NEW JERSEY 5-18-20

NEW JERSEY EDITION

Easy Blog Topics for Your Real Estate Blog

How to SPEED UP FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER TRANSACTIONS

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TIPS TO MAKE NEW HIRES A LONG-LASTING SUCCESS

COVER STORY

FEATURED AGENTS

GINA PICARELLO TOMMY TRAN COLLEEN DONOVAN JESSIE LIZARDO DANIEL MAUZ

BEN JAMPEL

NEW JERSEY EDITION

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BEN JAMPEL

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GINA PICARELLO

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TOMMY TRAN

24 JESSIE LIZARDO 27 DANIEL MAUZ COLLEEN DONOVAN

Jessie Lizardo’s interest in the her real husband professionally, and al Daniel Mauzwork had afor fascina Colleen Donovan’s journey in real \Colleen and Weic estate industry emerged amidst the educate members of h estate investment estate began when she and her which providesreal them with and support, marketinp turmoil of the great recession. “A hosts two Spanish-lan husband decided they wanted to services, allowing to meetyear the needs sincethem his junior in co big part of the market crash was which she provides inf start flipping houses. Colleen was clients.

“I’m constantly training and educ graduated from Rutgers U that homebuyers didn’t underprocess. Jessie’s comm a teacher at the time, butstand decided she says.

She’s also active in staying in touc with a beyond Bachelor what they were buying,” this. of SheScienc is on th to make the change into house present through email text, wel in finance andand earned his Jessiefliptells Top Agent.clients Watching Association of as Hispa ping, while also pursuingmembers her real of Social isaareal hugeestate ofsales their marketin her media community apart member ofassociate the Un COLLEEN DONOVAN JESSIE LIZARDO DANIEL MAUZ estate license.

Today, she’s been uses multiple platforms toanreach endure the painColleen that came with the began Commerce, active ma He his career aspeo in real estate inspired with herherhusband host asmany houses, and her husbandb downturn to pursue– a career a realopen estate towith numerous charities agent Help-U-Sell so she could help homebuyers their their future. they agent were licensed together -- since secure wrap with information on his truck. movingAside to Keller Williams from her tireless c December 2015, serving Monmouth and Ocean Counties CONTENTS off as an assistant in late quickly Jessie creda in New Jersey. In their firstStarting year, they managed to earn a 2008, WhileJessie Colleen might provement, not consider herself Thework Mauz Group isagent now made up ofasabeing teamthe of l got her license so that she could as a full-time approach place in the NJAR Circle of Excellence, much to Colleen’s person, she genuinely loves helping peo 21) TOPICS FOR 4) HOW TOown SPEED UP FIRST-TIME agentsBLOG covering the South Last specializing in short sales.EASY Because of this specialization clientsterritory. trust becaus amazement. they’re looking for. Jersey “When theyme walk inty and the impressive volume of her transactions, investors do whatever it takes moved 261 units for a total of $51 million in sale YOUR REALthey ESTATE BLOG HOMEBUYER TRANSACTIONS know that’s the one for them, that’s to th began reaching out to establish working relationships with “I never push themand to estimates his business to be 75% repeat Colleen and her husband work together as Team Donovan, cially if I found it!” she says. Her clien Jessie and her business quickly exploded.“Experience, Just three years knowledge, do. With myattention buyers I te clientele. and their motto is “The Team That Gets You Home.”

“We those looking forMULTItheir home to older REASONS WHY 13) 5 TIPS TO MAKE NEW HIRES after becoming an 25) agent, 4 Jessie got her broker’s license, thisfirst house I want you t and follow-through are her the methods cornerstones of ou are the team, it’s just the twoopened of us,”anshe says.

“He does the to downsize.

And are paying office, and began building out a team.

Although you got the house that TASKING CANand ACTUALLY A LONG-LASTING SUCCESS tent repeat referral business,” he states. flipping and I do most of the real estate, but he helps me top agent in my office for the third year in her brokerage was enjoying a great deal of success, she clearly worked well“Pe fo DERAIL YOUR DAY down to earth style, sense of humor and win-wi when I need it. He helps with inspections and appraisals, named one of Weichert’s top 200 agents ultimately decided to take a job at ERA Reed Realty Inc., ness comes from repeao 17) TURNING YOUR as he’s a fully PROFESSION licensed realaestate agentbrokerage himself, and but management Iating do style agents,” she where says. continue to earn us high marks and re 30-year-old company INTO A PASSION about 95% of the real estate.”

