SOUTH CAROLINA 6-28-21

SOUTH CAROLINA EDITION

5 Lessons from Silicon Valley to

Playing the Real Estate Matchmaker—

Follow These 8 Dating Rules to Ensure You Match Your Client with the Perfect Home for Them

Modernize and Monetize Your Business What the First Thing You Do After Work

SAYS ABOUT YOU

FEATURED AGENTS

ALLIE COLLINSON TAWANA PORTER JOE SEAMON WALLACE THOMAS

COVER STORY

GUNDI SIMMONS

SOUTH CAROLINA EDITION

TAWANA PORTER 7

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JOE SEAMON ALLIE COLLINSON GUNDI SIMMONS TAWANA PORTER WALLACE THOMAS

n to others, Allie began his real estate it with a video walkthrough, photographer, just as if we Joehelping Seamon officially and she uses a 3D camera Wallace began his real24estate 23 Thomas 27 In addition to his website, he m found her dream career as were there with her.

She negotiated a fair GUNDI career in 2018, but his interest in realcareer estate and other technology to produce excellent in 1976. “After finishing college, listings on social media.

Saving South Carolina. She started price for us and the closing was smooth SIMMONS I worked correct pricing alsoThat’s generate began long before that. “Even before I got at a bank for three years doing quality photos forandour listings.” nal career by working as a painless. a gem!” Another loans,” Wallaceand recalls.

“It wasShe great,isbut listings correctly in the be my license, I’ve always been part of the real in addition to theprice MLS, social media, I got cabin fever being“Allie stuck inwent the office! create urgency,” he explains. “I family therapist. Allie loved raved, above and beyond to estate industry,” recalls. He worked billboards, postcards, andhomes more.

I felt for like I hadhelp moreme people looking prior to the com ionships with peopleJoeand purchase myover first home.

She and flyers, offers my shoulder than clients in front of me.” market.”

Wallace also has hom his father, a builder, for about 25 years.

Joe “We do a ton of marketing for each and confidant, but became overher With team were there every of theothers, way. Tawana “Many people say awork passion for step helping Wallace ended up going to for a local or virtually staged if it’s a vacan decided to gowhere out on everyinagent. listing,” Joe says. phone or return ca d wanted a path shehis own and got his I couldn’t have askedasforanaagent better Porter thriving the Greenville, real estate firm, and the is rest is history. as well as aerial and drone ph er skills in a more engaging Thank so much.”region.

ALLIE ago, COLLINSON JOEyou SEAMON WALLACE THOMAS real estate license three years and he important in this i She got her start after That was 45 years South ago, andCarolina ever since then and professional photography She found herbeen answer in life ever since.” says, “I’ve loving Joe loves to be active in and around his Wallace has excelled at helping his clients being a stay at home mom. “My friend was in what brings them My sister is an agent, so she When enjoying achieve their real estateAllie goals.isn’t working, she’s Community involvement is im community. wife and were both with Iher buyers and estate, andbeauty I always a love for“My interior e to try it,” Allie says. “My all real of the natural her had community Wallace, and he is very active Joe serves the Central Savannah River born and raised in the Augusta, and we have w CONTENTS personal relations design, so I thought I might as well take ® Owner/Broker of CENTURY Island Rotary Club, which he joined soon a Realty,kayak, bumpy as it was with a company that As has to offer. “We ride bikes,21 go Carolina to the beach, Area, centered around the border between four kids, so we’re very involved into f grown updonates in the plunge and see where it would take me,”in 1980. chartered back Wallace Wallace serves Beaufort County, South Carolina and the a lot of support, but once I landed at The REAL and relax.”

But much of Allie’s time lately isHABITS spent 4) PLAYING THE ESTATE 16) DAILY THAT WILL Augusta, Georgia and Aiken, South for sports, school, church, and and activities,” projectsand through he isand veryaa areas.

Atfuture, least 70% of It’s Wallace’s connections says. nowtobusiness been 14 she the Rotary, eam, I flourished.”

Today she serves as a surrounding planning theTawana as she wants ramp up years, her MATCHMAKER—FOLLOW THESE INCREASE YOUR MENTAL church not working or g comes frominrepeat clients, and almost all far of the rest issays.

