INDIANA 6-15-20

INDIANA EDITION

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Tips to Make New Hires a Long-lasting success

Are You Doing Business As You on facebook?

3 EASY AT-HOME

DIY PROJECTS TO INCREASE PROPERTY VALUE

COVER STORY

DIANA DUNHAM

FEATURED AGENTS

RICHARD BROWN JIM SAMUELSON BRANDON WARFIELD

INDIANA EDITION

BRANDO

RICHARD BROWN

Brandon Warfie eral Manager for for over eight y ta Jim Samuelson hascompany been was in th competitor. Thr market of homes and commerci Christmas 2010 property for fifteen found yearshimself and h vast knowledge in real goe Afterestate that initi Brandon found well beyond the sales side. “I wa REAL in construction prior Carpenter to moving in DIANA DUNHAM RICHARD BROWN JIM SAMUELSON BRANDON quire aboutWARFIELD a real estate position. Bran Real Estate so my knowledge in th and passed the state exam in February gives me unique perspectiv Top Agent Richard Brown supervisesfield a growing team started out as a asales associate with th in the business,” he asserts.

“I am able to put my exper at Mike Thomas Associates, where heoffice services clientsbecame a top listing and quickly ence to Northeast work for my clients make they’re gettin Brandonto was askedsure to manage Carpente throughout Indiana.

CONTENTS Martinsville the fall of Under hi the best competitive price in theinmarket at2012. the time.”

Richard Brown began his career as a paramedic, throughout Northeast Indiana. Through attentive the sales volume has increased and the seeking an outlet for his desire to help those in care and an organized approach, he has won himto reputation the pointinDIY that a new,with larger office was n need. However, even though his years on the fire- self an outstanding the industry, 4) 3 WAYS JOINING man A shift were tremendously rewarding, 15)whose 3 EASY AT-HOME Jim, specialty isvolume commercial real estate, work of his annual coming from either he still much he says, their grand opening is currently harbored a passion for entrepreneurship.

That other repeat TO clients or referrals. with one residential agent and PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION PROJECTS INCREASE to the COVID-19 crisis.an assistant passion led him to real estate. In 1994, he took 9

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JIM SAMUELSON

How does he do it? For Services Richard, everything the plunge and earned his license; afterwards, Hathaway Berkshire Home Executive Reali CAN MAKE YOUR BUSINESS PROPERTY VALUE he found quick success, finally realizing his comes down to a proven 61-step plan that guides says thatisabout 55%toof repo his b He proud his listers from Brandon theIndiana. first meeting to closing their potential as both a businessman covering and a pillar of Northwest BETTER deal. Alongof the way, supplies arepeat wide clients the community. “Right away, it was goal tomajority from repeatthem andwith referral that thatmy the hishestrategies, business is andand referr varietyTO of marketing including packsupply clients with the best possible personal ser-TIPS 22) 5 MAKE NEW HIRES continues to rise.

To stay in touch and m vice,” he says. “I quickly learnedclientele. that real estate ages of professional photography, copywriting relationships, Brandon and printed brochures.

But Richard also assists his uses quarterly 6) SMALL YARD? BIGis all about relationships.”

A LONG-LASTING SUCCESS clients with modern outlets, offering them a digipostcards, and conducts quarterly ca STATEMENT: HOW TO MAKE Today, Richard supervises a growing team at Mike tal outreach through personalized listing websites, What sets him apart from his peers?

“People tell me tho new clients, heads. calls neighborhoods Thomas Associates, where he services clients social media campaigns and targeted Baked THE MOST OUT OF MICRO 26) ARE and YOU DOING BUSINESS I’m likeable I am trustworthy,” he listings, says. “Iand alsofor wor able areas, expired sa Brandon describes tirelessly with theFACEBOOK? client in every wayhistobusiness assure model that a OUTDOOR SPACES AS YOU ON Copyright Top Agent Magazine

most can money for Ihis client’s their needs are met. What I say? love whathome.”

I do an plan uses television and local newspa it’s reflective in my actions.”

Phone 310-734-1440 | Fax 310-734-1440

mailings, and daily calling for potentia also been looking to branch out more in His clients agree thatandheonline is simultaneously personab ads.

and reliable from the moment they meet him. Writes on

mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com When itit comes to histocommunity, Br client: “When we decided was time sell our hom

No portion of this issue may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever prior consent publisher.

