NORTH CAROLINA 10-11-21 by TOP AGENT MAGAZINE

NORTH CAROLINA EDITION

7 Simple Tips that are Proven to Help You

STAY AHEAD OF THE COMPETITION

FEATURED AGENTS

JODI BAKST JO BUTTERWORTH SCOTT HOFFMAN ROYDA TURMAN

Top Agent Tips and Questions for

CHOOSING YOUR LISTING AGENT COVER STORY

JESSICA & EDDIE COLLEY

NORTH CAROLINA EDITION

SCOTT HOFFMAN JO BUTTERWORTH

JODI BAKST, BROKER/OWNER

Entrepreneurship is almost a and riteproperty, of so are selling for and how and mu refe English approach “I really A justpublished love helpingauthor people and former to each client 7 through the 15 21 22 25 process,” Jodi Bakst if a home has a particular niche, we will passagebackin Scott Hoffman’s family. He track. T teacher, Jo Butterworth’s eclectic of their own home has incre explains, while discussing her career advertise itparents accordingly,” Jodi and explains. grew up watching his start is lookin ground allowed in real estate. “My tagline is, ‘it’sher all a smooth segue into Jodi also encourages her sellers to have run businesses, the buying best. ® about you.’” As one of the top agents in a pre-sale inspection completedand so there With her outgoing is her twenty year career as a REALTOR . including persona The Triangle region of North Carolina, areanimals. no surprises“At for the buyer. “It gives selling of exotic one point every selling a home can be a wild the seller more control so they are able surprising that Jo’s favoritestp Jodi’s workBuying is centeredorupon building we had a chimpanzee named Bertha most in relationships. Shefor entered the clients, industry but Jo’s professionto fix what they want to fix, and disclose ing in real estate is the soc ride many living in our home,” he explains. His dad it come after working in the environmental they’re not fixing, so those buyers alism, integrity, knowledge, and strong what it. “I’m a people person. I en field and wanting to pursue a more can move forward in confidence.” and brother run the family BBQ business he has negotiation skills people and helping them entrepreneurial career. “I just decidedare traits that ensure called RO’s BBQWith in aGastonia. Creativity, enhance it was timeher to dobuyers something different,” reputation for delivering supe- home buying and home sell and sellers alwaysinnovation, have a pos-determination and carving outnever website she says. “Something where I could rior results, Jodi’s past clients experience during theone’s transaction perso control myitive own destiny.” It turned out hesitate to tell others about from their expe- I like the face-to-face own path was instilled in Scott advertis JESSICA & EDDIE to be oneROYDA TURMAN BAKST JOOne BUTTERWORTH HOFFMAN of the best decisions she’s with JODI rience. buyer recently raved, “Jodi SCOTT process. Affiliated Helen Adams tions.” It’s this personal a young age. It didwas only natural, then, the topto ROYDA TURMAN ever made, as Jodi now owns her own a fantastic job working with us to COLLEY Realty, she assists clients throughout strives to always keep for him enter world 1995. After range, and muchinm brokerage, Real Estate Experts, in Chapel Hill. The find to a new homethe in a real really estate tough market. Shein gave us both regardlesstellofeach where company has threeCarolinas. sectors, including general residengreata advice andin guidance and stayed really and engaged earning degree risk management insurance/ of histhe listite tial sales, property management and development, with through various ups and downs and setbacks. Over the advancements will lead t real estate and urban analysis from Appalachian State Jodi launching her first neighborhood this year. process we grew to really trust and depend on her expeJo prides herself on her strongUniversity, work ethic and laser focus “Like any other business, realis estate is rap he made brief foray into the insurance Scott continually rience and insight. Weawould recommend her to anyone With the vast majority of her clients derivingresults. from looking to buy a home in the Research Triangle area.” to get clients their desired “I’m very organized, ing. My plan is to adjust and adapt withou field. “I realized I couldn’t accomplish the goals I had the recent launch o repeats and referrals, Jodi and her team continually I’m people oriented, I always answer my phone, and people skills have made successful set out for myself if I stayed that path, I that decided “We me want to get to exceed expectations. “I