GEORGIA 11-2-20

GEORGIA EDITION

5 Lessons from Silicon Valley to

COVER STORY

KALEY HEBERT FEATURED AGENTS

TRIPP BUTLER AVERY HARRISON MANDY LANE JOSE ROMERO

Modernize and Monetize Your Business What the First Thing You Do After Work

SAYS ABOUT YOU

Playing the Real Estate Matchmaker—

Follow These 8 Dating Rules to Ensure You Match Your Client with the Perfect Home for Them

GEORGIA EDITION

MANDY LANE

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AVERY HARRISON JOSE ROMERO TRIPP BUTLER — THE BESTKALEY IN SAVANNAH, GA HEBERT MANDY LANE

Tophis Agent Avery of EXP are many“My factors that come play them wi p Butler began career as a Harrison – For repeat and referrals.

JoseRealty Romero, rate hard of work is a clients way of There all tointo provide 23 24 27 when assessing Avery’s rapid ascent in in Atlanta, Georgia – is a dynamic, intellie for South Carolina’s Wild clients he andspent I become life. Born in El Salvador, much friends over the possible reach. the real estate industry.

Chief among them gent and deeply knowledgeable Realtor who Estate. Though only in his of the deal,” of his childhood incourse an adobe house withhe says. “Doing this Mandy Lane began her real estate career when things and make sure I’m comm wouldhad be ahisbuyer fierceornegotiatingElsewhere, skills, and his pridesrise himself on providing his clients or almost began a meteoric through years, I’ve never no many electricity running30water.

When JoseI’m is represent a winn she was working for a local builder and her everybody, whether thorough, go-above-and-beyond and leavewith excellent customer service.

Avery, who In fact, within seven years seller old, walk his away unhappy, because I make I wantstanding the other agents momparents Pat Hirsch, Broker/Owner of ERA Hirsch the Jose was eight years hisseller. buyers, as a no-stone-unturned approach marketing his me, and I want to communic Estate Team, suggested Mandy get her towith built CEO his thriving business on a foundas, Tripp washas named of sure they getReal exactly what they’re that looking relocated to Gainesville, Georgia, where throughout even the m everybody knows license. That was in 2006,Combined, and immediately after-translate into fastwhat’s going o tion of honesty, integrity andhefueled his thefor.”

In 2019, Tripp soldlistings. right at 30 million these was by given opportunity to theseize ward building market slowed down. Mandy transactions. Utilizing sales for topassistant dollar, mention happy –marketing faith in Jesus - has more than earned his Dream. dollars in Real Estate, 2020 seems to beandnotas to his American After graduating attention to todetail, he her giv it comes went to workand as her mom’s the When and returning and referring – clients. sterling reputation as a trusted real estate uses a comprehensive approach market began to turn around, Mandy’s career took on track for another very strong year. ing to Savannah, Georgia, from high school, Jose joined the Marine full view of the housing TRIPP BUTLER AVERY HARRISON JOSE ROMERO off with it. Mandy lists, sells, and does for his many buyersCorps and sellers. to build hisadvocate own brokerage and served his countryproperty for more can better weigh their op management for ERA Hirsch Avery loves what he does for astrong living,decisions. and he An expe Tripp isclients tremenToday, he is the owner of than eight years Outside all while his earning his Realcareer, Estate Team, and her value believes solidly in the no-pressure, client-cenAvery began his real estate journey as a active his community.

On of Greater Savannah Realty herin organization, hard work, andtop strong Bachelor’s Degreedously in Business.

“My always makes sure his cli Photo Megan Myrick tric approach to doing business. “I don’t communication in helping them achieve agent to in 2017.

“I by had just graduCONTENTS supporting events for Compassion Christian pervises anlicensed elite team background keeps me humble,” herealsays. the best of any transaction their estate goals. hard sell,” he explains. “I think real prospect, I don’t ated from and the University of Georgia ahe Psychology Church, contributes his local dystrophy hroughout Savannah the surrounding “Being awith veteran gave me thetowork ethic muscular and integrity of negotiation is that if you don’t ask 4)and PLAYING REAL ESTATE 18) MEDITATION estate agents get a bad rapCounty, because many can beFOR untrustdegree, hadTHE nolike intention going into real fundof and Christian Today in CREATIVE Newnan, lizing in relocations forI really companies Mandy serves the BullochGeorgia. that makes me who I am Families today.” won’t give it to you,” he says. “I’m worthy.

I’m honestly trying to help change those optics.” estate,” he recalls.

