ILLINOIS 9-23-19

ILLINOIS EDITION

Small Yard?

How to Send SMARTER EMAILS

Big Statement: How to Make The Most Out of Micro Outdoor Spaces

6 WAYS TO GET YOUR CLIENT TO TRUST YOU

FEATURED AGENTS

APRIL KALAD TOM WAWCZAK TIM MULLET GINNY BECKER COVER STORY

LOUISE O’CONNOR

ILLINOIS EDITION

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LOUISE O’CONNOR

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TIM MULLET

APRIL KALAD

for his marketing savvy, affable demeanor, and ability to 27 demystify the transactional process.

“I’m a big believer full-scale Broker Ginny Becker – service,” he says. “My goal is to Tarrant & Harmon Real E create an experience that’s fun and Auction Company and successful. I’m by my clients’ Alton, Illinois – is a cons sides every step of the way.” Even after the closing table has been mate professional who is reached, Tim remains a faithful dedicated to helping her m resource and often hosts client buyers and sellers achieve TIM MULLET GINNY BECKER appreciation events that bring real estate goals. Approac familiarnearly faces back twotogether. decades“It’s in the business, Ginny has pr not uncommon for my clients to herself an invaluable resource to anyone fortu become friends,” he says. “That CONTENTS level ofenough comfort to andretain trust isher partservices, and her reputation Now, Tim spearheads his work trusted advocate precedes her. solo from his South Loop neighborhood, serving of my personality, and I really am grateful for clients across the greater Chicagoland region. In the opportunity to meet new people and develop 17) 6 WAYS TO GET YOUR journey in the worl 4) SMALL YARD? just a few years, Tim has already managed to those relationships.”

Ginny began her successful more than half HOW of his business real estate in 2002, when she found herself needin CLIENT TO TRUST YOU BIG cultivate STATEMENT: TOthrough repeat and referral clientele—a testament to Considering his background in the corporate supplement the 30k salary of her full-time job. Wor MAKE THE MOST his longevity.

Buyers andOUT sellers OF turn to Tim marketing, he brings an expert’s eye to the at real estate only part-time for a year, Ginny listing process. Beginning MICRO OUTDOOR SPACES 21) ATTITUDE! managed sell two million dollars’ worth of pro with high-endtophotography, ties, leading her decision to transition into maki listings are thentoleveraged across a range of online porher primary career.

Fortuitous decision indeed, as 13) HOW TO SEND 26) ARE YOU DOING BUSINESS talsnewly and social media outlets. discovered love of the industry translated SMARTER EMAILS AS YOU FACEBOOK? Likewise, the details a ON thriving careermake that ashows no sign of slowing do difference when promoting and she is among the most successful agents workin properties, and Tim creates her market. personalized campaigns and Phone 310-734-1440 | Fax 310-734-1440 updates to keep audiences in in five theCurrently loop prior selling to and after a counties, Ginny can justifi mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com home’s “I’mbusiness a pretty is based more than seventy boastdebut. that her No portion of this issue may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever withoutdriven prior consent the Top Agent person,” he publisher. says, clients percent onofreturning and referrals, prob Magazine is published by Feature Publications GA, Inc. Although precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy published “and knowing that as a solo the best way to measure ofcustomer satisfaction in materials, Top Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or factsallsupplied by its agent—it falls on me.authors. highly competitive world of real estate.

“It’s bec To subscribe or change address, send inquiry to mag@topagentmagazine.com.

I’m honest andMagazine I always keep it real,” says G Copyright Top Agent Published in the U.S. Tim Mullet was in the prime of his corporate career19 when he first considered switching gears to real estate. A marketer of wine and spirits by trade, Tim decided to pursue his license as a way of testing the waters, before ultimately making the full-time transition to life as an agent nearly three years ago.

Since then, he has swiftly built a TOM reputation for WAWCZAK his savvy strategy, drive, and authentic enthusiasm for his chosen field.