Joe “Weas well. are very he’s social people, His repeat looked back since.

She isable currently theWhen on Carolina. the team, but also helps and with referral listings. business business the hasn’t next few years.

“So I’ve been 8 DATING RULES TO ENSURE STRENGTH word-of-mouth referral, an impressive feat that speaks Wallace enjoys going to the gym and swimm is bustling, an impressive feat that speaks and we’reto always at the local stadium n the Grand Strand, a growing portion to double my production year overatyear, so I want broker he ininspires. charge Hometown Estate in local YMCA. “I love swimming,” Wallace to the trust and confidence “I think more of Real YOU MATCH YOUR CLIENT s consists repeat clients and referrals, continue doing that asofwell taking on listings.” to the oftrust and confidence Joe inspires. was born inasdowntown North Augusta, orSILICON at restaurants around where she leads four agents in addition 21) 5 more LESSONS FROM to swim a mile every day.” my clients“Ithan I Greer, think myself,” Wallace explains.

WITH THE PERFECT HOME as aand testament to her superior service. raised in the Augusta area, He sogoes I know People usMODERNIZE and know emus everywhere.”

When the extraalmost mile to servetown. them.

“If theclients. yardsee needs to serving her VALLEY own a strong TOWith AND FOR THEM In the meantime, she’s soaking up every minute of her Wallace enjoys being a positive force in his c mowing, I’ll mow the yard myself.

I don’t mind.

I like everybody,” Joe explains. “I’m very social, and phasis I will on he is MONETIZE not touch, working, Joe enjoys getting personal Tawana’s business is away to the beach YOUR BUSINESS and his industry. “I love to motivate other work!” path. “I’m constantly learning new things, and super appreciative of the work that I tocurrent talk to anyone. Whenever meet someone new,largely I try built with fishing, offhis of family, referralscrabbing, and repeat clients.and bike riding with TOI SPEED tell them all their positive features,” he sa “I’m on top of 13) thingsHOW and I have lots it’sUP so fun to show people this area andWHAT watch them fall 25) THE FIRST THING to keep the conversation focused on them, their family, the kids.

Staying touchit.” with clients, and people in general, is getting out of the office and seeing people. T FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER ation.” When working with her buyers, in loveinwith YOU DO AFTER WORK SAYS I enjoy aboutshe real estate.” see my I’m attention,” “I give“Ithem a clients lot of when personal andtowhat they’re looking TRANSACTIONS time understand exactly whatfor.” they’re key to Wallace’s success. out at Rotary Clubexplains. events, exercising at the local gym, ABOUT YOU “I have a transaction In don’t the future, Joe says, or “Iclosing look to build a team to he then hits the ground running, not stopat church, luncheons, festivals, or at the big box stores,” coordinator.

I speak with them from beginHisspot knowledge of homebuilding, land development, dominate area’s ideal is found. Once a property is Wallace says. “You have to get out of theour office and real estate industry, and we’re well ning to end.”

Tawana understands thatAbove this isall, he says, “I love n offer is accepted, closing“Icoorrenovation setsAllie’s Joe310-734-1440 apart. still do some andbehind flips a desk. on Iour just310-734-1440 befix sitting also way followto up,doing call that.”

Phone |not Fax sure no own stone is unturned.

“She tells largest transaction many of and her clients people,Joe and says. stay inthe touch with meeting them after new the closing.” and a left storage building facility,” “I’m people helpingwill them get to where they mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com andvery wheningrained to do it, soinwe’re not missing ever make, so she takes her job very seriously. real estate. Real estate runs through want to be.”

Wallace is a firm believer in the importance of training truly offer a No high levelof of support atbe reproduced portion this issue may in any manner whatsoever without prior consent of the publisher. Top Agent my blood. Even back in elementary instead of for real estate andschool, continuing education professionals, nderstanding that this can be a stressful Magazine is published

by Feature Publications GA, Inc. Although precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy of published drawing stick figures or animals, I used to draw houses and he sees this training as an opportunity to get out e, Allie provides guidance throughout materials, Top Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. and learn from others in the field.