“In looking for a career, I had three MATCHMAKER—FOLLOW THESE REAL ESTATE area.also She does a strong repeat PROFESSIONAL Always looking to give Georgia back, THE he makes frequent nd JCB, Tripp has founded his company ask for a price reduction for my clien and referral business, and it’s easy objectives: I did not “A want job, I didn’t want to be where he provides company to visits to time area mmunal, client-first mentality. lota desk of 8 DATING RULES TO ENSURE Following his inhospitals, the marines, Jose began searching their interests.” to see why clients want to come which back When he’s not working, is a SILICON rare occurrence, told by others how much I was worth or have a salary patients in need.

At home, Tripp, a black belt in kempo e what I would doYOU if I didn’t do real estate, 21) 5 LESSONS FROM MATCH YOUR CLIENT and work with Mandy again.

“I’m very for a career that spoke to his love ofenjoys community andsports.

Avery extreme “Snowboarding and rock cap, and I wanted to work on my own schedule.”

While and kickboxing, enjoyshedetail practicing mixed martial arts, clue,” he says with a laugh.

“In this busiand she VALLEY MODERNIZE AND helping others.

At the time, was oriented working as organized,” aTO real Outside his career, Josehevalues givi WITH THE PERFECT HOME climbing are two of my very favorite things to do,” working with standard his father a home, Avery explains.

“Youtime can’t with controlhis everything hunting, fishing and spending quality family y is different.

It’s not your nineonestate to flipping photographer, and he soon found that had aonsports having previously served MONETIZE BUSINESS FORgetTHEM in real estate, but I he tryanto stayYOUR topcommunity, of fan. says.

He also avid Additionally, Avery his itreal estate “That’s when I real- one including his beautiful year oldisgranddaughter. ous job, and decided I love thetochance gives melicense. to knack for the business.

Inspired, he decided to dive in committees and organizations such as h gives back through a variety of charitable organizations I hated flipping houses,” he remembers, laughing. ple from all ized walks of life.”

Copyright T and attain his license—and the rest is history. of Commerce.

On top of volunteer 25)plans WHAT THE FIRST building THINGchurches andstrong missions, including his helping TO UP “I did13) find,HOW however, thatSPEED I had aGoing passion for selling, forward, Tripp has for the future Williams’ Red Day, he also provides ec Brazil.

YOU DO to AFTER SAYS servicing clients and of growing a network.

So, I became FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER ofJose his brokerage.

Asafor his in volume continues grow, of heWORK a property, Tripp prefers a blend trusted Today, is a Realtor Keller Williams where single mothers in need. When h full-time agent haven’t his lookedwill back.” to build on his momentum ABOUT YOU and expand his dge strategies.

On top of and providing TRANSACTIONS he assists look clients throughoutAvery’s Gainesville and the clients or giving back, he can be foun plan for the future includes continuing the expoteam.

But Tripp also intends on maintaining the close newspaper advertisements, he also shares surrounding areas.

Having applied hisgrowth background to at home with his wife and three childr nential of his business, Sincedigital then, Avery has seen his business multiply knit values that year have cemented his reputation around mentoring newer agents, es over targeted and social media anchor his business around customer service and tireI do is for them,” he says. “If I can pro andthebuilding a team.

His “By primary objective, however, after year – heonhashis currently 7 million worth of“I real estate Savannah. want to grow right way,” he says.

Meanwhile, Tripp leans extensive Phone 310-734-1440 | Fax 310-734-1440 less has10already built a strongunchanged: reputation to in continue for my family, then I’m happy.” sold the or under he is work, on pacehefor million building slowly, I’ve beenremains able to establish a team where providing his clients network around area tocontract, generateand word the region, with the majority of his volume coming with the top-of-the-line customer in 2020. impressive businesseveryone is bolstered inalong. largeWe don’t have a work environment service that has become mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com gets paigns and draw addedThis attention to a home. from either repeat clients with his name. Going forward, Jose has strong am part by significant levels of referrals andinstead, repeat we’re clients,or referrals. here; asynonymous family.”

No portion of this issue may be reproduced in any mannerlike whatsoever without prior consent ofcareer. the publisher.

Agent As heTop continues to make a na a sure indicator of the service he is GA, providing. ipp is a tireless advocate for his top-notch buyers, Magazine is published

by Feature Publications Inc. Although precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy of published When listing a home, Jose offers his clients a hands-on around Georgia, he intends on building of educational thatTop factAgent can be found cannot on Zillow.com, on whichfor opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. a negotiatorProof and resource materials, Magazine be held responsible approach.