don’t let go of any detail,” Jodi Endless opportunities are in on Jodi’s future, assoshe ® explains. “II make my clients are very protected prepares to take her revolutionary new development to worksure24/7. I don’t sugarcoat anything to my clients to work as a Realtor Raleigh team is do .” CONTENTS throughout the process.” When working with Jodi, market. As the first 100% net-zero energy neighborhood more energy towa because I want to make sure that folks are making the Jo’s community involvements focus on t buyers, sellers and investors can rest assured that in North Carolina, all of the homes are environmenthem reach great he Serving the Triangle region and the Outer Banks, best decision that they can. houseandis Jodi usually local they are receiving the best support possible. WithBuying a tally afriendly, is excited tion to seeof where thisgreen space and park land. In a 4) TOP AGENT TIPS AND 18) YOUR SECRET team of experts by her side, they are well-equipped path leads. and “They be built the National he’s experienced great success his 26+ year career. the biggest investment someone makes, I will want to to in serves onGreen several boards concerned with to handle FOR any and allCHOOSING real estate transactions. In addiBuilding Standards, and will have additional stanQUESTIONS PRESENTATION WEAPON The futureWhen looksshp Closing over 1,111 transactions, amounting to over make it a smooth and stress-free process. I truly want to high standards in her profession. tion, Jodi’s administrative team makes sure no stone dards like indoor air quality and water management,” he is still lovi $250happy million volume, his level ofpotential expertiseclients is and is left unturned, resulting she explains. At arraysustainableliving.com, YOUR LISTING AGENT do my bestintoa smooth make and mystress-free clients and in comfortable at work assisting in finding their dr transaction. Updates are given continually throughout buyers canHe’s learn more about this 12-lot subdivision. “I really enjoy help unmatched. even helped three generations of with whatever decisions they make.”23) CREATIVEshe enjoys lake living, tennis, Pilates, horse MEDITATION the process, so clients are never confused about where several families buy takes and her, sellshehomes, and has been how excited my clie and growing they stand. Wherever this journey will soak up every orchids. As a past published 13) 7 SIMPLE TIPS FOR THE REAL ESTATE accomplishing their responsible for the management of 5 new construcminute of as she trulyJo’s loves what she does. “It’s Whether she’s working with buyers orit, sellers, novels (aka Jolene Prewit-Parker) includin THAT ARE PROVEN TO This stellar service carries into their HELP strategic marketing amazing when your client finally wins that deal and tion communities. Always pursuing education, he has PROFESSIONAL main is doing to provide the best It’s outcomes. and women’s fiction, she is curren plans as well, with goal her team everythingclients possible with they’re happy. so important to romances give people what several designations including ABR (Accredited Buyer YOU STAY AHEAD OF THE to spread With the word abouttwo listings. “We tailor our they want.” over decades of experience, she has a firm on a murder mystery with a main characte Representative), e-PRO, and frequently attends sales and COMPETITION understanding of the local market and which elseA butNICHE a female real estate agent. 26) IStomarketFINDING seminars stay up-to-date on the latest trends. For more informationmarketing about Jodi Bakst, ing strategies work best. “I work very aggressively not please call 919-697-5014 or email jodi@realestateexperts.net MARKET RIGHT FOR YOU? only on marketing my listings to the public, but also Ranking in the top 1% of Keller Williams Realmarketing to other agents. You want to maintain that Agent Magazine ty International Brokers,Copyright Scott Top has built a reputation relationship with all of yourfor colleagues and, as a courintegrity, knowledge and customer service. “I tesy, you want them to know have a new alsowhen have you an exceptional staff that shares my vision listing coming on the market, especially if it’s value in theof a happy customer,” he and understands the area that they310-734-1440 are familiar with because“We theyare might very to working with great explains. committed Phone 310-734-1440 | Fax well have the right buyer.” clients who trust us and appreciate the level of service

mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com and support that we offer. If we exceed our client’s

For more inform

Jo’sbecommitment her clients extends past end of toofbless expectations, theythe will continue our business.” No portion of this issue may reproduced into any manner whatsoever without prior consent the publisher. Top Agent please ca the transaction. She works diligently to maintain the Magazine is published by Feature Publications GA, Inc. Although precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy published To learnofmore aboutscott@theh Jo Butterw With around 60% ofwith hisorbusiness deriving repeats strong bonds and responsible friendships develops her materials, Top Agent Magazine cannot be held forshe opinions expressed facts supplied byfrom its authors. call (704) 267–3643, email jo@butte To subscribe or change address, buyerssend and inquiry sellers.to“Imag@topagentmagazine.com. like to send them market updates or visit jobutterworth.helenadamsre Published in the U.S. so they know how much houses in their neighborhood https://

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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. Top Agent Magazine

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! 6

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JESSICA & EDDIE COLLEY

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With their team at Cottonwood Properties, Eddie and Jessica serve Black Mountain and the surrounding areas, including Montreat, Marion, Morganton, and Waynesville. Eddie Colley began his real estate career working in a luxury community in Black Mountain, first in maintenance and then in sales and property management. Eddie spent about 10 years as an onsite sales agent and general manager for the community before leaving and taking over as the broker in charge for the Black Mountain office of 8Copyright Top Agent Magazine

KW Professionals. “During that time, I met Jessica,” Eddie recalls. “She was a local sales rep for a wine company, and I brought her into real estate. Because of her ability to communicate with clients, I knew she’d do great, and she has ever since.” Jessica and Eddie got married and started a team, and the rest is history. Top Agent Magazine

With their team at Cottonwood Properties, Eddie and Jessica serve Black Mountain and the surrounding areas, including Montreat, Marion, Morganton, and Waynesville. The majority of Eddie and Jessica’s business comes from repeat and referral clients, an impressive feat that speaks to the trust and confidence they inspire. “Our clients value Top Agent Magazine

our customer service and communication,” Jessica explains. “Clients have told me that I keep it real with them. I’m not trying to oversell them, and they know where they are throughout every step of the process.” “Our local knowledge of the area also sets us apart,” Eddie says. “I moved to Black Copyright Top Agent Magazine9

“Our clients value our customer service and communication,” Jessica explains. “Our local knowledge of the area also sets us apart,” Eddie says. Mountain when I was 8 years old and never left. I was a member of the fire department for 16 years there, and both of my parents had 30+ year careers in Black Mountain. I’m very well connected with the community and the area.” When it comes to marketing their listings, the team uses a comprehensive approach to ensure maximum exposure. “When we have a new listing, our in-house marketing Copyright Top Agent Magazine 10

strategist does a major blog post write-up on it for our website,” Eddie says. “The next day, we post it as Coming Soon on MLS and Zillow. The day after that, it goes live. By the time it’s gone live, it’s already generated a lot of internet traffic.” That’s in addition to investing in professional photography and videography for all their listings. “No matter the property or the price point, everybody gets the same attention and the same marketing,” Eddie says. Top Agent Magazine

Community outreach is important to Eddie and Jessica, and they give back to local charities and nonprofits including Body & Soul and The Veterans Restoration Center, as well as contributing a portion of their commissions to Homes for Heroes and The Top Agent Magazine

Tunnel to Towers Foundation. They also give back via their annual Turkey Brigade, where they feed families in need a full Thanksgiving meal and deliver it two days prior to Thanksgiving in their box truck that is available for clients to use. This year will Copyright Top Agent Magazine 11

be their 4th annual, and they hope to feed 30 families with donations raised from past clients. When they are not working or giving back, Eddie and Jessica love to travel, visit local breweries, listen to live music, and go on adventures in the woods and streams with their two Labradors. In the future, Eddie and Jessica plan to continue growing their local presence and their property management division. Above all, they look

forward to continuing to serve their clients and their community. “I love the social aspect of real estate and meeting new people,” Jessica says. “I love working with first time homebuyers and guiding them through that exciting process of buying their first home.” “I love forming relationships with clients,” Eddie says. “Many of our clients have become some of our best friends, and that is one of my favorite things about being in this industry.”

To find out more about Eddie and Jessica Colley, call 828-419-9128, email jessica@cwpnc.com, or find them online at cottonwoodpropertiesnc.com www.

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7 Simple Tips that are Proven to Help You Stay Ahead of the Competition So you’ve created a successful business, congratulations! You probably did it by providing an unsurpassed level of customer service that not only meets customer expectations but exceeds them in a way that has made you stand out from the rest. As anyone can tell you, starting a successful business is not easy. Now comes the even harder part. Not only sustaining that high level of performance, but continuing to grow and outpace the competition. There is no resting on your laurels in a competitive business market. Companies that stay successful for the longterm, make an active effort to keep on top. Here are just a few ways you can do the same. Top Agent Magazine

1. Know the competition It’s not enough to know what you excel at or what makes you unique, you need to know what your competitors are offering that makes them stand out. This serves two purposes: it will allow you to more clearly define your differences, or it may help you identify an area that you hadn’t considered before, opening up a potentially new way in which you can excel above the rest.

