SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 5-4-20

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDITION

TURN OPEN HOUSES INTO DESTINATIONS UNCOMMON CONTACT: Connecting with Clientele through Social Media

COVER STORY

MIKE CULTON

6 HABITS OF HIGHLY PRODUCTIVE AGENTS FEATURED AGENTS

JOHN MOORE & RYAN CUMMINGS GEOFF HAMILL JENNIFER PERCE

COMPLETE RETROFITTING AND WATER CONSERVATION COMPLIANCE (PER SENATE BILL NO. 407)

LGS was founded in 1987 to assist Realtors in meeting mandatory requirements prior to the close of escrow. As the list of requirements grew, so did we! LGS has been committed to providing the professional service necessary to successfully meet our customer's needs. One hundred percent customer satisfaction is not only our goal, but it is our mantra. n

n

n n n n n n

etrofitting Inspections R and Noncompliant Plumbing Disclosures Los Angeles DWP Certificate of Compliance Seismic Earthquake Valves Low Flush Toilets Water Heater Straps Smoke Detectors Carbon Monoxide Detectors Window Glazing

License Number 900919

2

Call 1-800-771-5971 or visit us at www.lgscompliance.com email info@iusecompliance.com Top Agent Magazine

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDITION

JOHN MOORE & RYAN CUMMINGS

9

18

23

25 JENNIFE GEOFF HAMILL

With a passio

MIKE CULTON

If there is one single th and anword insatiab describes Geoff Hamill’s Jenniferapproa Perce calling as RE to real estate, that word awou Orange Count certainly be exceptionalism.

W her start in pr well over three decades of expe and quickly ence, Geoff – of Wheeler Steffr itive nature o JOHN MOORE GEOFF HAMILL JENNIFER PERCE Sotheby’s International Rea vast housing n RYAN CUMMINGS in Claremont, California – is ideally suited to help Based out of their office in Palm Springs, Top Agents John and nity. “I got ver clients, be they throughout buyers or sellers, achieve the or surpass th Ryan run a thriving book of business Palm Springs, clients, an real estate goals.

Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, and Coachella Valley. to take a lot of hard work,” she says. “

MIKE CULTON &

as a real estate agent. Coming from knowing singleatperson, Geoff, who was licensed in a1988 the ageI started of twenf CONTENTS it took to get I am tod points to his motherwhatever as the inspiration forwhere his success years, and Jennifer is showing no sig career.

Like many agents, neither Ryan nor John started their“My mother Ruth Hamill began her own r in real estate. Originally from Mississippi, 4) UNCOMMON careers CONTACT: 15) MODERN EMAIL regularly findinher signsanp withYou Redwill Carpet Realty 1979, John worked in hospitality when he estate first movedbusiness to across her city. She believes it’s her co California, progressively working his wayETIQUETTE up until CONNECTING WITH CLIENTELE FOR TODAY’S AGENTS followed her Coldwell Banker.” he was the Director of Sales for several major hotel in When Ryanfootsteps met John in Palmlater Springs at in 2008, they cation that keeps clients coming bac chains.MEDIA When John first dipped his toe into real estate, immediately hit it off and got married in 2013. They THROUGH SOCIAL graduate ofareCalifornia Polytechnic University in Pomo he was somewhat hesitant. “My goal that first year now the principles of John & Ryan, Real Estate By providing word about her work.

21) TURN OPEN HOUSES was to sell 4 homes working part-time,” John says.

Group where they head a 10-person team under CA with Bachelor ofHKScience degrees in Finance, R throughout “With Ryan’s guidance, I ended up selling 42 and the brokerage ofguidance Lane | Christie’s Interna-her transactions, 6) 6 HABITS OF HIGHLY INTO DESTINATIONS Real Geoff Estate.

Based out ofpreviously their office in Palm never looked back.”

Estate andtional Law, had considered oth Jennifer’s business comes from repeat Springs, John and Ryan run a thriving book of busiBringing to bear a calm and sophisticated approach, Ryan Cummings and John Moore’s commitment to providing their clients with world-class service has built their team a fantastic reputation in their community.

Television Producer/Director. During that time, he discovered a passion for architecture and design, which led him to enjoy tremendous success flipping homes in Los Angeles. Recognition of his achievements landed him a feature article in Money Magazine in 2003 and a photo of one of his homes on the cover of West Los Angeles Living Magazine. In 2004 Ryan decided to pursue real estate full-time.

