OREGON 11-16-20

OREGON EDITION

ADDING VALUE TO LISTINGS

& the Advantage of Identifying Neighborhood Amenities

Small Yard?

Big Statement:

How to Make the Most Out of Micro Outdoor Spaces COVER STORY

MICHELLE MAIDA

How to Cut Down on Digital Distractions and Up Your Productivity FEATURED AGENTS

ROB FOSS SAMANTHA DEFUENTES KELLY HAGGLUND

OREGON EDITION

sten Martha Brown is proud to congratulate

MICHELLE MAIDA

KELLY HAGGLUND SAMANTHA ROB FOSSDEFUENTES

our adm decided to pursue real they need before contacting me,” Samantha Defuentes’ interestKelly in realHagglund estate she 9 18 23 27 book estate as a means to get her son through began when she was 17 and moving to “I also do a great deal of outreach “H to “Before that I was a stay-at-home agents in the community.” making Oregon from California withcollege. her parents. mend it mom,” she recalls. “I loved helping people, They were selling their California home and this seemed like the best career for me.” when Samantha mentioned her interest in Samantha loves many aspectspeople. of her “ seeing 22 years ago, and she’s never “Every day is new, different, real estate. “The agent they That were was working andm goals,” looked back. with at the time advised me to get my exciting. If you do what you love, yous license early on,” She said. “Why wait?” work a day in your life,” she exclaims.

Within a Kelly is stuck now the Principal Broker, and I have always had a passion Samantha recalls. That thought always for he K of the Kelly Group Real Estate based others. I spent several years inworld, with her. After a few years owner of caregiving the cus they call in Newberg, Oregon, serving the state’s and customer service, she decided to make service industry, and I consider this system t Wine Country in cities that include Dundee, MICHELLE MAIDA FOSS HAGGLUND the move to sell real realized that ness another way of helping people.” parcels, which has helped meKELLY land a couple of good Broker Robestate.

FossROB – of“I Coldwell Banker Valley BrokersSAMANTHA as safe as Sherwood, McMinnville and everywhere clients that are builders and land developers.”

There are in Corvallis, Oregon – is a hardworking, dedicated real DEFUENTES what I should do,” she notes. “I can on being featuredthis for isthe State ofprofessional Oregon many other factors that have played a significant role in estate who makes it a priority to provide ciatedand thisissystem as at along the I-5 corridorreach from Salem to Portland. combine my exceptional love of houses with helping Samantha grewincluding up“We’re riding horses an avid success story, fierce negotiation customer service to each and people every one of Rob’s stellar in Top Agent Magazine! different than most brokerages,” Kelly asserts.

“We funca comprehensive, intelligent approach mar- beautiful huskie manythe grateful buyers fit.” and sellers. nearlyworking three skills and their goals. Ithiswas perfect She With began lover.

She is a “Dog Mom” tototwo his listings, which nearlythey’re always translates into decades of experiencetion in theasreal estate business – as keting A very community a team with agents specializing in what in the business full time several years ago and has never travel with her everywhere. Samantha and her hu both a private investor and a broker – there are few a fast sale for top dollar, not to mention happy clients. a nonprofit good at.

This ends up being great for our clients.”

Having looked back. Realtors in the Willamette Valley better situated to are the proud parents of a beautiful babyorganiza girl. “I CONTENTS rewarding to see thes impressive sales volume of $77 million with assist clients with theirreached real estatean needs. living here as our town has so much to offer witho get through these pending this year, Kelly reports that her business is 83% Samantha is Though an agent Shana Jo’s his RED DOOR hustle and bustle of a huge city,” she says. “The dif fac licensed at in 2015, Rob began journey in forward in their live repeat and referral clientele.

“We make it our mission to 4)REALTY, WHAT THE FIRST THING 20) SMALL YARD? the world of real Bay, estate inOregon.

1988, whenShe he purchased LLC in Coos has many there are beaches, rivers, mountains, dunes, lake KRISTEN MARTHA BROWN team started a fo give the client and atogood several rental properties to both manage to flip.experience, whatever their transYOU DO WORK SAYS BIG STATEMENT: repeat andAFTER referral clientele and continues increase within minutes HOW of each TO otherherand close to town “I created my own job by doing this,” he recalls.