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GINNY BECKE

when asked how she’s managed to instill such trus loyalty in her clients. “My clients never have to w Agentand Magazine about what I’m reallyTop thinking, that’s what they about me. They know I’m never going to lie to the would never try to sell them something I wouldn’t

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com

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Small Yard? Big Statement: How to Make the Most Out of Micro Outdoor Spaces When house-hunters compile their lists of musthave home items, a dreamy backyard space is often near the top. After all, who doesn’t want an outdoor oasis of their very own? From summer barbecues to open space for your dog to frolic— everyone has their own aspirations when it comes to creating the perfect backyard paradise. But as homebuyers seek properties deeper within city limits, and Millennials opt for properties with 4

urban amenities and access, home-connected outdoor spaces are becoming a bit smaller in stature.

Of course, size isn’t everything when it comes to outdoor space. Even balconies, rear patios, and ultra-tiny yards can provide homebuyers with the outdoor reprieve they crave—even on a smaller scale. For a few ideas that can help you envision all the possibilities of a micro outdoor space, read on for inspiration.

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Think vertically.

When space is at a premium, think up instead of out. In other words, make the most of small spaces by capitalizing on your backyard, balcony, or patio’s overhead height. Mood-setting string lights, hanging pocket or wall gardens, floating shelves, and modern overhead hangings can create a sense of privacy and luxury without cluttering the square footage on the ground.

Soothing sounds set the mood.

Upgrade the look of structural components.

Not in love with your patio pavers? Don’t have the sweetest view off your balcony? Whatever your small backyard living space gripe may be, there’s always a solution if you go back to the basics. Consider the structural components of your outdoor space that you aren’t in love with and there’s likely an affordable, eye-pleasing solution. For instance, plenty of home goods Top Agent Magazine

retailers make a variety of punchy or luxe outdoor rugs that can disguise stained or lackluster outdoor flooring. Power-washing is another great solution for old grime and dirt that’s an eyesore. Don’t have a great view? Planting ivy on bare walls, installing adjustable mood lighting, or hanging planters can create a more inviting ambiance.

While there may not be room for a swimming pool or pond in a micro yard or balcony, you can still bring the calming presence of water to your outdoor oasis. Fountains run the gamut in sizing and price, making this amenity an easy acquisition. What’s more, a running fountain not only adds a soothing sound to your space, but it also helps drown out noise from the street or the neighbors—making your space entirely your own and stress-free.

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Don’t compromise on your culinary dreams.

If you love to entertain in outdoor spaces or relish the chance to man the grill—small outdoor spaces don’t have to trip you up. Grill options (both propane and charcoal) come in a range of sizes, many of which can be outfitted securely to balcony posts or be tucked away and out of sight when out of use. Consider nesting tables or those with a removable leaf to adjust your seating and dining options depending on company.

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Another trick? A small, oscillating fan can keep air flow moving in a small space during grill season—and can be easily affixed to walls or posts, as well.

Don’t let yourself or clients be discouraged by spaces with more limited square footage in outdoor areas. Furniture and design trends have already begun shifting toward providing better small-space options, and at the end of the day, a backyard space is all about providing an area for relaxation. With a few well-placed, strategic choices, you can still have it all.

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LOUISE O’CONNOR

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LOUISE O’CONNOR When Louise O’Connor started building her first home in New Lenox, her contractor saw her talent for real estate. “He suggested that I get into the business, and at the time I didn’t even know anything about it,” she explains.

She took his advice and started classes, earning her license in 1989. Today she is more successful than ever, serving the South and South West Suburbs and surrounding 8 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

regions. She has placed in the top 50 out of 1,700 broker associates at Baird & Warner for transaction volume, and is showing no signs of slowing down. She was also listed in Chicago Magazine as one of the Top Real Estate Agents in Residential Sales in the 6 county metro area for 2018. Louise credits her success to her ability to listen carefully and stay honest. “I listen very carefully to Top Agent Magazine

their wants and needs, and I try to tailor their wants and needs to their budget,” she says.

“I’m honest with them on what I see. If I see something I think would be a problem down the road, I point it out to them.”

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Louise also goes above and beyond when it comes to marketing. Once she lists a property, she sends a card to everyone living within 100 houses of the property itself.

“I personally contact agents as well after Copyright Top Agent Magazine 9

determining what type of person would most likely purchase the property,� she says. A customized website is also made for the property, and is advertised on all Internet Web Sites. Before everything, though, Louise makes sure the property looks its best and is ready to be shown.