PRODUCTIVE AGENTS CPA to ness throughout PalmFinancial Springs, RanchoAdvisor Mirage, Palm to Psycholog Ryan on the other hand was raisedcareers in Californiafrom and spent the early years of his career working as a Desert, and Coachella Valley.

They also occasionally HOW TO finally OVERCOME YOUR “I love deciding meeting people,” to 24) Attorney before to giveshe realexplain estat invested Geoff in helping mysuccess clients. alm So WORKPLACE FEARS shot.

A fortuitous decision, found Copyright Top Agent Magazine

stories about they move or immediately, and since then hiswhere career haswill continued to buy.

I don’t consider myself grow, year after year, with no signs of slowing. doi

have a very happy client and that me needs.” A true professional, she goe Currently ranked among 1% of Realtors int getthe hertop clients to all their goals. “If Phone 310-734-1440 | Fax 310-734-1440 nationally – amongtoscores other recognitions -a condo, forofinstance, and it’s unclear mag@topagentmagazine.com | www.topagentmagazine.com with over $500,000,000 in real estate and regulations are, sold, I willto gocall to aGe bo No portion of this issue may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior consent ofquestions. the be publisher.

Agentisan a Top Agent could easily considered understa the IfTopthere a discrepan Magazine is published by Feature Publications GA, Inc. Although precautions are taken to visit ensurethe the accuracy of published office.under I willhis dob ment. With seven prestigiousassessor’s designations materials, Top Agent Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. make sure that my client’s are fully inf including Seller Representative Specialist (SRS), Sen To subscribe or change address, send inquiry to mag@topagentmagazine.com. on the(SRES), sale or purchase of their home.

Published in the U.S. Residential Specialist Certified Resident

Top Agent Magazine

Specialist (CRS), and Accredited Buyer’s Representati After the transaction, clients leav (ABR) – to name just a few – Geoff provides exception about their experience using Jenni value to his many grateful buyers andrecently sellers.said, “Jen ® . One REALTOR 3

agent! She initially contacted me be

One hallmark of Geoff’s business is the top-of-the-li

Uncommon Contact:

Connecting with Clientele Through Social Media Social media is one of the newest and most powerful tools in an agent or mortgage professional’s arsenal. With just a few keystrokes, you can stay top-of-mind with buyers, sellers, and borrowers near and far, past and present. The key is knowing how to use these mediums to your advantage, working smarter instead of harder to keep the thread of professional relationships intact. With that in mind, here are a few ways you can maximize the pull and power of social media by shifting just a few of your ideas and practices for the better.

4

Not everything has to be about business.

While your relationship with a client or fellow vendor began over the course of business, your relationship going forward doesn’t have to be limited. One of the great things about social media is that’s it’s social. Not every comment, post, or communication has to revolve around your business, its metrics, or turning a sale. In fact, you should do your best to branch out and curate a brand and online identity that’s about who you are and

Top Agent Magazine

Top Agent Magazine

the lifestyle you’re authentically interested in living. In that vein, consider interacting with clients in an organically-driven way, encouraging them during life’s milestones, reaching out with a local event, restaurant, or news item that’s relevant to their interests or neighborhood. The goal is to be a persistent presence in their lives without feeling like a talking head. Engage as you would like to be engaged with, as a human being with interests and needs and boundaries. Keep that personal thread in mind and your dynamic will shift from past business contact to present resource.

Expand your medium.

Many Realtors are comfortable on Facebook as an interactive meeting to connect with clients, but there are several other mediums where you can connect with clients both past and present, as well as future. Particularly when courting Millennial clientele, the fastest-growing segment of the buying market, a presence on Instagram and Snapchat are key to finding new faces, demonstrating hot properties, and creating an interactive brand as an agent. Not only does this help when you’re listing a property and seeking potential buyers, but it also serves as a perusable portfolio of your work and real estate prowess. You can also use these mediums to interact with clients on an outlet they might feel most comfortable in. Liking pictures, commenting, streaming Instagram Live home tours and Stories are all ways you can build engagement by simply spreading your social media presence around. Likewise, Top Agent Magazine

these photo and video driven mediums are popular for home design ideas, and before and after renovation pictures. When you expand from Facebook into these new platforms, you’ll already have plenty of visual content ready to be transferred and consumed by an expanded audience.