“I Loan Officer | NMLS# 313848 working, Kelly loves action,” she responsive says. “A couple closed gave her salesYOU volume year.

“I’mand very and I recently ceases toMOST amazewith me.” owned every apartment complexes duplexes and four- MAKE ABOUT THE OUT OF and visiting with her 503-880-2045 | kmb@fairwaymc.com me great feedback.

They said, ‘We wish we could buy as contact well as a trailer forclients a while. Then, make sure to plexes, stay in withpark my on awhen regular my kids went off to college, I decided thatwith I wanted to MICRO another house you just so weOUTDOOR can continue toSPACES speak 4386 SW Macadam #401, Portland, OR 97239 6)basis RECONSIDER REFERRALduring every transaction,” she explains.

“This is so As for the future of her business, Samantha wa try being a broker.” Since then, Rob has built a thriving Kelly says her plans f with you every day.’ I loved that!” business that they is based almost entirely important, and IPLANNING know appreciate it.”on referrals and 25) HOW continue along her successful path. “Most import ONLY WHEN FOR TO CUT DOWN ON her agents to take ov returning clients, an accurate barometer of the excelI want to maintain my presence and reputation THE FUTURElent customer service he consistently provides.

DIGITAL plan, to mentor the ne According to Kelly, the team hasDISTRACTIONS a robust outreach It’s not surprising that Samantha receives stellar reviews community as someone who is here to help,” she s do Iphone calls,UP emails, pop-byes,” she AND YOUR PRODUCTIVITY “I sell across ethic. a broad area,” client says“We Rob, “and think 16) VALUE TOsystem. for ADDING her esteemed work One recently wrote: says.

“Weforalso an 18-month gifting program for what qualifies me is that I worked about offer ten years “We are so& grateful to Samantha for helping us LISTINGS THE ADVANTAGE OF on a survey crew.

So, I’ve surveyed all over thepurchase valley, with us. They get little goodies those clients who close which helps is mean because I can findagent my wayto around large our home. Samantha amazing work with, IDENTIFYING NEIGHBORHOOD to remind them of their experience.” and I would like to rate her above 5 stars and off the AMENITIES charts on every aspect if I could. She is personable Copyright Top Agent Magazine Kelly relies on team members who specialize in each and efficient, and her priority is to help others achieve area of the marketing approaches to get their listings out their dreams. Samantha is tenacious, and when things to the public. “We have multiple campaigns for different became difficult, I was advised to “hand the reins over to Phone 310-734-1440 | Fax 310-734-1440 types of properties,” she says. “It’s primarily all digital, Samantha.” It was the right thing to do. She is an intellibut it’s expansive. You’ll find us in places like the Robb mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com gent negotiator, resourceful, fair, and considerate to all.”

Report and the Wall Street Journal, for example.

No portion of this issue may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior consent of the publisher. Top Agent Tois stay in touch with her Kelly clients, makes Magazine published

by Feature Publications GA, Inc.Samantha precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy of published To learn more lovesAlthough the many facets of her work. “As the owner materials, Top Agent Magazine heldmails responsible for opinionsand expressed or supplied by its authors.Samantha Defuent Tofacts learn more about phone calls, sends cannot texts, beand out postcards andtoteam lead, I especially enjoy encouraging my entire please c To subscribe or change address, send inquiry mag@topagentmagazine.com. annual calendars.

She markets her listings using both email Samanthadefuentes@gmail.com team to succeed,” she expresses.

“It’s been very diffiemail kelly@ Published in the U.S.

print and social media. “I make it a point to includeso right now visit I’m facebook.com/coosbayrealestate cult during the pandemic, focusing on or visit th all attachments upfront, so people have the information orI’ve callgot (541) 252-0964 changing our group mindset towards happiness. www.

www.

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mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com

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What the First Thing You Do After Work Says About You We all have our routines. From that morning cup of coffee to a jog at the gym, it’s common to establish touchstones for our daily lives.