Andshe that sayslearn something, she felt could more about the When earned Outside of work Jess Daniel hasindustry. consistently a reputation am the lead unexpectedly passed away in 2016, Jessie movies, and spend time being that Colleen came from a broker different career backColleen and her husband also like to giv clients and colleagues as a complete professio was asked Broker of Record, and overnight future she is excited to ground. “Being a former teacher and to notbecome havingtheany sales community.

Both motorcycle riders, theykn ru exemplifies conscientious, competent, and became responsible for leading a team of 29 agents and their real estate goals. experience,| Fax I was310-734-1440 very nervous about having to do sales. event with their brokerage called Weichert Phone 310-734-1440 able service.

Integrity, responsiveness and an ea“R managing a portfolio of 150 rental units.

American dream of hom I’m not a ‘salesperson’,” she says. “But I’ve found thatpersonable not cycleapproach poker run that riders ca havesees been thechoosing hallmark mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com in the future it will be hc being a ‘salesperson’ has probably helped our business.” locations and then seeing what prizes their clients and professionals alike enjoy working w As the lead broker and property manager at ERAraise Reed money them.

No portion of this issue may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior consent of theThey publisher. Top Agent for services for v Realty Inc. Jessie now runs a thriving business that operMagazine is published

by Feature Publications GA, Inc. Although precautions are taken the accuracy of published “We pretty much do everything by referral,” Colleen says to ensure with PTSD. “It was actually my husband’s ates throughout Union, Middlesex, Essex, and Somerset “What’s important to me is discipline and con materials, Top Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by itsoffice authors. of her client base.

“I don’t cold call, I don’t door-knock.

Broker and got behind it, so that’s County. Although ramping and up toI the pointthat where she expect of my team,” he says. His To subscribe or change address, send inquiry to mag@topagentmagazine.com.

We work by word of mouth andbalance our advertising. don’t says.her “We gave close to $30,000 to organiz could working asI an agent with operational work ethic has gained recognition ind Published in the U.S. hound people, ever,” she says firmly. And it works out well PTSD in two within years.”the Riding and management duties required a veterans great dealwith of fast, awards include: 2008-2011 Bronze Circle of E for them. Clients come back, and they refer their also their favorite on-the-job learning, Jessiefriends says that the experience taught way to unwind, along Award Winner; 2012-2014 Silver Circle of E and family. “We’re easy to with,” lesson Colleen says. time with herwork an invaluable about success.

“The keyfamily to life isand friends.

Top Agent Magazine Award Winner; 2015 Gold Circle of Excellenc “We’re responsive and we’re dedicated to providing the to embrace change and to never stop learning.

You have Winner; Goldfrom Circle says of Excellence Win find motivation. from resources best service we can. Because there are two Iofgetus,mine we have In2016 the ranging future, Colleen they’re consider

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

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

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

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

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

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

Set expectations upfront and often.

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

Then, tailor your outreach accordingly.

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

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

Know your first-time homebuyer programs and perks.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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BEN JAMPEL Top Agent Magazine

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At brokerage Weichert Realtors®, Top Agent Ben Jampel received the Circle of Excellence award for New Jersey, and was named The Rising Star for his entire region.

After owning a financial service company for nine years, Ben Jampel was looking for a new career path. “I was starting to see a downturn in my industry,” he says. “So I got my license, not thinking I would become a full-time agent. I was just looking for some investment properties of my own.” It’s now been two years and he’s grown exponentially, making real 8Copyright Top Agent Magazine

estate his sole focus in business. Serving Hunterdon, Warren and Somerset counties in New Jersey, word spread fast of his superior service and ability to go above and beyond to get his clients what they want. At brokerage Weichert Realtors®, he received the Circle of Excellence award for New Jersey, and was named The Rising Star for his entire region.

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“My level of service is what sets me apart, along with my attention to detail,” he says.

