NEW JERSEY 11-1-21

NEW JERSEY EDITION

WHAT THE FIRST THING YOU DO AFTER WORK SAYS ABOUT YOU FEATURED AGENTS

ANDREA OSWALD HEATHER CORRIGAN JAMIE OAKLEY ROCCO DARMIENTO

IF IT'S GOOD FOR THE SOUL, IT'S GOOD

CREATIVE WAYS TO SAY THANK YOU TOP AGENT TIPS AND QUESTIONS FOR

CHOOSING YOUR LISTING AGENT

FOR THE BUSINESS COVER STORY

NANCY U. PAVIC

NEW JERSEY EDITION

HEATHER CORRIGAN ANDREA OSWALD

to a few traits that set her apart from peers.

Everything Top Agent Heather Corrigan Oswald – Lead of the almost always a fast sale for top dollar, In business since 1996, 7 17 18 21 on the phone, she 22 The minute she gets does, she does with style. During college at and the owner of Casa Keller Williams Realty not to mention happy – and returning and brings the client in. “I speak to them as the Fashion Institute of Technology in New Real Properties, Top ty in Vineland, New referring – customers. if they were family,” she says. Genuine, York City, Heather worked as a buyer Agent Nancy U. Pavicfor F a name for herself as an With strong comm caring, enthusiastic, and professional, Century 21, an upscale department store. helps buyers and sellers p ng and deeply knowlAndrea currently holds a perfect, five-star skills and a talen throughout Newrésumé Jersey.

Heather goes above and beyond.

Clients Upon graduation, she snuck her for her many buyers overall rating on Zillow.com, comprised an “It’s about building take note. She says, “I make time for myJamie O into their HR department and procured estate, southern region of The of glowing testimonials that include this relationships for me. My st clients. Every step of the way. 24/7.” a job at once. A manager recognized her established herse rea, who also functions rave: “Andrea went above and beyond to clients appreciate my N personality and suggested she go into loyalty, sales. customer service, er for her company, has find my family our home. She smoothly agent in the Berg Sometimes Heather Soon,foundashe was selling for national R and ads honesty.” iness on a solid sold our home despite several people inspec- approachregion of New J looking for rentals because they just don’t publications all over the country.

After two NANCY U. PAVIC ANDREA OSWALD JAMIE ROCCO ca a go-above-and-beyond tionHEATHER hiccups, and she was ableOAKLEY manage CORRIGAN DARMIENTO started her careh could ever be homeowners. decades in advertisingWhile sales, Heather first-time buyers began may not all aspects of repairsbelieve which they successfully have large budgets, if they Heather knows better.

In the past, she has cut her comher Real Estate career.always When the pandemic slowed the years ago in re c have Nancy U. Pavic on their side, resulted in the sale of our house…she they can be sure to find the home of missions to make the deal happen or to ensure clients. economy, and most people hunkered down at home, sees a small but equally became part of our family and learned their dreams. Nancy takes pride in property managem in her ability to connect withmissing clients on a a beat.

She will work overtime to ensure clients qualify for Heather continued working without four other agents and a processor personal–level andwhat provideshome them with would work for us. We love our new home!” people person, I prompted professionalism, integrity, and consisloans. And after the sale goes through and the Rocco dream to enter d in the world of real estate in 2016, tent results. In business since 1996, it,inbecause it rea di residential comesher true,clients Heather stays intheir touchworked with letters, postTrue“It to was her nickname “The Hurricane,” Heather and the owner of Casa Real Properties, as a firefighter. a full-time job When she’s notrolled busy helping achieve she helps buyers and sellers throughCONTENTS cards, and newsletter that has overportfolio 5,000 subscribers. up herIsleeves day, donned her mask, conducted out all of northerngoals, New Jersey. me with to make stron commerc was injured while was onevery duty during Andrea is an avid hunter whoaloves spending time Every year she makes custom gifts for clients and the showings while social distancing, and came home Nancyto believes inwith treating her clients like lder issues and couldn’t get cleared husband and two stepchildren. She also gives experience thanksother to tions inwith family members, and she puts a high other agents she has worked with along the way.