By personally seeing to their professional Williams.

But for now, he’s more tha siteTo he holds a perfect, overall rating,tocomprised subscribe or change address, send inquiry mag@topagentmagazine.com. he transaction.

By offering his five-star clients photography and connecting them with video walk- the success he has found in the comm many glowing testimonials, Published in the U.S. perience, heofensures that they will makeincluding this one: “Avery throughs home “When a family gives me a hug at the e went above and beyond for us!

He wasand very360° in tune withtours, he fully prepares his ns while meeting their needs in the market. sellers to put their best foot forward in the market. tion, I know I’ve made a difference,” h wantsheand needs.

Hekeep was always available to us, ice business,our period,” says.

“If you Later, Jose shares their all, there is nothing fulfilling than 2 and Top Agentmore Magazine was super you easycan to reach.

He was patient with property over a variety your clients and he stay positive, do of targeted digital and social media campaigns— and guiding them to a better life.” us and also helped us make informed decisions. Avery hem—and yourself.” was respectful in working with other agents while also

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Playing the Real Estate Matchmaker –

Follow These 8 Dating Rules to Ensure You Match Your Client with the Perfect Home for Them When you think a bit more about it, the ultimate goal of a real estate agent serving a client is really to match them up with the perfect house for them, almost the way a matchmaker tries to find two people that will fit well together as a couple. When people are looking for a house, they often treat the process as a quest for “the one” house that will fulfill their dreams of living in the house of their dreams. Don’t be fooled. It is always a search for “the one”, at least when it comes to helping a couple or family find a home.

When you look at your client’s search for a home in this manner, then you might begin to notice some pretty obvious similarities 4

between shopping for a home today and online dating. In this day and age most people live a substantial part entire lives online. People socialize with their friends on Facebook, they meet potential friends in forums and online communities, and we now even search for our perfect mate online. Shopping for a home also happens to usually start online. When they begin this search, make no mistake; they are looking for the “one.” These people then turn to you, the REALTOR® to play matchmaker for them. It is your job to wade through the pool of eligible homes (bachelors) and sort through all the ones that are too expensive, too nerdy, not cute enough, not smart enough, etc. until you find the “one.”

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It makes sense then to consult the tried and true practices in matchmaking that help those professionals find the right people for each other, and see if any of them could also apply for matching your clients with their dream home. You’ll find that these 8 dating rules may just show you the secret to matching your clients with the perfect home.

back to the store if you’re not happy with your new home. It’s best to first help your client get prequalified. This is a tangible step that shows they are ready to move on to a new home. You want to make sure they are completely over their love affair with their previous home. You can even ask them for a sign or proof that they’re ready to move on.

Who Is In and Not In Your Client’s League? Know Your Client’s Price Range:

Be Genuine, Not Superficial

When a person is looking for a mate, it is a waste of time for them to even consider those potential mates that are clearly out of their league. These people won’t even stop to give them the time of day.

In the world of real estate the idea is the same. There is no point showing your clients houses that they can’t afford and will simply lust after without having any real chance of purchasing the house. It is your job to keep your client ground in reality, and help them be realistic in terms of price when choosing their next home.

Never Let Your Client’s First Impression of a Home Rule Their Decisions

Make Sure Your Client is Ready to Move On From Their Last Dream Home You’re job is also to make sure that your client is truly ready to move on from their previous home. This is a long term commitment, and they need to be absolutely sure they actually want to buy a new house. You can’t simply take the receipt Top Agent Magazine

When trying to manage the many pitfalls of online dating, on inevitably goes on a date where the other person looks nothing like their picture online. That can be just as big of a problem when looking for a house. When clients show you a particular house they want to visit, ask them to name something about the house that they like other than the aesthetics. This way you can see if they are simply infatuated with the way the house looks in those pictures, or if there is a deeper interest in the home that could become a deeper connection between your client and the house.

When your client first sees a house they have already been lusting after in their mind, they’re often so excited to finally be looking at it, especially if it does in fact look as good as it did in the pictures.

Make sure to encourage them to take some time before making such a big com-

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mitment, and don’t let their excitement push them into making a rash decision. It is your job to keep them grounded in reality. Push for your clients to do an inspection to make sure the house isn’t hiding any dark secrets. Sometimes the most charming facade can hide tons of slime and deadly mold.

Follow Your Heart (or Gut) People often laugh at and ridicule the idea of love at first sight, but when it comes to homes, the phenomenon can certainly happen. Your client may just find their perfect dream home at the very first place you take them. If you have a client that does insist this is the case, then you don’t want to try and rationalize with them or talk them out of their decision. You do, however, want to make sure you are watching out for their interest and make sure your clients take all the necessary precautions before they jump in headfirst.