Don’t just react.

Create your own content.

It’s easy enough to post a link to a new listing, or retweet a helpful article on real estate news. Creating your own organic content is a different story, but worth its weight in gold when it comes to luring engagement, ranking higher in search fields, and overall crafting an interactive presence for yourself and your business online—which is where more than 90% of homebuyers and sellers begin their process. Creating your own content can seem risky, or else like no one is listening in a digital world already crowded with information. However, original content is sure to boost personal engagement with your social media pages, guaranteed.

Instead of recycling content, consider posting a video with a Q+A theme for first-time homebuyers, or perhaps posting a live tour of a new listing will perk up your clientele surfing at home.

No matter how you decide to expand your social media presence when it comes to interacting with clients, consistency is key.

Find the ways that work best for you and stick to them, and you’ll watch your audience and business grow in tandem.

Top Agent Magazine

5

6 Habits of Highly Productive Agents In a business that can be constant chaos, you’re constantly on the go and dealing with things as they hit you. It can be difficult to take a second and regroup. But there is a better and smarter way to work. If you take the time to create some better habits, in the end, you may end up being more productive. If you want to make better use of your time, as well as have more focus, here’s some habits that you’re going to want to pick up - all common to top-producing agents.

1. Learn how to prioritize Although it might be your instinct to get some of the boring work out of the way first, things 6

that actually generate income (or are time-sensitive!) should be the first thing you focus on when you start your day.

Lists are your friend! Make a list of things you want to accomplish for the day, the week, and even the month. Always list them in the order of priority. If things get cut off when you run out of time at the end of the day, at least it’ll be the things that are not as important or time sensitive. As with anyone, your time is your most valuable commodity and should be used wisely. When you make your list, you can even schedule tasks as if they were a meeting, giving yourself a little time goal to beat, as Top Agent Magazine

well. Treat your time with the same respect you would a colleague’s or client’s and don’t ever waste it.

As with anyone, your time is your most valuable commodity and should be used wisely. When you make your list you can even schedule tasks as if they were a meeting, giving yourself a little time goal to beat, as well. Treat your time with the same respect you would a colleague’s or client’s, and don’t ever waste it.

to accomplish it? Write it out and then incorporate that into your prioritized ‘to do’ list.

You’ll be amazed at how driven you become to reach that goal when you actually write it out with clarity. And, the sense of accomplishment you get upon completing it will carry over to the next day. It’s important to remember to be specific. Once you get into the habit of meeting your goals, exceeding them won’t be far behind.

2. Remove distractions

when you need to focus This is especially hard when you’re a Realtor®. Most are constantly connected to their phones. But, unnecessary distractions can get you off schedule and make you lose your focus instantly. If you can, turn your phone off for the half hour it takes to do a task. Interruptions make everything take twice as long, especially when you take that text and then decide to check Facebook for a second.

We all do it!

Complete your task, then take ten minutes to respond to all texts and messages before you start up the next thing on your list. You can even schedule those ‘text backs’ into your schedule. A concentrated effort is always more effective than going back and forth between things.

3. Set daily goals This is so key. What do you want to accomplish for the day and what do you need to do Top Agent Magazine

4. Don’t make excuses There’s that old saying, “The buck stops here”. Well, take it to heart. This is your business and you are responsible for doing everything you can to make it successful.

Sure, there are reasons for why you didn’t get a listing or why your business is slow, but what are you doing to change things and make them better? Successful Realtors® work harder and come up with innova7

tive ways to stand out when times are tough. They don’t look for excuses, they look for solutions.

5. Be deliberate

about everything you do When you’re making your list, it helps to have a goal in mind for even the smallest task. If you’re calling past clients to touch base, have a specific reason why you’re calling. Are you letting them know some market news?

Thanking them for a referral? When you’re meeting a referral partner for lunch, have a goal in mind for what the outcome of that meeting will be as well. Yes it’s good to socialize and build relationships, but if you have a reason, make sure it isn’t put off until the final moments, when things are wrapping up. Always having a purpose in mind will also help you prioritize your list better.