“Most people don’t and floor plans for fun!

Real estate is a lifelong pursuit To subscribe or change liminating much of the worry.

It isaddress, her send inquiry to mag@topagentmagazine.com. travel out of town for courses,” he says. “You have Published in the me.” to for make buying a home anU.S. enjoyable to see people, get out of town, and pursue continuing all involved. education to continue improving and building your

Joe sends out handwritten notecardsknowledge to clientsofevery day real estate.”

2 saction, clients love to spread the word and always follows up with phone calls, texts, or social When it comes to marketing his listings, Wallace uses a rk. media One recently said, just “Allie over messages to bent check in and see how they’re

To find out more about Wallace Tho Top Agent Magazine please call 843-252-2126, email wallacethomas2003@yahoo. or visit wallacethomas.com www.

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Playing the Real Estate Matchmaker –

Follow These 8 Dating Rules to Ensure You Match Your Client with the Perfect Home for Them When you think a bit more about it, the ultimate goal of a real estate agent serving a client is really to match them up with the perfect house for them, almost the way a matchmaker tries to find two people that will fit well together as a couple. When people are looking for a house, they often treat the process as a quest for “the one” house that will fulfill their dreams of living in the house of their dreams. Don’t be fooled. It is always a search for “the one”, at least when it comes to helping a couple or family find a home.

When you look at your client’s search for a home in this manner, then you might begin to notice some pretty obvious similarities 4

between shopping for a home today and online dating. In this day and age most people live a substantial part entire lives online. People socialize with their friends on Facebook, they meet potential friends in forums and online communities, and we now even search for our perfect mate online. Shopping for a home also happens to usually start online. When they begin this search, make no mistake; they are looking for the “one.” These people then turn to you, the REALTOR® to play matchmaker for them. It is your job to wade through the pool of eligible homes (bachelors) and sort through all the ones that are too expensive, too nerdy, not cute enough, not smart enough, etc. until you find the “one.”

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It makes sense then to consult the tried and true practices in matchmaking that help those professionals find the right people for each other, and see if any of them could also apply for matching your clients with their dream home. You’ll find that these 8 dating rules may just show you the secret to matching your clients with the perfect home.

back to the store if you’re not happy with your new home. It’s best to first help your client get prequalified. This is a tangible step that shows they are ready to move on to a new home. You want to make sure they are completely over their love affair with their previous home. You can even ask them for a sign or proof that they’re ready to move on.

Who Is In and Not In Your Client’s League? Know Your Client’s Price Range:

Be Genuine, Not Superficial

When a person is looking for a mate, it is a waste of time for them to even consider those potential mates that are clearly out of their league. These people won’t even stop to give them the time of day.

In the world of real estate the idea is the same. There is no point showing your clients houses that they can’t afford and will simply lust after without having any real chance of purchasing the house. It is your job to keep your client ground in reality, and help them be realistic in terms of price when choosing their next home.

Never Let Your Client’s First Impression of a Home Rule Their Decisions

Make Sure Your Client is Ready to Move On From Their Last Dream Home You’re job is also to make sure that your client is truly ready to move on from their previous home. This is a long term commitment, and they need to be absolutely sure they actually want to buy a new house. You can’t simply take the receipt Top Agent Magazine

When trying to manage the many pitfalls of online dating, on inevitably goes on a date where the other person looks nothing like their picture online. That can be just as big of a problem when looking for a house. When clients show you a particular house they want to visit, ask them to name something about the house that they like other than the aesthetics. This way you can see if they are simply infatuated with the way the house looks in those pictures, or if there is a deeper interest in the home that could become a deeper connection between your client and the house.

When your client first sees a house they have already been lusting after in their mind, they’re often so excited to finally be looking at it, especially if it does in fact look as good as it did in the pictures.

Make sure to encourage them to take some time before making such a big com-

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mitment, and don’t let their excitement push them into making a rash decision. It is your job to keep them grounded in reality. Push for your clients to do an inspection to make sure the house isn’t hiding any dark secrets. Sometimes the most charming facade can hide tons of slime and deadly mold.