Top Agent involved Gennesaret Free Clin in ILwithout and buy in IN,ofis the we knewwith Jim was the person Magazine is published by Feature Publications GA, Inc. Although precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy of published providing medical andbonu den call. He is licensed inorganization bothbystates which gives him materials, Top Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied its authors. homeless in Central Indiana. He has To subscribe or change address, send inquiry to mag@topagentmagazine.com. points! He walked usathrough thegolf process of charity sellingeve an number of outings, Published in the U.S.

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answered many questions with quick responses.

H drives. Brandon also chaired the M gave us tips on staging and what projectsIt’sto“the tackle foro Division of MIBOR. spirit fast sale. He took great pictures and described our hom Tophome Agent in Magazine beautifully. He helped us sell our 6 days!! Whe it came to buying, he took care of everything for us. H

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com

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3 Ways Joining a Professional Organization Can

Make Your Business Better Any real estate professional worth his or her salt knows that relationships are everything in this industry. Of course, it’s essential to cultivate connections with your in-office colleagues and your clientele—but there’s even more to be done when it comes to building meaningful professional relationships on a larger scale.

How can you make the most of your sphere of influence? The answer lies in professional organizations.

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These institutions vary in breadth and scope— from the local chamber of commerce and state-level organizations geared toward young professionals, to nationwide groups like the National Association of Realtors. No matter which avenue you pursue, these organizations and the professionals therein can add tremendous value to your business and professional repertoire. Not quite convinced? Consider a few of the benefits below to understand how just how influential a professional organization can be when doing business in the modern marketplace.

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1. Expand your skillset.

It’s hard to argue that continuing education and professional development aren’t worthwhile causes. One of the little-known values of joining a professional organization is that there are countless opportunities to boost your talent through free or subsidized skill-building events, workshops, and speaker series. Seminars, coaching events, opportunities to volunteer, and conferences are just a few more ways that professional organizations put you in the right position to learn from others, or advance your understanding of the industry. In real estate, staying ahead of the curve is crucial to the longevity of your business. By joining a professional organization, you’ll not only have the chance to learn from industry veterans, but to also take advantage of indispensable resources that set you apart from the real estate pack.

2. Simplify your networking experience The obvious benefit of joining a professional organization is the chance to meet and network with fellow agents and industry pros.

But, have you ever considered how commonly networking comes into play in the real world? On the local and state level, the real estate scene isn’t as big as one might imagine.

This means you’ll cross paths with all sorts of agents, lenders, home inspectors, title company representatives, contractors, developers, investors, and more. Positioning yourself within a professional organization not only fortifies your reputation to the outside world and to those in your industry, but it also makes it easier to strike up conversations or navigate deals. How so? A professional organization Top Agent Magazine

creates a baseline of common knowledge and trust when doing business with those inside or aware of your organization. Likewise, when reaching out to an agent or lender who you’re not familiar with, you can mine your professional organization for related contacts that give you a sense of who you’re doing business with or how to make the transition progress smoothly.

3. Utilize a support system While advancing your career is a worthwhile motive when joining a real estate professional organization, also consider the mental benefits of fellowship with industry colleagues and local entrepreneurs. Rather than carting your anxieties home at the end of the day, you can lean on professionals moving through the same ranks. What’s more, you can turn to others in your industry for advice, commiseration with frustrations, or help sourcing a solution for a particular problem they may have experienced and overcome in the past. Even talking shop with likeminded pros can relieve stress and refresh your perspective—perks that are just as valuable as an updated contact sheet.

The old saying stands true: if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to far, go together.

In that vein, professional organizations can make all the difference when it comes to a career that doesn’t burn out. Try connecting with a professional organization that you find inspiring—whether its mission is focused on volunteer work, industry developments, or peer mentorship. No matter which path you pursue, remember that no man is an island and the benefits of joining a professional organization can transform you and your enterprise for the better.

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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 6

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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DIANA DUNHAM Top Agent Magazine

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Top Agent Diana Dunham boasts $7 million in volume last year. Annually, she processes a minimum of 50 transactions.