6. Always look for ways to

get out of your comfort zone Yes, you are prioritizing what is most important or urgent to your business, but it’s also important to make an effort to break out 8

of your routine as much as you’re comfortable doing. Trying out new things or taking some time to learn about new and innovative real estate techniques and technology, can have an energizing effect on your business.

Not only might they lead to things that make you more productive, but it keeps you sharp and engaged. And, ultimately keeping yourself at the top of your game is what it’s all about.

Top Agent Magazine

MIKE CULTON

Top Agent Magazine

9

Top Agent Michael J. Culton of Brubaker-Culton Real Estate and Development, serves the Hemet-San Jacinto Valley and all the surrounding hills and communities.

Michael J. Culton, (Mike) has been working in Real Estate since 1976, when he moved back to Hemet from Arizona to work with his brother John. Mike has now been with the same company, BrubakerCulton Real Estate and Development, 10Copyright Top Agent Magazine

for 45 years. Clients come back to work with Mike year after year because he has earned their trust and takes the time to educate his clients, offering valuable guidance throughout the buying and/or selling process.

Top Agent Magazine

Mike serves the Hemet-San Jacinto Valley and all the surrounding hills and communities. A significant portion of his business comes from repeat and referral clients, whose loyalty is a testament to the level of service Mike provides. “My opinion of what a real estate professional should be Top Agent Magazine

is a teacher,” Mike explains. “I instruct people on how to buy/or sell Real Estate. I take time with them and go over what they need and why they need it.”

A focus on relationships guides Mike’s business, and he likes to stay in touch Copyright Top Agent Magazine11

“My opinion of what a real estate professional should be is a teacher. I instruct people on how to buy/or sell Real Estate. I take time with them and go over what they need and why they need it.” .“ with clients by sending out correspondence every other month that contains market updates and other valuable information. “If I get a new customer, their info goes into the mailing system,” he says. “I’m sending out over 2,000 mailers total.”

12Copyright Top Agent Magazine

When marketing a listing, Mike takes advantage of the new technologies available while still maintaining enough perspective to know when the old techniques are best. He points out that he is one of the only agents in Hemet who provides video tours for every property.

Top Agent Magazine

“The video tour is the best way to showcase a property on the internet,� he says.

Since he also deals with many commercial properties, Mike uses platforms including LoopNet and CoStar for his commercial listings. At the same time, Mike stresses the usefulness of longstanding practices such as Competitive Market Analysis, a tried-and-true method for determining the price of a home.

Top Agent Magazine

Mike is active in his community and is a Realtor Emeritus with the National Association of Realtors.

He belongs to the Kiwanis Club of Hemet Valley and is a life member of the Elk Foundation. Mike is also a board member of the Carrie Mehdi Foundation, serves on the governing committee for the local MLS, and is a lifetime member of the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society. When he is not working, Mike loves fishing, racquetball, and golf. He also loves to get away with his wife and their dogs on RV trips.

Copyright Top Agent Magazine13

In the future, Mike plans to keep working and stay involved. “I’m not going anywhere,” he says. “I’ve got a lot of knowledge that I’d like to get out to people, including new agents.” He enjoys the constantly changing nature of the real estate business. “There are things today, especially

technology, which we wouldn’t even have dreamed of 40 years ago. And constant change is not only in technology, but also in industry regulations. Then there are all the people you get to meet, become friends with, and work with. It’s been an interesting business for me to be a part of.”

To find out more about Mike Culton, please call 951-314-4326, email mjcultoncorp@gmail.com, or visit brubakerculton.com www.

14Copyright Top Agent Magazine

Top Agent Magazine

Modern Email Etiquette for Today’s Agents In today’s tech-forward culture, consumers are constantly inundated with promotional emails, alerts, invites, and social media blasts. As a real estate agent or a loan officer, how do you stand apart from the noise? What’s more, how do you stay relevant in a digital landscape that’s constantly changing?

For starters, there are a few timeless techniques you can apply to up your skillset when it comes email and digital communication: asking questions that Top Agent Magazine

inspire conversation, politeness, and following up regularly—to name a few. Likewise, there are surely new tricks you can add to your arsenal to stay ahead of the curve. Let’s outline a few ways you can refine and update your email etiquette to compete in today’s virtual marketplace.

Make your subject line count Too often, we labor over the content of our emails without giving much thought to subject lines.

