FLORIDA 7-12-21

FLORIDA EDITION

How to

SPEED UP FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER TRANSACTIONS THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD: How to List High When Neighbors Are a Nuisance

FEATURED AGENTS

JODY CAPUTO BEN GLYNN TIM LESTER NICOLE MARTIN DIANA PENDLETON DERELL ROBERSON SARAH SCOTT

Is Finding a

NICHE MARKET

Right for You?

EASY BLOG TOPICS FOR YOUR REAL ESTATE BLOG

COVER STORY

OSCAR ARELLANO

FLORIDA EDITION

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OSCAR ARELLANO

TIM LESTER

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DIANA PENDLETON TIM LESTER DERELL ROBERSON JODY CAPUTO NICOLE MARTIN CAPUTO SARAH SCOTT JODY

When many the major economicAfter downturn ofpast personalized common reason Realtors Nicole sends out mailerslevel to alert findingofsuccess working on the also service become 29 33 34 37 ve for their start in the industry is clients of developments in the market the late 2000s occurred, Diana Pendleton gives to her clients,inDiana get marketing side of real estate and gaintouch and e bad experience they had when that they might be interested in, but she ing extensive knowledge of the industry, was working as the assistant office her business throughdedication referralstoa uying or selling their home. That mainly stays in touch through social Sarah Scott decided to make the switch of helping p manager for a nationwide wholesale customers. akes Nicole Martin’s reasons all the media or texts, as she would with any estate license. who enjoys h plumbing distributor. Sheand hadobtained alwaysher real friend. ore refreshing. “My husband and I “It’s not about theDiana money. is I like Passionate about helping people, she curI’m working an agent who is d been experience interestedwhen in homes, rently and asspecializes hours in coastal ad a very positive people, and I look for ways to be a properties, have six kid hard-working. She markets he at her jobWe’re started she used e purchased our home. stillto in get cut,homes part of their lives. I’m upbeat with her acreage, land positive & commercial, searched for heavily over social media and at house and have very happy! by so something time been off BEN to explore the intricacies of realproperties, and investment andnature, assists sell-I think that’s They were o GLYNN NICOLE MARTIN DIANA PENDLETON SARAH SCOTT BEN and she averages around appreciated and admired the work my clients respond to and that’s helped ers and buyers months30oftra se estate. When herGLYNN job was eliminated, shethroughout North Florida. each year. She is motivated ur Realtor hadwas donemore for us,than and ready when to take the leap, and me in this business.” that couldpri n began considering a career change, the opportunity to make cliew Sarah’s A experience in marketing, advertistiful her house CONTENTS moved into real estate full-time. third decided I’d like to help people like active in her tocommunity as ing, and customer serviceShe’s enhances her ability serve almost two acres and gettin and guide them towards a sce native Floridian, Diana 4) HOW TO SPEED UP FIRST-TIME 27) EASY TOPICS FOR YOUR at myself.” generation donating time and to their “The way that IBLOG do business clients, as ahas REALTOR®.well, realized thatlife we found somb willmoney change for the now been working as a Realtor in Florida HOMEBUYER TRANSACTIONS REAL that ESTATE BLOG likebetter The you Children’s is very customer centric. organizations I realize the for them—that’s why I do she puts all of her energy int for overalso a decade, has seen icole’s sister-in-law, a Realtor,and she take Network, which dedicated care ofconyour people, Home the more folks will trustisyou, I’mtocompetitive. I love to s 13) IS STARTING A TEAM THE RIGHT 31) IS FINDING A NICHE that ncouraged hertinued dream.

Nicoleand took much-needed resources is nothing betterproviding than having the reputation of happen. goand up, but it’s people that m success growthBUSINESS? inand herthere business SOLUTION FOR YOUR MARKET RIGHT FOR YOU? e leap, quitting her job as a property manager and services to at-risk children and their families.

She’s being honest and genuine.”

A problem solver at heart, due to her solid foundation of honesty, her free totime, Diana loves watching an etting her license. months afterTHE that, she also involved with35) helping the children inBEST her son’s shesold looks at every challenge as an9In opportunity When she’s not serving he 18)Two THERE GOES THINGS THEhelp generosity, and understanding. pickleball, anever pastime she’s picked up rece clients.

“I always offerwhatever solutions.

There er first house. “I’m a soccer mom, and the firsther home club with they mightisneed.

“Children back to her community.

In NEIGHBORHOOD: HOW TO LISTsoccer HIGH LEADERS NEVER SAY volunteers for and donates to the Children’ that up makes that I don’t think we fix.supporting I ian award at her office for h sold was to one of mydoesn’t friends, another soccer mom. are comes our most important treasure, andcan I like WHEN NEIGHBORS AREasanything A Diana see herself a NUISANCE salesperson, and 38)and DAILY HABITS THAT WILL to provide options positive thinking.

Connection Drive.Walk, She ala y business grew from there, and I’ve lovedlike every them different in any way I can.”

Home program and the local Cancer a24) point of YOU not pressuring her clientsgotoabove makeanda beyond. hasty ARE DOING BUSINESS INCREASE YOUR MENTAL STRENGTH I always Even if something is Army drives, is a membe inute of it.” sincere effort to stay engaged with her loca decision. withnotclients is a trait that setsaboutifathe AS YOU Her ON patience FACEBOOK? necessarily myisresponsibility, it helps my Committee for the Tallahas Nicole excited future of client herpossible. business. nity as much as She looks forward t her apart from other agents and establishes trust with get to the closing table, I will do it,” she says, and adds, member of the local Human fter 5 years serving clients all over the Tampa area “I plan on doing this for a long time! I’ve begun her business and sphere to her daughter, Ala “Whenever my clients seegrowing me, have a smile clients, allowing feel comfortable coming to aI always ith Future Home Realty, Nicolethem has to attracted a thinking about a team, because myonvolume is Phone | Faxmy 310-734-1440 when she is able ready to retire, letting bus face.

Positive catching.”

Sarah’s plans for thethe future yal clientele, with an310-734-1440 impressive 75 percent of her increasing and is I want to continue to be to offer the and conclusion that works for them without theenergy obligation If you’re lo her reputation for exception usiness coming repeat aclients and referrals. bestvalue quality I’vethrough become multiple known for.generations.

I’m mag@topagentmagazine.com www.topagentmagazine.com offrom meeting deadline.