But have you ever considered what these habits tell us about ourselves? Our actions reveal much about our motivations and emotional life, so taking a second look at your first move at the end of the day can be telling.

With that in mind, see how you fare when it comes to post-workday habits...

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Break a Sweat After a long day of work, is your first instinct to strap on your sneakers and take off on a run? Do you stop off at the local yoga studio for an extended stretch? Maybe you head to the weight room to pump some iron. Whatever your exercise pick, if you’re inclined to sweat it out at the end of a long day, you’re likely a routine-oriented profes-

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sional who internalizes work-related stress. Of course, you’ve chosen a healthy release for all that pent-up tension, and you’ve discovered the power of endorphins. Once work hours are over, not everyone finds the motivation to stay active. This means you’re driven by routine, conscious of your emotional and physical health, and prefer to leave your cares at the gym, rather than bring them into your home oasis. However, it’s important to give your body a rest now and again, as recuperation time is not only beneficial for physical health, but can help prevent burnout for the long haul.

Flexibility is a skill, and one just as important to cultivate as rigid commitment. If you find yourself out of sorts if you miss just one day of working out, you might want to pay some attention to your routines and motivations, and rebalance your commitments and fitness routine accordingly.

Round-the-Clock Hustle If you’re the type to bring work home with you, you aren’t alone. While your motivation to work nonstop is admirable, it’s also important to make the mental transition from workplace to home, establishing the time to hustle and the time to relax. Just like those that hit the gym without fail after a long day, sometimes you’ll need to practice saying no. If your work life is indistinguishable from your personal life, it’ll be hard to catch a break and recharge.

This means burnout, frayed nerves, and missed details will soon be on the horizon. Of course, round-the-clock hustle is a strength, too. You’re passionate about your work, care deeply about doing things right, and failure is not an option.

Just make sure that you establish some foundational boundaries so that you maintain an Top Agent Magazine

appropriate, healthy balance between your time at work and your time at home with the loved ones and hobbies you cherish. If making way for downtime isn’t easy, try penciling it in the way you would a work engagement. Dinner with a friend, a date night with a significant other, or a solo movie fest can be readily added to your calendar, and thus built in to your regimented schedule.

Turn to Food If your first instinct after work is to eat, it can say a few different things about your routine.

Perhaps you’ve been so on-the-go all the day that you haven’t had time for lunch. In this case, you might need to regiment your schedule with more purpose aimed towards downtime and self-care; food is fuel, after all. If you head home and gorge after an average day, you may be turning to food as a way to relieve stress.

In this case, you may need to reassess some of your post-work habits and find a healthier balance and outlet for your tension. Taking a walk, grabbing fresh ingredients for dinner, hitting the gym, or decompressing by catching up with a friend or a good book—all are healthier, more balanced ways of executing the transition from the office to the home. Pay attention to your consumption post-work. Determine how hungry or satiated you really are before making a grab for the nearest sustenance.

People decompress in all different ways after getting home from the office, but always remember that routines are telling. Don’t take your daily actions and impulses for granted. Examine the root behind your well-worn practices, and you may detect nuances at play beneath the surface that can you help you recalibrate for the better.

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Reconsider Referral-Only When Planning for the Future

A 100% referral rate is a testament of client happiness. But even a 30% referral rate is proof of client satisfaction. It’s all relative, say some agents. One number pays tribute to past success, which is certainly a story worth telling. But the other might better predict the future. Many agents plan for the idea that 6

working only on referral may not be sufficient during slower times of the year, in a down market, or when an agent needs to expanding into a new sector.

Unless you are clairvoyant enough to flawlessly predict every market change or every

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Many agents plan for the idea that working only on referral may not be sufficient during slower times of the year, in a down market, or when an agent needs to expanding into a new sector. life change that your clients and referral partners may experience, it’s wise to maintain an active marketing presence. The reasons vary, however, depending on the goals and trajectory of each individual’s business.

If long-term success, a growing team, a legacy or expansion into new areas are not priorities, then working a sphere of influence may be enough for some agents, especially those who may be in the industry mostly for the love of the business. But for a majority of agents, no matter how much they love their work, their real estate and mortgage businesses are careers, first and foremost.