Top Agent Magazine ®

15

Though email is no longer a new-fangled invention, there are certainly ways you can modernize its use and take advantage of its ubiquity.

However, these little headlines can go a long way in luring the consumer to open your email and ultimately click through to your website in search for your services. An enticing subject line should be short and sweet, ideally less than fifty characters.

You might also include the name of the recipient, and be up front (though concise) about the subject matter of your message. Remember: the first thing a client will see is your name and subject line—be sure to make this prime real estate shine.

Think mobile Research tells us that 79% of Americans check their phones within fifteen minutes of waking up. In fact, much of modern day correspondence occurs by smartphone. Accordingly, you’ll want to account for email readability on a mobile phone.

For instance, incorporating paragraph breaks for each new thought allows information to be parceled out in a palatable way for readers utilizing small screens. Also, any sort of graphic flair or links within your email should be shortened and streamlined for mobile consumption. Send yourself an email every now and again and access it from your phone—you’ll be able to double-check that all the elements of your emails are working well on a mobile platform.

Incorporate email tools There are excellent tools out there to enhance your email experience. With just a quick download, 16

you can add spellcheck, a URL address shortening feature, or a delay option that holds emails for thirty seconds before they’re sent. Think about the possibilities! Haven’t you sent an email without including the attachment you intended, or realizing you sent correspondence to the wrong client? If that’s the case, a delay feature can help you save face and build in a window for error— just in case. Regardless of which tools speak to your email habits, there are plenty of add-ons out there that can revamp your digital correspondence style.

Use email to maximize your online presence These days, there are plenty of ways to communicate—email, text, phone, apps, and social media.

When you interact through email, consider it an opportunity to invite your client to follow you elsewhere online. Ensure that your email signature includes unobtrusive, streamlined links to your social media accounts, professional website, or review page. This will build in an opportunity for clients to engage with your brand, and you may even add an online follower for the long term.

Though email is no longer a new-fangled invention, there are certainly ways you can modernize its use and take advantage of its ubiquity. Keep these approaches in mind as you reenergize your email technique and fortify your communication in the digital era.

Top Agent Magazine ®

Top Agent Magazine

Top Agent Magazine

17

JOHN MOORE & RYAN CUMMINGS

Based out of their office in Palm Springs, Top Agents John and Ryan run a thriving book of business throughout Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, and Coachella Valley.

Bringing to bear a calm and sophisticated approach, Ryan Cummings and John Moore’s commitment to providing their clients with world-class service has built their team a fantastic reputation in their community.

Like many agents, neither Ryan nor John started their careers in real estate. Originally from Mississippi, John worked in hospitality when he first moved to California, progressively working his way up until he was the Director of Sales for several major hotel chains. When John first dipped his toe into real estate, he was somewhat hesitant. “My goal that first year was to sell 4 homes working part-time,” John says.

“With Ryan’s guidance, I ended up selling 42 and never looked back.”

Ryan on the other hand was raised in California and spent the early years of his career working as a 18

Television Producer/Director. During that time, he discovered a passion for architecture and design, which led him to enjoy tremendous success flipping homes in Los Angeles. Recognition of his achievements landed him a feature article in Money Magazine in 2003 and a photo of one of his homes on the cover of West Los Angeles Living Magazine. In 2004 Ryan decided to pursue real estate full-time.

When Ryan met John in Palm Springs in 2008, they immediately hit it off and got married in 2013. They are now the principles of John & Ryan, Real Estate Group where they head a 10-person team under the brokerage of HK Lane | Christie’s International Real Estate. Based out of their office in Palm Springs, John and Ryan run a thriving book of business throughout Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, and Coachella Valley. They also occasionally Copyright Top Agent Magazine

dabble in the Riverside and San Diego markets, and recently added an agent in Big Bear.

If you ask John and Ryan how they have managed to enjoy so much success, they will credit their reputation and focus on customer service as being the primary drivers of their business.

“We always make sure we achieve our clients’ goals,” John tells Top Agent. “Last year I showed a client nearly 90 properties before he found the one, and I was happy to do it.” But their reputation isn’t just built on their fantastic customer service. “We also have a reputation in the real estate community as experienced, no-nonsense agents. We are tough negotiators,” Ryan explains.