“I findShe a lot| of in service givingthat on Building long term relationships based on trust is key to obtain my Broker’s licens tributes that success to her low-key approach. “I picky, though. Whoever Iabring on will to love theshows true compass Realtor in need Florida who client time toforfind home whatsoever that’s right Nothe portion of this issueand mayspace be reproduced in the any manner without prior consent ofphone the publisher.

TopColdwell Agent Sarah, in touch with clients through I am, Banker Har on’t see myself as a salesperson. I give my clients the who workstays and be as dedicated to clients as I am.” clients, get in touch with Diana Pendleton to Magazine is published

by Feature Publications GA, Inc. Although precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy of published for them if they’re a buyer, or to get the best price for calls, emails, and personalized cards. “Social media has goal is to keep growing and formation they need to make a good decision, and I materials, Top Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. their home if they’re a seller.

I love helping people, and ill certainly Toshare my opinion onaddress, whether I think subscribe or change send inquiryato mag@topagentmagazine.com.

I really to get them into a said position where they can ouse is properly valued or what they’ve Published in try thematches U.S. ey needed, butmost I’m not pushy.” benefit themselves,” Diana says.

OSCAR ARELLANO

Another way to her clients mong the2 many qualities herDiana clientsshows cite ascompassion their asons for working with Nicole are her knowledge of is through the transparency in her communication.

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mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com http://www.topagentmagazine.com

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How to Speed Up First-Time Homebuyer Transactions Working with first-time homebuyers can be among the most rewarding real estate transactions an agent can embark upon.

Not only are you helping guide newcomers into the housing market, but you’re also witness to the excitement and triumphs along the way, including handing over those keys for the first time. While 4

helping first-time homebuyers navigate the transactional process can be a reminder of real estate’s benevolent power, it can also come with its own bumps and bruises.

So, what’s the best way to streamline the homebuying process for first-timers, while maintaining the magic and keeping your sanity along the way?

Top Agent Magazine ®

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While helping first-time homebuyers navigate the transactional process can be a reminder of real estate’s benevolent power, it can also come with its own bumps and bruises.

Set expectations upfront and often.

It’s no secret that communication is a cornerstone of a successful real estate practice and client relationship. Amidst a transaction as complex as buying (or selling) a home, it’s important that no wires get crossed, no questions go unanswered, and no information gets lost in translation. To accomplish this, create communication parameters with your clients up front. Inquire about the communication medium they’re most comfortable with—a text, a call, an email, etc.

Then, tailor your outreach accordingly.

Also, consider setting a weekly time to check in, even if no official progress has been made. This helps clients and agents touch base, float questions and concerns, and get ahead of any problems or developments. Another helpful tool is to draft a transaction timeline for your client that outlines the major milestones along the way, what sort of information will need to be gathered, what steps taken, and what outcomes are possible. This might seem like exhaustive work, but in the era of digital research, clients will come to their own conclusions and biases Top Agent Magazine

whether you like it or not. To stay on the same page and timeline, be the foremost resource for your client, and don’t leave their questions up to chance.

Know your first-time homebuyer programs and perks.

There are a variety of national, state, regional, and local grants and programs that aid first-time homebuyers as they pay their down payment, shop for home or mortgage insurance, and otherwise deal with the financial implications of becoming a homeowner. Sometimes these programs are neighborhood-specific in certain cities, with incentives to buy in up and coming areas. In some cases, there are grants that support underrepresented minority communities breaking into homebuying, and these can go a long way in making the burden of a down payment and associated fees doable. In other words, do your research.

The right program or grant could make the difference in nabbing a dream starter home for your client, while setting them up for future financial success.

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Get pre-approved for a mortgage—and shop around for the best rate.

Not all mortgage rates are made equal. As an agent, you likely have good relationships with area lenders that you trust, but it’s still important to complete your due diligence when helping first-time homebuyers find the rate that suits their longterm housing goals. Also remember that first-time homebuyers are new to this process, and while real estate transactions are complex in their own right, the borrowing and lending processes can be alienating in their complexity. As an agent, it’s your job to play intermediary and teacher, ensuring your clients know their options, are prepared to make an educated decision, and

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feel confident that they’ve chosen correctly. Talk with your preferred mortgage partners to best outline options for your clients’ understanding, laying out a framework that’s informative, projected into the future, and allows them to feel empowered by knowledge.

All in all, working with first-time homebuyers can be an exciting and joyous occasion, as long as you’re adequately prepared for some hand-holding and instruction along the way. Aside from the enthusiasm of successful first-timers at the closing table, you’ll also enjoy the lasting benefit of strong referrals to their friends and family, many of whom will be shopping with you for their own first dream homes.

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OSCAR ARELLANO 7

OSCAR ARELLANO A Top Producing agent in the area, Oscar offers every client his wealth of financial expertise, his innovative marketing strategy, and his passion for serving others.

Oscar Arellano is one of the most sought-after and successful Realtors® in South Florida because he has built his business around the ethos of providing his clients with top-tier customer service. A graduate of Florida International 8

University, Oscar holds a Bachelor’s degree in accounting and a Master of Science in Taxation. Oscar is well-poised to provide his clients with financial counsel. A Top Producing agent in the area, Oscar offers every client his wealth of financial Top Agent Magazine

expertise, his innovative marketing strategy, and his passion for serving others.

Now with eighteen years of experience, Oscar has built the Oscar Arellano Team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Top Agent Magazine

a group of dedicated and experienced professionals who know how to get the job done. Serving Coral Gables, Miami, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, and South Miami, the Oscar Arellano team delivers consistent results in a market known for 9

fluctuation. Guided by his values and his slogan, “I move fast so you can, too!”

Oscar serves every client with attention and care.

Over half of Oscar’s business is referral-based, a testament to his dedication and boundless energy. “I think my clients appreciate my work ethic and my professionalism,” Oscar says. “They continue to come back and to refer me because I give them the best customer service possible.”

To keep in touch with his growing list of past clients, Oscar prefers a personal

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touch. During the holidays, he calls each of his clients individually. “It takes time, but it’s worth it,” Oscar says. “I like letting my clients know that I’m thinking of them, and that I’m here for whatever they need.” To market his clients’ listings, Oscar deploys a comprehensive and cutting-edge marketing campaign that combines traditional and modern methods.

Using social media and mailers, Oscar and his team know how to get the word out, and it is not uncommon for them to sell “just listed” homes in as little as a Top Agent Magazine

day. Leveraging his extensive professional network, Oscar also uses email marketing campaigns to provide his clients with broad visibility. The Oscar Arellano team averages ten to fifteen sales a month. Last year, 100% of their listings sold.