They to write offers.

Heather achieved the Bronze Circle emphasis on quality customer service. d always been interested in real estate, back toAND her community by coaching children’s soccer edge, Cranbury Business 4) TOP AGENT TIPS 19) IF IT'S GOOD explains.

So she took aFOR break and became become pals. organizations.

One year she recalls, “I sent every agent of enough Excellence New and Jersey Realtors local d myself with timeAward to takefrom the theteams supporting charitable time with the“IMaster Plan QUESTIONS CHOOSING THE SOUL, IT'Stoon GOOD but soon returned real estate. decided I #realestatelife etched the side.”

Association after her firstFOR year. The second year out, a flask with nd get licensed as an agent.”

Over the past 30 years, R she YOUR earned Silver.

In the thirdAGENT year, she plan earned residential this time, LISTING FOR THE BUSINESS Andrea’s forGold the future of her business includes con- because I could utilize of and friends When not actively Heather enjoys being $13.5 overgrowth, 200 units ’s star has after risennetting quickly in million. the real “That’s tinued andsold to keep providing her team learned as working, amembers teacher in customers educating people an involved in her community.

Past years found her often in 4 years,” Heather explains.

Though currently a solo looking forward to a cont she can currently claim that the lion’s with the mentorship required to help them build theirAs ownaWAYS relationships.” solo agent, she is able 15) WHAT THE FIRST 23) CREATIVE fundraisers forremains the PTA or Pizza parties for agent, Heather on sales successful and employs a marketerable overall business is focuses based upon careers.

Abovethrowing all, however, Andrea high quality service and one-on-one support, THING YOU DO committed AFTER TOgrateful SAY THANK YOU neighborhood associations.

Currently, she serves on herand ingimpressive professionalfeat andina her Spanish translator. to “They are her referrals, an providing many clients with Today, Rocco his te resulted thefree continuous of her busiA board.

Ininher time, family growth comes first.

“Completely invaluable.”

WORK YOU market. “I phenomenal,” think that hasHeather aSAYS lot tosays. doABOUT the unparalleled customerTemple’s service that has become her consists of two agents, “We take trips,” she says.

“Corrigan’s play hard.”

Her service we provide our clients,” says calling card. and NJ, and Rocco’s wif Heather serves a large such area spanning many counties in house is where her kids’ friends gather. “We have a hot d how she has managed to inspire “My buyers and sellers know I’m always lo in For NJ. tub; they do movie nights,” she says. theHis futurearea of stretch New Jersey.

Repeat andshe referrals make up half of her f trust and loyalty amongst those for their best interests,” she that says.

“Iwith workcurr har Jersey Shore, her business, Heather plans to be that name everybusiness, and a slew ofteam reviews on multiple platforms ave a very responsive, hands-on whenever even if it’s in one knows.

“I know they I can need do it,” me, Heather concludes. highly ofbeher.

On Zillow, one310-734-1440 reviewer says, from $50,000 to early $5 milli able to helpspeak them.

We can reached Phone 310-734-1440 | Fax the path.

What is more ‘American than involves was a tremendous y time, and if“Heather they need any help at all help.” Another exclaims, “I’m oning.”

Her approach to herdream’ buyers Office for three years, mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com helpingknow make other people’s dreams come true?”

“LIFE SAVER!” She attributes the client satisfaction nsaction – we’re there for them.” them and outlining a plan enough to betoinachieve the top 1t

R JAMIE OA

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No portion of this issue may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior consent of the publisher. Top Agent Magazine agents.