2. Know your customers You might know your clientele very well, but as economic conditions change, so does your

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customer’s needs. What might have been a priority a year ago, won’t be if we are in the midst of an economic downturn, for example. As a business owner you should always be evaluating your strategies in every area constantly, knowing what your customer wants and needs from you is key. In fact you should be using your expertise to analyze potential market changes and anticipate those needs to stay ahead of the curve.

3. Have a strong understanding on what makes you unique Once you accomplish the first two, you should have a clear idea of what unique advantage you offer people. This needs to be clear to everyone, so you can then take that idea and run with it. Find your niche and then market yourself with a focus on that idea. If you have a clear thing you’re selling, it is well worth the investment to market yourself to the hilt with that in mind.

5. Think like your competitors One way your competitors looks to gain customers is by potentially taking yours. It goes without saying, you don’t want to let that happen. You’ve probably built great relationships, so really maintain those relationships by not only providing great service, but service that truly goes above and beyond. Find ways to give more to your customers. You might even want to start offering surveys, where your clients can tell you exactly what they’d like to see.This makes your clients not only feel heard, but blown away when you implement any changes they suggest.

6. Look for untapped markets Don’t settle for maintaining what you have, there could be untapped markets out there. If you don’t get to them, your competitors will. So even if they come eventually, hopefully you’ll already be the dominate force in that market.

4. Keep up to date

7. Be a great boss

This goes for everything from technology to systems, marketing, and even your own personal image. If you have a brick and mortar location, you want to also keep things looking fresh and modern there, as well. First impressions are important for a reason. Everything about your business should tie into your marketing and branding. What are you selling and does everything line up to support that, from your business cards to your social media pages. Remember the key to branding and marketing is a consistent message.

One of the best things you can do to keep ahead of the rest, is by being a company where top talent and motivated newcomers want to be. Be the company that offers more than a competitive paycheck. Be a place that fosters talent, and offers scheduling and compensations packages that appeal more to people who think outside of the box. This will attract more innovative thinkers who value flexibility. Not only will you benefit from their talents, more importantly, your competition won’t.

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ROYDA TURMAN Top Agent Magazine

ROYDA TURMAN

In 1986, Royda Turman was looking into a part-time job in real estate. She was living in Cape Town, South Africa at the time, and had just had a baby – she was looking for flexible work, but as it turned out, she ended up working 24/7 for the rest of her life. Now, she has been working in the Triad Area of North Carolina for seven years and loving every minute of it. Based in Winston-Salem, she has established a reputation for providing phenomenal, personalized service to clients of every variety, and getting to know her community in the process.

get to know my clients and their particular needs when I meet with them,” Royda says. “Together, we can come up with a comprehensive plan to overcome any obstacle and accomplish any goals they might have.” Royda is a real estate agent with a wealth of knowledge, and someone you want on your side when buying or selling a home.

With multiple decades of experience in real estate, Royda is well-equipped to handle every aspect of a transaction, and is a veteran problem-solver who offers significant value to her clients. She finds great joy and self-fulfillment in helping people find creative and effective solutions to their problems. “I make sure to 16

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Royda takes a hands-on approach when working with clients, staying responsive and keeping herself available as a resource to them every step of the way. She prioritizes building trusting, lasting relationships with clients that often become friendships as time goes on. “This is about more than just real estate to me,” Royda says. “ I truly care about my clients’ well-being, and I work hard to ensure they are getting the best possible results from their transaction experience.” Royda’s brand of service is a hit within her community. She gets 70% of her business from repeat clients and referrals, and has made a name for herself as an elite agent in the Triad Area. When it comes to marketing, Royda maintains a significant presence on social media which she uses to find prospective buyers for her listings as well as keep in touch with past clients. The presentation for her listings is impeccable, as she uses professional photography and staging to highlight the strengths of each property and carefully crafted descriptions to shed a positive light on each home. Royda closes between $4-6M in total sales volume each year, and looks forward to maintaining her current level of production in the years to come. In her free time, Royda loves spending time with her family. She does a great deal of charitable work revolving around animal rescue and helping women in abusive situations, and never misses an opportunity to give back to her community. Royda hopes to start a small team in the future, and is currently looking to bring on a buyer’s agent very soon in an effort to expand her already impressive business.. If you’re looking for a Realtor® in North Carolina’s Triad who leverages her experience to work for her clients’ benefit, look no further than Royda Turman! Top Agent Magazine