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All of this hard work results in a very low market time, with around 60 days being the average.

After the transaction, clients leave glowing reviews about their time together. One recently wrote, “You are in excellent hands Top Agent Magazine

with Louise! My wife and I worked with her to purchase our first house, and we could not have had a better experience. In communicating with her, she was always quick to respond. When viewing properties, her level of expertise was second to none. She knew things to look for that we had never Top Agent Magazine

even thought about. We felt confident that Louise would not let us buy a bad property.

Quite simply, she’s the best!”

When Louise isn’t working, she’s giving back to the community or spending time with family. Baird & Warner donates Copyright Top Agent Magazine11

regularly to local nonprofits, with the agents in the office deciding where the funds go.

Louise volunteers at the hospital on Sunday mornings as well. She loves traveling, golfing, and reading. Her three grandchildren are the light of her life, and she enjoys every minute with them.

Louise can’t imagine a more perfect career path, and is grateful for every client. Whether it’s a first time home buyer, an investor, a family selling their home or anyone in between, they can expect top-notch service from Louise. “Once I take your business, I’m committed to getting the job done for you.”

For more information about Louise O’Connor, please call 708-724-7474 or email louise.oconnor@bairdwarner.com 12Copyright Top Agent Magazine

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How To Send

SMARTER EMAILS

Email is a great tool for agents to use when trying to stay in touch with their past clients, as well as for reaching out to prospective clients. However, used incorrectly it can make your attempts to reach out seem like spam. The secret to using email effectively is making sure that everything you send out does one thing: ensure that you remain relevant to your contacts. To do this you have to get personal. Personalization will go far to ensure that your contacts are actually clicking on your emails. This means that if you do reply on an automated drip email campaign to build business, you need to customize your content so that it delivers something meaningful to each individual recipient. Here are some steps that will help you do exactly that:

1. SEND A WELCOME EMAIL TO

NEW CLIENTS AND PROSPECTS Rather than simply add new contacts to your automated email drip campaign, make sure to send each new contact receives a warm welcome as well. Sending a welcome email along with adding new contacts to your drip campaign is proven to be 86 percent more effective at catching your contact’s attention. Let them know they are welcome and that you appreciate their interest.

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2. NURTURE YOUR RELATIONSHIP

THROUGH YOUR EMAIL To let your potential client know that you are thinking about them by sending them useful content that relates to the process of buying or selling a house. Some great topics include credit score information, ways to save money, regular market updates, what buying in your market is like, information about the neighborhood, tips on how they can prepare their home for sale, and other relevant information. A great way to

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add to these emails’ punch is to time them so that they coincide with what that individual is going through and dealing with at that time on their path through the buying or selling process.

3. CELEBRATE IMPORTANT DATES

Everyone loves to be noticed and appreciated.

Schedule emails to go to each client that celebrate their purchase anniversary or birthday.

Make sure you include a personal note and your own wishes that the year ahead goes well for them. If you’ve been a bit out of touch with your contacts, you might want to send them a friendly hello.

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MOBILE-FRIENDLY EMAILS With our phones being akin to mini computers, most people read their emails on their phone these days. So, it is particularly important to make sure that your emails are rendering well on the smaller screens. If you want to make any kind of impact, you have to run a mobile-friendly email campaign in today’s world. You are going to lose a lot of your audience if they can’t read your email on their phones.

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TRACK THE PERFORMANCE OF YOUR EMAILS AND ALTER ACCORDINGLY The best way to make sure your emails are being read and making the kind of impact you desire is to consistently monitor the analytics,

and see what your readers are actually clicking on and what elements are most popular with your contacts. Going forward you can alter different elements of your email campaign such as content, images, graphics, and even smaller elements like your subject line to draw in more clicks from your readers, and cater to what grabs their attention.

You also want to follow a targeted email strategy. The best way to do this is segment your email list based on the data from your CRM and the demographics of your contacts. Different clients are going to be interested in different content. Long-time clients looking to buy a second home or possibly downsize are going to be interested in completely different content than your first-time buyers. A good way to filter your contacts is by looking at which ones are looking to buy or sell, how far along in the process they are, as well as other important information about them.