“These figures remain pretty consistent,” she says.

Diana Dunham came to real estate in a roundabout way, but she never lost sight of her goal. Today she is known for her prowess as a REALTOR®. Dunham’s professional career started down a different path, one marked by eclectic experience and a resilient resolve. A true 10 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

self-made woman, Dunham rose to prominence through years of tenacious entrepreneurship and a burning desire for independence.

Dunham started her first business while in high school as a twirling instructor and saw Top Agent Magazine

tremendous success early on. Her business thrived for nearly two decades.

With formidable business acumen, she moved into an entirely new industry selling radio ads.

Dunham was successful in the industry, but after fifteen years, she once again saw situations around her moving in a new direction.

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After leaving the radio business, she went into selling automobiles. While she was still in sales, her husband earned his real estate license and practiced for a few years. She wanted to join his practice, but he passed away in in 1997.

Diana eventually got her license in 1998 but didn’t start practicing until 2002. “I was a single woman, so it was a challenging time,� she 11 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

“It doesn’t matter to me if it’s a $50,000 sale or a $200,000 sale,” she says. “It’s seeing the smiles on people’s faces that motivates me.” recalls. “While practicing real estate, I was also selling advertising for a home décor magazine,” as she was building her real estate business.

Last year, Diana boasts $7 million in volume.

Annually, she processes a minimum of 50 transactions. “These figures remain pretty consistent,” she says.

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Diana is grateful that a majority of her business comes through referral clientele. “I’ve been very lucky that way,” she says. “I try to leave each client happy and satisfied with their transactions, so they recommend my services.”

Her clients agree it’s her top-notch business ethic that keep them coming back. In a recent Top Agent Magazine

review, one client wrote: “Diana is a first-class real estate professional. She delivered & did everything needed for a successful closing of the property.

She kept me informed during the whole process and she will be the 1st person I call or recommend when looking for a home in Madison County.”

To stay in contact with her clientele, Diana sends out annual holiday cards and occasionally forwards novelty gifts. “During the corona pandemic, “I sent out packets of soap to remind people to wash their hands and stay safe,” she notes. Diana says she loves what she does because of the personal satisfaction she receives Top Agent Magazine

when either selling a property or getting a family into a new home.” It doesn’t matter to me if it’s a $50,000 sale or a $200,000 sale,” she says. “It’s seeing the smiles on people’s faces that motivates me.”

Throughout the years, Diana has been involved with a variety of community activities and Copyright Top Agent Magazine 13

charitable events. As spring approaches, Diana is looking forward to planting flowers and tooling around in her garden. She also loves to travel. This year alone, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Diana had planned three trips; two internationally to Italy and the U.K. As for the future, Diana would like to open an office in her hometown of Elwood. She would

also like to mentor new agents to, perhaps, takeover for her one day.

When asked if she has advice for those interested in pursuing a real estate career, Diana says to keep your eye on the prize. “Set your goal and work steadily towards it,” she advises. “You’re going to struggle, you may even sacrifice like I did, but it’s what you want, go for it and stay focused!”

To learn more about Diana Dunham, email diana@dianadunhamsellshomes.com, visit dianadunhamsellshomes.com, or call (765) 623-7113 www.

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3 Easy At-Home DIY Projects to Increase Property Value Most homeowners have a lengthy list of chores and bit projects they intend to accomplish around the house. Oftentimes, those to-do items are completed piecemeal over a long stretch of time, or else sometimes not at all. However, when it comes time to prepare a home for market, all those tasks begin to pile-up and overwhelm. The Top Agent Magazine

list of things to do before the photographer comes or the first open house is held might seem endless, but not if you tackle just a few things here and there as you go. These sorts of projects—easy, DIY, at-home tasks you can accomplish in a few hours or less, with tools you most likely have on hand— go a long way with marginal effort.

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Complete a quick rehab of closets and storage areas Many agents advise clients to declutter and depersonalize their spaces ahead of professional photography and home showings. The idea is to provide prospective buyers with a neutral palette. Not only does this allow them to imagine their own lives unfolding within those four walls, but it also helps make a home’s square footage stand out. One way to add visual space to your home without calling in the contractor is to declutter common storage areas and closets. When buyers can get a complete look at a closet’s capacity, or a pantry’s depth, or the garage’s full functional potential, they get a better sense of a home’s potential and thus, its value.