Recently, he attf She’s patient at every step, preparing them is published Feature Publications GA, Inc. Although precautions taken to ensure accuracy of published materials, Top her reasons that must bebyfactored in To network with Heather, you canare reach her at: the 917-440-3767 Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. andvisit giving or heather.gocard@gmail.com; youexpect can also her atthem the tools to make edu drea’s impressive and ever-growing To subscribe or change address, send inquiry to mag@topagentmagazine.com. heatherthehurricaneremaxrealtor.com or if we have to look at a ton of h ef among themPublished would in betheher sions. “Even U.S.expert www.

youtube.com/channel/UCP9TlHc_f5WUAjXHtSavUqQ and her intelligent, cutting-edge there to make sure that they are satisfied at the ting, one that relies heavily on deft day, whether that means solving a big issue For more information about Andrea Oswald, media platforms to ensure maximum 2 Agent Magazine Every question isTop important, and Jamie call 856-362-5072 or emailone.”

AOswald@kw.com many listings.

The combined result is www.

clients feel comfortable asking her anything

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com

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Top Agent Tips and Questions for Choosing Your Listing Agent Now that you’ve decided to sell, it’s time to select the professional to help you market your property. Before meeting with agents, however, consider Top Agent Magazine’s tips for preparing yourself. Frist, ask yourself what kind of relationship you’d like to have with your listing agent. Are you seeking a casual, personable relationship and the latest marketing tools or are you interested in a more formal, traditional relationship and approach to marketing techniques? Next, populate your list of agents by attending open houses and asking for recommendations from recent buyers and sellers.

Finally, schedule your meetings at your home, where you’ll be able to gauge the chemistry between you and each agent.

During your meetings, expect any Top Agent to ask you several questions, but also consider discussing the following: 4

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Will you please describe your sales experience and local network?

Ask your Top Agent to describe recent listings and sales of homes comparable to your own. Ask about the sellers’ priorities, the original list price, market time and number of offers. Top Agents will also describe how well they are connected with other REALTORS® in the region as well as their contacts with relocation companies, local corporations and chambers of commerce.

Be sure to ask about each agent’s knowledge of how your market has changed over time and what has influenced change.

You’ll learn a lot by listening to agents’ opinions.

How will you market the property? Each

Top Agent has a unique set of online or local marketing tools at his or her disposal. Some use lead-generation applications and nearly ever luxury agent take advantage of video. Even video marketing tools vary from agent-to-agent, however.

You’ll get to decide if you prefer an agent with higher-end video production and 3D Matterport tours or an agent with more intimate techniques featuring walk-and-talk style video tours.

What factors influence your list-price recommendation? Before an-

swering this question, most Top Agents will have several questions for you, including whether you’re more focused on a faster sale or a higher list price.

They’ll also educate you on how best to balance both market time and list price relative to sales histories your area.

Now that you’ve seen the home, what repairs or improvements do you recommend before listing? You’ll learn a lot by listening to agents’

opinions on your home’s sale potential with or without some improvements.

Most Top Agents will also recommend a full professional inspection prior to listing to avoid surprises during buyer inspection.

How will you help with staging? Some Top Agents will pay for part or

all of the staging costs. At a minimum, however, a Top Agent will have a staging professional or two in their partner network. While they’re at it, they may provide referrals for carpet cleaning, painting, gardening and other minor finishing touches.

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What attributes of the property will you want to highlight? Each Top

Agent will have a somewhat different answer to this question, but that’s a good thing! Even if you have your own ideas about your home’s greatest attributes, you’ll glean insight into the current market by considering different agents’ opinions. In learning their views, you may even change your mind about your home’s most marketable features!

What is your approach to Open Houses? How many agent-only Open

Houses will your Top Agent want to host? How many truly Open Houses?

Some Top Agents may even reveal a “swankier” approach to the Open House – such as an evening cocktail party or by-invitation “open” hours to which buyers visit along with the agent representing them.

Who will be our primary point(s) of contact from your office? This

important question will help you understand the scope of your agent’s practice. You’ll get to see if your agent runs a robust team with many hands on deck or if he or she works by close, one-on-one contact with each client.