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DON’T SPAM UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES You probably already know that flooding your clients’ emails is big no-no. However, different people have different ideas about what is too much contact. One great way to approach this problem is to ask your clients whether they would prefer weekly, monthly, or occasional emails from you. This way you can cater to each client’s preference.

The emails you send your clients can often be a double-edged sword when it comes to how well they work to bring in business. Following these simple rules will help your emails be as successful as they can possibly be, and will make your contacts much happier with you. So, don’t just send out emails without doing your homework about how to do it right. Your email campaigns can be a powerful tool if you know how to create and utilize them in the right manner.

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April Kalad Top Agent Magazine

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APRIL KALAD April Kalad had paralegal experience specializing in the real estate industry when she caught the real estate bug. She also had a background in interior design, and soon she decided to parlay those passions into a career as an agent. That was five years ago, and in the time since, she’s proven herself as a top producer. What’s more, she’s built a reputation for her client-centric care, communicative style, and creative eye.

Today, April serves clients in Chicago’s southwestern suburbs, particularly the area of Naperville where she is based. Thus far, April has managed to drive the majority of her business through referral clientele who seek her technical expertise, as well as her reliability as an agent. “I’m a personal person, and I work hard.

That’s pretty much what has driven by my referral base,” April says. “I dedicate a lot of time and care to my clients, and it just keeps growing from there.” She also cites her commitment to communication and her ability to provide a clear roadmap for the course of a transaction. “I go above and beyond to communicate with my clients so that they always know what to expect and what our next steps are,” she explains. “I’m honest about value, and I’m able to paint a clear picture so that there are few surprises along the way. I’m also good at understanding and reading people, so I don’t waste people’s time and I wear many hats whenever I need to. I give people the type of care I would want.”

When it comes to the listing process, April combines her proficiencies in both interior design and law. “I have a strong understanding of the technical side of the business,” she says. “My clients trust me 100% because they know I’m well-versed in all the ins-andouts and can outline clear time-lines for them.”

Applying a tasteful eye, April preps each home prior to professional photography and a market debut. Staging, styling, and otherwise adding a creative flair to listings ensure they stand out once disseminated across a range 16

of platforms and outlets. Annually, April closes an above-average number of transactions - an outstanding track record, proving herself as a top producer.

Beyond the office, April is a dog-lover who supports local rescues efforts in the community. She also volunteers with local organizations. In her free hours, she most enjoys time with her family, gardening, DIY projects, and hanging out with her dogs.

As for the what’s next, April intends to keep momentum steady while potentially contracting a team in the near future. Now, with half-a-decade of experience and insight, she considers what she values most about her chosen field. “Every day is different, and the industry is always changing,” she says. “But it’s all about building those long-lasting personal relationships with people.

Listening, caring, and getting to know people has made me a better person in the process. At the end of the day, I’m a hard worker and I want to be the forever go-to professional for my clients. If you do right by people, the rest follows.”

To learn more about April Kalad email April.Kalad@cbcexchange.com, visit her website here, or call (630) 917–1339

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6 Ways to Get Your Client to Trust You The word “REALTOR®” can leave a sour taste in some people’s mouths. Many of today’s home buyers and sellers grew up during the 2009 recession. They are wary of anything Top Agent Magazine

or anyone who comes off as too salesy, and they want to work with individuals who they can trust.

But how do you prove to someone you’ve likely never met that you can be trusted?

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1

Put Testimonials or Case Studies on Your Website

When something goes wrong, own up to your mistakes. Don’t hide bad news from your clients. Be upfront and responsive.

Testimonials and case studies are social proof that you have both the experience and the skills to do the job your clients are hiring you for. People often leave testimonials when they are either incredibly disappointed or extremely happy with the service they were provided, so they’re a good indication to prospective clients of the treatment they’ll receive.

Case studies, which you can post on your blog or website, have much of the same effect, but even more than testimonials, case studies demonstrate your real estate and finance expertise because they explain how you achieved a specific set of results.

