule tasks as if they were a meeting, giving yourself a little time goal to beat, as Top Agent Magazine

well. Treat your time with the same respect you would a colleague’s or client’s and don’t ever waste it.

As with anyone, your time is your most valuable commodity and should be used wisely. When you make your list you can even schedule tasks as if they were a meeting, giving yourself a little time goal to beat, as well. Treat your time with the same respect you would a colleague’s or client’s, and don’t ever waste it.

to accomplish it? Write it out and then incorporate that into your prioritized ‘to do’ list.

You’ll be amazed at how driven you become to reach that goal when you actually write it out with clarity. And, the sense of accomplishment you get upon completing it will carry over to the next day. It’s important to remember to be specific. Once you get into the habit of meeting your goals, exceeding them won’t be far behind.

2. Remove distractions

when you need to focus This is especially hard when you’re a Realtor®. Most are constantly connected to their phones. But, unnecessary distractions can get you off schedule and make you lose your focus instantly. If you can, turn your phone off for the half hour it takes to do a task. Interruptions make everything take twice as long, especially when you take that text and then decide to check Facebook for a second.

We all do it!

Complete your task, then take ten minutes to respond to all texts and messages before you start up the next thing on your list. You can even schedule those ‘text backs’ into your schedule. A concentrated effort is always more effective than going back and forth between things.

3. Set daily goals This is so key. What do you want to accomplish for the day and what do you need to do

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4. Don’t make excuses There’s that old saying, “The buck stops here”. Well, take it to heart. This is your business and you are responsible for doing everything you can to make it successful.

Sure, there are reasons for why you didn’t get a listing or why your business is slow, but what are you doing to change things and make them better? Successful Realtors® work harder and come up with innova-

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tive ways to stand out when times are tough. They don’t look for excuses, they look for solutions.

5. Be deliberate

about everything you do When you’re making your list, it helps to have a goal in mind for even the smallest task. If you’re calling past clients to touch base, have a specific reason why you’re calling. Are you letting them know some market news?

Thanking them for a referral? When you’re meeting a referral partner for lunch, have a goal in mind for what the outcome of that meeting will be as well. Yes it’s good to socialize and build relationships, but if you have a reason, make sure it isn’t put off until the final moments, when things are wrapping up. Always having a purpose in mind will also help you prioritize your list better.

6. Always look for ways to

get out of your comfort zone Yes, you are prioritizing what is most important or urgent to your business, but it’s also important to make an effort to break out

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of your routine as much as you’re comfortable doing. Trying out new things or taking some time to learn about new and innovative real estate techniques and technology, can have an energizing effect on your business.

Not only might they lead to things that make you more productive, but it keeps you sharp and engaged. And, ultimately keeping yourself at the top of your game is what it’s all about.

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BRANDI HAMPTON

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BRANDI HAMPTON

Prior to real estate, Brandi Hampton served in the business sphere, where she honed her management and negotiation skills with assorted Fortune 500 and 1000 corporations around Chicago. Following a health scare, though, she took a step back to examine her life and realized that she wanted to leave a lasting impact on her community. After earning her Broker’s License to pursue real estate investing, she noted that the business was a perfect complement to her outgoing personality and entrepreneurial spirit. Inspired, she decided to become an agent, finding fast success in the area and—most recently—launching her own team.

Today, Brandi leads the Hampton Collective, powered by Dream Town Realty, where she services clients throughout the Chicagoland area. As a certified Pricing Strategy Advisor, Accredited Buyer’s Representative, Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource, Military Relocation 18

Professional and Accredited Commercial Practitioner with the Mainstreet Association of Realtors, she has combined her sharp business acumen with her passion for empowering others to assist buyers, sellers, and investors all across the city.

When listing a property, Brandi is there for her clients throughout the transaction. After helping them prepare for the market, she shares their listing to a blend of targeted digital and social media campaigns. Meanwhile, she leverages the full suite of resources available through Dream Town Realty to give her clients an added advantage, ensuring a seamless transaction that maximizes their value.