For more about Royda Turman please call (336) 391-1316 or email soldbyroyda@gmail.com. 17

Your Secret Presentation Weapon by Rich Levin

You are at a listing presentation, and Agent: “Do you know the number you know the seller is interviewing one complaint owners, like you, have other agents. Would you like to about their present REALTOR®? distinguish yourself as the best? Here’s how. “The agent doesn’t communicate or loses touch. It’s one of the simplest This is on an age-old and proven things and one of the most sales concept that is taught in high- important. I know some of the best level sales training in every major agents in town who sell a lot of corporation. In real estate, it is a homes and have the best intentions, subtlety that most agents simply but they just don’t follow up like don’t build into their skill set. Those they should, and you fall through who learn and use this skill stand out the cracks. and win against the competition. “I set aside an hour each day just for Have you ever lost a listing and staying in touch with my clients.” could not figure out why? The seller says that they had more confidence “You don’t want to be in the dark, in another agent. This skill is the uncertain and uncomfortable. I reason they will choose you. They want you confident that we are both may not recognize why; they just doing everything we can to get your have more confidence in you. property sold for the most money in the shortest time. “I like to make Sample Seller Script these calls between eleven and Here’s an example. After, I’ll break noon on Thursday mornings. What it down for you so that you can is the best number to reach you at apply it for yourself. that time?” 18

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Robbins was a twinkle in his AABC: The Breakdown There are four steps to this mother’s eye. Most agents miss the presentation skill. They are subtle mark on this in today’s competitive and easy to learn. You must practice real estate market. To hit a bull’s to be natural with this skill, which I eye, use AABC as your secret weapon. You will begin to notice call AABC. sellers and buyers having more • Step one is the Action you take. In confidence in you, relaxing with the example above, it’s communicating you, and trusting your judgment. regularly. Sample Buyer Script • Step two is the Advantage you “Would you like to have the bring that differentiates you. In the advantage of seeing the newest example above, it is setting aside an properties on the market, every day?” hour each day. A – The Action: “Every day—often • Step three is the Benefit to them. twice a day—I will search for propIn the example above, it is making erties that are new to the market.” them certain, comfortable and A – The Advantage: “In our area confident. there are nearly three thousand real • Step four is the Close, which is estate agents. Every day, some of asking for a decision. In the them are placing new property on example above, it is asking for the the market. Within hours, often less, specific number to be reached on a I make sure that you are aware of any and every property that even specific day and time. remotely matches your desires.” AABC B – The Benefit: “You’ll have the Action: What you do. best opportunity to find the property Advantage: Your distinction. that has the most of what you want Benefit: What’s in it for them? before you are in competition for it, Close: Asking for a decision. and you often get it at the best price. This has been taught by Fortune 500 Each year, many of the homes I sell Companies decades before Anthony are those fresh listings that have Top Agent Magazine

only been viewed by my buyers. It’s fun for me. It’s the best way to give you the competitive edge.” C – Close: “Do you want me to contact you each day as soon as we become aware of any property in which you may be interested? If I call during the workday with an excellent choice—something that looks perfect—would you be able to come fairly quickly to see it?” You will find AABC is your secret weapon. While other agents present their same old way, the buyers and sellers to whom you present see, hear, and feel something different, something more. They will more easily sign exclusive contracts with less commission challenges. They will trust you and make your job with them easier, because they strongly believe in your efforts on their behalf. A Few Subtleties I like to start with a question. Do you know? Have you heard? Would you like? The Action can be very simple. It is your Advantage—the way you do it differently—that makes the distinction. 20

The Benefit is always more money, the best time frame, and/or more ease and convenience. That is WIIFT: What’s In It for Them. The Close is critical. In addition to confirming their agreement, it makes them an active participant in the process. In my work, I occasionally accompany Agents on listing presentations—Agents who take over a hundred listings a year. Once they begin to apply AABC, they immediately express that they feel, hear, and see the difference in the way their clients responded to them. This is an advanced skill that raises your effectiveness and enhances your relationships and your results. It requires preparation and practice. It is a secret weapon that can shift your work and your career into the next gear.