See What Other People See in The Home – Do They See What Your Client Sees?

Have you come to the conclusion that your clients are being blinded by all of the twinkling windows and crystal clear water glistening in the backyard pool, and can’t see that the house they’ve fallen in love with is really just a dirty animal (maybe a pig) dressed up in nice clothes and lipstick. Ask your client if they would be willing to look at the house again with 6

their close friends, family, and anyone else they trust for a second opinion there to see it with them. If the house really is a dud, they’ll be able to see past any personal bias your client might have to the truth. They will be able to help your client see through the shining facade

Celebrate the Happy Union!

When a couple gets married they tend to throw a big party and celebrate their union. The same goes for the closing.

Your clients have just essentially married the house of their dreams, and now it’s time to rejoice. Congratulate them on their new union. Show your support for their new homeowner status by going to their housewarming party.

Help Your Clients Maintain Their Dream Home & Ensure a Lifetime of Happiness You can’t just disappear after the transaction is finished. Become their realtor for life by showing your clients how to maintain their dream home. Act as their resource for other professionals they may need to maintain the house such as handymen, plumbers, electricians, etc. Show them how to keep up with home maintenance so they don’t ignore problems that surface and end up with a much larger issue than they started with. Help them make sure their dream home lasts so they can live happily ever after in their home for a lifetime.

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KALEY HEBERT

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KALEY HEBERT Top Agent Kaley Hebert — known as “the purple haired realtor” throughout LaGrange, Georgia, works as a solo agent for RE/MAX Results, serving the communities of Troup, Heard, Coweta, Fayette, Meriwether and other surrounding counties.

Kaley Hebert has the distinct honor of being known as “the purple haired realtor” throughout her LaGrange, Georgia community. She started out in life wanting to be a hairdresser and attended cosmetology school. But when she took a part-time job at a real estate office to earn extra money, she fell in love with the work and went on to pursue it as her fulltime profession. After working at several agencies as a buyer’s agent, Kaley decided to go out on her own, establishing her business and brand as the #purplehairedrealtor due to her full head of 8Copyright Top Agent Magazine

purple hair. “Real estate agents can sometimes be intimidating,” she notes. “But when people see me pull up in front of their houses in my purple car, exiting with my purple hair, all of that goes out the window. It’s an ice-breaker.”

Kaley currently works as a solo agent for RE/MAX Results, serving the communities of Troup, Heard, Coweta, Fayette, Meriwether and other surrounding counties in Georgia. She reports that her sales volume so far this year is $13 million between closed and pending, and Top Agent Magazine

that her business is almost entirely repeat and referral clientele. “I’m definitely a different kind of real estate agent,” she notes. “Not only am I dedicated to serving my clients, treating them like family, but I try to make the entire transaction as fun and enjoyable as possible.”

fierce dedication. One client recently wrote in a review: “We had a fantastic home buying experience with Kaley. Kaley made sure we had all the information to consider before we closed and negotiated a great deal for us. We love our new home!”

People working with Kaley never fail to appreciate her creativity, professional integrity, and

Kaley’s extensive knowledge and experience allow her to handle a wide range of clients and

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“I’m definitely a different kind of real estate agent,” Kaley notes. “Not only am I dedicated to serving my clients, treating them like family, but I try to make the entire transaction as fun and enjoyable as possible.” situations. Whether her clients are looking for a home for the very first time or they’re seasoned investors; Kaley works tirelessly to accommodate their needs and exceed their expectations.

The first step in every marketing campaign begins with professional photography.

“Displaying great photographs is the most important aspect of marketing a home,” she explains. “If you fail to captivate someone with Copyright Top Agent Magazine 10

your very first image, you’ve lost them, even if the house is beautiful. I like to say, ‘You don’t get a second chance at a first impression.’”

Kaley admits she loves every aspect of her work.

“I especially enjoy helping those people who believe they can’t afford to buy new home,” she says. “I will do whatever it takes to make that dream a reality, and there are so many government-backed programs these days. That moment Top Agent Magazine

when we close escrow and seeing the look of joy on their faces make it all worthwhile.”

program called Feed the Police, and donates to multiple charities throughout the region.

Kaley is very active in giving back to her community. She’s a member of her county’s Board of Realtors, takes part in a local give-back

When not working, Kaley and her husband travel the country in their show trucks. “We both own these cool truck–mine is purple; his

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is not–that are rigged with airbags, so they move in all different ways,” she exclaims.