Elsewhere, Brandi is just as devoted to her buyers, carefully guiding them to the right property for their best interests. For her, though, the deals are never done, as she prefers to remain in Top Agent Magazine

touch with her clients long after the closing to provide ongoing assistance and educate them on future investment opportunities. “I love the process of meeting people and forging those lasting connections,” she says. “When I assist a client, we formulate a detailed strategy for them to attain generational wealth.”

Through the years, Brandi has earned a fantastic reputation throughout Illinois, with the vast majority of her volume coming from repeat clients and referrals. On pace to complete 40 transactions in 2021 alone, she remains focused on the boutique workflow that has anchored her accomplished career. “It’s never about the sale for me; it’s about the journey. If you don’t feel like we can sit down and have a cup of coffee, then I may not be the agent for you. For me, real estate is about open communication, building relationships with my clients, and making sure they get everything their heart desires.”

Outside her career, Brandi is deeply involved in her community. On top of serving as an advisor for single mothers throughout the area, she supports a collection of advocacy groups for women and victims of domestic violence. When she’s not with clients or giving back, she can be found spending quality time with her husband and two daughters, playing tennis, catching a movie, or going shopping with friends.

Looking ahead, Brandi has an exciting vision for the future of her business. Having now established The Hampton Collective, she is most excited to expand her client base throughout the city—and beyond. But most of all, she looks forward to helping more members of her community discover their dream home and build their own legacy in the Chicago real estate market.

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To learn more about Brandi Hampton please call (630) 538-7928, email Brandi@thehamptoncollective.com or visit thehamptoncollective.com www.

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Is Branding the Way to Take Your Business to the Next Level?

Despite the importance of finding a Realtor® that is the best person to serve their needs, a lot of people only end up interviewing one Realtor® when they’re thinking about buying or selling a home. A lot of times people make that decision based on a referral, but why not do everything you can to be the name they think of when they make the decision to hire a real estate professional outside of referrals? Especially if you’re starting out and haven’t built up any repeat and referral business yet.

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When you want to make your name synonymous with real estate transaction success, you might want to consider branding yourself. Personal branding, long a staple of Corporate America, is also an invaluable tool for those in the real estate industry as well. Understanding branding and being consistent about it, is one way to insure you’ll have a successful and long-lasting business. It’s up to you to make consumers think that their success in real estate is dependent on finding the perfect agent—YOU. Top Agent Magazine

SO WHAT EXACTLY IS BRANDING? Branding is a long term marketing strategy that builds your carefully crafted image over time through consistent repetition. A common misperception about branding is that it’s is the same thing as marketing. While the two go hand and hand in many ways, branding is specifically about creating and reinforcing the perception of not only who you are as a person, but what your business values are, and getting that out to the world in a consistent way Everything from your logo, to your website

to your social media presence, should all line up and reinforce your brand. It’s that repetitiveness that will hammer home the perception you are trying to create. Your brand informs your marketing, while your marketing strengthens your brand. Of course then you have to do is make sure your service lives up to what you’re selling. Getting them in the door is one thing, but you’re in it for lifetime customers and referrals.

Every brand is strengthened when it is built on a foundation of integrity and trust.

CREATING A BRAND Although it might take time and money upfront to get it right, branding is almost guaranteed to pay off in the long run. But branding is more than just having a graphic designer come in and make a logo. Consider branding more of a promise to your clients and potential clients, succinctly stating the value and expertise working with you will afford them. There are clear, tried and true methods to creating your branding. Because you have to go all in on the way you want to brand yourself, it’s important to evaluate fully before you make the leap.

This all starts with an honest assessment of your business and where you want it to go, including how much time and money you’re willing to invest to get there. After that you may want to add focusing on a niche market to your branding. Regardless of whether or Top Agent Magazine

not you have a niche, another important part of branding is coming up with a memorable tagline that sells your brand or niche. All of your graphics, picture and information, should be consistent across all social media platforms, marketing materials, advertising and websites.