Rich Levin is one of the most successful Real Estate coaches in the nation by virtue of the measurable results of his clients and creator of the Real Estate Hierarchy of Success, a working model for understanding and planning your business. Copyright©, Rich Levin. All rights reserved. Top Agent Magazine

JODI BAKST, BROKER/OWNER “I really just love helping people through the process,” Jodi Bakst explains, while discussing her career in real estate. “My tagline is, ‘it’s all about you.’” As one of the top agents in The Triangle region of North Carolina, Jodi’s work is centered upon building relationships. She entered the industry after working in the environmental field and wanting to pursue a more entrepreneurial career. “I just decided it was time to do something different,” she says. “Something where I could control my own destiny.” It turned out to be one of the best decisions she’s ever made, as Jodi now owns her own brokerage, Real Estate Experts, in Chapel Hill. The company has three sectors, including general residential sales, property management and development, with Jodi launching her first neighborhood this year. With the vast majority of her clients deriving from repeats and referrals, Jodi and her team continually exceed expectations. “I don’t let go of any detail,” Jodi explains. “I make sure my clients are very protected throughout the process.” When working with Jodi, buyers, sellers and investors can rest assured that they are receiving the best support possible. With a team of experts by her side, they are well-equipped to handle any and all real estate transactions. In addition, Jodi’s administrative team makes sure no stone is left unturned, resulting in a smooth and stress-free transaction. Updates are given continually throughout the process, so clients are never confused about where they stand. This stellar service carries into their strategic marketing plans as well, with her team doing everything possible to spread the word about listings. “We tailor our

approach to each client and property, so if a home has a particular niche, we will advertise it accordingly,” Jodi explains. Jodi also encourages her sellers to have a pre-sale inspection completed so there are no surprises for the buyer. “It gives the seller more control so they are able to fix what they want to fix, and disclose what they’re not fixing, so those buyers can move forward in confidence.” With a reputation for delivering superior results, Jodi’s past clients never hesitate to tell others about their experience. One buyer recently raved, “Jodi did a fantastic job working with us to find a new home in a really tough market. She gave us great advice and guidance and stayed really engaged through various ups and downs and setbacks. Over the process we grew to really trust and depend on her experience and insight. We would recommend her to anyone looking to buy a home in the Research Triangle area.” Endless opportunities are in Jodi’s future, as she prepares to take her revolutionary new development to market. As the first 100% net-zero energy neighborhood in North Carolina, all of the homes are environmentally friendly, and Jodi is excited to see where this path leads. “They will be built to the National Green Building Standards, and will have additional standards like indoor air quality and water management,” she explains. At arraysustainableliving.com, potential buyers can learn more about this 12-lot subdivision. Wherever this journey takes her, she will soak up every minute of it, as she truly loves what she does. “It’s amazing when your client finally wins that deal and they’re happy. It’s so important to give people what they want.”

For more information about Jodi Bakst, please call 919-697-5014 or email jodi@realestateexperts.net Top Agent Magazine

JO BUTTERWORTH A published author and former English teacher, Jo Butterworth’s eclectic background allowed her a smooth segue into her twenty year career as a REALTOR®. Buying or selling a home can be a wild ride for many clients, but Jo’s professionalism, integrity, knowledge, and strong negotiation skills are traits that ensure her buyers and sellers always have a positive experience during the transaction process. Affiliated with Helen Adams Realty, she assists clients throughout both Carolinas. Jo prides herself on her strong work ethic and laser focus to get clients their desired results. “I’m very organized, I’m people oriented, I always answer my phone, and I work 24/7. I don’t sugarcoat anything to my clients because I want to make sure that folks are making the best decision that they can. Buying a house is usually the biggest investment someone makes, and I want to make it a smooth and stress-free process. I truly want to do my best to make my clients happy and comfortable with whatever decisions they make.” Whether she’s working with buyers or sellers, Jo’s main goal is to provide clients with the best outcomes. With over two decades of experience, she has a firm understanding of the local market and which marketing strategies work best. “I work very aggressively not only on marketing my listings to the public, but also marketing to other agents. You want to maintain that relationship with all of your colleagues and, as a courtesy, you want them to know when you have a new listing coming on the market, especially if it’s in the area that they are familiar with because they might very well have the right buyer.” Jo’s commitment to her clients extends past the end of the transaction. She works diligently to maintain the strong bonds and friendships she develops with her buyers and sellers. “I like to send them market updates so they know how much houses in their neighborhood 22