Let’s start with the team-builders and mentors. Agents and brokers who are building teams are wise to invest in business marketing, advertising and community outreach. Ty Hutchins, who owns and operates Ty & Company Real Estate in Colorado’s Front Range, says that, while she could personally live off referrals alone, her goal is to build up her agents. “I do the marketing piece for my team, so I can help them succeed,” she says. That marketing includes running commercials on TV and in movies theatres, as well as lead generation that identifies potential buyers, sellers and Top Agent Magazine

investors between the Colorado Springs and Denver markets. Her team’s goal, she adds, is to promote their reputation of being honest, hardworking professionals with the reach of a major brand but the personalized approach of a boutique.

Then there are the growers. Khrista Jarvis and Nicole Jung of The Khrista Jarvis Team in the San Francisco Bay Area, are on a considerable growth track. “We’re the #1 team in our area and the top team in Compass Real Estate nationally,” explains Khrista. While high marks for service on behalf of their clients have led them to these heights, they know that they must continue to evolve and market their brand. “We do a good deal of social media marketing for our listings and for our business,” she says. Their names, therefore, are frequently linked to sentiments of trust, dependability and market knowledge, both in their marketing and in their reviews.

Next, there are those who weathered the worst of times. Susan Roche entered real estate sales in 2003, following several years of property management in North Carolina.

The key to her sustained triumphs through major market swings lies in her long-range planning. “If the market starts to dip or fall,

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I have safety nets in place,” says Susan Roche, team leader of Simply Real Estate, based in Charlotte. “When it’s a seller’s market, I still plan for a buyer’s market and when it’s a buyer’s market I plan for a seller’s market..” In other words, no matter how comfortable her existing work may feel, she networks consistently. She also employs a full-time marketing director who leads several projects including ongoing research, events and social media exposure in addition to listings marketing. By staying ahead of market changes, Susan knows she can unfailingly represent her clients’ best interests while still maintaining a safety net for her business.

Even professionals with more than three decades’ experience and deep referral networks know the importance of business

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marketing. Cathy Richards, co-owner with Nancy Dalaska of Epic-Wasatch Homes in Park City, UT, entered real estate in 1987 and still draws at least a fifth of her business from lead generation, social media marketing and community outreach. Her business partner, Nancy, adds that real estate is about much more than their own business. “We love collaborating and brainstorming with other agents to help them prosper,” says Nancy. “We believe the healthier the market, the better we all are.”

Regardless of market conditions, even the best reputation can’t guarantee long-term success. To sustain and grow, it’s wise to feed your business by increasing exposure, remaining flexible and maintaining systems for customer service, networking, research, marketing and lead-generation.

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MICHELLE MAIDA Top Agent Magazine

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Top Agent Michelle is a RealtorÂŽ for John L. Scott Real Estate, where she collaborates with an elite team, including her husband James Hager, to assist clients throughout the greater Portland area.

Starting out, Michelle Maida built a successful career in the luxury hotel and restaurant industry, where she developed a unique talent for communication, customer service and marketing. At the recommendation of a colleague and broker, she decided to pivot 10 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

into real estate; however, Michelle knew it wouldn’t be easy. But she had a clear plan from day one, and through it, she went from working a second job to pay her bills in her first year to being ranked in the top three of her office by the end of her third.

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Today, Michelle is a Realtor® for John L. Scott Real Estate, where she collaborates with an elite team, including her husband James Hager, to assist clients throughout the greater Portland area. By placing an emphasis on client service, she has distinguished herself through twenty years in the industry. “My team keeps me in front of my sphere. Because of them, I’m able to tend to my clients’ needs at all times,” she says, before adding with a laugh: “But I’m the East Coast Sicilian, so I’m the only one of us who negotiates.”

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When listing a home, Michelle supplies her clients with a suite of resources. After providing them with professional photography, drone photography and even Matterport 3D walkthroughs, she shares their home over a variety of digital and social media outlets. Meanwhile, she utilizes high end brochures, signs and ads in the local papers to generate additional buzz around a property. She also hosts Listing Launch open houses for the surrounding neighborhoods, which showcase her listings to an ever growing network of prospective 11 Copyright Top Agent Magazine

buyers. “Through all our marketing materials, we want to create a frenzy around our listings,” Michelle says. “That way, people will feel compelled to buy the house and make the biggest offer they can.”