Follow Your Heart (or Gut) People often laugh at and ridicule the idea of love at first sight, but when it comes to homes, the phenomenon can certainly happen. Your client may just find their perfect dream home at the very first place you take them. If you have a client that does insist this is the case, then you don’t want to try and rationalize with them or talk them out of their decision. You do, however, want to make sure you are watching out for their interest and make sure your clients take all the necessary precautions before they jump in headfirst.

See What Other People See in The Home – Do They See What Your Client Sees?

Have you come to the conclusion that your clients are being blinded by all of the twinkling windows and crystal clear water glistening in the backyard pool, and can’t see that the house they’ve fallen in love with is really just a dirty animal (maybe a pig) dressed up in nice clothes and lipstick. Ask your client if they would be willing to look at the house again with 6

their close friends, family, and anyone else they trust for a second opinion there to see it with them. If the house really is a dud, they’ll be able to see past any personal bias your client might have to the truth. They will be able to help your client see through the shining facade

Celebrate the Happy Union!

When a couple gets married they tend to throw a big party and celebrate their union. The same goes for the closing.

Your clients have just essentially married the house of their dreams, and now it’s time to rejoice. Congratulate them on their new union. Show your support for their new homeowner status by going to their housewarming party.

Help Your Clients Maintain Their Dream Home & Ensure a Lifetime of Happiness You can’t just disappear after the transaction is finished. Become their realtor for life by showing your clients how to maintain their dream home. Act as their resource for other professionals they may need to maintain the house such as handymen, plumbers, electricians, etc. Show them how to keep up with home maintenance so they don’t ignore problems that surface and end up with a much larger issue than they started with. Help them make sure their dream home lasts so they can live happily ever after in their home for a lifetime.

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GUNDI SIMMONS Top Agent Magazine

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Known for his abundant patience and his ability to educate clients, Top Agent Gundi Simmons helps buyers and sellers feel confident about the important decisions they’re making.

When the REALTOR® he bought his house from first tried to recruit him, Gundi Simmons had no interest in real estate. But after giving it further thought he decided to give it a try, and quickly fell in love with the real estate process and his ability to help clients during one of the most crucial times of their life. Working under the umbrella of JW Martin Real Estate, 8Copyright Top Agent Magazine

he serves clients throughout Clemson, a quaint college town in South Carolina.

Known for his abundant patience and his ability to educate clients, Gundi helps buyers and sellers feel confident about the important decisions they’re making.

“I make friends with almost all my clients and I’m in this because I love people. Real Top Agent Magazine

estate is a way to not only make a living, but also help people. I work with a lot of first-time homebuyers and I’m really good at explaining and walking them through the process,” he says, and adds, “You have Top Agent Magazine

to focus on the right things. For me, this isn’t about the money, it’s about helping fulfill the needs of my clients, which in turn results in more business for me. That’s my philosophy. If I focus on helping people, Copyright Top Agent Magazine9

“All my listings have a separate website and I do an open house in the first week. I also focus on social media marketing, with an emphasis on Facebook.” money will come. I think our industry would have a much better reputation if more agents approached their work with this mindset.”

listings have a separate website and I do an open house in the first week. I also focus on social media marketing, with an emphasis on Facebook,” he says.

Creating new and innovative marketing strategies in order to make his listings stand out is crucial for Gundi. “All my

For Gundi, the interpersonal relationships he develops with clients are what truly make his hard work worthwhile. “I love getting

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to meet and interact with so many different people on a daily basis. That’s the best thing to me. There aren’t a lot of other jobs out there where you’d have the opportunity to encounter such a wide variety of people and make so many amazing friends.”

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When he’s not working, Gundi is an avid NBA2K player. He also enjoys shooting hoops in real life as well as playing pool.

Aside from his hobbies, he dedicates his free time as an advisor for his fraternity at Clemson.

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In the years ahead, Gundi plans to keep growing his business and helping his clients achieve real estate success. “I would like to maintain my success and continue to expand the business. I have a baby daughter who’s two weeks old, my first child, so I’m more motivated than ever to keep going

in order to make sure that she’s provided for and financially secure. My goal is to really make a name for myself here. I live in Clemson, I went to Clemson University, and I want my name to be the first name local people think of when they think about real estate.”