“They’re really a sight to see. In fact, many of my clients are disappointed when I show up in my purple Ford Explorer, asking where my truck is.”

Kaley says she feels blessed to have gotten to a point in her career she never thought she’d reach. She states, “I just hope to continue to grow my business, maybe adding on a buyer’s agent, so I can help even more people.”

To learn more about Kaley Hebert, please call (678) 378-7519, or email purplehairedrealtor@gmail.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 Top Agent Magazine

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?

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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 14

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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MANDY LANE

Mandy Lane began her real estate career when she was working for a local builder and her mom Pat Hirsch, Broker/Owner of ERA Hirsch Real Estate Team, suggested that Mandy get her license. That was in 2006, and immediately afterward the building market slowed down. Mandy went to work as her mom’s assistant and as the market began to turn around, Mandy’s career took off with it. Mandy lists, sells, and does property management for ERA Hirsch Real Estate Team, and her clients value her organization, hard work, and strong communication in helping them achieve their real estate goals.

things and make sure I’m communicating with everybody, whether I’m representing the buyer or the seller. I want the other agents communicating with me, and I want to communicate with them so everybody knows what’s going on.”

When it comes to marketing her listings, Mandy uses a comprehensive approach that involves

Mandy serves the Bulloch County, Georgia area. She does a strong repeat and referral business, and it’s easy to see why clients want to come back and work with Mandy again. “I’m very detail oriented and organized,” she explains. “You can’t control everything in real estate, but I try to stay on top of 16

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both online and traditional marketing techniques. “Because we’re with ERA, which is a franchise, all our listings go to ERA.com,” she says, “as well as the Georgia MLS, which feeds to Realtor.com.” Mandy also has a designation with ERA for “Distinctive Properties” so all of her properties that fit that designation are marketed on a separate specialty website. Mandy also uses social media including Facebook to market her listings, and at the physical property itself the distinctive company marquee is prominently placed in front. Mandy also performs virtual tours for her properties in order to assist her out of state clients.

The results speak for themselves: Mandy has been a million-dollar producer and Circle of Honor award designation in ERA since 2013, and her business continues to grow.

Giving back to her community is important to Mandy. Professionally, she is part of the local board of Realtors® and her office is a member of the local homebuilders association. A percentage of all commissions from the office are donated to a community fund that allows the company to give back to different groups in the area, including the Boys and Girls Club, The Teal House, and MDA. For the last few years, Mandy has been in charge of Giving Tuesday in the office, which benefits different causes at the holiday season. When she is not working, Mandy enjoys gardening, reading, and spending time with her husband, Chris, their daughters, ages 12 and almost 11, and their Yorkie.

In the future, Mandy plans to keep offering her clients the same great level of service while also growing her business. “Our town is growing a lot and I hope that we will continue to see that,” she says. “With more people working from home now, I hope that will bring more new people into the area. I love meeting new people and being able to help them make one of the biggest decisions in their lives.”

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To find out more about Mandy Lane, please call 912-764-6774, email mandylane.era@gmail.com, or visit mandylane.realtor www.

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Creative Meditation

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

Learning to quiet the mind has been the focus of meditation for millennia. While those not familiar with the concept of meditation may instinctively think of yoga mats, incense, and chanting when the word “meditation” arises, there are in fact, many forms of meditation that can integrate quite 18

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

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

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

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

Here are some examples of meditations you can try.

1

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

2 Repeating a mantra can be very calm-

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

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

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

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

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

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5 Lessons from Silicon Valley to Modernize and Monetize Your Business Silicon Valley may be the region for disruptors, tech entrepreneurs, and futurists, but even the most forward-thinking, abstract companies are still businesses that have to keep tabs on their bottom line. There’s much to learn from America’s fastest-growing sector, and even if Silicon Top Agent Magazine

Valley seems like a world unto its own, there are key lessons prime for adaption in your own endeavors. Below, consider a few ways to translate the trends and teachings of Silicon Valley for your own business, and reap the rewards in the process.

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1. Diversify your value Real estate is a business built on relationships, but your relationships will go stale if the only thing you communicate is you interest in making a sale. In order to sustain relationships for the long term, you’ve got to remain valuable to your clients beyond the transaction. Serve as a local resource, not just a salesperson or real estate expert. Ensure your marketing materials, social media presence, and communications offer useful, relevant, and original content your clients will benefit from. What’s more, vary your communications so that every time you reach out it’s not just about new business or a referral.