Oscar loves what he does, and he finds fulfillment from helping others and from meeting the daily challenges of his job with a growth mindset. “Every day is a new day and a new challenge,” Oscar 11

says. “No two transactions are alike.

This career always has unknowns, and it keeps me on my toes in a way that helps me grow and do better for my clients.”

Active in the community, Oscar is a member of the President’s Cabinet for the Miami Children’s Hospital. When he is not busy helping clients or giving back

his time, Oscar loves boating and fishing with his family.

Looking to the future, Oscar has no plans to slow down. “I want to keep expanding and do more volume,” Oscar says.

“Mostly, I want to keep getting better at what I do, and keep serving my clients to the best of my ability every day.”

To find out more about Oscar Arellano, please call 305-525-7324, email Oscar@ArellanoTeam.com or visit realestatebulldog.com www.

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Is Starting a Team the Right Solution for your Business?

You’ve started your own real estate business and after a slow start, you’ve found your footing and business has really taken off. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Until maybe you’re getting more business than you can handle. After all, you don’t want to sacrifice service for more listings. The top-notch level of service you offer is probably what created your boom in Top Agent Magazine

business in the first place, so you don’t want to compromise that. But, at the same down, you don’t want to turn down business either. It’s at this point, a lot of Realtors® consider starting a team. But, how do you know if that’s the right call for you? Here are a few questions you might want to ask yourself to help make your decision.

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The top-notch level of service you offer is probably what created your boom in business in the first place, so you don’t want to compromise that.

CAN YOU AFFORD IT? First things first, are you really making enough money to warrant hiring help? One of the key things to think about is your ability to generate leads. Are you so busy with your existing contracts, that you have no spare time to generate more business? Then, it might be time to consider your options. Figure out the time you’ll be afforded to generate more business, how many more transactions that will lead

to, and then see if that pays for the assistant’s wages. That should help you easily see if it’s worth the investment. If it’s on the border, you may still want to go for it if you have a lot of confidence in the market and your ability to bring in business. If you’re not quite there yet though, it might be a good idea to look into a virtual assistant until your business is ready to expand.

ARE YOU READY TO BE A TEAM LEADER? Or in other words, how comfortable are you delegating tasks and responsibilities? For some agents, they need to be actively involved in every step of the process. Being a team leader is not only about being able to delegate, it’s about mentoring and guiding your team as well. Not only do you have to help them serve the team

better, you need to look at yourself honestly too, constantly evaluating what you can do better. It’s also your job to set up systems and operations, that are constantly refined with the feedback of your team members. Clear and constant communication is key with your clients as well as your team.

CAN YOU FIND PEOPLE WHO SHARE YOUR VISION? Of course, the above two points are moot, if you’re unable to find people that you trust and that share your business’ philosophy. Having a supportive and professional team culture is instrumental in a team’s success. These are people you will be working with closely for long hours so you not only need to trust in their expertise and professionalism, you want to find people with a positive attitude. You will all be relying on each other to create seamless trans14

actions in sometimes stressful circumstances.

Having the right team spirit, so to speak, is what will help your business and team grow.

The ultimate goal of a team is to have thriving careers for everyone on board.

So, if you want to see your business grow maybe a team is right for you. It may even give you a little free time for a personal life. We can all dream, can’t we?

Top Agent Magazine

TIM LESTER

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TIM LESTER

Tim Lester became interested in real estate when he was buying investment properties eighteen years ago. “I love people and I love this area,” Tim says. “I jumped in, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of this career. I’ve helped over 1,330 buyers and sellers achieve their goals with over $305,000,000 in sales volume.”

Now a Broker and Realtor with his own team in Manatee County, Florida, Tim is committed to providing his clients with excellent service and counsel. With eleven agents and one administrator, Team Lester is well-poised to help a diverse range of clients, whether they are relocating to the region, or are locals looking for something new. “This area is very special, and a bit under the radar,” Tim says.

“Having been born and raised here, I’ve got a local expertise, as does everyone on the team. We can help anyone find their spot in paradise.” ®

Tim believes it is the honest approach of his team that keeps so many of their clients coming back 16

and referring them to friends and family. “People ask me all the time, ‘What’s the secret of your success?” Tim says. “It’s pretty simple: honesty and follow-through. I’ve built a good reputation by doing what I say I’m going to do, and following-up afterwards to be sure it was done correctly.”

To market their listings, Team Lester implements a comprehensive campaign that includes local and international advertising. Leveraging his extensive professional network, Tim is able to provide his clients with broad coverage and competitive offers.

“Our international reach is outstanding,” Tim says.

“We reach other countries with over 90 International websites that convert to their native language and currency. Then we work with translators so we can communicate easily around the globe.”

What Tim finds most fulfilling about his career is introducing people to the area he loves. “The places around here are areas that people aren’t familiar with,” Tim says. “This region is a gem Top Agent Magazine

with so much to offer. It’s very rewarding when folks see how wonderful the community is, and the natural beauty of the area.”

Dedicated to the community, Tim serves as a member of the Chamber of Commerce, working on the Better Business Council. Passionate about education and childcare, Tim donates to local schools, organizes annual toy drives, and volunteers at schools to speak about financial literacy. When Tim is not working or giving back his time, he loves to go boating and RVing with his wife and two daughters. “We’ve got some of the most gorgeous campsites and islands so close by,” Tim says. “I feel like the most fortunate person in the world.”

For the future, Tim plans to continue to grow his business with the conscientious approach that has guided him to great success. “We’ve taken a different approach,” Tim says. “All the agents on our team have come over on their own, and I’d like to continue to grow organically, and to grow with quality. My goal is to maintain our brand as Top Agent Magazine

a company that people know they can trust.” For Tim, success is all about attitude, perseverance, and generosity. “I keep an abundance mindset,” Tim says. “What you put out into the world is what comes back to you. If you try to help people, it will all come back to you full circle.”

To find out more about Tim Lester, please call 941-524-8465, email tim@timlesterrealty.com, or visit timlesterrealty.com www.

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There Goes the Neighborhood:

How to List High When Neighbors are a Nuisance Troublesome neighbors are a relatively common issue that agents come across. You can control the image of your client’s property and you can control your listing presentation, but you can’t always control what’s happening on your client’s street. How do you diffuse difficult neighbors that could lower your bottom line or embarrass you in front of prospective buyers?

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First of all, it takes tact and a gameplan. With that in mind, let’s consider a few ways you can maintain a listing’s viability and competitive edge—even when bothersome neighbors are involved. Here are a few common neighborly scenarios agents encounter and how to diffuse them to your advantage.