Either approach is wonderful; you get to decide what suits you.

Now, let’s list!

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NANCY U. PAVIC Top Agent Magazine

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In business since 1996, and the owner of Casa Real Properties, Top Agent Nancy U. Pavic helps buyers and sellers throughout New Jersey.

“It’s about building relationships for me. My clients appreciate my customer service, loyalty, and honesty.”

While first-time buyers may not always have large budgets, if they have Nancy U. Pavic on their side, they can be sure to find the home of their dreams. Nancy takes pride in her ability to connect with clients on a personal level and provides them with professionalism, integrity, and consistent results. In business since 1996, and the owner of Casa Real Properties, she helps buyers and sellers throughout all of northern New Jersey.

Nancy believes in treating clients like family members, and she puts a high emphasis on quality customer service.

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“It’s about building relationships for me.

My buyers and sellers appreciate my customer service, loyalty, and honesty. They also receive a family business level of care as I work with my husband. We do Top Agent Magazine

real estate investments together, and he is a general contractor, so we are able to bring that knowledge and guidance to our clients when they’re looking to invest,” she explains.

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Trying to stay on top of the New Jersey market has not been easy during the COVID pandemic, which threw so many businesses into disarray. But Nancy has been able to carefully navigate those obstacles by using creative marketing solutions to guarantee that her listings would stand out on the market. “I have a wonderful marketing team that works for me behind the scenes. I think it’s an Copyright Top Agent Magazine 10

important investment in this current market. You have to stay on top of social media and all the online avenues if you want your listings to be seen by as many people as possible.” Thanks to her diligent work, Nancy closes around 100 transactions per year.

Working in an urban area, what truly drives Nancy is her passion for helping clients Top Agent Magazine

“I’m a bilingual REALTOR® and I work in a very diverse area where not everybody believes they can own a home. That’s why I really love to see first-time homebuyers get into their new home and make their dreams come true.” achieve the American Dream of homeownership. “I’m a bilingual REALTOR® and I work in a very diverse area where not everybody believes they can own a home. That’s why I really love to see first-time homebuyers get into their new home and make their dreams come true. It really is very rewarding to help them succeed,” she says.

When she’s not busy helping clients, Nancy is closely involved in her community and Top Agent Magazine

works with the local church to help those in need. In her spare time, she loves to surround herself with family and go on walks.

“As a Christian, I like to meditate on the word of God because it brings me a lot of peace. I also love my animals. I have a dog, a cat and guinea pigs.” In 2019, Nancy suffered from an aneurysm and survived. “My doctor told me that only 20% of people who have aneurysms survive.” Nancy was also fortunate to not require therapy after this.

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“I came out the other side with no disability.

My faith and love with the Lord has favored me with Him!” Over the next few years, Nancy plans to expand her involvement in her community, and help her agents become successful. “I

want to foster an office environment that’s conducive to the success of our agents. Most importantly, I want them to operate with a high level of ethics and know that they are agents of change. It’s not about making money for us; it’s about using our presence to make a real difference in our community.”

To learn more about Nancy U. Pavic please call (973) 684–1110 or email nancy.pavic@casarealproperty.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 12

Top Agent Magazine

Christian Moran is proud to congratulate

Nancy U. Pavic

on being featured for the state of New Jersey in Top Agent Magazine!

CHRISTIAN MORAN | Senior Loan Officer Office: 201.345.6564 | Cell: 201.873.2533 www.afncorp.com/web/christianmoran 75 Essex Street, Suite 109, Hackensack NJ 07601

25 years experience

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

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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 16

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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ANDREA OSWALD Top Agent Andrea Oswald – Lead of the Oswald Group at Keller Williams Realty Cumberland County in Vineland, New Jersey – has made a name for herself as an honest, hardworking and deeply knowledgeable advocate for her many buyers and sellers in the southern region of The Garden State. Andrea, who also functions as Managing Broker for her company, has built a thriving business on a solid foundation of integrity and a go-above-and-beyond work ethic.