Another advantage the John & Ryan team enjoys is their emphasis on leveraging technology to improve their reach. For every listing they use a combination of professional photographs and/or video walk-throughs to create a comprehensive online marketing campaign that complements their print and in-person outreach. On top of this they have an extensive social media presence, which they use to market their listings and stay connected to their community.

When they aren’t working, John and Ryan love to travel, hike, exercise, and gather their extended families for visits to their cabin in Big Bear. In addition, they are extremely involved in their community. They support numerous charities and have organized a number of their own fundraising events, most notably a string of carwashes to raise money for local food banks, Toys-For-Tots and the Desert AIDS Walk. Recently, they offered a service to bring groceries to members of their community who have been affected by COVID-19.

Looking to the future, John and Ryan are excited to continue expanding their team so that they can increase the number of people they can help. “We love helping our clients start the next chapter in their life. When you use us you’re hiring a team with knowledge, experience and integrity.”

Top Agent Magazine

For more about Ryan Cummings & John Moore, visit JohnAndRyan.com, call 760-409-0129 or email reachry@yahoo.com and jbm1nps@yahoo.com www.

Copyright Top Agent Magazine 19

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

20

Top Agent Magazine

Turn Open Houses into Destinations People are busy. Even those who are actively looking to buy a house or want to learn about the market for a future purpose have busy schedules.

But with bit of added time, creativity and investment in making open house into destinations, you’ll see greater turnout. And we all know that greater turnout increases the likelihood of offers.

There are several creative ways to hold an open house with a mindset of hospitality and with the goal of providing something of value to each person who attends.

Top Agent Magazine

The neighbors-only open house Some agents embrace the “nosy neighbor” concept as a benefit, not an eye-rolling challenge.

With his client’s permission, Wesley Peters, a Keller Williams broker in the Baltimore Metro Area, often gets the neighbors together before a home hits the market. “We invite other brokers, too, but we include as many neighbors as we can,” he says, explaining that he schedules these events for a Thursday or Friday evening, happy hour-style, rather than midday on a Sunday. They get a better turnout at 5:00 pm than

Top Agent Magazine ®

21

midday on a weekend when the neighbors are busy with their lives. In a relaxed setting, conversations flow, neighbors can mingle and catch up, and the buzz begins before the home is listed.

In advance, prepare invitations and hand-deliver them to homes on the streets you and your client agree are best to include. The destination is the event; the value each attendee receives is the social interaction and the removal of any awkwardness over visiting their neighbor’s house.

Your client’s benefit is the buzz.

A turnkey block party any time of year Once a property is listed, some agents take on the role of party planners. Certain streets or neighborhoods, they find, are perfect for lowkey social occasions. In some place, such as neighborhoods with many young families, a bounce-house or games may even ramp up the fun factor. But the idea of a seemingly spontaneous block party during an open house can be easy to pull off, whether you’re serving lemonade and cookies or coffee and pastries. The chance to meet prospective neighbors turns the event into a destination for both buyers and the neighbors; the value comes in buyers’ ability to see how the neighbors interact. Your seller’s benefit is that the grapevine will be filled with happy stories about their home. Tips: By keeping basic supplies in storage, you’ll be ready for a pop-up block party any time. Promote this type of event with targeted social media marketing and fliers or postcards to communities within a short distance of your listing.

Invite other professionals It’s common mortgage lenders to attend open houses. But why not provide even more value to people who attend? Chances are, you have more than a handful of professional partners who welcome an opportunity to join you at your open house. Consider inviting an interior designer, a contractor, a gardener, even a gardener or a painter. Invite them to your broker’s open in advance or give them time to view the property 22

before the open house begins. Then encourage them to stroll the property during the open house or to sit with you. When visitors ask about needs or concerns they may have about the house – such as loan questions, the cost of improvements or upgrades or even remodeling – you’ll be able to introduce them to an expert on the spot. For that matter, your invited pros don’t even necessarily have to be in home-related businesses!

Prospective buyers always want to know about the community when visiting open houses.

Consider inviting representatives of community

organizations, like youth sports group or owners of mom-and-pop retailers to help your visitors get a feel for the neighborhood or town. For this type of open-house, prepare a flyer or card with your community contacts on it so visitors can leave with resources as well as information.

Open house should be about the buzz. They’re about creating a conversation about your listing and making the home memorable to visitors. By giving people a unique experience they won’t forget, you’ll show your sellers how creative you are in meeting their needs.