For more information about Gundi Simmons email gundisimmons@gmail.com, visit jwmartinhomes.com, or call (843) 297–5052 www.

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

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

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

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

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

Set expectations upfront and often.

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

Then, tailor your outreach accordingly.

Also, consider setting a weekly time to check in, even if no official progress has been made. This helps clients and agents touch base, float questions and concerns, and get ahead of any problems or developments. Another helpful tool is to draft a transaction timeline for your client that outlines the major milestones along the way, what sort of information will need to be gathered, what steps taken, and what outcomes are possible. This might seem like exhaustive work, but in the era of digital research, clients will come to their own conclusions and biases 14

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

Know your first-time homebuyer programs and perks.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Daily Habits That Will Increase Your Mental Strength When it comes to building physical strength, the solutions are obvious, but keeping up your mental strength isn’t as easy as going to the gym. Although physical exercise does help clear your head and relieve stress, there are other things you can do daily that will help your mind be as strong and flexible as your body after a workout. Here’s just a few things you can do to help clear your head and make you more productive.

DON’T WASTE YOUR BRAIN POWER That might seem obvious, but think about how much mental energy you might use up worrying about negativity or things you have no control over. Instead of focusing on problems, focus on solutions. This actually take a lot of effort, we’re all conditioned to let worry paralyze us sometimes.

Try and catch yourself when you’re wasting time thinking about about past mistakes or current dilemmas you don’t have the power to stop. You really only have so much mental energy, and if you have kids and an especially stressful work situation, that might be even less than normal. Start treating your brain like the precious resource it is.

You don’t want to be running on empty when it really matters.

STEP OUTSIDE YOUR COMFORT ZONE A lot of mental energy can go to dealing with anxiety. One way to deal with that is by forcing yourself to try new things and take on new challenges, that you might normally avoid because they make you feel unsure or scared. Challenge yourself daily, even with small things.

This is definitely something that becomes easier with practice. Start small, and in no time you’ll be taking on things you never thought were possible.

The simple task of trying something new every day will have you feeling energized and put you on the path to self-growth.

BE SELF-AWARE Your emotions affect everything you do, even if they’re not at the surface. Recognizing and labeling them is key. A lot of the above exercises require self-reflection. It’s okay to have the emotions you have, understanding why and where those emotions come from allows you to focus on dealing with them rather than just wallowing in them.

Being self-aware is also about self-care. Know the things that help relax and rejuvenate you. That way you can handle everyday stresses and remain calm even during the most turbulent times.

BE MORE POSITIVE

BE WILLING TO LEARN

Eliminating negative thoughts is essential to increasing your mental strength. Carrying around negativity is like swimming with all of your clothes on. You might be okay at first, but eventually you’ll feel like you can barely stay afloat. Don’t drown in negativity, use positive thoughts as a lifesaver.

This doesn’t mean you should ignore things you need to improve, just approach them with solutions rather than beating yourself up. Constant monitoring of this is important since it’s really easy to slide back into negative thinking.

A lot of people are still hung up on the idea that learning is a boring and tedious process, but you aren’t in junior high anymore. You can find something you’re actually interested in and immerse yourself in it, which engages your mind like nothing else. Whether it’s learning a new technology that will improve your business or something that will make you a more well-rounded person, the learning process keeps you engaged and open to new ideas. A curiosity about the world and new things is something that all mentally strong people have in common.

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TAWANA PORTER Top Agent Magazine

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TAWANA PORTER

With a passion for helping others, Tawana Porter is thriving as an agent in the Greenville, South Carolina region. She got her start after being a stay at home mom. “My friend was in real estate, and I always had a love for interior design, so I thought I might as well take the plunge and see where it would take me,” Tawana says. It’s now been 14 years, and she hasn’t looked back since. She is currently the broker in charge at Hometown Real Estate in Greer, where she leads four agents in addition to serving her own clients. With a strong emphasis on personal touch, Tawana’s business is largely built off of referrals and repeat clients.