Andrea – who oversees a small but equally dedicated team of four other agents and a processor – began her journey in the world of real estate in 2016, following a career as a firefighter. “It was a full-time job but unfortunately I was injured while I was on duty during training. I had shoulder issues and couldn’t get cleared to go back to work. I’d always been interested in real estate, and I suddenly found myself with enough time to take the necessary classes and get licensed as an agent.”

Since then, Andrea’s star has risen quickly in the real estate industry, and she can currently claim that the lion’s share of her considerable overall business is based upon repeat clients and referrals, an impressive feat in her highly competitive market. “I think that has a lot to do with the incredible service we provide our clients,” says Andrea, when asked how she has managed to inspire such impressive levels of trust and loyalty amongst those she works with. “We have a very responsive, hands-on team that is always available to help them. We can be reached by our clients at any time, and if they need any help at all – even after the transaction – we’re there for them.”

There are many other reasons that must be factored in when assessing Andrea’s impressive and ever-growing success story. Chief among them would be her expert negotiation skills, and her intelligent, cutting-edge approach to marketing, one that relies heavily on deft utilization of social media platforms to ensure maximum exposure for her many listings. The combined result is Top Agent Magazine

almost always a fast sale for top dollar, not to mention happy – and returning and referring – customers.

Andrea currently holds a perfect, five-star overall rating on Zillow.com, comprised of glowing testimonials that include this rave: “Andrea went above and beyond to find my family our home. She smoothly sold our home despite several inspection hiccups, and she was able manage all aspects of repairs which successfully resulted in the sale of our house…she became part of our family and learned what home would work for us. We love our new home!”

When she’s not busy helping her clients achieve their goals, Andrea is an avid hunter who loves spending time with her husband and two stepchildren. She also gives back to her community by coaching children’s soccer teams and supporting local charitable organizations.

Andrea’s plan for the future of her business includes continued growth, and to keep providing her team members with the mentorship required to help them build their own successful careers. Above all, however, Andrea remains committed to providing her many grateful clients with the unparalleled customer service that has become her calling card.

For more information about Andrea Oswald, call 856-362-5072 or email AOswald@kw.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 17

HEATHER CORRIGAN Everything Top Agent Heather Corrigan does, she does with style. During college at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, Heather worked as a buyer for Century 21, an upscale department store.

Upon graduation, she snuck her résumé into their HR department and procured a job at once. A manager recognized her personality and suggested she go into sales.

Soon, she was selling ads for national publications all over the country. After two decades in advertising sales, Heather began her Real Estate career. When the pandemic slowed the economy, and most people hunkered down at home, Heather continued working without missing a beat.

True to her nickname “The Hurricane,” Heather rolled up her sleeves every day, donned her mask, conducted showings while social distancing, and came home to write offers. Heather achieved the Bronze Circle of Excellence Award from the New Jersey Realtors Association after her first year. The second year out, she earned Silver. In the third year, she earned Gold after netting $13.5 million. “That’s over 200 units sold in 4 years,” Heather explains. Though currently a solo agent, Heather focuses on sales and employs a marketing professional and a Spanish translator. “They are phenomenal,” Heather says. “Completely invaluable.”

Heather serves a large area spanning many counties in New Jersey. Repeat and referrals make up half of her business, and a slew of reviews on multiple platforms speak highly of her. On Zillow, one reviewer says, “Heather was a tremendous help.” Another exclaims, “LIFE SAVER!” She attributes the client satisfaction

to a few traits that set her apart from peers.

The minute she gets on the phone, she brings the client in. “I speak to them as if they were family,” she says. Genuine, caring, enthusiastic, and professional, Heather goes above and beyond. Clients take note. She says, “I make time for my clients. Every step of the way. 24/7.”