In that vein, consider decluttering and cleaning your high-traffic storage spaces: the garage, pantries, closets, attics, and basements. Besides, organizing and discarding unwanted items help you prep for a move anyway, while giving potential buyers a peak at how spacious your home really is.

Add easy curb appeal with a bit of sweat equity Sure, curb appeal can arrive in the form of a new mailbox, pathway lighting, or updated house numbers, but it can also come cheaper than that. Curb extends to the upkeep of your lawn, landscaping, and home’s façade, and there are plenty of ways 16

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you can give these zones a refresh without spending anything but time. Keeping your front and back yard green and uniform adds a lux layer to exterior square footage.

Likewise, polishing the outside of your windows, trimming hedges, and sweeping the walkway can make a tidy and wellcared for first impression. There are other measures you can take too. Planting wildflower seeds in empty beds, or collecting some landscaping rocks to frame mulched areas can add a bit of character to your residence. Repainting the front door, ensuring trees are trimmed, and keeping back patios Top Agent Magazine

neat and uncluttered also underscore a home at its finest, which is ripe for buyers to snatch up.

Transform tiled spaces into sparkling clean surfaces.

Bathrooms and kitchens are where sellers can stand to add plenty of value in the process of selling a home. While pricey renovations might be out of the question for some, there are still affordable and time-effective ways you can transform for these spaces for the better. Cleaning,

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bleaching, or redoing your tile grout—in either kitchens, bathrooms, or other tiled spaces—can give these high-trafficked areas a new lease on life. Ensuring windows, mirrors, stainless steel appliances and backsplashes are streak-free and polished also demonstrate to buyers that your home is well-cared for and practically move-in ready. Sometimes, the devil is in the details. You might consider relining drawers, changing out knobs and fixtures,

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or else decluttering cabinets and shelves for a fresher look.

No matter the challenges ahead as you prepare your home for sale, completing a few small tasks every weekend or so can put you miles ahead of the competition.

Without spending a dime, you can add serious value to your home’s bottom line, setting you up for success as you begin your own home-shopping adventure.

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RICHARD BROWN

Top Agent Richard Brown supervises a growing team at Mike Thomas Associates, where he services clients throughout Northeast Indiana.

Richard Brown began his career as a paramedic, seeking an outlet for his desire to help those in need. However, even though his years on the fireman shift were tremendously rewarding, he still harbored a passion for entrepreneurship. That passion led him to real estate. In 1994, he took the plunge and earned his license; afterwards, he found quick success, finally realizing his potential as both a businessman and a pillar of the community. “Right away, it was my goal to supply clients with the best possible personal service,” he says. “I quickly learned that real estate is all about relationships.”

Today, Richard supervises a growing team at Mike Thomas Associates, where he services clients 20

throughout Northeast Indiana. Through attentive care and an organized approach, he has won himself an outstanding reputation in the industry, with much of his annual volume coming from either repeat clients or referrals.

How does he do it? For Richard, everything comes down to a proven 61-step plan that guides his listers from the first meeting to closing their deal. Along the way, he supplies them with a wide variety of marketing strategies, including packages of professional photography, copywriting and printed brochures. But Richard also assists his clients with modern outlets, offering them a digital outreach through personalized listing websites, social media campaigns and targeted ads. Baked Copyright Top Agent Magazine

into this comprehensive plan, though, is plenty of room for flexibility. “No two deals are the same,” Richard says. “That’s one of the best parts of the business.”

Beyond his detailed approach with listers, Richard takes a personal touch with buyers.

“You have to go the extra mile,” he says.

“When I work with clients, we develop a friendship. It’s not just a transaction.” As such, Richard forms long-lasting relationships with his clients, celebrating their successes and helping them through hard times.

Outside of his career, Richard maintains an active role in his community through volunteering at his church. But he also cares deeply for the community he has built within the walls of his office: his team. “Like me, almost every member of my team comes from a different professional background,” he says. “We’re almost like a ministry in that way. It’s my responsibility to guide them and help them grow in life—not just in real estate.”