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Michelle is just as thorough when assisting her buyers, standing for their needs as a guide and educational resource. In her decades of experience, she has earned a tremendous reputation around Portland, with

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the near entirety of her volume coming from either repeat clients or referrals.

Outside her career, Michelle is tremendously active in her community. Currently, she is the President Elect for the Southeast Portland Rotary Club, and she serves on the board of several different local theaters—including Triangle Productions, one of the first LGBTQ theaters in the country. Occasionally, about once a year, she can also be seen on the stage. Elsewhere, she has sat on the board of her Neighborhood Association on three different occasions. Always on the move, Michelle is also featured prominently as the Top Agent Magazine

go to Realtor® in Network Television News such as KGW Channel 8 as well as the weekday favorite local talk show KATU Channel 2’s AM Northwest with Helen Raptis.

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Going forward, Michelle has strong plans for her business. In the coming months, she intends on growing her team, including venturing up into Washington. When asked about the keys to her accomplished career, though, she recalls her previous education in acting at University as well as the National Shake-

speare Conservatory in New York City. “One crucial thing I learned in my acting training is that acting is reacting. This principle translates directly into real estate: With every transaction, I am listening carefully to my clients so I can understand them and give them exactly what they need—no matter what.”

To learn more about Michelle Maida email Michellemai@johnlscott.com, visit michellemaida.com or call (503) 703-1896.

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Kristen Martha Brown is proud to congratulate

MICHELLE MAIDA

on being featured for the State of Oregon in Top Agent Magazine!

KRISTEN MARTHA BROWN

Loan Officer | NMLS# 313848 503-880-2045 | kmb@fairwaymc.com 4386 SW Macadam #401, Portland, OR 97239

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Adding Value to Listings & the Advantage of Identifying Neighborhood Amenities Everyone knows the famous real estate phrase: location, location, location. In fact, it is hard to underestimate the pivotal role that a region can play when it comes to determining a home’s value. In today’s competitive market, the littlest things can truly add up—especially when it comes to neighborhood amenities. While most savvy agents know the figures regarding school 16

district ranking and local property taxes, have you ever considered the under-the-radar amenities that drive buyers and bidding wars? To derive the highest value from a listed home, you need to paint a complete picture of the area in which you’re selling. With that guiding principle in mind, let’s consider a few modern amenities and how they add drastically to your bottom line.

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Walking a fifteen-minute radius of the area or performing a deep-dive into customer review sites or food blogs can help you identify hidden gems or local favorites.

A little can go a long way: restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment

Know thy history: creating a narrative of the neighborhood

Everyone has a favorite take-out spot, coffee shop, or neighborhood watering hole. Identifying the key players in an area—such as restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment hotspots—will create a livable picture that prospective buyers can latch onto. Walking a fifteen-minute radius of the area or performing a deep-dive into customer review sites or food blogs can help you identify hidden gems or local favorites. While a cute coffee shop down the street may seem like a bonus instead of a foundational amenity, you never know what kind of homebuyer you might net if you include the cozy characteristics that make a house a home.

As humans, we’re drawn to narratives. Sales pitches and marketing campaigns hinge on an alluring storyline. That’s why understanding a neighborhood’s history can frame and contextualize a property to great effect. After all, buyers aren’t just drawn to sturdy foundations and bedroom counts; they like to imagine their lives unfolding inside those four walls.

Get a sense of the area’s historical timeline, architectural style, noteworthy community members, and the like. Conveying this intriguing information to buyers helps them connect more personally with a property, while understanding the holistic picture of their potential new home.

From here to there: public transportation and commuter access While this rule may not apply to all properties, considering access to public transportation is a major draw for today’s buyers. Especially amidst the more eco-conscious Millennial segment eager to buy within city limits—knowing public transportation access points and schedules can add serious value to listed properties. Also, think outside the box: do nearby thoroughfares boast dedicated bike lanes? Are there plans to expand rail lines to the area in the future? Deliver a confidant picture of the area’s public transportation access and prospective buyers will trust your expertise.