Sometimes people approach Heather looking for rentals because they just don’t believe they could ever be homeowners.

Heather knows better. In the past, she has cut her commissions to make the deal happen or to ensure clients.

She will work overtime to ensure clients qualify for loans. And after the sale goes through and the dream comes true, Heather stays in touch with letters, postcards, and a newsletter that has over 5,000 subscribers.

Every year she makes custom gifts for clients and the other agents she has worked with along the way. They become pals. One year she recalls, “I sent every agent a flask with #realestatelife etched on the side.”

When not actively working, Heather enjoys being involved in her community. Past years found her often throwing fundraisers for the PTA or Pizza parties for neighborhood associations. Currently, she serves on her Temple’s board. In her free time, family comes first.

“We take trips,” she says. “Corrigan’s play hard.” Her house is where her kids’ friends gather. “We have a hot tub; they do movie nights,” she says. For the future of her business, Heather plans to be that name that everyone knows. “I know I can do it,” Heather concludes.

“I’m on the path. What is more ‘American dream’ than helping make other people’s dreams come true?”

To network with Heather, you can reach her at: 917-440-3767 or heather.gocard@gmail.com; you can also visit her at heatherthehurricaneremaxrealtor.com or youtube.com/channel/UCP9TlHc_f5WUAjXHtSavUqQ www.

www.

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Top Agent Magazine

If it’s good for the soul,

IT’S GOOD FOR THE BUSINESS

Visibility, name recognition and knowing you’re supporting the community that makes your success possible are good reasons to take part in community service. But how is it that some people seem to be able to give time to charities while running their own businesses, managing their own families and households, exercising regularly, attending sporting events and concerts, eating well and sleeping seven or eight hours a night?

The truth is, not all agents are able to do everything so easily. But more important is the fact that no one needs to do everything all of the time. The trick is to make sure that, whatever you do holds meaning.

REALTORS® and mortgage professionals who seem the most gregarious in their community outreach are those whose giving seems to fill their own souls. When their Top Agent Magazine

volunteer efforts or donations directly impact causes they or their clients care deeply about, “giving back” becomes energizing.

Jason O’Quinn of Prime Lending in Dallas Texas, for instance, says that his family’s ongoing work building homes for some of the poorest families in Honduras fills him immeasurably. “It rejuvenates me,” he says.

“There’s quite a dichotomy between the houses we build there and the houses we finance here,” he says. “It refocuses me, going from financing $1 million homes in Dallas to physically laying cinderblock for $10,000 homes in Honduras. Everything has more meaning when we sacrificially give of our time, talent and treasure.”

The longtime “big picture” for Colorado REALTOR® and property manager, Linda

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Todd, for instance, has included giving back to the community, whether serving as a lead carpenter for Habitat for Humanity, making deliveries for Meals on Wheels, or pitching in for the sake of baseball. And through her lifelong passion for baseball, she harmoniously blended her personal interests, her work and her community service. For many years, she was so involved Little League the local league named a new field after her. “I cried for 3 days after they told me that!” She and her husband also started a scholarship fund for junior college baseball players and serve as a host family for the rookie league of the Colorado Rockies, putting up newly drafted players in their home.

For Florida REALTOR® and property manager, Mario Gonzalez, neither his business nor his primary community outreach would exist without the other. A retired U.S. Navy pilot, Mario formed his brokerage, Navy to Navy Homes, when he saw a need for military personnel to find affordable homes to purchase. “We got into it to help, but that led to a full-blown real estate business.” Besides providing opportunities for investment and homeownership, the company donates 35% of every commission to Homes for Heroes, veterans’ groups, or organizations benefiting fire, police, medical organizations, churches and homeless shelters. “We’re small, but we give so much back that we were the top Homes for Heroes company in Florida and

top-five nationwide.” But he does none of this for the attention. His friends may call him the “Humble Hero of Heroes,” but helping is Mario’s passion. “To be such a small business and be the top Homes for Heroes affiliate is mind boggling!”