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How do you diffuse difficult neighbors that could lower your bottom line or embarrass you in front of prospective buyers? It takes tact and a gameplan.

as a courtesy introduction to the neighborhood.

While it may seem like needless busy work, it can dramatically improve prospective buyers’ perceptions of the area. Plus, you may positively ingratiate yourself with neighbors in the area and demonstrate your above-and-beyond service to your clientele in the process.

Is the neighbor’s landscaping an eyesore?

Here’s your recourse.

Most towns and cities have established ordinances regarding yard upkeep. If any of the properties adjacent to your listing are wildly overgrown, littered with junk, or otherwise in a state of obvious disrepair—take it up with the city. Rather than get directly involved at first glance, you might loop in city officials whose job it is to monitor clean-up efforts on rundown yards and properties. If this doesn’t work, you may have to take a more hands-on approach.

Start by thinking small and operating from a place of authenticity and neighborly service.

You might explain to the neighboring tenant that you’re listing and offer to mow their lawn Top Agent Magazine

Are there foreclosed or abandoned homes on your client’s block?

Do your homework.

It may take a little research and digging to figure out the banking entity that owns a foreclosed home, but it’s well worth the effort. Banks are typically required to maintain foreclosed homes on at least a basic level. If you’re worried about

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squatters, an unsightly façade, or general disrepair of a neighboring foreclosed property—go to the source. Sometimes banks take their time in hiring a third party to maintain a foreclosed property, but with some proactive prodding on your part, you may be able to speed the process along and resolve eyesores even before prospective buyers come calling. Remember: the squeaky wheel gets the grease. An improved bottom line will be your reward for those few prodding phone calls and emails.

Noisy, nosy, or annoying neighbors?

Don’t be discouraged.

Obnoxious neighbors can really rain on a seller’s parade, especially the kind of neighbor 20

that takes their less-than-stellar behavior to their porch, front yard, or sidewalk. While this sensitive issue may seem daunting, there are a few official channels you can utilize to thwart the issue before getting personally involved. If the neighborhood in question is governed by an HOA, you might take it up with them. If the troublesome neighbor is harassing passersby or taking to the sidewalk—in other words, public space—then you may be able to involve local authorities in worst-case scenarios. Of course, it’s always possible to talk to troublesome neighbors faceto-face, but do so with caution and with safety as the priority. Always reason gently and empathetically, utilizing I... phrasing, instead of accusatory You... phrasing. After all, some neighbors are clueless about their impact on the neighborhood and may adjust their behavior after being called out. If the issue persists and no third-party authority can help, then you may have to disclose the neighbor’s issues to prospective buyers, depending on the disclosure laws in your region. While this may seem like a blow, you can at least rest easy knowing you pursued all the potential avenues for resolution available. Likewise, your client will likely appreciate your thorough efforts to resolve the issue.

While troublesome neighborhoods can bring down an optimistic mood when listing a property, sometimes being real estate is all about being resourceful. With diligence, digging, and a little follow-up, you just may be able to resolve some of the issues plaguing your neighborly plot.

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DERELL ROBERSON Top Agent Magazine

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DERELL ROBERSON

With more than 15 years in the business, Derell Roberson is a veteran Realtor who is committed to excellence and passionate about homes and giving back to his community. His ability to lead a team while also maintaining a high level of production as an agent in his own right is impressive, and he has built his career on the values of consistency, transparency, and hard work. A long-time resident of Orlando, Derell is intimately familiar with the area and incredibly knowledgeable about local and national market trends, and he is someone a homebuyer or seller wants on their team when jumping into a real estate transaction.

trust with my clients,” Derell says. “I don’t want them to ever feel blindsided or insecure, so I make sure we’re on the same page when we start the transaction, and I take time to understand their particular needs.” Derell gets 80% of his business from referrals, which should come as no surprise. He takes his client interaction very seriously, he is a team player, and he never drops the ball when it comes to reliably

Derell’s team is known for their authenticity and hands-on approach, and Derell himself places a high priority on communication. He speaks candidly with his clients, and his honesty is wellacknowledged among the members of his community. “I go to great lengths to build 22

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providing relevant information and insight to his clients.

An incredibly hard worker who takes his work seriously, Derell consistently puts up big production numbers. He consistently closes more than $10M in total sales volume each year, and his team moves about 500 units in that same time frame. Derell and his team emphasize versatility in the way they handle their business, and are able to accommodate the needs of a wide variety of different clients due to their expansive knowledge and well-rounded experience when it comes to all facets of real estate.

Derell puts a lot of energy into marketing his listings – he uses cutting-edge technology to make them look top of the line and to push them out to as wide an audience as possible. Derell, co-owner of OmniRealty Now, has closed over 1000 transactions in Central Florida over the course of his career, and before that, he spent time perfecting his customer service in the service industry.

He has spent much of his life in Florida, and his wealth of experience informs everything he does.

In his free time, Derell loves spending time with family in tropical locations and dining fine cuisine and local eateries. He has coached high school basketball, AAU and YBOA teams over the years, and enjoys promoting the youth in his community. Derell is passionate about helping people achieve their real estate dreams, and he toils endlessly to make sure that each of his clients gets the best experience that he can possibly muster. If you’re looking for a professional Realtor in Florida who gets the job done with a smile on his face, get in touch with Derell Roberson today!

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Contact Derell at (407) 583-2504, email derell@omnirealtynow.com, or visit derellmroberson.com www.

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Are You Doing Business As YOU On Facebook?

Are you ‘Doing Business As YOU’ on your personal Facebook page? In other words, are you posting your business content from your personal page?

Yesterday a REALTOR® asked us, “Why should I bother with a company Facebook page? Can’t I just post everything from my profile page?”

The answer lies in what we call division of content. As you may be aware, social media began as just that… social. It was never truly intended for business use.

Over time, as businesses began to see the potential in reaching the masses in a new way, they began to intrude on this communication. Today, it is widely accepted that business will be conducted on all social platforms, but the manner in which we do so (and in which we are received) is still a touchy subject at times.

We believe it’s important to be transparent on social media. Draw the line between communicating as the Person and the Professional. Not only does this help you keep your content separate and appropriate, it also gives the control to your network of family, friends, colleagues, acquaintances and customers.

They get to decide whether to ‘like’ or ‘follow’ your company page. They get to decide whether they want to see your business related posts. User control is the #1 reason you need a business page if you’re conducting business on Facebook. Wouldn’t you rather have a willing and engaged audience over a forced, potentially reluctant one? We have personally eliminated many of the ‘DBA’ offenders from our news feeds and you have likely done the same.