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While it is always good to cover the basics of school districts and property values, it is even more useful to expand your knowledge base and bring a warm, human element to locational knowledge. Not only will you appeal to a younger demographic of homebuyers who values this strategic information, but you will also broaden your understanding of your service area at large. Think of it this way: a neighborhood is far more than a collection of homes on a block. A neighborhood is about atmosphere, access, and a sense of community. If you authentically appeal to this guiding truth, and buyers will surely rise to the occasion.

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ROB FOSS

Broker Rob Foss – of Coldwell Banker Valley Brokers in Corvallis, Oregon – is a hardworking, dedicated real estate professional who makes it a priority to provide exceptional customer service to each and every one of his many grateful buyers and sellers. With nearly three decades of experience in the real estate business – as both a private investor and a broker – there are few Realtors in the Willamette Valley better situated to assist clients with their real estate needs.

parcels, which has helped me land a couple of good clients that are builders and land developers.” There are many other factors that have played a significant role in Rob’s stellar success story, including fierce negotiation skills and a comprehensive, intelligent approach to marketing his listings, which nearly always translates into a fast sale for top dollar, not to mention happy clients.

Though licensed in 2015, Rob began his journey in the world of real estate in 1988, when he purchased several rental properties to both manage and to flip.

“I created my own job by doing this,” he recalls. “I owned apartment complexes and duplexes and fourplexes, as well as a trailer park for a while. Then, when my kids went off to college, I decided that I wanted to try being a broker.” Since then, Rob has built a thriving business that is based almost entirely on referrals and returning clients, an accurate barometer of the excellent customer service he consistently provides.

“I sell across a broad area,” says Rob, “and I think what qualifies me is that I worked for about ten years on a survey crew. So, I’ve surveyed all over the valley, which helps me because I can find my way around large

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BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

“My goal is to always truly earn my commission,” says Rob. One way he accomplishes this is through his consultation and staging service. “Paint, lighting and staging can transform a room and add significant value,” he explains.

Another reason for Rob’s ascendency in the real estate industry is his commitment to remaining in contact with his clients, both past and present. “When I first got started, one of the top agents in Oregon gave me a piece of advice that I’ve taken to heart: answer your phone,” he says. “I’m always available, and a client will rarely get my answering machine.”

Perhaps the best evidence of the amazing service Rob provides are the scores of glowing reviews he has received from clients, including this one on Zillow. com: “Rob has demonstrated the highest level of

professionalism in representing us to both buy and sell homes in the past six months. He is an excellent communicator and always presented us with the best available options when making critical decisions, while emphasizing that the final decisions were up to us. As a result, we purchased our new home for well under the asking price and sold our existing home for well beyond the asking price.”

During those rare times when he isn’t working, Rob enjoys nothing more than spending time with his family. He also gives back to his community volunteering at a hospice. “There’s a lot of valuable lessons you can learn from someone at the end of their life, things like perspective and how to treat other people,” he says.

“For me,” says Rob, “It’s really all about going above and beyond for my clients.”

For more about Rob Foss, please call 541-990-0859 or email RobFoss@ValleyBrokers.com

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Small Yard? Big Statement: How to Make the Most Out of Micro Outdoor Spaces When house-hunters compile their lists of musthave home items, a dreamy backyard space is often near the top. After all, who doesn’t want an outdoor oasis of their very own? From summer barbecues to open space for your dog to frolic— everyone has their own aspirations when it comes to creating the perfect backyard paradise. But as homebuyers seek properties deeper within city limits, and Millennials opt for properties with 20

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

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

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Think vertically.

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

Soothing sounds set the mood.

Upgrade the look of structural components.

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

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

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

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Don’t compromise on your culinary dreams.

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

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

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

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SAMANTHA DEFUENTES Samantha Defuentes’ interest in real estate began when she was 17 and moving to Oregon from California with her parents.