are selling for and how much the value of their own home has increased.” With her outgoing personality it’s not surprising that Jo’s favorite part of working in real estate is the social aspect of it. “I’m a people person. I enjoy meeting people and helping them navigate the home buying and home selling process. I like the face-to-face personal interactions.” It’s this personal touch that Jo strives to always keep in her service, regardless of where the technological advancements will lead the industry. “Like any other business, real estate is rapidly changing. My plan is to adjust and adapt without losing the people skills that have made me successful.” Jo’s community involvements focus on the preservation of local green space and park land. In addition, she serves on several boards concerned with maintaining high standards in her profession. When she’s not hard at work assisting clients in finding their dream homes, she enjoys lake living, tennis, Pilates, horseback riding, and growing orchids. As a past published writer of ten novels (aka Jolene Prewit-Parker) including historical romances and women’s fiction, she is currently working on a murder mystery with a main character being, who else but a female real estate agent.

To learn more about Jo Butterworth call (704) 267–3643, email jo@butterworth.net, or visit jobutterworth.helenadamsrealty.com https://

Creative Meditation

for the Real Estate Professional The real estate world can be an industry of intense emotional and psychological pressure. Deadlines, meetings, employee needs, client needs and a hundred other items on which one needs to focus on a daily basis can create an environment that is not only not conducive to mental well-being, but can be outright detrimental. Learning to quiet the mind has been the focus of meditation for millennia. While those not familiar with the concept of meditation may instinctively think of yoga mats, incense, and chanting when the word “meditation” arises, there are in fact, many forms of meditation that can integrate quite Top Agent Magazine

easily into the daily hustle & bustle world of the busy real estate agent. First, think about when you are alone each day. Here are some possible times to practice mediation during the work day: • When driving to the office in the morning • When driving to a showing or to meet a client • Before your open house begins • After the open house • Driving home in the evening 23

Repeating a mantra can be very calming, particularly when you are trying to rid yourself of negative, self-defeating thoughts. These are just five examples of times when you can take advantage of meditation techniques to quiet your mind and, by extension, increase productivity. A calm mind is a more thoughtful, better tuned instrument. Here are some examples of meditations you can try.

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

2 Repeating a mantra can be very calm-

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

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

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

Once you’ve mastered some of these techniques at quieting your mind, you can attempt to find some that work even better for you. Walking, plain silence, or even exercise can have meditative qualities and benefits if practiced on a regular basis. When you’re truly feeling calm, your clients can sense this. And with this comes the feeling that you can be relied upon to stay focused and calm in any unforeseen circumstances. And in the world of real estate, that’s a highly prized commodity. Top Agent Magazine

SCOTT HOFFMAN Entrepreneurship is almost a rite of passage in Scott Hoffman’s family. He grew up watching his parents start and run businesses, including the buying and selling of exotic animals. “At one point we had a chimpanzee named Bertha living in our home,” he explains. His dad and brother run the family BBQ business called RO’s BBQ in Gastonia. Creativity, innovation, determination and carving out one’s own path was instilled in Scott from a young age. It was only natural, then, for him to enter the real estate world in 1995. After earning a degree in risk management and insurance/ real estate and urban analysis from Appalachian State University, he made a brief foray into the insurance field. “I realized I couldn’t accomplish the goals I had set out for myself if I stayed on that path, so I decided to work as a Realtor®.” Serving the Triangle region and the Outer Banks, he’s experienced great success in his 26+ year career. Closing over 1,111 transactions, amounting to over $250 million in volume, his level of expertise is unmatched. He’s even helped three generations of several families buy and sell homes, and has been responsible for the management of 5 new construction communities. Always pursuing education, he has several designations including ABR (Accredited Buyer Representative), e-PRO, and frequently attends sales and marketing seminars to stay up-to-date on the latest trends. Ranking in the top 1% of Keller Williams Realty International Brokers, Scott has built a reputation for integrity, knowledge and customer service. “I also have an exceptional staff that shares my vision and understands the value of a happy customer,” he explains. “We are committed to working with great clients who trust us and appreciate the level of service and support that we offer. If we exceed our client’s expectations, they will continue to bless our business.” With around 60% of his business deriving from repeats Top Agent Magazine