Like Mario, for many, the best service takes place in simple and quiet ways. Illinois REALTOR®, Susie Scheuber, for example, takes a humble approach to giving back. Although she donates a portion of every commission check to the Children’s Miracle Network, she doesn’t discuss this with clients unless they happen to ask. “I do it because I want to and because, to me, giving back is the right thing to do when you’ve been fortunate in business and life,” says Susie.

We all know how inertia works; the more energized we get by certain behaviors, the more likely we are to continue those behaviors. For some top agents, community outreach has become such a natural routine of their daily lives that they never find it burdensome. A good way to add community service into your life, therefore, is through the causes that mean the most to you. For starters, consider giving a small donation after closing to the charity of your client’s choosing. Learning the different causes that they care about just might foster a new mission for you.

If you have a unique story to share about how your community outreach has impacted your life and your business or inspired others, click here for consideration in our magazines: www.topagentmagazine.com/nominate-a-real-estate-agent-to-be-featured 20

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JAMIE OAKLEY With strong communication skills and a talent for real estate, Jamie Oakley has established herself as a top agent in the Bergen County region of New Jersey. She started her career off 13 years ago in commercial property management. “As a people person, I didn’t love it, because it didn’t allow me to make strong connections with others,” Jamie explains. So she took a break and became a teacher, but soon returned to real estate. “I decided I would do residential this time, because I could utilize the skills I learned as a teacher in educating people and building relationships.” As a solo agent, she is able to provide high quality service and one-on-one support, which has resulted in the continuous growth of her business.

“My buyers and sellers know I’m always looking out for their best interests,” she says. “I work hard for them whenever they need me, even if it’s early in the morning.” Her approach to her buyers involves getting to know them and outlining a plan to achieve their goals.

She’s patient at every step, preparing them for what to expect and giving them the tools to make educated decisions. “Even if we have to look at a ton of homes, I’m there to make sure that they are satisfied at the end of the day, whether that means solving a big issue or a small one.” Every question is important, and Jamie makes her clients feel comfortable asking her anything that comes across their minds. “We establish a trusting relationship, so we are able to work together efficiently.”

Jamie goes above and beyond for her sellers as well, aiming to get them the highest price possible for their property. This includes posting about it on all major social media platforms, sending out mailers and hosting open houses. “Posting Instagram and Facebook stories allows me to reach a wide audience, so my focus is largely online.”

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Eliminating stress and making the process enjoyable, Jamie’s service is unmatched. Clients love to spread the word about their time with her. One buyer/seller recently raved, “Jamie was very easy to work with on the recent sale of my condo and purchase of my home.

She was receptive, patient, and available for my many questions throughout the process of buying and selling. She was calming, professional, and understanding of the goals I had for my sale and the must haves that were to be met in my purchase.”

A lifelong resident of Bergen County, Jamie stays involved in her community by going to events, supporting local businesses, and building connections with her neighbors. During any free time, she can be found working out, hiking, walking her dog, going out to dinner with her husband, and exploring new areas.

As time marches on, Jamie’s passion for what she does intensifies. She can’t picture herself anywhere else, and hopes to eventually build her own team. “I am blessed to have met the people I’ve met. Making my clients happy is my number one priority.”

For more information about Jamie Oakley, call 201-218-5107 or email j.oakley@kw.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 21

ROCCO D'ARMIENTO For 30 years, Rocco D’Armiento proudly owned Cranbury Paint and Hardware. When big box stores began to take over nearby New Jersey neighborhoods, Rocco decided it was time for a career change. Over the years, he and his father had purchased, rehabbed, and resold buildings. This entrepreneurial spirit prompted Rocco to enter real estate in 2004. Rocco first worked in residential real estate and then improved his portfolio with commercial properties, which he had experience in thanks to his prior construction knowledge, Cranbury Business Association board seat, and time with the Master Planning and Zoning Committee.