They were selling their California home when Samantha mentioned her interest in real estate. “The agent they were working with at the time advised me to get my license early on,” She said. “Why wait?”

Samantha recalls. That thought always stuck with her. After a few years of caregiving and customer service, she decided to make the move to sell real estate. “I realized that this is what I should do,” she notes. “I can combine my love of houses with helping people reach their goals. It was the perfect fit.” She began working in the business full time several years ago and has never looked back.

Samantha is an agent at Shana Jo’s RED DOOR REALTY, LLC in Coos Bay, Oregon. She has many repeat and referral clientele and continues to increase her sales volume every year. “I’m very responsive and make sure to stay in contact with my clients on a regular basis during every transaction,” she explains. “This is so important, and I know they appreciate it.”

It’s not surprising that Samantha receives stellar reviews for her esteemed work ethic. One client recently wrote: “We are so grateful to Samantha for helping us purchase our home. Samantha is an amazing agent to work with, and I would like to rate her above 5 stars and off the charts on every aspect if I could. She is personable and efficient, and her priority is to help others achieve their dreams. Samantha is tenacious, and when things became difficult, I was advised to “hand the reins over to Samantha.” It was the right thing to do. She is an intelligent negotiator, resourceful, fair, and considerate to all.”

To stay in touch with her clients, Samantha makes phone calls, sends texts, and mails out postcards and annual calendars. She markets her listings using both print and social media. “I make it a point to include all attachments upfront, so people have the information Top Agent Magazine

they need before contacting me,” she says.

“I also do a great deal of outreach to other agents in the community.”

Samantha loves many aspects of her work.

“Every day is new, different, and often exciting. If you do what you love, you never work a day in your life,” she exclaims. “And, I have always had a passion for helping others. I spent several years in the customer service industry, and I consider this business another way of helping people.”

Samantha grew up riding horses and is an avid animal lover. She is a “Dog Mom” to two beautiful huskies who travel with her everywhere. Samantha and her husband are the proud parents of a beautiful baby girl. “I love living here as our town has so much to offer without the hustle and bustle of a huge city,” she says. “The fact that there are beaches, rivers, mountains, dunes, lakes, all within minutes of each other and close to town never ceases to amaze me.”

As for the future of her business, Samantha wants to continue along her successful path. “Most importantly, I want to maintain my presence and reputation in the community as someone who is here to help,” she says.

To learn more about Samantha Defuentes, email Samanthadefuentes@gmail.com, visit facebook.com/coosbayrealestate, or call (541) 252-0964 www.

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Top Agent Magazine

How to Cut Down on Digital Distractions

and Up Your Productivity As a real estate professional, staying tethered to your phone and computer are likely par for the course. When your office is on-the-go and you’re fielding round-the-clock questions from clients, it’s only natural that you’ll be drawn to your phone for professional updates. From refreshing your inbox and engaging with clients on social media, to drafting email blasts and coordinating with colleagues by text message— Top Agent Magazine

it can feel impossible to untangle yourself from the worldwide web.

As a professional, you may not be able to withdraw from the digital world completely, but there are a few techniques you can use to limit your extraneous digital distractions and streamline the time you spend online. After all, it’s entirely common to faithfully begin one task and then

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get unexpectedly drawn down the digital rabbit hole. To save yourself time and virtual burnout, here are a few ways to unplug, recharge, and make the most of your time online and off.

Focus on one digital task at a time.

While multi-tasking may seem like a sound approach to productivity, this method usually results in surface-level progress across a few tasks, rather than reaching the finish line on any.

Instead of opening multiple tabs and trying to do it all at once, hone in on one digital task at a time. Have emails to return? Allocate an hour to work exclusively on this to-do list item. Need to post a new blog entry? Pencil in a dedicated half hour. If you focus on one task a time and exclusively devote your energy and productivity to it for a set period, you’ll make a far bigger dent in your list of duties for the day.

Give yourself a curfew.

In the real estate business, the hours may seem never-ending, but if you don’t want to slow your productivity with fatigue, you’ve got to set some boundaries. Try setting up a digital curfew for yourself and put your phone away after a certain hour. Devote an hour or two before bedtime to time away from your computer and your phone—read a book, prep your lunch for the next day, or try a round of mindful meditation. Carve out space and time to disconnect from your technology and stick to the habit. By morning, you’ll be refreshed and ready to dive back in.