If you are interested in branding yourself, there are numerous books on the subject that will give you an in-depth tutorial on the process and the steps you need to take.

But what it basically all comes down to is commitment. Find a brand that is true to you, one that you can commit to performing and then back it up by not only meeting, but exceeding what you promised.

If done right, soon you’ll become an in-demand agent whose name is synonymous with success!

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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

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ARELIS SANTAMARIA For Arelis Santamaria, real estate isn’t a job so much as a passion. “I like to view beautiful homes as a way to relax,” she laughs.

“Looking at them with people who I have an opportunity to help is even better.”

She started in 2006 when she began investing in properties. After talking to an agent who was very inspiring and motivated by her work, Arelis got her own license and fell in love with the business. Fifteen years later she leads a team of two agents with Exit Strategy Realty, serving clients in Chicago’s Logan Square, Humboldt Park, Irving Park, Edgewater, Belmont Cragin, West Town, Wicker Park, Bucktown, Chicago Loop, Portage Park, and Bridgeport. Her office’s central location is convenient for servicing all of Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. With a reputation for superior service and a deep knowledge of the industry, Arelis closes 24 -36 transactions a year, with an enviable 90 percent of business coming from repeat clients and referrals. She earns their trust by listening, and tailoring her service to their needs.

property before it goes live. As it hits the market, she conducts open houses, and does targeted marketing in the surrounding neighborhood.

Arelis owns 6 Chicago properties and frequently flips houses with her husband, who is a GC contractor. That experience allows her to give great advice to investors, for whom she does market analyses in the areas they are thinking of investing in to make sure there’s room for a nice gain based on the comps. She also advises them on the after repair value of properties that need work.

She stays in touch with clients through monthly newsletters, updating them on the current market and letting them know how their homes have appreciated. Arelis also reaches out on birthdays and other special occasions, or just to let them know she’s been thinking about them.

“Everyone’s situation is different, and it’s important to get to know clients to discover how best to help them. I pride myself on finding solutions to any problems, and I’m very accessible. I also educate them along the way, and try to steer them into good decisions. I’m very honest and straightforward, and I’ll advise clients to walk away from a deal if it isn’t in their best interest. It’s not about getting a commission—it’s about helping people.”

Arelis is very dedicated to her community. She’s a Chamber of Commerce member, and donates regularly to the Boys and Girls Club, as well as the 606 Trail and other Chicago park systems. A bilingual Realtor, she’s taught first-time homebuyer classes to both English and Spanish speakers in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. “Those education efforts are particularly important in Latino communities, where many people don’t understand the process of home buying. I’m often helping older residents with basic things as well, like creating an email account.”

Arelis helps sellers prepare their homes for the market by alerting them to easy repairs that could prevent buyers from asking for a huge discount. She also helps them with staging before creating professional photographs capturing each property’s best features. Her brokerage’s marketing team posts the listings to over 1000 websites, while Arelis reaches out to agents and potential buyers within her sphere to give them a preview of the

When not working, Arelis enjoys running, reading and— of course!—looking at homes. Going forward, she will continue to grow by exploring new methods of marketing and staying familiar with the industry’s latest technological tools. She’s also always looking to share knowledge with other agents, and surrounds herself with likeminded people. Arelis looks forward to many years of delivering the highest quality of service to her clients.

Contact Arelis at 773-403-2796 or email arelisismyagent@gmail.com Top Agent Magazine

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STEVE JURGENS Top Agent Steve Jurgens – Managing Broker/Owner at 312 Estates Luxury Real Estate in Chicago – is a hardworking, innovative and truly dedicated real estate professional who works diligently to ensure that each of his many clients receive top-of-the-line customer service. Having built his thriving business on a solid foundation of honesty and integrity, Steve has more than earned his stellar reputation as a trusted advocate for buyers and sellers alike in the Windy City.