2. Company culture matters Silicon Valley tech giants always emphasize the importance of company culture—not just as a way of drawing and retaining talent, but also as a way to appeal to clientele. What are your company’s values? What do you stand for? How you’re positioned in the marketplace is becoming just as important as what you do and how well you do it. Your company culture is part of your branding, and your brand should feel clear and composed to clients eyeing your services.

3.Think big picture More and more, clients want to have an experience, not just a transaction. When it comes to buying a home, this means they care more about a property’s bedroom and bathroom count. As an agent, consider showcasing properties in terms of lifestyle. What neighborhood amenities are nearby? What opportunities are there for community involvement? How does public 22

transportation stack up in the area? Before making the purchase of a lifetime, clients want to envision a complete lifestyle.

4. Leverage multiple platforms By now, you probably recognize that social media is not afterthought. Your social media presence should fit your brand and voice, interact across platforms, and actively engage with your audience. In other words, if you want to reap the benefits of social media, it’s not enough to post a few times a month and walk away. Active engagement means responding to comments, interacting with your followers’ profiles, and posting original content beyond a sales pitch.

Likewise, you’ll want to be active across multiple social media platforms and ensure that your profiles are interconnected. That way, you’ll be working from a unified voice and brand.

5. Reputations rule the roost Never underestimate the power of word-ofmouth marketing and testimonials. If you haven’t asked for feedback from past clients, and you aren’t sharing positive testimonials and reviews—you’re missing out on one of the most powerful tools at an agent’s disposal. You can pitch the virtues of your working style all day long, but those courting your business want to hear about positive experiences from the client’s perspective.

If you want to take your business to the next level and maximize the twenty-first century values of a company on the rise, look to the lessons of Silicon Valley to get your start. There are always opportunities to innovate, and doing so will help you break from your routine and stand apart from the pack.

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TRIPP BUTLER — THE BEST IN SAVANNAH, GA In 1993, Tripp Butler began his career as a sales executive for South Carolina’s Wild Dunes Real Estate. Though only in his early 20s, he began a meteoric rise through the industry. In fact, within seven years at Wild Dunes, Tripp was named CEO of the company.

rate of repeat clients and referrals. “My clients and I become friends over the course of the deal,” he says. “Doing this almost 30 years, I’ve never had a buyer or seller walk away unhappy, because I make sure they get exactly what they’re looking for.” In 2019, Tripp sold right at 30 million dollars in Real Estate, and 2020 seems to be on track for another very strong year.

After relocating to Savannah, Georgia, Tripp decided to build his own brokerage from scratch. Today, he is the owner of Outside his career, Tripp is tremenSouthbridge Greater Savannah Realty dously active in his community. On top of Photo by Megan Myrick where he supervises an elite team to supporting events for Compassion Christian assist clients throughout Savannah and the surrounding Church, he contributes to his local muscular dystrophy areas. Specializing in relocations for companies like fund and Christian Families Today in Newnan, Georgia.

Gulfstream and JCB, Tripp has founded his company Always looking to give back, he also makes frequent around a communal, client-first mentality. “A lot of visits to area hospitals, where he provides company to people ask me what I would do if I didn’t do real estate, patients in need. At home, Tripp, a black belt in kempo and I have no clue,” he says with a laugh. “In this busiand kickboxing, enjoys practicing mixed martial arts, ness, every day is different. It’s not your standard nine to hunting, fishing and spending quality time with his family five monotonous job, and I love the chance it gives me to including his beautiful one year old granddaughter. meet new people from all walks of life.”

Going forward, Tripp has strong plans for the future When listing a property, Tripp prefers a blend of trusted of his brokerage. As his volume continues to grow, he and cutting edge strategies. On top of providing his will look to build on his momentum and expand his clients with newspaper advertisements, he also shares team. But Tripp also intends on maintaining the close their properties over targeted digital and social media knit values that have cemented his reputation around campaigns. Meanwhile, Tripp leans on his extensive Savannah. “I want to grow the right way,” he says. “By professional network around the area to generate word building slowly, I’ve been able to establish a team where of mouth campaigns and draw added attention to a home. everyone gets along. We don’t have a work environment here; instead, we’re like a family.”

Elsewhere, Tripp is a tireless advocate for his buyers, serving as a negotiator and educational resource throughout the transaction. By offering his clients decades of experience, he ensures that they will make savvy decisions while meeting their needs in the market.

“This is a service business, period,” he says. “If you keep in touch with your clients and stay positive, you can do very well for them—and yourself.”