“Everyone I work with ends up writing me an amazing review.” For his buyers, Ben guides them throughout the transaction Top Agent Magazine

while offering advice along the way. He is never pushy, understanding this may be the largest purchase they ever make in their lives. Ben’s sellers receive the same guidance and support, while also benefiting from Copyright Top Agent Magazine9

“I’ve always been someone who enjoys helping others, so that’s why I love this path. I always value relationships over transactions.” his marketing expertise. “In my region, I have a unique advantage over competitors with my knowledge in marketing,” Ben says. He’s also taking time during the COVID-19 quarantine to increase those skills. “My company rolled out a new technology platform a few months ago which makes it easier, and I’m constantly getting on phone calls with other offices to talk about the digital marketing I’m doing.”

When it comes to advertising himself, Ben largely relies on word of mouth, as Copyright Top Agent Magazine 10

his clients love to spread the word about his work. One recently said, “Selling your house can be a stressful, difficult and tumultuous time. Luckily, we had Ben Jampel by our side to guide us through every ebb and flow and to keep us grounded when things seemed to be taking a turn for the worse. Ben’s initial marketing plan brought the maximum number of eyes to our property. Through various real estate postings and utilizing social media, Ben attracted over 39 couples and 100 individuals to our first (and only) open Top Agent Magazine

house. From those viewings, we were lucky enough to have multiple over-asking offers and accepted one that was $10,000 over asking price. Ben worked tirelessly with the buyers’ agent and both attorneys, always having our very best interest in mind through each conversation, email, Top Agent Magazine

etc. Ben is a professional in every sense of the word and we would be honored to recommend him to anyone looking to buy or sell their home.”

When Ben isn’t working, he’s staying active in the community through his local Copyright Top Agent Magazine 11

MLS on their community outreach program. “We meet once a month and make decisions on how to help the community.”

During any free time, he loves hanging out with his family and friends.

Endless growth seems to be in Ben’s future, and he can’t wait to see what the future holds.

“I’ve always been someone who enjoys helping others, so that’s why I love this path. I always value relationships over transactions.”

For more information about Ben Jampel, please call 908-627-2880 or email bjampel@weichert.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 12

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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 makTop Agent Magazine

ing 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 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.

2. Build in some perks 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.

3. Get a sense of big-picture career plans 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 14

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.

4. Keep the lines of communication open 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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GINA PICARELLO Top Agent Magazine

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GINA PICARELLO Gina Picarello’s journey into real estate started while she was working as a secretary in a construction business. The whole thing fascinated her, especially the clients, and so she decided to get into the real estate side of things. “I jumped into real estate and I was working two jobs at the time; I was still doing secretary work,” Gina says. “My first month, I had three closings, so I put all of my focus into my business and put all my full time work into real estate. From that first month on, I just had such success with it.” Part of that success, Gina says, comes from her knowledge of construction, investment markets, and properties that she learned from her time with the construction company.

2020 is Gina’s fourth year in real estate. She works solo, but she started building a team -- and says it’s going well. Her awards speak to that: Gina was awarded the RE/MAX 100% Club in 2018 and 2019, the Executive Club in 2017, and has been awarded the NJAR Circle of Excellence from 2017 to 2019. Gina’s team mainly serves Central New Jersey, but Gina is more than willing to travel to meet her clients’ needs. “If they want to buy or sell, I’m there,” she says. That dedication is key, and it’s also why the vast majority of Gina’s business is repeat and referral.

“I work hard for my clients, I answer [their calls], I’m always available,” Gina says. “They can call me at four in the morning and I’ll answer. A lot of clients are first-time home buyers, so they’re confused and nervous. I keep them calm throughout the whole process. I work with a lender and an attorney, as well, and having that circle of people I trust makes the process easy. Sometimes in real estate, things fall apart. When these things happen, I give them my honest opinions about the situation and only guide them in the right direction. My biggest thing is that I want them to trust me. I treat them as family.”

To stay in touch, Gina sends out monthly emails and keeps in touch on social media. “I’m always there, whenever 16

they have a life event, like having a baby, I’m there to congratulate them,” she says, “Even though the transaction ended, I didn’t. Our friendship is still there.” Social media also helps Gina market her listings, and she tries her hardest to get listings as much exposure as possible.

“No price is too low for me,” Gina says. “I treat everyone the same. I’m there to help people who are renting, and when they’re ready to purchase, I’ll be there, too.”

Gina, alongside her team, also works to give back to the community, working with the school system to fundraise and gather donations. Right now, they’re working to gather funds for healthcare workers. “I try to give back as much as I can and show my support,” she says, especially in these current, trying times.