Through open-heartedness, Richard has discovered his favorite aspect of the industry.

“The people make me the happiest,” he says.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than collaborating with a client and helping them find their dream home. I get to help them find a better life.”

Years ago, Richard combined his passion for people with an acute business acumen to light his way in the real estate market. Since then, he has forged an accomplished career through compassion and friendship. As for the future? Richard hopes to expand his team while still supplying clients with unmatched service. “We’ve built a strong foundation here,” he says. “No matter what the state of the market is, we can continue to grow and lead our clients to success.”

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To learn more about Richard Brown email rbrown@mikethomasrealtor.com, visit mikethomasrealtor.com or call 260-488-1264 www.

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5 Tips to Make New Hires

a Long-lasting Success Bringing a new employee into the mix is process commonly known as onboarding. The idea behind onboarding is to make the transition from new hire to team member as efficient and pain-free as possible. However, polling shows that some 31% of entry-level and intermediate level hires leave their new posts within just six months of starting. The question is: why?

The hiring and training process is time-intensive and doesn’t come cheap. This means that making 22

a good match for the long haul requires more than just assessments of skill and personality. To ensure a talented new hire sticks around and is truly positioned for success, the onboarding process must be executed with the same care applied during hiring. For a few ideas on how to make the most of the onboarding process, consider the tenets below as you guide your new hire toward long-lasting success within your company.

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1. Be honest about the scope of the role

2. Build in some perks

Let’s say you’re looking to add a new buyers agent or loan processor to your team. You write up the position’s responsibilities, but neglect to mention that you want the new hire to handle a host of administrative tasks, as well. Maybe it doesn’t seem important enough to outline in detail, as it’s the sort of thing the rest of your does. Miscommunications like these are a leading reason why new hires leave their roles.

If there isn’t clarity and transparency about a position’s true responsibilities, then new hires may become quickly disillusioned and seek out greener pastures.

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While stocking the breakroom with bagels every Friday may seem like a small gesture, it’s often those little morale-boosting moves that build loyalty and comradery among the team. Bike-to-work incentives, subsidized gym memberships, and benefits that match the needs of your employees—all are ways to demonstrate appreciation and investment in your team.

Likewise, the right candidate will return the favor and invest his or her energies into their new role.

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3. Get a sense of big-picture career plans

4. Keep the lines of communication open

Another reason new hires move on may have nothing to do with you or your office. In fact, many hires in entry-level or even intermediate roles have doubts about their long-term vision.

That’s why it’s important to be upfront from the beginning regarding a candidate’s five-year plan and ultimate dream job. Maintain realistic expectations when asking these questions, but use it as an opportunity to gage a candidate’s seriousness about the real estate or mortgage industry. Why this line of work over another?

Emphasizing industry longevity and career growth during the interview process can save you drama down the road.

Take a proactive approach in communicating with your new hire. Take time to check in regularly during the first six months of his or her addition. If you can, make time to train new hires yourself—if only for a part of the onboarding process. You’ll forge a deeper professional bond and create an avenue for further questions. All in all, make it clear that you’re personally invested in their presence and talents, and that you care what they have to say. That way, if any issues or doubts arise, you can stay on top of it and work out a solution, rather than lose a new employee.

5. Give new hires meaningful work to do It’s natural to keep the kid-gloves on with new hires, but don’t let that stop you from giving them a chance to shine. New team members will feel empowered and motivated if given meaningful projects to focus on. Don’t relegate their daily duties to busy work as they build experience.

Instead, task new teammates with something challenging, or that draws on a specific skill you hired them for. You’ll instill confidence, demonstrate your commitment to their growth, and with any luck—keep them around for the long haul.

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JIM SAMUELSON Jim Samuelson has been in the market of homes and commercial property for fifteen years and his vast knowledge in real estate goes well beyond the sales side. “I was in construction prior to moving into Real Estate so my knowledge in that field gives me a unique perspective in the business,” he asserts. “I am able to put my experience to work for my clients to make sure they’re getting the best competitive price in the market at the time.”

Jim, whose specialty is commercial real estate, works with one other residential agent and an assistant at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Executive Reality covering Northwest Indiana. He is proud to report that the majority of his business is repeat and referral clientele.