Moreover, Tripp remains in touch with all his clients well after closing, making sure they are thriving in their new homes. Over the years, Tripp has won an outstanding reputation around Savannah, as evidenced by his strong Top Agent Magazine

To learn more about Tripp Butler please email tbutler@southbridgesav.com, visit southbridgesav.com or call 912-651-5400 www.

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AVERY HARRISON Top Agent Avery Harrison – of EXP Realty in Atlanta, Georgia – is a dynamic, intelligent and deeply knowledgeable Realtor who prides himself on providing his many clients with excellent customer service. Avery, who has built his thriving business on a foundation of honesty, integrity and fueled by his faith in Jesus - has more than earned his sterling reputation as a trusted real estate advocate for his many buyers and sellers.

Avery began his real estate journey as a licensed agent in 2017. “I had just graduated from the University of Georgia with a Psychology degree, and I really had no intention of going into real estate,” he recalls. “In looking for a career, I had three objectives: I did not want a desk job, I didn’t want to be told by others how much I was worth or have a salary cap, and I wanted to work on my own schedule.” While working with his father on flipping a home, Avery decided to get his real estate license. “That’s when I realized I hated flipping houses,” he remembers, laughing.

“I did find, however, that I had a passion for selling, servicing clients and growing a network. So, I became a full-time agent and haven’t looked back.”

Since then, Avery has seen his business multiply year after year – he has currently 7 million worth of real estate sold or under contract, and he is on pace for 10 million in 2020. This impressive business is bolstered in large part by significant levels of referrals and repeat clients, a sure indicator of the top-notch service he is providing.

Proof of that fact can be found on Zillow.com, on which site he holds a perfect, five-star overall rating, comprised of many glowing testimonials, including this one: “Avery went above and beyond for us! He was very in tune with our wants and needs. He was always available to us, and he was super easy to reach. He was patient with us and also helped us make informed decisions. Avery was respectful in working with other agents while also making sure we were taken care of. He is detailed and passionate about what he does. Highly recommend for first time home buyers.”

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There are many factors that come into play when assessing Avery’s rapid ascent in the real estate industry. Chief among them would be his fierce negotiating skills, and his thorough, go-above-and-beyond and leaveno-stone-unturned approach to marketing his listings. Combined, these translate into fast sales for top dollar, not to mention happy – and returning and referring – clients.

Avery loves what he does for a living, and he believes solidly in the no-pressure, client-centric approach to doing business. “I don’t prospect, I don’t hard sell,” he explains. “I think real estate agents get a bad rap because many can be untrustworthy. I’m honestly trying to help change those optics.”

When he’s not working, which is a rare occurrence, Avery enjoys extreme sports. “Snowboarding and rock climbing are two of my very favorite things to do,” he says. He is also an avid sports fan. Additionally, Avery gives back through a variety of charitable organizations and missions, including his helping building churches in Brazil.

Avery’s plan for the future includes continuing the exponential growth of his business, mentoring newer agents, and building a team. His primary objective, however, remains unchanged: to continue providing his clients with the top-of-the-line customer service that has become synonymous with his name.

For more information about Avery Harrison, please call 770-639-0469 or email Avery.Harrison@EXPRealty.com Top Agent Magazine Copyright Top Agent Magazine

What the First Thing You Do After Work Says About You We all have our routines. From that morning cup of coffee to a jog at the gym, it’s common to establish touchstones for our daily lives.

But have you ever considered what these habits tell us about ourselves? Our actions reveal much about our motivations and emotional life, so taking a second look at your first move at the end of the day can be telling.

With that in mind, see how you fare when it comes to post-workday habits...

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Break a Sweat After a long day of work, is your first instinct to strap on your sneakers and take off on a run? Do you stop off at the local yoga studio for an extended stretch? Maybe you head to the weight room to pump some iron. Whatever your exercise pick, if you’re inclined to sweat it out at the end of a long day, you’re likely a routine-oriented profes-

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sional who internalizes work-related stress. Of course, you’ve chosen a healthy release for all that pent-up tension, and you’ve discovered the power of endorphins. Once work hours are over, not everyone finds the motivation to stay active. This means you’re driven by routine, conscious of your emotional and physical health, and prefer to leave your cares at the gym, rather than bring them into your home oasis. However, it’s important to give your body a rest now and again, as recuperation time is not only beneficial for physical health, but can help prevent burnout for the long haul.

Flexibility is a skill, and one just as important to cultivate as rigid commitment. If you find yourself out of sorts if you miss just one day of working out, you might want to pay some attention to your routines and motivations, and rebalance your commitments and fitness routine accordingly.