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Be Responsive and Accessible

Can your clients reach you easily? That doesn’t mean you need to be available 24/7, but you should respond to your clients within a few hours of receiving their message. When agents don’t respond to their clients’ calls or emails for days on end or fail to provide them with a direct line of contact, their clients’ experience can quickly become frustrating.

Agents are busy but so are their clients. If you constantly show up late to or reschedule meetings, your clients won’t feel like their time is respected or their business is valued. Make sure you set a realistic schedule for yourself rather than spreading yourself too thin.

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Be Honest and Transparent

Sometimes you don’t have the answer to a client’s question. Be honest about your strengths, weaknesses, and the limits of your knowledge. A good response might be, “I don’t know, but I can find out.” Be transparent with your clients, and they’ll respect you for it.

You should always act in their best interest.

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4

Go the Extra Mile

If you do the bare minimum, that’s what your clients will remember. Their experience won’t be memorable, and they won’t gush about you in online testimonials or in real life to people they know who could use your services. It’s that simple.

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Put Yourself in Your Client’s Shoes

Clients understand that you need to earn money, but that doesn’t mean they want to feel like they’re just a dollar sign to you. Be empathetic to your client’s concerns, even if you’ve heard it all before. Your clients should know that you are there for them.

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Be Consistent

Being responsive, friendly, and knowledgeable shouldn’t be an act. If you “turn on” your personality for clients and then suddenly become a different person when they leave the room, it’s likely that the cracks in your mask will eventually become apparent.

But “faking it till you make it” is so common it’s become a cliché. When we are starting out, we don’t always have the systems or resources in place to create a smooth client journey, from onboarding to closing, so instead we constantly try to reinvent the wheel. Give yourself time to pause, slow down, and reevaluate your workflow. Creating systems creates

consistency, and those systems can and should be constantly updated.

Developing trust between you and your clients will take time, but doing these things can give you a running start.

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TOM WAWCZAK

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TOM WAWCZAK After graduating from college back in 1986, Tom Wawczak began taking real estate classes, but instead soon began a successful career in the furniture industry, working alongside accomplished designers. “Through the last 30 years of working in the furniture industry and having owned several local businesses,” he remembers, “I always had this yearning to be part of real estate. I felt that the combination of my background in design, experience in owning and operating businesses, marketing and my love of helping people would make for a great fit.” Six years ago, Tom finally took the plunge, leaving the operation to his wife of a local restaurant they own together. Now, he has built a reputation for his communicative style, lasting client relationships, and authentic enthusiasm for the industry.

Today, Tom serves clients across Grundy County and its surrounding regions and has managed to drive 75% of his business through repeat and referral clientele—a testament to his staying power. To Tom, it’s a personal touch that defines his work. “I treat my clients as if they were family,” he says. “It’s the way I’ve always treated people. It’s about getting to know their stories, understanding why they’re looking to sell or purchase a home, and listening to them. By understanding where they are in their lives, I can best serve them.” Likewise, Tom believes in keeping the lines of communication open at all times. “I pride myself on being very responsive,” he says. “I make it a point to stay in touch with clients during the monumental times in their lives and I take a genuine interest in them. I think people can sense when someone is authentic and truly wants to help them. People know I’m here for them.”

When listing properties, Tom uses every digital tool at his disposal. “It’s amazing how far the technology has come in just the past six years,” he says. All of his listings are equipped with professional photography, then Tom turns to the leading online listing platforms and personal outreach to fellow agents to ensure exposure for all homes headed to market. Annually, he averages roughly 33 transactions, with a price-point typically in the $250,000 range. “It’s all about the people and their experience,” Tom says. “Real estate can be an emotional process, but I get up every day, look at my schedule, and I’m excited to meet every single person I’m going to meet—from clients I’ve worked with in the past, to someone new.”’

Beyond the office, Tom gives back to his community on local level. Additionally, alongside his banner brokerage, Century 21 Coleman-Hornsby, he contributes to Easterseals, supporting those individuals with disabilities and their families. In his free hours, he most enjoys time spent with his wife, Lisa and son, Cole.