Steve, who previously worked for Arthur Anderson doing mergers and acquisitions, began his career in real estate in 2002 armed with a business plan. “I went to one of the private equity firms,” he recalls, “hoping to get the money in order to execute my plan. A wise mentor told me to try working in the industry first, for six months, and that if I still wanted to do real estate for a living then we could talk about how to put it together.” Steve found success almost immediately working for ReMax and being named their Rookie of the Year, and in 2003 was part of opening a boutique agency. Since then, he has built his business to the point where he is now selling between 20 – 30 million in sales volume annually.

Currently, the entirety of Steve’s considerable business is based upon referrals, repeat clients and positive word-ofmouth. “I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that I’m very hands-on with my clients,” he says, when asked how he has managed to generate such impressive levels of trust and loyalty amongst those he works with. “My clients never have to play the telephone game with me. I stay in constant contact with them during every aspect of each transaction.

Steve, who graduated from Hope College, received an Entrepreneurial Certificate from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, and Juris Doctorate at the John Marshall School of Law. Both of these accomplishments have been pivotal in helping Steve provide exceptional value to his many clients.

Another factor that comes into play when assessing Steve’s ever-growing success story would be his expert negotiation skills and cutting-edge, comprehensive marketing strategies.

These strategies include a custom coded websites for each listing which provides invaluable data feedback to Steve.

To Steve’s knowledge no other agency has this. 312 Estates marketing strategies include top-tier photography, interactive floor plans, and deft utilization of video to showcase each property in the best light possible. The result is almost always a fast sale for top dollar, not to mention happy – and returning and referring – customers.

When he’s not working, Steve enjoys nothing more than spending time with his family. Steve loves coaching his kids’ Welles Park baseball team. He is also an ardent philanthropist who gives back to his community in a variety of ways, most notably as former President and board member of the Fourth Presbyterian Trustees. In this capacity Steve has helped support and oversee the charitable organization Chicago Lights, which assists children in need.

“I’d like to keep growing, and to continue using the same cutting-edge technologies and marketing we use,” says Steve, when asked about the future of his business. “I’d also like to add more agents under the 312 Estates umbrella.” Above all, however, remains Steve’s constant objective: to continue providing his many buyers and sellers with the unparalleled customer service that has long been his calling card.

For more information about Steve Jurgens, call 773-580-2907 or email Steve@312Estates.com 24

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The Daily Schedule

of a Successful Real Estate Agent Everything you do should be intentional. A busy schedule isn’t the same thing as a productive schedule. Sometimes people write things like “find clients” on their to-do list, but finding clients isn’t actually a task. It’s a goal. Your daily schedule should be created with your goal in mind if you want to be a successful real estate agent, but a goal is too broad to add to your calendar.

Instead, you can break your goal down into projects, break those projects down into tasks, and schedule time in your calendar to complete each task. You’ll find that some of these projects will have an immediate impact on your business, and that those are the tasks that should be completed first.

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The fact is that as a real estate agent you can set your own schedule—if you’re not productive until 10am, then you don’t have to start your day until then. But having a daily schedule means that every day you have a running start on all those other agents who just “wing it.”

You don’t want to feel burned out and busy but like you’re simultaneously not getting a whole lot done. You can only keep up 70+ hour weeks for so long before your body breaks down and both your performance and income drop as a result.

Since every real estate agent’s operating hours look different, the following daily schedule is broken up by the suggested amount of hours you

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should spend on each task rather than specific times of day. However, certain tasks, like prospecting, appointments, and listing presentations should be performed at times when it’s most convenient for clients. If you’re an agent who likes to end their workday at 5 o’clock, remember that this is also the same time your clients are likely ending their day, meaning you might be unavailable for showings during the only time their schedule allows.

3.5 hours – This is that time of day that you should schedule all your appointments and listing presentations. If you are a newer agent, you might use this time instead to do more prospecting and appointment setting.