Round-the-Clock Hustle If you’re the type to bring work home with you, you aren’t alone. While your motivation to work nonstop is admirable, it’s also important to make the mental transition from workplace to home, establishing the time to hustle and the time to relax. Just like those that hit the gym without fail after a long day, sometimes you’ll need to practice saying no. If your work life is indistinguishable from your personal life, it’ll be hard to catch a break and recharge.

This means burnout, frayed nerves, and missed details will soon be on the horizon. Of course, round-the-clock hustle is a strength, too. You’re passionate about your work, care deeply about doing things right, and failure is not an option.

Just make sure that you establish some foundational boundaries so that you maintain an 26

appropriate, healthy balance between your time at work and your time at home with the loved ones and hobbies you cherish. If making way for downtime isn’t easy, try penciling it in the way you would a work engagement. Dinner with a friend, a date night with a significant other, or a solo movie fest can be readily added to your calendar, and thus built in to your regimented schedule.

Turn to Food If your first instinct after work is to eat, it can say a few different things about your routine.

Perhaps you’ve been so on-the-go all the day that you haven’t had time for lunch. In this case, you might need to regiment your schedule with more purpose aimed towards downtime and self-care; food is fuel, after all. If you head home and gorge after an average day, you may be turning to food as a way to relieve stress.

In this case, you may need to reassess some of your post-work habits and find a healthier balance and outlet for your tension. Taking a walk, grabbing fresh ingredients for dinner, hitting the gym, or decompressing by catching up with a friend or a good book—all are healthier, more balanced ways of executing the transition from the office to the home. Pay attention to your consumption post-work. Determine how hungry or satiated you really are before making a grab for the nearest sustenance.

People decompress in all different ways after getting home from the office, but always remember that routines are telling. Don’t take your daily actions and impulses for granted. Examine the root behind your well-worn practices, and you may detect nuances at play beneath the surface that can you help you recalibrate for the better.

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JOSE ROMERO For Jose Romero, hard work is a way of life. Born in El Salvador, he spent much of his childhood in an adobe house with no electricity or running water. When Jose was eight years old, his parents relocated to Gainesville, Georgia, where he was given the opportunity to seize his American Dream. After graduating from high school, Jose joined the Marine Corps and served his country for more than eight years all while earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Business. “My background keeps me humble,” he says.

“Being a veteran gave me the work ethic and integrity that makes me who I am today.”

all to provide them with the furthest possible reach.

Elsewhere, Jose is a winning advocate for his buyers, standing as a steadfast guide throughout even the most challenging transactions. Utilizing his unmatched attention to detail, he gives his clients a full view of the housing market so they can better weigh their options and make strong decisions. An expert negotiator, he always makes sure his clients are getting the best of any transaction. “The first rule of negotiation is that if you don’t ask for it, then they won’t give it to you,” he says. “I’m never scared to ask for a price reduction for my clients and fight for their interests.”

Following his time in the marines, Jose began searching for a career that spoke to his love of community and helping others. At the time, he was working as a real estate photographer, and he soon found that he had a knack for the business. Inspired, he decided to dive in and attain his license—and the rest is history.

Outside his career, Jose values giving back to his community, having previously served on various local committees and organizations such as his area Chamber of Commerce. On top of volunteering for Keller Williams’ Red Day, he also provides economic support of single mothers in need. When he’s not helping clients or giving back, he can be found spending time at home with his wife and three children. “Everything I do is for them,” he says. “If I can provide a great life for my family, then I’m happy.”

Today, Jose is a Realtor for Keller Williams where he assists clients throughout Gainesville and the surrounding areas. Having applied his background to anchor his business around customer service and tireless work, he has already built a strong reputation in the region, with the majority of his volume coming from either repeat clients or referrals.

Going forward, Jose has strong ambitions for his career. As he continues to make a name for himself around Georgia, he intends on building a team at Keller Williams. But for now, he’s more than satisfied with the success he has found in the community he loves.

“When a family gives me a hug at the end of a transaction, I know I’ve made a difference,” he says. “Above all, there is nothing more fulfilling than helping people and guiding them to a better life.”

When listing a home, Jose offers his clients a hands-on approach. By personally seeing to their professional photography and connecting them with video walkthroughs and 360° home tours, he fully prepares his sellers to put their best foot forward in the market.

Later, Jose shares their property over a variety of targeted digital and social media campaigns—

To learn more about Jose Romero, email Joseromero@kw.com, visit rre1.kw.com or call (770) 287-4728 https://

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