As for the future, Tom intends to keep momentum going steady, while he eyes future growth in potentially developing a team. Above all, he plans to maintain his boutique-style client care as he continues his career as an agent. Now, with six years of insight and experience behind him, Tom Wawczak considers what he enjoys most about his chosen field. “It all comes down to those I work with,” he says. “There’s nothing like helping people who don’t think they could ever own a home, handing them the keys, and seeing their face. There’s nothing more fulfilling and priceless than that.”

To learn more about Tom Wawczak email TomWawczak@att.net, visit TomWawczak.c21.com, or call/text (815) 735–2868 www.

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Attitude!

By Verl Workman

My father was a former Marine and I learned as a small child that there is no such thing as an ex- Marine! He used to wake us up early in the morning by yelling “Reveille� and all seven of us children would march up the stairs to have a family breakfast together. As a high Top Agent Magazine

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school history teacher, Dad was big on education and drove home the importance of being good in school and paying attention. One year he had a group of students from his AP (advanced placement) classes compete in a nationwide model United Nations project where the students would deal with world issues. His class from Skyline High School in Utah won the national award in Washington DC where they competed and received that great honor. Dad was very proud of his students and their accomplishment. He talked about that award for years.

I suggested to my dad one time that he was lucky because he had all the smart kids from his AP classes and could pick the smartest students in the school to compete. He looked me in the eye and raised his left eyebrow and said this “Son, I work with some of the smartest kids, but I choose to work with the kids who have the best attitudes.” He went on to say that “it doesn’t matter how smart you are if you don’t have a good attitude”. That conversation made a deep impression on me and has been one of my favorite memories of my father.

In this challenging real estate market many agents find themselves faced with some difficult choices—but the most important choice we can make today is to keep a positive attitude and take action when others are simply whining and looking for excuses for failure. There are enormous opportunities today in every market. The business out there may not be your favorite type of business and it may not be the most fun, but if you have the right attitude, you can not only make money, you can thrive today.

Here are a few simple things you can do each day to keep moving in the right direction: • GET up • Get showered and dress for success 22

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• Get into a productive work environment • Prospect 2-3 hours every day • Work your most profitable business (your database) • Look for real buyers and generate buyer leads from every source possible (buyers are paychecks) • Surround yourself with positive people that are goal focused and happy Hire a coach that can give you direction and guidance and hold you accountable to do the right things in your business We are blessed to live in this country where we can work for ourselves and enjoy all of the freedoms that make this such a wonderful place to live. We have our families, health, and skills that allow us to help people and we get paid very well for the service we provide. And we have technology and resources that allow us to do our jobs better. It is now up to each one of us to get going, stay positive and keep our attitudes in check.

The first time I visited my Dad’s classroom I saw the sign above his desk that simply said this “Attitude is more important than Aptitude.”

To this day, I believe that simple quote has made a great impact on my life and career. I love what I do!

Verl Workman is a leading national speaker, coach and consultant. Despite his busy speaking schedule, and role as co-founder of Pinnacle Quest Consulting Group, he still sells real estate so that he can test and stay abreast of the latest tools and techniques that maximize results. He uses that knowledge to assist individuals and companies in building effective business strategies, implementing powerful technology solutions, and establishing strategic competitive advantages through coaching, seminars and private consultations. To contact Verl visit www.verlworkman.com. ©Verl Workman. All rights reserved.

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TIM MULLET Tim Mullet was in the prime of his corporate career when he first considered switching gears to real estate. A marketer of wine and spirits by trade, Tim decided to pursue his license as a way of testing the waters, before ultimately making the full-time transition to life as an agent nearly three years ago.

Since then, he has swiftly built a reputation for his savvy strategy, drive, and authentic enthusiasm for his chosen field.

Now, Tim spearheads his work solo from his South Loop neighborhood, serving clients across the greater Chicagoland region. In just a few years, Tim has already managed to cultivate more than half of his business through repeat and referral clientele—a testament to his longevity. Buyers and sellers turn to Tim

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for his marketing savvy, affable demeanor, and ability to demystify the transactional process.

“I’m a big believer full-scale service,” he says. “My goal is to create an experience that’s fun and successful. I’m by my clients’ sides every step of the way.” Even after the closing table has been reached, Tim remains a faithful resource and often hosts client appreciation events that bring familiar faces back together. “It’s not uncommon for my clients to become friends,” he says. “That level of comfort and trust is part of my personality, and I really am grateful for the opportunity to meet new people and develop those relationships.”