What sets him apart from his peers? “People tell me that I’m likeable and I am trustworthy,” he says. “I also work tirelessly with the client in every way to assure that all their needs are met. What can I say? I love what I do and it’s reflective in my actions.”

His clients agree that he is simultaneously personable and reliable from the moment they meet him. Writes one client: “When we decided it was time to sell our home in IL and buy in IN, we knew Jim was the person to call. He is licensed in both states which gives him bonus points! He walked us through the process of selling and answered many questions with quick responses. He gave us tips on staging and what projects to tackle for a fast sale. He took great pictures and described our home beautifully. He helped us sell our home in 6 days!! When it came to buying, he took care of everything for us. He helped us find our dream home and has great negotiation skills. We couldn’t be happier with our choice of choosing Jim as our realtor.”

Jim maintains quality contact with his clients and reaches out via emails, phone calls, texts and cards. He also connected quite frequently during the COVID-19 pandemic asking if they needed help with anything.

When first meeting with a client, Jim puts together a comprehensive presentation. “I take everything into account, so it’s pretty well-drawn,” he says. “I’ll assess conditions, whether the property needs upgrades or repairs, and assure that it has curb appeal.” After that, he takes professional photographs, posts drone videos, and creates 3D and virtual tours. “It’s the full treatment,” he asserts.

Jim, a family man who is married with two children, understands what it takes to keep family’s happy and comfortable in their everyday lives. Not limiting himself in any one field, he equally works with everyone that has their own specific requests.

Jim gives back to his community by teaming up with the local Habitat for Humanity, which enables him to bring in his construction skills. He also volunteers with his church for outreach to the locals in need.

When not working, he spends time with his family and loves being outdoors, whether it be camping, hunting, biking or hiking.

For the foreseeable future, Jim hopes to continue the forward momentum of his business, maybe expand his staff or open a brokerage. “I just want to keep doing what I love,” he says.

To learn more about Jim Samuelson, call (219) 746-5747, email brokerjims@gmail.com, or visit jimsamuelson.nwiexecutiverealty.com https://

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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

Top Agent Magazine

BRANDON WARFIELD Brandon Warfield was a General Manager for a Travel Plaza for over eight years when his company was taken over by a competitor. Three days after Christmas 2010, he suddenly found himself without a job.

After that initial uncertainty, Brandon found himself calling Carpenter REALTORS® to inquire about a real estate position. Brandon was hired and passed the state exam in February 2011. Then, he started out as a sales associate with the Mooresville office and quickly became a top listing agent that year.

Brandon was asked to manage Carpenter REALTORS® Martinsville in the fall of 2012. Under his management, the sales volume has increased and the team expanded to the point that a new, larger office was needed, though, he says, their grand opening is currently postponed due to the COVID-19 crisis.

commitment, and community” that makes real estate so appealing to Brandon.

Brandon’s goal for 2020 is to “scale his personal production up to 100 transactions a year,” and he’s well on his way, finishing 2019 with over 58 sales.

Brandon’s wife, Jessica Warfield, recently retired from her management position of over 20 years and has started helping him expand his business.

When he’s not working, Brandon enjoys traveling with his family, working in his garage, and driving his Porsche.

Brandon says that about 55% of his business comes from repeat and referral clients and that the percentage continues to rise. To stay in touch and maintain client relationships, Brandon uses quarterly mailings and postcards, and conducts quarterly calls. To attract new clients, he calls neighborhoods of highly desirable areas, expired listings, and for sale by owners.

Brandon describes his business model as “getting the most money for his client’s home.” His marketing plan uses television and local newspaper ads, direct mailings, and daily calling for potential buyers. He’s also been looking to branch out more into social media and online ads.

When it comes to his community, Brandon’s office is involved with Gennesaret Free Clinics (GFC), an organization providing medical and dental care for the homeless in Central Indiana. He has participated in a number of golf outings, charity events, and blood drives. Brandon also chaired the Morgan County Division of MIBOR. It’s “the spirit of connections, Top Agent Magazine

To learn more about Brandon Warfield, visit callcarpenter.com/brandonwarfield, email bwarfield@callcarpenter.com, or call (317) 626-7174 www.

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