When she’s not working and giving back, Gina spends as much time as possible with her two children and has learned to balance her work and family life. She’s also striving to grow her business and team, keeping herself out there and available to clients. “When you find something you love to do, you put your 110% into it, and that’s what I’m doing,” she says. “I just want to grow and be successful from here.”

To learn more about Gina Picarello, please visit ginasellsnj.com, email Gpicarello@remax.net or call (732) 972-1000. You can also find her on Facebook and Instagram http://facebook.com/ginasellsnj http://instagram.com/gpicc_remax www.

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Turning Your Profession into a Passion The old adage goes that if you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.

On the other hand, it’s easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day worries and responsibilities of your career, even if you generally enjoy what you do. While there’s no guaranteeing that every day on the job will be a picnic, there are a few steps you can take to vastly improve your morale and transform your profession into a passion.

After all, cultivating a passion for what you do will not only add to your quality Top Agent Magazine

of life, but will likely make you more successful in the long run.

BUILD YOUR BASE OF KNOWLEDGE Knowledge builds confidence, and confidence breeds success. A sure way to light a fire in your heart for your daily work is to challenge yourself to learn more and expand your understanding of your field. By doing so, you equip yourself for success, create challenges, and find the most inter-

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esting features of your work—especially those that most appeal to your interests and talents. Try reading the top five books on the topic of your industry, or subscribe to a podcast where thriving professionals offer their two cents. Either way, learning more about your industry is bound to reveal a source of inspiration worth pursuing.

THINK ABOUT THE BIG PICTURE

and excelling in your field, you may find that others’ approaches inspire your own.

Likewise, what you learn from other successful, passionate people in your field can help you shape your own office and work life, in turn creating more opportunities for you to fall in love with what you do, all over again.

TAKE RISKS

CONNECT WITH LIKE-MINDED PROFESSIONALS

One of the biggest hindrances of professional passion is falling into a rut. Routines are familiar and everyday responsibilities vie for our energy. But the next time you tackle a task the way that you always have, take a moment and try to refresh your perspective—is there a more clever or efficient way you could approach this project?

Even better: why not take the plunge and do the things you’ve always been meaning to—throw that client appreciation event you’ve put off planning, take the continuing education course you keep forgetting to register for, even try a creative activity that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

There’s no better way to inject some passion into your life than by going outside your bubble and taking a risk.

Have you ever chatted with someone who was overflowing with energy for what they do? That sort of passion tends to be infectious—often causing us to beg our own questions about professional engagement.

By participating in local organizations or networking with those who are active

Passion comes from all directions—from your own interior journey and from the world around you. To transform your profession into a passion worth having, invest in yourself and venture into the vast world around you. You’ll surely reap the rewards.

Sometimes reinvigorating your passion for your work is about looking outward, rather than inward. Gain some perspective and consider who your work helps in the long run. As a real estate professional—whether you work as an agent, broker, in mortgages, home inspections, or otherwise—your work positively impacts someone else’s home-sweet-home. You make a difference. While it may seem like just another day at the office, taking a moment to visualize exactly who you are helping in the world at large is a great way to add some motivational fire to your daily tasks.

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TOMMY TRAN Top Agent Magazine

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TOMMY TRAN Even though he had a lucrative career working for the federal government, Tommy Tran felt that something was missing in his life. He decided to start investing in real estate as a side hobby at the young age of 24.

When his family and friends noticed his success and started coming to him in search of advice and guidance on how to purchase properties, he realized that he could start his own real estate business. Tommy felt the internal calling to change his path, and chose to obtain his real estate license in 2015. His decision has served him well, and he currently works as a real estate associate broker at Group Twenty-Six in New Jersey.

What drives me most is the ability to help people that need it most. To assist that single mom in selling her property so that she can give her kids a better life, or to help a first-time buyer find their perfect home. I enjoy helping people out and making an impact on their lives.”

Outside of work Tommy loves a good karaoke session with his family, as well as biking and playing basketball. His goal for the future of his business is growth, but he has no intention of trying to achieve it by anything other than pure honesty. “What you see is what you get with me. I’m a genuine person. My passion is to help people, and when you speak with me you will feel that. I don’t sugarcoat anything, you can expect honesty from me.”

Tommy is deeply passionate about helping his local community, and relies on a tight network of client relationships that have helped build up his business.

“About 90% of my business is from word-of-mouth.