Over the past 30 years, Rocco had built a large network of customers and friends that trusted in him and were looking forward to a continued relationship.

Today, Rocco and his team stay very busy. The team consists of two agents, Angel, who is licensed in PA and NJ, and Rocco’s wife Wendy, who is also licensed in NJ. His area stretches from Philadelphia to the Jersey Shore, with current listings ranging in price from $50,000 to $5 million. #1 agent in his Princeton Office for three years, his sale volume earned him enough to be in the top 1 ½ percent out of 1.4 million agents. Recently, he attended Berkshire Hathaway’s

conference in Del Coronado, San Diego. Out of tens of thousands of agents, only 500 attended the conference.

How does he do it? “I am very busy,” Rocco says.

He works 60 to 70 hours a week and receives calls at all hours. He prides himself on being available and responding quickly. The only time he doesn’t answer is when he is with a client.

From Day 1, Rocco never looked at a transaction in monetary terms. It is easy to see how repeats and referrals make up 70% of his business. His attitude, attentiveness, and expertise ensure client loyalty. Rocco is well versed in handling construction, environmental repairs, and remediation for all types of transactions, which greatly benefit his clients.

To market listings, he belongs to six different residential listing services and three commercial multiple listing services to ensure each and every listing is marketed across the country and abroad for the best exposure.

“You have to have the right tools,” he says. For instance, he publishes his high end listings in the GALLERY Luxury Home Magazine for maximum exposure.

What Rocco enjoys most about his job are the interactions, the long-term relationships, and the family atmosphere. When not working, he spends time on Long Beach Island, NJ, and the Jersey Shore, where he also sells real estate.

You can find Rocco at BHHS HomeServices offices: 253 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ 08540 and 1010 Stony Hill Rd., Suite 150, Yardley, PA 19067 or Email: rocco.darmiento@foxroach.com or Cell: 267-980-8546 / Office: 609-924-1600

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Creative Ways to Say Thank You

Most top real estate agents find ways to welcome their clients to their new home. A common theme is a bottle of wine and some wine glasses for that first post-threshold toast, or a bouquet of flowers to brighten up that empty living space until the furniture arrives.

But are you truly being as creative as you can with your appreciation? Here are some innovative gift ideas that will truly keep you front of mind with your valued customers and assure their gratitude and repeat business, not to mention a slew of referrals.

1. How about a streaming video device, like a Roku

or Amazon Fire Stick? There’s a good chance your clients will not have their cable service up and running for a few days, and this is an excellent way for them to enjoy their television before they get that connection going. Bundle it up in a basket with some DVD’s for the kids, and don’t forget all necessary cables.

2. Matching bathrobes and Bath kits: Fleece or ter-

rycloth bathrobes and a basket filled with highend his and her body scrubs, bubble bath and other luxurious pampering items can make the first night in a new home feel like a check-in at a fabulous resort and make the memory of that first night one to cherish. Again, don’t forget the kids!

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3. Arrange a catered meal from a local vendor. As-

certain in advance dietary preferences and restrictions, and have a wonderful, healthy meal delivered on move-in night. To complete the magic, provide brand new plates, silverware and glassware to serve it all on.

4. For homes with swimming pools or Jacuzzis, a

stack of fluffy pool towels is always appreciated and will be used by family and friends for years to come. Additionally, acrylic stemware for celebrating safely can be provided alongside them.

5. If it’s winter time and the home has a fireplace, make sure there’s plenty of wood to burn. Some fireplace accessories and a log holder will certainly make your clients appreciate you on every chilly night to come.

So when it comes to gifting your buyers, the trick is to be creative. A bottle of wine lasts one night, and the flowers wilt in a few days. Try coming up with something a little more creative that will remain with your clients in their day-to-day lives and remind them of you consistently. The little bit extra you spend to show your gratitude can reap huge dividends when it comes time for your client to purchase a second home or refer a friend.

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