“Many people say they love that I answer the phone or return calls promptly, as it is very important in this business, so I think that’s what brings them back.” Working so closely with her buyers and sellers, she quickly builds personal relationships with them. Having grown up in the area, Tawana has endless connections and a broad network. “I work so

“I give them a lot of personal attention,” she explains. “I don’t have a transaction or closing coordinator. I speak with them from beginning to end.” Tawana understands that this is the largest transaction many of her clients will ever make, so she takes her job very seriously.

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well with my peers, I never think of them as competition. I do everything possible to help us both make our clients happy.”

After the transaction, clients leave glowing reviews about their time together. One recently said, “Short story. She helped us find our dream home and we could not be happier. It’s perfect in every way, including the deal Tawana brokered on our behalf. On very short notice, Tawana made our problems her priority. She approached our home search with dedication and took a personal interest in making sure we were armed with the best information possible.

After the sale and after closing, Tawana took time out to follow up on several items which created no revenue for herself. She did it because it was the right thing to do. If you’re looking for honesty, dedication, market knowledge, real estate savvy and a personal touch, you should be working with Tawana.”

When Tawana isn’t working, she’s giving back to the community. “When I started Hometown Real Estate four years ago, I got involved with Habitat for Humanity. We built a home here in Greenville that first year, and we’re signing up again this year to help with another.” Tawana also gives back to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and serves as the MLS chair for the Greater Greenville Association of Realtors®.

During any free time, she’s hanging out with family, including her husband of 25 years, her three children and three grandchildren.

Looking ahead, Tawana hopes to continue growing. Last year, she built her office where her childhood home once stood. “I asked them to keep the front porch and the fireplace, which were the only things that were salvageable. So I’m just really proud that I’m working where I grew up, and serving my hometown.”

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For more information about Tawana Porter, please call 864-608-7355 or email tawanasellsgreenville@gmail.com

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5 Lessons from Silicon Valley to Modernize and Monetize Your Business Silicon Valley may be the region for disruptors, tech entrepreneurs, and futurists, but even the most forward-thinking, abstract companies are still businesses that have to keep tabs on their bottom line. There’s much to learn from America’s fastest-growing sector, and even if Silicon Top Agent Magazine

Valley seems like a world unto its own, there are key lessons prime for adaption in your own endeavors. Below, consider a few ways to translate the trends and teachings of Silicon Valley for your own business, and reap the rewards in the process.

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1. Diversify your value Real estate is a business built on relationships, but your relationships will go stale if the only thing you communicate is you interest in making a sale. In order to sustain relationships for the long term, you’ve got to remain valuable to your clients beyond the transaction. Serve as a local resource, not just a salesperson or real estate expert. Ensure your marketing materials, social media presence, and communications offer useful, relevant, and original content your clients will benefit from. What’s more, vary your communications so that every time you reach out it’s not just about new business or a referral.

2. Company culture matters Silicon Valley tech giants always emphasize the importance of company culture—not just as a way of drawing and retaining talent, but also as a way to appeal to clientele. What are your company’s values? What do you stand for? How you’re positioned in the marketplace is becoming just as important as what you do and how well you do it. Your company culture is part of your branding, and your brand should feel clear and composed to clients eyeing your services.

3.Think big picture More and more, clients want to have an experience, not just a transaction. When it comes to buying a home, this means they care more about a property’s bedroom and bathroom count. As an agent, consider showcasing properties in terms of lifestyle. What neighborhood amenities are nearby? What opportunities are there for community involvement? How does public 22

transportation stack up in the area? Before making the purchase of a lifetime, clients want to envision a complete lifestyle.

4. Leverage multiple platforms By now, you probably recognize that social media is not afterthought. Your social media presence should fit your brand and voice, interact across platforms, and actively engage with your audience. In other words, if you want to reap the benefits of social media, it’s not enough to post a few times a month and walk away. Active engagement means responding to comments, interacting with your followers’ profiles, and posting original content beyond a sales pitch.

Likewise, you’ll want to be active across multiple social media platforms and ensure that your profiles are interconnected. That way, you’ll be working from a unified voice and brand.