Considering his background in the corporate marketing, he brings an expert’s eye to the listing process. Beginning with high-end photography, listings are then leveraged across a range of online portals and social media outlets.

Likewise, the details make a difference when promoting properties, and Tim creates personalized campaigns and updates to keep audiences in the loop prior to and after a home’s debut. “I’m a pretty driven person,” he says, “and knowing that as a solo agent—it all falls on me.

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That’s a huge inspiration and motivator, that you get back what you put in. I’m grateful for the background in marketing I had and I know it’s helped me earn success in real estate.”

Beyond the office, Tim stays busy in his adoptive hometown of Chicago. He enjoys the beach, playing volleyball, cooking, visiting his home state of Indiana, and hanging out with his two dogs, Tyson and Talon. Looking ahead, Tim intends to keep momentum on the upswing as he continues to build out his share of the Chicago marketplace. He also hopes to grow a

tightknit team in the future as he serves more and more aspiring buyers and sellers.

Now, with three prime years of experience and insight behind him, Tim Mullet considers what he enjoys most about his second act career. “it’s extremely rewarding to help people with one of the biggest purchases they’ll make in their lives,” he says, “especially when I’m working alongside first-time homebuyers. The satisfaction of guiding someone through a decision of that magnitude, helping them reach the finish line and being part of that process—it’s priceless.”

To learn more about Tim Mullet email TMullet@dreamtown.com, visit MulletSellsChicago.com, or call (312) 883–4402 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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Top Agent Magazine

GINNY BECKER Broker Ginny Becker – of Tarrant & Harmon Real Estate and Auction Company in Alton, Illinois – is a consummate professional who is truly dedicated to helping her many buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals. Approaching nearly two decades in the business, Ginny has proven herself an invaluable resource to anyone fortunate enough to retain her services, and her reputation as a trusted advocate precedes her.

Ginny began her successful journey in the world of real estate in 2002, when she found herself needing to supplement the 30k salary of her full-time job. Working at real estate only part-time for a year, Ginny still managed to sell two million dollars’ worth of properties, leading to her decision to transition into making it her primary career. Fortuitous decision indeed, as her newly discovered love of the industry translated into a thriving career that shows no sign of slowing down, and she is among the most successful agents working in her market.

Currently selling in five counties, Ginny can justifiably boast that her business is based more than seventy-five percent on returning clients and referrals, probably the best way to measure customer satisfaction in the highly competitive world of real estate. “It’s because I’m honest and I always keep it real,” says Ginny, when asked how she’s managed to instill such trust and loyalty in her clients. “My clients never have to worry about what I’m really thinking, and that’s what they like about me. They know I’m never going to lie to them. I would never try to sell them something I wouldn’t live in myself.”

There are many factors that have played a role in Ginny’s success story, and chief among them are her comprehensive and highly effective marketing strategies, beginning with the work she does with her clients to ensure their home is market ready. Again, her tell it like it is approach Top Agent Magazine

comes into play. “I’m not shy about telling them that they have to de-clutter their house,” she says. “This is a business decision, and my business is making sure their home sells.” Once the home’s appearance is satisfactory, Ginny’s professional photographer (“The best in the country,” she enthuses) is brought in, showcasing the property in its best light. Ginny’s deft utilization of the internet and social media platforms guarantees it is seen by as many potential buyers as possible, almost always resulting in quick sales for top dollar.

When not working, Ginny is a dedicated philanthropist with a reputation as someone eager to pitch in whenever necessary. Her unflagging support and sponsorship of multiple community projects and charities is well known, as is her ten-year stint volunteering and fundraising for the local American Legion baseball team.

“And I didn’t even have a kid on the team,” she says with a laugh.

When asked about her plans for the future of her business, Ginny grows thoughtful for a moment before replying. “The only thing I really want to do is to keep growing my business,” she says. Left unspoken is the obvious: her continued commitment to providing her clients with the unparalleled customer service that has become her calling card.

For more information about Ginny Becker, please call 618-560-9397 or email Ginny_Becker@yahoo.com

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