That type of network is the strongest in terms of loyalty. Our team also emphasizes social media as a way for us to connect with our clients. That’s a great way to build that organic relationship, and also share a little bit of our own lives with our clients,” he says.

In the business of real estate, some agents may be motivated by money, others by being able to build their own work schedule, but for Tommy it’s the hunt for a great property that gets him out of bed each morning.

“I love being able to help people invest in real estate and make money from it. While some people may get excited by shopping for shoes, or purses, I get a thrill from finding properties that are undervalued or underappreciated. I then help get those properties for my clients, and assist them in selling them. There’s no better feeling than helping clients obtain a profit from a property that others had written off.” And while the thrill of the chase is a big motivator for Tommy, the purpose behind it all boils down to helping people.

“My passion is to serve and help people financially.

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To learn more about Tommy Tran email tommy21782@gmail.com, visit grouptwentysix.com, or call 201-969–2626 www.

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

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

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

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

Think about those questions that you’ve had to

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

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

Evergreen Content

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Stay Local

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

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

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

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

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COLLEEN DONOVAN Colleen Donovan’s journey in real estate began when she and her husband decided they wanted to start flipping houses. Colleen was a teacher at the time, but decided to make the change into house flipping, while also pursuing her real estate license. Today, she’s been in real estate with her husband – they were licensed together -- since December 2015, serving Monmouth and Ocean Counties in New Jersey. In their first year, they managed to earn a place in the NJAR Circle of Excellence, much to Colleen’s own amazement.

Colleen and her husband work together as Team Donovan, and their motto is “The Team That Gets You Home.” “We are the team, it’s just the two of us,” she says. “He does the flipping and I do most of the real estate, but he helps me when I need it. He helps with inspections and appraisals, as he’s a fully licensed real estate agent himself, but I do about 95% of the real estate.” And that says something, being that Colleen came from a different career background. “Being a former teacher and not having any sales experience, I was very nervous about having to do sales.

I’m not a ‘salesperson’,” she says. “But I’ve found that not being a ‘salesperson’ has probably helped our business.”

“We pretty much do everything by referral,” Colleen says of her client base. “I don’t cold call, I don’t door-knock.

We work by word of mouth and our advertising. I don’t hound people, ever,” she says firmly. And it works out well for them. Clients come back, and they refer their friends and family. “We’re easy to work with,” Colleen says.

“We’re responsive and we’re dedicated to providing the best service we can. Because there are two of us, we have a lot more flexibility to accommodate our client’s needs.

We are always working and available all of the time.” She also stresses that she’s never pushy, and instead prefers to listen to what her clients want. “We take our time with clients and listen to what their needs are.”

\Colleen and her husband work for Weichert Realtors, which provides them with support, marketing, and training services, allowing them to meet the needs of even more clients. “I’m constantly training and educating myself,” she says. She’s also active in staying in touch with past and present clients through email and text, as well as Facebook.

Social media is a huge part of their marketing process, and Colleen uses multiple platforms to reach people. They also host many open houses, and her husband has a custom wrap with their information on his truck.

While Colleen might not consider herself a natural salesperson, she genuinely loves helping people find that they’re looking for. “When they walk into a house and they know that’s the one for them, that’s the best -- especially if I found it!” she says. Her clients range from those looking for their first home to older folks looking to downsize. And her methods are paying off. “I am the top agent in my office for the third year in a row and was named one of Weichert’s top 200 agents of over 10,000 agents,” she says.

Colleen and her husband also like to give back to the community. Both motorcycle riders, they run a sponsored event with their brokerage called Weichert Rides, a motorcycle poker run that sees riders choosing cards at different locations and then seeing what prizes their hand has earned them. They raise money for services for veterans living with PTSD. “It was actually my husband’s idea, and our Broker and office got behind it, so that’s our baby,” she says. “We gave close to $30,000 to organizations helping veterans with PTSD in two years.” Riding their bikes is also their favorite way to unwind, along with spending time with family and friends.

In the future, Colleen says they’re considering expanding to include a transaction coordinator or a buyers’ agent: “It’s an idea we’ve been tossing around because sometimes it gets to be too busy. But at this point, our plan is just to continue working and helping our clients find homes and make their homeownership dreams a reality.”

To learn more about Colleen Donovan, please call (732) 216-5623. visit facebook.com/TeamDonovanTR, or email teamdonovanweicherttr@gmail.com www.