5. Reputations rule the roost Never underestimate the power of word-ofmouth marketing and testimonials. If you haven’t asked for feedback from past clients, and you aren’t sharing positive testimonials and reviews—you’re missing out on one of the most powerful tools at an agent’s disposal. You can pitch the virtues of your working style all day long, but those courting your business want to hear about positive experiences from the client’s perspective.

If you want to take your business to the next level and maximize the twenty-first century values of a company on the rise, look to the lessons of Silicon Valley to get your start. There are always opportunities to innovate, and doing so will help you break from your routine and stand apart from the pack.

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ALLIE COLLINSON Always drawn to helping others, Allie Collinson has found her dream career as an agent in South Carolina. She started her professional career by working as a marriage and family therapist. Allie loved forming relationships with people and being a trusted confidant, but became overwhelmed, and wanted a path where she could utilize her skills in a more engaging environment. She found her answer in real estate. “My sister is an agent, so she encouraged me to try it,” Allie says. “My first year was bumpy as it was with a company that didn’t provide a lot of support, but once I landed at The Greg Sisson Team, I flourished.” Today she serves as a buyer’s agent on the team, but also helps with listings.

Specializing in the Grand Strand, a growing portion of her business consists of repeat clients and referrals, which stands as a testament to her superior service.

“People are super appreciative of the work that I do,” she says. “I’m on top of things and I have lots of communication.” When working with her buyers, Allie takes the time to understand exactly what they’re looking for. She then hits the ground running, not stopping until the ideal spot is found. Once a property is located and an offer is accepted, Allie’s closing coordinator makes sure no stone is left unturned. “She tells us what to do and when to do it, so we’re not missing anything. We truly offer a high level of support at all times.” Understanding that this can be a stressful chapter in life, Allie provides guidance throughout the process, eliminating much of the worry. It is her ultimate goal to make buying a home an enjoyable experience for all involved.

After the transaction, clients love to spread the word about her work. One recently said, “Allie bent over backwards to send us information on condos that matched our needs. She spent the day with us, getting to know us and what we liked and disliked. Once we settled on the neighborhood, she kept a watchful eye on properties that fit us. When she found it, she toured Top Agent Magazine

it with a video walkthrough, just as if we were there with her. She negotiated a fair price for us and the closing was smooth and painless. She is a gem!” Another raved, “Allie went above and beyond to help me purchase my first home. She and her team were there every step of the way.

I couldn’t have asked for a better agent.

Thank you so much.”

When Allie isn’t working, she’s enjoying all of the natural beauty her community has to offer. “We ride bikes, go to the beach, kayak, and relax.” But much of Allie’s time lately is spent planning for the future, as she wants to ramp up her business in the next few years. “So far I’ve been able to double my production year over year, so I want to continue doing that as well as taking on more listings.”

In the meantime, she’s soaking up every minute of her current path. “I’m constantly learning new things, and it’s so fun to show people this area and watch them fall in love with it.”

For more information about Allie Collinson, please call 919-353-9446 or email allie@gregsisson.com 23

JOE SEAMON Joe Seamon officially began his real estate career in 2018, but his interest in real estate began long before that. “Even before I got my license, I’ve always been part of the real estate industry,” Joe recalls. He worked for his father, a builder, for about 25 years. Joe decided to go out on his own and got his real estate license three years ago, and he says, “I’ve been loving life ever since.”

Joe serves the Central Savannah River Area, centered around the border between Augusta, Georgia and Aiken, South Carolina. His repeat and referral business is bustling, an impressive feat that speaks to the trust and confidence Joe inspires. “I was born and raised in the Augusta area, so I know almost everybody,” Joe explains. “I’m very social, and I will talk to anyone. Whenever I meet someone new, I try to keep the conversation focused on them, their family, and what they’re looking for.”

His knowledge of homebuilding, land development, renovation sets Joe apart. “I still do some fix and flips and own a storage building facility,” Joe says. “I’m very ingrained in real estate. Real estate runs through my blood. Even back in elementary school, instead of drawing stick figures or animals, I used to draw houses and floor plans for fun! Real estate is a lifelong pursuit for me.”

photographer, and she uses a 3D camera and other technology to produce excellent quality photos for our listings.” That’s in addition to the MLS, social media, billboards, flyers, postcards, and more.