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Mute social media notifications and create dedicated check-in times instead.

Instead of taking a reactionary approach to social media—waiting for the dings and pings that lure you back to your screen—try muting some of your social media alerts and instead dedicate three timed windows per day to check-in on your timelines and engagement. If you’re constantly interrupted at unexpected intervals when someone likes a post or leaves a comment, your whole workflow can be derailed. Instead, unchain yourself from the instant gratification of responding to every buzz and beep your phone emits. Systematize your professional social media life and you’ll stay organized and on task.

Keep your inbox organized.

While it may take some time and effort to create a sorting system for your email inbox, it can go a long way to limiting distractions and stress. Create folders and an organizational flow and every communication will have a place and a priority.

That way, when you open up your inbox and have to go digging for old emails or exchanges with past clients, you won’t have to waste time sorting or feel overwhelmed by the clutter. If everything has its place, you’ll have an unobstructed, streamlined canvass to conduct business from.

Digital distractions don’t have to derail your day or sap your productivity. Email, internet, social media—all are tools to be commanded. With the right planning, understanding, and consistent execution, you’ll be able to wield the power of each without the downside of distraction.

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Top Agent Magazine

KELLY HAGGLUND Kelly Hagglund decided to pursue real estate as a means to get her son through college. “Before that I was a stay-at-home mom,” she recalls. “I loved helping people, and this seemed like the best career for me.”

That was 22 years ago, and she’s never looked back.

Kelly is now the Principal Broker, and owner of the Kelly Group Real Estate based in Newberg, Oregon, serving the state’s Wine Country in cities that include Dundee, Sherwood, McMinnville and everywhere along the I-5 corridor from Salem to Portland. “We’re different than most brokerages,” Kelly asserts. “We function as a team with agents specializing in what they’re good at. This ends up being great for our clients.” Having reached an impressive sales volume of $77 million with pending this year, Kelly reports that her business is 83% repeat and referral clientele. “We make it our mission to give the client a good experience, whatever their transaction,” she says. “A couple I recently closed with gave me great feedback. They said, ‘We wish we could buy another house with you just so we can continue to speak with you every day.’ I loved that!”

According to Kelly, the team has a robust outreach system. “We do phone calls, emails, pop-byes,” she says. “We also offer an 18-month gifting program for those clients who close with us. They get little goodies to remind them of their experience.”

our admin and support team reading the book “Happiness Advantage.” It’s really making a difference, and I highly recommend it.” She also likes working with people. “I love the negotiation process and seeing my clients reach their real estate goals,” she exclaims.

Within a week of the pandemic hitting our world, Kelly and her team developed what they call “Clean Real Estate,” an incredible system to keep buyers, sellers, and brokers as safe as possible. “Sellers have truly appreciated this system as they sell in this market,” she says.

A very community-oriented person, Kelly started a nonprofit organization for widows. “It’s been so rewarding to see these women, 70 on the roster in total, get through these difficult times, watching them move forward in their lives,” she says. In addition, she and her team started a food pantry in her office. When not working, Kelly loves spending time on her hazelnut farm and visiting with her three grandchildren.

Kelly says her plans for the future are to work along side her agents to take over for her. “That’s my 5-10-year plan, to mentor the next generation,” she says.

Kelly relies on team members who specialize in each area of the marketing approaches to get their listings out to the public. “We have multiple campaigns for different types of properties,” she says. “It’s primarily all digital, but it’s expansive. You’ll find us in places like the Robb Report and the Wall Street Journal, for example.

Kelly loves the many facets of her work. “As the owner and team lead, I especially enjoy encouraging my entire team to succeed,” she expresses. “It’s been very difficult during the pandemic, so right now I’m focusing on changing our group mindset towards happiness. I’ve got Top Agent Magazine

To learn more about Kelly Hagglund, please call (971) 219-4977, email kelly@thekellygroup.com, or visit thekellygroup.com www.

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