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JESSIE LIZARDO Jessie Lizardo’s interest in the real estate industry emerged amidst the turmoil of the great recession. “A big part of the market crash was that homebuyers didn’t understand what they were buying,” Jessie tells Top Agent. Watching members of her community endure the pain that came with the downturn inspired her to pursue a career as a real estate agent so she could help homebuyers secure their future.

Starting off as an assistant in late 2008, Jessie quickly got her license so that she could work as a full-time agent specializing in short sales. Because of this specialization and the impressive volume of her transactions, investors began reaching out to establish working relationships with Jessie and her business quickly exploded. Just three years after becoming an agent, Jessie got her broker’s license, opened an office, and began building out a team. Although her brokerage was enjoying a great deal of success, she ultimately decided to take a job at ERA Reed Realty Inc., a 30-year-old brokerage and management company where she felt she could learn more about the industry. When the lead broker unexpectedly passed away in 2016, Jessie was asked to become the Broker of Record, and overnight became responsible for leading a team of 29 agents and managing a portfolio of 150 rental units.

As the lead broker and property manager at ERA Reed Realty Inc. Jessie now runs a thriving business that operates throughout Union, Middlesex, Essex, and Somerset County. Although ramping up to the point where she could balance working as an agent with her operational and management duties required a great deal of fast, on-the-job learning, Jessie says that the experience taught her an invaluable lesson about success. “The key to life is to never stop learning. You have to embrace change and find motivation. I get mine from resources ranging from the Bible to Tony Robbins,” she explains.

Jessie’s belief in the value of education impacts the way she interacts with both her team and her clients. Jessie loves mentoring new agents and helping them develop 24

professionally, and also does everything she can to educate members of her community. Every week she hosts two Spanish-language Facebook video shows in which she provides information about the home buying process. Jessie’s community involvement expands well beyond this. She is on the executive board of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals, a member of the Union County Latino Chamber of Commerce, an active member of her church, and donates to numerous charities both local and international.

Aside from her tireless commitment to educational self-improvement, Jessie credits her honesty and client-centric approach as being the largest drivers of her success. “My clients trust me because they know I’m honest and will do whatever it takes to achieve their goals,” Jessie says.

“I never push them to do something they don’t want to do. With my buyers I tell them, ‘every time you walk into this house I want you to feel at home because you know you got the house that you wanted.’” This approach has clearly worked well for Jessie as over 80% of her business comes from repeat clients and referrals.

Outside of work Jessie loves to read, travel, watch movies, and spend time with her children. Looking to the future she is excited to continue helping people achieve their real estate goals. “I love to help families achieve the American dream of homeownership. No matter what I do in the future it will be centered around this passion.”

For more about Jessie Lizardo, www.era.com/ERA-Reed-Realty,-Inc.-2907c/Jessie-Lizardo-211830a visit her website here, call 908-337-1144 or email jessiedo2903@gmail.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine

4 Reasons Why Multitasking Can Actually Derail Your Day Common wisdom dictates that a master multitasker is likely to garner the most success. After all, doesn’t juggling multiple projects at once mean you’ll work faster than if you took each one as it came? While multitasking is often cited as a desirable skill—and surely serves its purpose now and again—studies show that a mere 2% of individuals can actually multitask effectively. Meanwhile, the remaining 98% might be doing more harm than good by trying Top Agent Magazine

to tackle too much at once. Take a look below at some little-known facts about the risky side of waging a routine built on multitasking.

1. Multitasking decreases productivity While multitasking gives us the illusion of completing two tasks at once, it actually means

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our focus and productivity is split. In other words, switching back and forth between two activities doesn’t mean they’ll each be completed sooner; it means that you’re getting half-as-much complete as you would if you focused on a singular task. Multitasking fatigues your brain, elicits stress, and make you less efficient in retaining new information.

2. Multitasking is actually addictive While watching TV or taking a walk, have you ever noticed the impulse to check your smartphone or scroll through your social media feed? Even though we think about multitasking as a workplace skill, it’s also an addictive form of mental stimulation. By satiating our need for distraction with constant check-ins online, we become accustomed to frequent breaks in our focus, training us to crave updates, messages, and push notifications—we even hit refresh when we’ve checked in five minutes prior! This negative habit-building makes it difficult to complete sustained bouts of concentration.