As in all controversial social media topics, there is some gray area. And that gray area is often subjective, so consider this post food for thought and decide for yourself. We try our best to keep professional content on our business pages, with a couple of exceptions: 1. Philanthropic Promotion: We’re in favor of posting anything that will help an organization in need on both your personal and business pages. Nonprofits often have little to no marketing budget and rely on all of us to promote their good works, so we believe that’s a good line to cross (as long as it’s about the organization, and not you).

2. Recognition Tagging: Facebook does not allow you to tag an individual on your business page. Yes, there are some tricky work-arounds, but they are inconsistent at best. So when it’s truly important for us to recognize and tag an individual, especially someone who has done something nice for us (inviting us as guests on their radio show or podcast, for instance), we will generally post that on the business page first, then share it from our personal pages, along with a comment recognizing and tagging the individual(s) or business who helped us.

Either way (personal or business), remember to be true to the social aspect. Our participation on social media should be about giving, helping, recognizing and connecting…especially when it comes to your business.

Tonya Eberhart is the Branding Agent to Business Stars and founder of BrandFace®, LLC. Michael Carr is America’s Top Selling Real Estate Auctioneer & BrandFace® partner. Together, they focus on personal branding and marketing designed to help real estate professionals become the face of their business & a star in their market. BrandFace® for Real Estate Professionals is a book, professional speaking series and an exclusive workshop for agents, and is currently active in 18 U.S. states, Canada and New Zealand. For more information, visit www.BrandFaceRealEstate.com.

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JODY CAPUTO Top Agent Magazine

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JODY CAPUTO Jody Caputo decided to enter the real estate industry to make a difference in her clients’ lives. “I went into real estate to give people a better experience than I had,” Jody says. “I had a passion, and I wanted to help people.”

Licensed in three states, Jody has been a Realtor® for over twenty years. Her motto is to treat every client like a million-dollar client. With a fierce commitment not only to her clients, but also to the integrity of the industry itself, Jody has built a stellar reputation and a thriving business.

Now a Realtor® at Round Table Realty in St. Johns, Florida, Jody serves her clients with professionalism, skill, and compassion. In her first year of practice in Florida, she was named Rookie of the Year in her Brokerage, and she has been a multi-million dollar producer every year since. In 2019 and 2020, Jody was a Top 3 Finalist for Bold City’s Best Real Estate Agent.

In 2019, Jody was in the top 10% of all Realtors® in her market area, and in 2020 she was in the top 8%. Jody has published two articles in Florida Realtors Magazine, including, “We Are Each Other’s Reputation,” in which Jody argued for higher standards of professional practice. “It’s very important as Realtors® that we behave ethically and morally and help the public,” Jody says. “I’ve seen the industry evolve, and we have an obligation to uphold ethical and professional standards, for ourselves and for our clients.”

With her focus on relational transactions, the majority of Jody’s business stems from repeat clients and referrals.

“I build and keep relationships,” Jody says. “My clients become lifelong friends. I have an eighty-six year old client who I helped eight years ago, and I still visit him every week.” Always willing to go above and beyond for her clients, Jody is committed to providing every customer with top-tier service at every price point.

Big-hearted and generous, Jody has earned her clients’ trust and loyalty with her exceptional ability to serve their needs. “I go into every transaction not with the attitude of, ‘How much money can I make from this person?’ but with the attitude of, ‘How can I help this person?’”

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For Jody, the satisfaction of her career comes from serving others, both clients and agents alike. “I’m very big on mentorship,” Jody says, “because I remember what it was like to be a new agent and to be thrown in the deep end. Some of the agents I’ve mentored have gone on to be Top Agents, which is wonderful to see. We’re all in this business together.

When I help them, I’m helping all of us.”

Dedicated to her community, in 2020 Jody donated a portion of each commission to Rethreaded, a non-profit that provides employment opportunities for survivors of human trafficking. “I get so much from the community,” Jody says, “it’s important to me to give back.” She has been involved with Builder’s Care by painting children’s murals in homes that were built and donated to needy families. “It is like a local Extreme Makeover show in Jacksonville!” Jody says. In her free time, Jody loves to ride horses, visit the beach, travel, paint, and spend time with her family.

Happy with what she has built, Jody has no plans to slow down. “Each year, my business has grown,” Jody says. “I plan to keep growing, and to touch as many lives as I can.”

To find out more about Jody Caputo, please call (904) 687-7671, email jodycaputosellshomes@gmail.com, or visit JodyCaputo.com www.

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Easy Blog Topics for Your Real Estate Blog Today, blogging looks a lot different than it did back in 2007, when the platform was just beginning to take off. Successful bloggers don’t choose blog topics on a whim. They think strategically and develop pillar content that their target audience will come back to again and again.

Real estate bloggers should be less concerned with whether the same post already exists (it does) Top Agent Magazine

than with how they can be more informative and helpful than their competition. Your personality is likely the thing that your clients connect with, and your blog is another place where you can let it shine.

Pillar content refers to those evergreen posts that never get old because they are always timely.

Think about those questions that you’ve had to

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answer a hundred, if not thousands of times— that’s your pillar content. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could direct your clients to a blog post or, better yet, they discovered the answer on your website rather than you having to constantly repeat yourself?

Or maybe you helped a client sell their house for much more than they were expecting by conducting a series of small and inexpensive renovations. Tell your readers how you did it.

Evergreen Content

Your clients are likely new to the area. Inform them about upcoming community events or mom-and-pop shops they may have never heard of. Are there hiking trails or parks nearby?

What’s the best place to grab a cup of coffee before work or a beer after? You can spotlight these places regularly as a monthly series.

This should really make up the bulk of your content. The possibilities are endless, and you could easily come up with an entire year’s worth of content with only a few hours of brainstorming.

Here are some examples: You could provide your readers with a list of questions they should ask when interviewing a realtor, the steps to becoming a real estate investor, real estate facts all first-time homeowners should know, steps new parents should take to prepare their home for a baby, recommended vendors for home maintenance, or common real estate terms defined.

You could explain to your readers what they need to know about home staging, which home renovations add the most value to their home, how to research schools or crime rates in specific neighborhoods, what a home association is, or how to start flipping houses and buying foreclosures.

Case Studies Sometimes realtors work with a client for years before they are ready to buy a home. Personal finance blogs are a thing for a reason. People want to see exactly how someone else achieved a shared goal. If you have a close relationship with a client who you helped become a homeowner, consider interviewing this client and writing up a case study that shows exactly how the two of you worked together to achieve this goal.