1 hour – Spend this time waking up, exercising either at home or at the gym, and eating breakfast.

2 hours – Now it’s time to unwind. Use this time to have dinner and spend time with you family. If you have children, this is usually the time of day when they are wrapping up homework assignments and getting ready for bed.

It’s important that you make time for these moments the same way you make time for your work.

2 hours – Use this time before you head to the office to develop a morning routine, if you haven’t already. You can meditate, journal, practice affirmations, or read personal development books to prepare for the day ahead.

1 hour – Once you’re at the office, spend this time to review the day’s schedule, catch up with your assistant or other colleagues, and check the latest industry news. This is also the time of day that you can role play to prepare for appointments.

1.5 hours – Spend this time prospecting and appointment setting.

1 hour – Now it’s time for a lunch break. If you’re a multitasker, you can also use this time to prepare for the afternoon and any meetings you have scheduled or connect with followers on social media.

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.5 hours – Look over the day’s schedule again and ensure you’ve checked every task off your to-do list. While you’re at it, be sure to review tomorrow’s schedule and goals too.

2 hours – Spend these last couple hours before you fall asleep to have quality time with your spouse or perform your self-care routines.

8 hours – Now it’s time for sleep—getting a full night’s rest is crucial if you want every day to be productive.

As you can tell, there’s still some wiggle room left in this schedule, but the important thing is to block out time every day so you can achieve your goals and help your clients.

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VALERIA GUBENKO Since 2003, Valeria has built an impressive career on a foundation of remarkable client service and expertise and has established a reputation as a Top Producing agent in Chicago. Valeria was attracted to real estate because it offered an opportunity to truly help people, making a difference in their lives and helping fulfill their dreams.

Consistent communication is a prominent feature of Valeria’s service that provides a gratifying and effortless experience for her clients. “Everything I do is geared towards helping my clients find the maximum level of success when they are buying or selling a home. They know they have a trusted adviser on their side who is keeping their best interests in mind,” Valeria says. “I treat every client like they are my number one priority, I have helped with decorating and staging their homes. I have even taken care of pets.” Valeria’s brand of personalized service has earned her a large following in Chicago. An astonishing ninety-eight percent of Valeria’s business is based upon returning clients and referrals. Her experience and admirable work ethic result in shorter market times and higher sale prices.

providers, and graphic designers to assist in marketing her client’s properties to get optimal prices for their listings. They market extensively online, using social media and the MLS to garner exposure from a wide range of potential buyers, and create individual domain names for each listing to make it easily searchable.

In her free time, Valeria enjoys staying active in the community where she lives in Ukrainian Village. As an immigrant from Russia, she maintains close ties with her family and culture back home and is fluent in both English and Russian. Valeria is a self-professed animal lover - she has routinely volunteered for anti-cruelty organizations in Chicago and is constantly working to find animals permanent, loving homes. She also works with the Greater Food Depository to fight the growing hunger epidemic in America.

As Valeria continues to grow her urban business, she is starting to focus on the suburbs of Chicago, with more clients looking to relocate. If you’re looking for a realtor with extensive experience and a willingness to go above and beyond, get in touch with Valeria Gubenko today!

With nearly two decades worth of knowledge, on top of extensive experience in corporate sales, Valeria is extremely well-equipped to handle even the most challenging real estate transaction. She is a skilled and aggressive negotiator as well as an advocate for her clients and does everything in her power to ensure the best possible outcome. When the transaction is closed, Valeria pulls from her vast professional and personal network to find top contractors and other resources for her clients to make their home owning experience easy and comfortable. Whether she is helping families find the perfect home or helping investors find the right property, Valeria prides herself on her clients’ satisfaction.

Valeria’s team is tech savvy and successful. She utilizes a team of professional service providers such as a photographer, highly regarded staging companies, virtual tour Top Agent Magazine

You can contact Valeria at (773) 450-1810 or valeriag@atproperties.com, and you can visit her website at atproperties.com/valeriagubenko http://

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