3. Multitasking has negative physical side effects Studies show that those who juggle multiple focus-intensive activities actually show spikes in cortisol, a stress hormone. Likewise, frequent multitaskers display symptoms of sleep deprivation: fatigue, disorientation, and lack of focus. Studies in Europe have recently 26

discovered that those who consistently multitask may actually show decreases in empathy and emotional control. What’s more, a constant sense of anticipation—readying to switch from one task to another, or persistently checking for e-mail updates—can potentially cause a decrease in overall IQ.

4. Multitasking breeds mistakes When our attention is split between tasks, it’s difficult to perceive and retain detail-oriented information. Because of this, mistakes—typos, clerical errors, mislabeled documents, and the like—occur with greater frequency. We’re in such a hurry to complete a portion of a task and switch to the next project that we lose sight of prompts, deadlines, and tying up loose ends. This means multitaskers are far more likely to overlook a glaring error than an individual who is devoting 100% of their attention to the task at hand.

Now that we understand some of the dangers of multitasking, what can we do about it? While our tech-driven day-to-day might make focusing on a singular task a difficult endeavor, it’s the surest way to produce efficient, error-free work—while cutting down on stress, fatigue, and miscommunication.

Try approaching your tasks for the day with a clear-cut schedule, moving one task at a time down your to-do list. This approach can eliminate some of the inefficiency inherent in multitasking and make for your most productive work routine yet.

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DANIEL MAUZ Daniel Mauz had a fascination with real estate and investment properties since his junior year in college. He graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science degree in finance and earned his license as a real estate sales associate in 2005.

He began his career as a buyer’s agent with Help-U-Sell before moving to Keller Williams.

The Mauz Group is now made up of a team of top-notch agents covering the South Jersey territory. Last year, they moved 261 units for a total of $51 million in sales. Daniel estimates his business to be 75% repeat and referral clientele. “Experience, knowledge, attention to detail and follow-through are the cornerstones of our consistent repeat and referral business,” he states. “Personable, down to earth style, sense of humor and win-win negotiating style continue to earn us high marks and respect.”

Daniel has consistently earned a reputation among his clients and colleagues as a complete professional who exemplifies conscientious, competent, and knowledgeable service. Integrity, responsiveness and an easy going, personable approach have been the hallmark of why clients and professionals alike enjoy working with him.

“What’s important to me is discipline and consistency, and I expect that of my team,” he says. His esteemed work ethic has gained recognition within the industry. His awards include: 2008-2011 Bronze Circle of Excellence Award Winner; 2012-2014 Silver Circle of Excellence Award Winner; 2015 Gold Circle of Excellence Award Winner; 2016 Gold Circle of Excellence Winner; and 2017-2019 Platinum Circle of Excellence Winner.

It’s not surprising that the majority of Daniel and his team’s reviews are 5-star. Writes one client: “Dan and his team are top notch. We have sold our home and bought a new one with his team and it has been an effortless job. Erin is a great realtor and Rebecca has been

an amazing help with getting all the small details and paperwork completed. During the whole process we have been dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and they have made everything as easy as possible for us. I highly recommend Dan and his team at The Mauz Group!”

As part of the working relationship, Daniel believes in quality contact with his clients, often checking in with them for updates and to answer questions. “Transparency and open communication are essential for a successful transaction,” he asserts.

To market his listings, Daniel takes pride in assuring that each client’s property is featured in the best light possible by packaging with great text along with high-quality photographs and videos. Listings are then featured on real estate websites and social media.

What Daniel loves most about his business is not only building relationships but helping his staff realize their own dreams. “I love the idea of changing the lives of my team for the better,” he says. “I challenge them to the point at which they will realize their ultimate goals.”

Daniel believes very strongly in giving back to his community. “We always made donations to various local charities” he says. “For every home sold, our team gives a meal to the homeless. The team comes together at the end of the year and makes meals to donate to shelters in the area.”

Outside of work, Daniel spends time with his wife and three kids. “We love going to the beach and we often make trips to Disney World,” he says.

Daniel has lofty goals for the future of his business.

“I want to build a 7th level business, which includes bringing on a CEO to run things on the ground, so I can get back into other areas, maybe the investment side,” he says. “I believe you can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it.”

To learn more about Daniel Mauz, email dan@themauzgroup.com, visit themauzgroup.com, or call (856) 302-4003 www.

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