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Stay Local

There are plenty of real estate news outlets that will be posting about the state of the market—but they won’t be talking about your specific community, and that’s where your blog comes in.

Of course, if you only blog about community functions or properties on the market, then as soon as that event is over or that listing is sold, your content ceases being useful.

The best real estate blogs balance their content by posting a little about all the above. Maintaining a high-quality blog means your prospective clients don’t need to visit several websites to have their questions answered because you’ve done the work for them. It’s a tool that helps you make a great first impression.

If you still need help coming up with blog topics for your real estate blog, consider sending a survey out to your clients. You can send it via email and post it on social media. Ask your clients what real estate problems they need help solving and write your content with their responses in mind.

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BEN GLYNN Top Agent Magazine

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BEN GLYNN As head of The Glynn Team at Round Table Realty, Ben Glynn uses his experience and market knowledge to give his clients a seamless transaction every time. Ben started his work as a Realtor® then moved to Florida, where he now serves buyers and sellers throughout St. Johns County, Jacksonville, and surrounding areas.

Having to build his business from scratch in Florida, Ben quickly established a network of referral clients. “When I came here, I didn’t have much of a sphere, so all my business was brand new. I had to work hard and knock on many doors until I started getting a steady stream of referral business,” he explains. Clients can count on Ben’s integrity and experience to navigate them through what can be a stressful time for many. “I’ve been involved with real estate for a long time. I have personally bought and sold probably 15 homes, and relocated several different times, so I’m very familiar with the feeling of moving into a new community.

That’s why I make the effort to get to know my clients as people and figure out exactly what they’re trying to achieve. Whether they have a family, or they’re looking to relocate for work, or they’re in the military, I want to make sure that I’m matching up everything they’re looking for and bringing them into the right neighborhood and the right house.”

Another one of Ben’s keys to success is his marketing strategy, which ensures that all his listings are prominent online, especially on social media. “Aside from the marketing department we have at Round Table Realty, I also like to go live on Facebook and do a tour of the property as well as market on other social media channels to help push the listings.”

Ben’s passion for helping people is a driving force behind his hard work. “From a personal side I love 30

the flexibility that real estate offers and having control over my schedule. From a professional standpoint I love helping people. This is a huge decision for them and trusting me with it is very important.

I love to be able to connect with them one on one, work to educate them about the market, see what they’re looking for, and help them find that perfect home.”

His passion for helping extends beyond his work and into his community, as he has partnered up with Hunger Fight, a charity that works to provide kids with meals and books. He shares a percentage of every transaction he closes with Hunger Fight and was able to contribute over 20,000 meals last year. In his spare time, Ben loves to go to the beach with his wife and enjoys outdoor concerts.

Going forward Ben is focused on growing his business. “My wife frequently works with me and my daughter recently got her real estate license, so our plan is to keep building the business together.”

To learn more about Ben Glynn, call (904) 463 – 2036. email Ben.Glynn@RoundTableRealty.com, or visit TheGlynnTeam.com www.

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Is Finding A Niche Market Right for You?

A lot of Realtors® take the ‘jack of all trades’ approach to their businesses, and some are extremely successful with doing it all and doing it well. But taking that approach can also make it hard to stand out if there are a lot of agents in your area taking the same approach.

If you’re looking for a way to stand out from the rest, finding a niche market might be the way to go. Although it might sound limiting at first, with the right branding and marketing, your specialty and expertise may help you lock up a market after you become well known for being the ‘go to’ Realtor® in a certain demographic. Having a niche helps you target your marketing, making it more effective, until eventually people are seeking you out as you build your reputation as the foremost expert in your particular niche.

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Despite the benefits of taking on a specialty, it’s still something that only a small percentage of Realtors® do, which means you have a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor in your area by being ahead of what is sure to be a looming real estate trend.

You want to claim your stake on the niche that best fits not only your passions, but something that fills a void in your market.

If this all sounds good to you, the next step is finding your niche! Here are a few things you need to consider:

There are two approaches to having a specialty, one that is truly your all-consuming passion or a sort of revolving niche, one that changes with the market 31

In addition to creating a thriving business, finding a niche may even unlock a hidden passion. Does your area have a large historic home inventory? Are you passionate about helping first time home buyers realize their dreams?

Having a personal connection to what you specialize in is always a great way to start out. If you’re passionate about something, you’re almost guaranteed to have the work ethic it takes to have success in a niche market. Once you hone in on a niche, make sure the market data backs up your focus.

Another approach is changing with the market. If you’re truly an expert in a few areas of the business, it might be good to have sort of a revolving niche. In a down market you might specialize in short sales and foreclosures.

When things pick up, you may take your innovative approaches and start applying them to luxury homes.

Whether you take the consistent niche approach or the flexible one, it’s really all about figuring out what best suits you and your market.

Fill a void in your market Maybe you don’t have an instant passion for one particular niche. In that case, there are several areas you can consider. A lot of it will start with really researching and analyzing your market and having a good eye for what future trends will be. Is there a certain demographic that is surging in your area? Cater your business to serve them. Maybe you are fluent in Spanish and your area is seeing a rise in a Latino population, who are emigrating from other countries. Or perhaps, you live in an area that has a larger retirement population. There 32

are numerous demographics that truly need expert real estate advice. Be the one to fill it.

You can also focus on a particular neighborhood or gated community. Helping people navigate the ins and outs of a particular HOA can be a lifesaver.

Are you already serving a niche?

Of course, sometimes you may already have a niche and are unaware of it. Maybe you are already dealing with a lot of first-time homebuyers. Look over your sales records and see what might already be there, then make it official.

Figure out why you’re drawn to that area and then nail down the reasons you’ve excelled with that niche and use it to create a marketing plan and branding.

Find ways to really sell your expertise Once you figure out your niche, get the training, designations, and certifications that will enhance your expertise. Another way to let it be known that you are the ‘go to’ Realtor® in your particular niche is to become a resource online. Create a website with informative blogs and marketing information. Make a mark on social media where you can link back to your site, so potential clients can actually interact with you.

There is a lot to consider when you’re thinking of going the niche market way with your business, but if you consider everything carefully and focus in on something you can be passionate about, the rewards could be a major win for you and for your clients.

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NICOLE MARTIN A common reason many Realtors give for their start in the industry is the bad experience they had when buying or selling their home. That makes Nicole Martin’s reasons all the more refreshing. “My husband and I had a very positive experience when we purchased our home. We’re still in that house and have been very happy!