and referrals, it’s clear he’s on the right track. Those who work with Scott know he is looking out for them, only wanting what is best. Offering guidance and advice at every step, he ensures they are making the most informed decisions possible. When it comes to marketing his seller’s listings, he has a thorough strategy that involves enhanced virtual tours, posting on 300+ websites, highly targeted social media advertising, open houses, marketing to the top agents that sell in the listings price range, and much more. Scott believes it is his job to tell each of his listing’s story when marketing a home. Scott is continually focused on growth, especially with the recent launch of a new team in the Outer Banks. “We want to get to that same level of success that the Raleigh team is doing.” Eventually, he wants to put more energy towards coaching agents and helping them reach great heights. The future looks promising for Scott and his team, and he is still loving every second of what he does. “I really enjoy helping people. It’s so rewarding to see how excited my clients are when we can assist them in accomplishing their goals. It makes it all worthwhile.”

For more information about Scott Hoffman, please call 919-740-0379 or email scott@thehoffmanrealtygroup.com 25

Is Finding A Niche Market Right for You?

A lot of Realtors® take the ‘jack of all trades’ approach to their businesses, and some are extremely successful with doing it all and doing it well. But taking that approach can also make it hard to stand out if there are a lot of agents in your area taking the same approach. If you’re looking for a way to stand out from the rest, finding a niche market might be the way to go. Although it might sound limiting at first, with the right branding and marketing, your specialty and expertise may help you lock up a market after you become well known for being the ‘go to’ Realtor® in a certain demographic. Having a niche helps you target your marketing, making it more effective, until eventually people are seeking you out as you build your reputation as the foremost expert in your particular niche. 26

Despite the benefits of taking on a specialty, it’s still something that only a small percentage of Realtors® do, which means you have a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor in your area by being ahead of what is sure to be a looming real estate trend. You want to claim your stake on the niche that best fits not only your passions, but something that fills a void in your market. If this all sounds good to you, the next step is finding your niche! Here are a few things you need to consider:

There are two approaches to having a specialty, one that is truly your all-consuming passion or a sort of revolving niche, one that changes with the market Top Agent Magazine

In addition to creating a thriving business, finding a niche may even unlock a hidden passion. Does your area have a large historic home inventory? Are you passionate about helping first time home buyers realize their dreams? Having a personal connection to what you specialize in is always a great way to start out. If you’re passionate about something, you’re almost guaranteed to have the work ethic it takes to have success in a niche market. Once you hone in on a niche, make sure the market data backs up your focus. Another approach is changing with the market. If you’re truly an expert in a few areas of the business, it might be good to have sort of a revolving niche. In a down market you might specialize in short sales and foreclosures. When things pick up, you may take your innovative approaches and start applying them to luxury homes. Whether you take the consistent niche approach or the flexible one, it’s really all about figuring out what best suits you and your market.

Fill a void in your market Maybe you don’t have an instant passion for one particular niche. In that case, there are several areas you can consider. A lot of it will start with really researching and analyzing your market and having a good eye for what future trends will be. Is there a certain demographic that is surging in your area? Cater your business to serve them. Maybe you are fluent in Spanish and your area is seeing a rise in a Latino population, who are emigrating from other countries. Or perhaps, you live in an area that has a larger retirement population. There Top Agent Magazine

are numerous demographics that truly need expert real estate advice. Be the one to fill it. You can also focus on a particular neighborhood or gated community. Helping people navigate the ins and outs of a particular HOA can be a lifesaver.

Are you already serving a niche? Of course, sometimes you may already have a niche and are unaware of it. Maybe you are already dealing with a lot of first-time homebuyers. Look over your sales records and see what might already be there, then make it official. Figure out why you’re drawn to that area and then nail down the reasons you’ve excelled with that niche and use it to create a marketing plan and branding.

Find ways to really sell your expertise Once you figure out your niche, get the training, designations, and certifications that will enhance your expertise. Another way to let it be known that you are the ‘go to’ Realtor® in your particular niche is to become a resource online. Create a website with informative blogs and marketing information. Make a mark on social media where you can link back to your site, so potential clients can actually interact with you. There is a lot to consider when you’re thinking of going the niche market way with your business, but if you consider everything carefully and focus in on something you can be passionate about, the rewards could be a major win for you and for your clients. 27

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