“We do a ton of marketing for each and every listing,” Joe says.

Joe loves to be active in and around his community. “My wife and I were both born and raised in Augusta, and we have four kids, so we’re very involved in sports, school, church, and activities,” Joe says. “We are very social people, and we’re always at the local stadium in downtown North Augusta, or at restaurants around town. People see us and know us everywhere.” When he is not working, Joe enjoys getting away to the beach with his family, crabbing, fishing, and bike riding with the kids.

In the future, Joe says, “I look to build a team to dominate our area’s real estate industry, and we’re well on our way to doing that.” Above all, he says, “I love meeting new people and helping them get to where they want to be.”

Joe sends out handwritten notecards to clients every day and always follows up with phone calls, texts, or social media messages just to check in and see how they’re doing. His availability to his clients is key to Joe’s success. “I answer my phone when people call me,” Joe explains. “I tell every new agent: answer your phone when it rings! That’s the secret.”

When it comes to marketing, Joe uses a comprehensive approach to ensure maximum exposure. “I’ve found it more beneficial to bring the photography for my listings in-house,” Joe says. “My niece is my professional 24

To find out more about Joe Seamon, please call (803) 270-7583, email jseamon@jpropertiesonline.com, or visit forsalebyjoe.com www.

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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 26

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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WALLACE THOMAS Wallace Thomas began his real estate career in 1976. “After finishing college, I worked at a bank for three years doing loans,” Wallace recalls. “It was great, but I got cabin fever being stuck in the office!

I felt like I had more people looking over my shoulder than clients in front of me.”

Wallace ended up going to work for a local real estate firm, and the rest is history.

That was 45 years ago, and ever since then Wallace has excelled at helping his clients achieve their real estate goals.

As Owner/Broker of CENTURY 21® Carolina Realty, Wallace serves Beaufort County, South Carolina and the surrounding areas. At least 70% of Wallace’s business comes from repeat clients, and almost all of the rest is word-of-mouth referral, an impressive feat that speaks to the trust and confidence he inspires. “I think more of my clients than I think of myself,” Wallace explains.

He goes the extra mile to serve them. “If the yard needs mowing, I’ll mow the yard myself. I don’t mind. I like to work!”

Staying in touch with clients, and people in general, is key to Wallace’s success. “I see my clients when I’m out at Rotary Club events, exercising at the local gym, at church, luncheons, festivals, or at the big box stores,” Wallace says. “You have to get out of the office and not just be sitting behind a desk. I also follow up, call people, and stay in touch with them after the closing.”

Wallace is a firm believer in the importance of training and continuing education for real estate professionals, and he sees this training as an opportunity to get out and learn from others in the field. “Most people don’t travel out of town for courses,” he says. “You have to see people, get out of town, and pursue continuing education to continue improving and building your knowledge of real estate.”

When it comes to marketing his listings, Wallace uses a comprehensive approach to ensure maximum exposure.

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In addition to his website, he markets his listings on social media. Savings programs and correct pricing also generate interest. “I price listings correctly in the beginning to create urgency,” he explains. “I like to have offers prior to the homes coming on the market.” Wallace also has homes staged, or virtually staged if it’s a vacant property, as well as aerial and drone photography, and professional photography in general.

Community involvement is important to Wallace, and he is very active with the Sea Island Rotary Club, which he joined soon after it was chartered back in 1980. Wallace donates to fundraising projects through the Rotary, and he is very active in his church as well. When he’s not working or giving back, Wallace enjoys going to the gym and swimming at the local YMCA. “I love swimming,” Wallace says. “I try to swim a mile every day.”

Wallace enjoys being a positive force in his community and his industry. “I love to motivate other people and tell them all their positive features,” he says. “I love getting out of the office and seeing people. That’s what I enjoy about real estate.”

To find out more about Wallace Thomas, please call 843-252-2126, email wallacethomas2003@yahoo.com, or visit wallacethomas.com www.

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