I appreciated and admired the work our Realtor had done for us, and when I began considering a career change, I decided I’d like to help people like that myself.”

Nicole’s sister-in-law, also a Realtor, encouraged her dream. Nicole took the leap, quitting her job as a property manager and getting her license. Two months after that, she sold her first house. “I’m a soccer mom, and the first home I sold was to one of my friends, another soccer mom.

My business grew from there, and I’ve loved every minute of it.”

After 5 years serving clients all over the Tampa area with Future Home Realty, Nicole has attracted a loyal clientele, with an impressive 75 percent of her business coming from repeat clients and referrals. She attributes that success to her low-key approach. “I don’t see myself as a salesperson. I give my clients the information they need to make a good decision, and I will certainly share my opinion on whether I think a house is properly valued or matches what they’ve said they needed, but I’m not pushy.”

Among the many qualities her clients cite as their reasons for working with Nicole are her knowledge of the industry, honesty, professionalism, and sheer hard work on their behalf. As one client put it, “She goes way beyond what is required and has no ‘off’ hours.

No matter what we needed or didn’t even know we needed, she came through every time.”

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Nicole sends out mailers to alert past clients of developments in the market that they might be interested in, but she mainly stays in touch through social media or texts, as she would with any friend. “It’s not about the money. I like people, and I look for ways to be a positive part of their lives. I’m upbeat by nature, so I think that’s something my clients respond to and that’s helped me in this business.”

She’s active in her community as well, donating time and money to organizations like The Children’s Home Network, which is dedicated to providing much-needed resources and services to at-risk children and their families. She’s also involved with helping the children in her son’s soccer club with whatever they might need. “Children are our most important treasure, and I like supporting them in any way I can.”

Nicole is excited about the future of her business.

“I plan on doing this for a long time! I’ve begun thinking about growing a team, because my volume is increasing and I want to continue to be able to offer the best quality service that I’ve become known for. I’m picky, though. Whoever I bring on will need to love the work and be as dedicated to clients as I am.”

Contact Nicole at 813-323-7017 or email soccermom0430@gmail.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 33

DIANA PENDLETON When the major economic downturn of the late 2000s occurred, Diana Pendleton was working as the assistant office manager for a nationwide wholesale plumbing distributor. She had always been interested in homes, and as hours at her job started to get cut, she used her time off to explore the intricacies of real estate. When her job was eliminated, she was more than ready to take the leap, and moved into real estate full-time. A third generation native Floridian, Diana has now been working as a Realtor in Florida for over a decade, and she has seen continued success and growth in her business due to her solid foundation of honesty, generosity, and understanding.

Diana doesn’t see herself as a salesperson, and makes a point of not pressuring her clients to make a hasty decision. Her patience with clients is a trait that sets her apart from other agents and establishes trust with clients, allowing them to feel comfortable coming to a conclusion that works for them without the obligation of meeting a deadline. “I find a lot of value in giving the client time and space to find the home that’s right for them if they’re a buyer, or to get the best price for their home if they’re a seller. I love helping people, and I really try to get them into a position where they can most benefit themselves,” Diana says.

Another way Diana shows compassion to her clients is through the transparency in her communication.

She gives honest insight to her clients throughout the transaction process and is eager to guide her clients towards a decision that will leave them satisfied and happy. “I always tell my clients, ‘Rushing a decision is like forcing a circle peg into a square hole.’ I don’t mind showing people homes till they find the right one, and if I feel like it’s not the right fit, I’ll let them know and we can move on,” Diana says. “The last thing I would want is for a client to settle for something that doesn’t truly meet their needs.” Because of the exceptional 34

level of personalized service that she gives to her clients, Diana gets most of her business through referrals and repeat customers.

Diana is an agent who is driven and hard-working. She markets her listings heavily over social media and the MLS, and she averages around 30 transactions each year. She is motivated primarily by the opportunity to make her clients happy and guide them towards a scenario that will change their life for the better, and she puts all of her energy into making that happen.

In her free time, Diana loves watching and playing pickleball, a pastime she’s picked up recently. She volunteers for and donates to the Children’s Miracle Home program and the local Cancer Walk, and makes a sincere effort to stay engaged with her local community as much as possible. She looks forward to offering her business and sphere to her daughter, Alaina Fiscus when she is ready to retire, and letting the business live on through multiple generations. If you’re looking for a Realtor in Florida who shows true compassion to her clients, get in touch with Diana Pendleton today!

Contact Diana at (386) 341-2447 or homesbuydiana@gmail.com.

You can also visit homesbuydiana.com www.

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Things the Best Leaders Never Say

As Spider-Man’s Uncle Ben said, “With great power, comes great responsibility.”

Being the boss is a great thing, but there’s a reason the ‘bad boss’ is common stereotype. Some people tend to use their power in destructive ways and that isn’t good for anyone. You might not even know you’re being a bad boss, it can be subtle sometimes.

There are common traits among great leaders, if you want to be a boss that operates with integrity and is respected by everyone

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you work with, make sure you don’t say any of the following things.

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I’M THE BOSS

Stating a fact that should be obvious is always a sign of weakness, and when you are the boss, strength of leadership is THE key component.

It also may indicates a stubbornness that is the death knell of a healthy work environment.

Your job as a leader is to bring everyone to your level of success, not to create a larger rift.

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2

6

I’LL DO IT MYSELF

Being a good leader is all about delegation. If you are hiring people who are professional and trustworthy, then this should be a no brainer. It is your job as a leader to get the right people for the job and then lead them in away that means success for everyone.

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THAT WASN’T MY FAULT

There’s an old saying “The Buck Stops Here.” and that is still true today. Good leaders take responsibility for what happens. They don’t blame others or make excuses. They take the hit for the team and then find the solution to make it better. Not only does it show they have integrity, but it also fosters a warm team environment that makes all players feel like their boss has their back.

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I’M SORRY TO ASK YOU TO DO THIS

Treating your employees with respect is mandatory, at the same time there is no reason to be sorry when you ask people to do their job. Leadership is strength and confidence. Expecting your employees to put in the same work ethic as you is your job.

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I ALREADY KNOW THAT

Having a ‘know-it-all’ attitude isn’t pleasant coming from anyone, but the last thing you need to do as a boss is shut down the people working for you. If you give them the impression that you’ve thought of everything, why should they bother giving potentially valuable contributions?

Make people feel good about all input, even if you don’t think it will work or have already thought of it. Open flow of communication and ideas is key to a successful team.

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THAT’S NOT THE WAY WE DO IT HERE

Well, why not? Being a successful leader means always being open to change and improvement.

No great leader is ever accepting of the status quo. It’s not only lazy, it’s uninspiring and usually leads to a work environment that is stagnate. Yes, keep things that work going, but nothing should ever be untouchable. Creative thinking should never be faced with constant roadblocks. A good option is to always ask for more information. Let your employee show you why they think their way might be better. This gets them energized and excited to approach you with more in the future.

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I’M NOT HERE TO MAKE FRIENDS

This is a workplace, not a reality show competition.

Good leaders know that building strong workplace relationships, with employees, vendors and peers, is the foundation of a successful business

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DON’T BRING ME BAD NEWS

No true leader avoids bad news. They confront everything head on because as we said above, they know that ultimately everything is their responsibility, and ignoring a potential problem will most likely end up being worse down the road. Good leaders want to know bad news right away, and the last thing you want is to foster a work environment where employees feel like they have to lie to you.

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YOU JUST DON’T GET IT.

You’re the boss. If someone who works under you is having trouble understanding something, it’s on you to make it clear to them. Getting frustrated makes them less likely to ask for help in the future.

Sharing your expertise and experience is not only generous, but a necessary tool in the success of your business.

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SARAH SCOTT After finding success working on the marketing side of real estate and gaining extensive knowledge of the industry, Sarah Scott decided to make the switch and obtained her real estate license.

Passionate about helping people, she currently specializes in coastal properties, homes with acreage, land & commercial, and investment properties, and assists sellers and buyers throughout North Florida.

Sarah’s experience in marketing, advertising, and customer service enhances her ability to serve clients, as a REALTOR®. “The way that I do business is very customer centric. I realize that the better you take care of your people, the more folks will trust you, and there is nothing better than having the reputation of being honest and genuine.” A problem solver at heart, she looks at every challenge as an opportunity to help her clients. “I always offer solutions. There is never anything that comes up that I don’t think we can fix. I like to provide different options and positive thinking.

I always go above and beyond. Even if something is not necessarily my responsibility, if it helps my client get to the closing table, I will do it,” she says, and adds, “Whenever my clients see me, I always have a smile on my face. Positive energy is catching.”

Building long term relationships based on trust is key for Sarah, who stays in touch with clients through phone calls, emails, and personalized cards. “Social media has

also become a huge tool for both staying in touch and marketing my listings.” Her dedication to work is inspired by her love of helping people. “I’m a social person who enjoys helping people. For example, I’m working with a family right now. They have six kids and we have searched and searched for the perfect home for them.

They were on a budget and finally after months of searching we found something that could not be more perfect. A beautiful house with plenty of space. It’s on almost two acres and getting to see their faces when they realized that we found something that is actually perfect for them—that’s why I do it. And don’t get me wrong, I’m competitive. I love to see my sales and my numbers go up, but it’s people that matter the most.”

When she’s not serving her clients, Sarah likes to give back to her community. In 2020 she won the humanitarian award at her office for her efforts with the Christmas Connection Drive. She also participates in Salvation Army drives, is a member of the Equal Opportunity Committee for the Tallahassee Board of Realtors, and a member of the local Humane Society.

Sarah’s plans for the future involve continuing to grow her reputation for exceptional customer service. “I intend to obtain my Broker’s license, but I am happy with where I am, Coldwell Banker Hartung is home for me, and my goal is to keep growing and expanding my business.”

For more about Sarah Scott, email sarahscott.323realestate@gmail.com, call (850) 838–7029 visit coldwellbanker.com/Coldwell-Banker-Hartung-1747c/Sarah-Scott-7462173a, facebook.com/sarahscottrealtorgbre, or zillow.com/profile/sarahscottcbhn www.

www.

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Daily Habits That Will Increase Your Mental Strength When it comes to building physical strength, the solutions are obvious, but keeping up your mental strength isn’t as easy as going to the gym. Although physical exercise does help clear your head and relieve stress, there are other things you can do daily that will help your mind be as strong and flexible as your body after a workout. Here’s just a few things you can do to help clear your head and make you more productive.

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DON’T WASTE YOUR BRAIN POWER That might seem obvious, but think about how much mental energy you might use up worrying about negativity or things you have no control over. Instead of focusing on problems, focus on solutions.

This actually take a lot of effort, we’re all conditioned to let worry paralyze us sometimes. Try and catch yourself when you’re Top Agent Magazine

wasting time thinking about about past mistakes or current dilemmas you don’t have the power to stop. You really only have so much mental energy, and if you have kids and an especially stressful work situation, that might be even less than normal. Start treating your brain like the precious resource it is. You don’t want to be running on empty when it really matters.

BE MORE POSITIVE Eliminating negative thoughts is essential to increasing your mental strength. Carrying around negativity is like swimming with all of your clothes on. You might be okay at first, but eventually you’ll feel like you can barely stay afloat. Don’t drown in negativity, use positive thoughts as a lifesaver. This doesn’t mean you should ignore things you need to improve, just approach them with solutions rather than beating yourself up. Constant monitoring of this is important since it’s really easy to slide back into negative thinking.

STEP OUTSIDE YOUR COMFORT ZONE A lot of mental energy can go to dealing with anxiety. One way to deal with that is by forcing yourself to try new things and take on new challenges, that you might normally avoid because they make you feel unsure or scared. Challenge yourself daily, even with small things.

This is definitely something that becomes easier with practice. Start small, and in no time you’ll be taking on things you never Top Agent Magazine

thought were possible. The simple task of trying something new every day will have you feeling energized and put you on the path to self-growth.

BE SELF-AWARE Your emotions affect everything you do, even if they’re not at the surface. Recognizing and labeling them is key. A lot of the above exercises require selfreflection. It’s okay to have the emotions you have, understanding why and where those emotions come from allows you to focus on dealing with them rather than just wallowing in them. Being self-aware is also about self-care. Know the things that help relax and rejuvenate you. That way you can handle everyday stresses and remain calm even during the most turbulent times.

BE WILLING TO LEARN A lot of people are still hung up on the idea that learning is a boring and tedious process, but you aren’t in junior high anymore. You can find something you’re actually interested in and immerse yourself in it, which engages your mind like nothing else. Whether it’s learning a new technology that will improve your business or something that will make you a more well-rounded person, the learning process keeps you engaged and open to new ideas. A curiosity about the world and new things is something that all mentally strong people have in common.

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