Top Agent Magazine ®

Top Agent Magazine

GEOFF HAMILL If there is one single word that describes Geoff Hamill’s approach to real estate, that word would certainly be exceptionalism. With well over three decades of experience, Geoff – of Wheeler Steffen Sotheby’s International Realty in Claremont, California – is ideally suited to help his clients, be they buyers or sellers, achieve or surpass their real estate goals.

Geoff, who was licensed in 1988 at the age of twenty, points to his mother as the inspiration for his successful career. “My mother Ruth Hamill began her own real estate business with Red Carpet Realty in 1979, and I followed in her footsteps later at Coldwell Banker.” A graduate of California Polytechnic University in Pomona, CA with Bachelor of Science degrees in Finance, Real Estate and Law, Geoff had previously considered other careers from CPA to Financial Advisor to Psychologist to Attorney before finally deciding to give real estate a shot. A fortuitous decision, Geoff found success almost immediately, and since then his career has continued to grow, year after year, with no signs of slowing.

Currently ranked among the top 1% of all Realtors internationally – among scores of other recognitions - and with over $500,000,000 in real estate sold, to call Geoff a Top Agent could easily be considered an understatement. With seven prestigious designations under his belt including Seller Representative Specialist (SRS), Senior Residential Specialist (SRES), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), and Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) – to name just a few – Geoff provides exceptional value to his many grateful buyers and sellers.

One hallmark of Geoff’s business is the top-of-the-line, concierge-style service he provides, something that keeps his clients happy and continually referring new customers to him. That exceptional service is reflected in his perfect Five-star overall rating on industry websites such as Google, Yelp, Realtor.com, and Zillow.com - on which site he is a Premier Agent. Another would be his comprehensive, spare-no-expense marketing strategies Top Agent Magazine

that incorporate both print and digital media to ensure his listings are seen by as many potential buyers as possible, both domestically and internationally, and with the mighty weight of industry behemoth Sotheby’s International Realty behind him. Cutting-edge techniques like Matterport and 3D are also used to great advantage to show his properties safely and in the best light possible.

When he’s not working, Geoff is extremely involved in a hands-on way with his community. He is a member of multiple Associations of Realtors, and he is active with the Claremont Chamber of Commerce, Sustainable Claremont, plus Claremont, Ontario, Pomona and Upland Heritage organizations. “I don’t just donate to these organizations,” says Geoff, “I’m actually very hands on. I lead tours of historic homes. I really love history and architecture.” He is also an avid hiker, loves to travel, and enjoys active participation involving philanthropy and local charities. Another of his current goals is to work with local cities and developers to build more affordable, single level, first-time buyer, Senior, and right size density housing in his community.

For those looking to buy or sell a home in the Claremont and surrounding foothill markets, one could do no better than to engage the services of Geoff Hamill, a local expert and a truly dedicated and honest Realtor who consistently places the best interests of his clients front and center during every single transaction.

For more about Geoff Hamill (DRE# 00997900), please call 909-621-0500 or email Geoff@GeoffHamill.com Copyright Top Agent Magazine 23

How To Overcome Your Workplace Fears Fear is something that can help protect us from danger, but it is also something that can be a hindrance to us in our lives, especially when it keeps us from potentially thriving and growing as a person. This is especially true in the workplace. Here’ a look at some proven ways to overcome common workplace fears.

1

ASSESS THE FEELINGS BEHIND THE FEAR

Really owning the emotions that are putting you in a place of fear, is the first step. By just naming it and then talking it out in your head, what exactly you’re feeling and why, it can help deflate the fear. Think of it as releasing some of the fear into the ether. Yes, you’ll still be nervous about your presentation, but a lot of what was holding you back is gone. You’ll feel lighter, and hopefully have just enough butterflies to make your soar.

2

TALK ABOUT YOUR FEARS WITH A TRUSTED CO-WORKER

Nothing can make you feel more isolated than going down the path of “This is something that only happens to me.” Trust me, it doesn’t, and you might be surprised to find out that some people have had it even worse. Talking to someone you trust and admire, hearing their own fear horror stories and how they overcame them, will help normalize what you’re feeling. Releasing yourself from the idea that it’s something about you, will be an enormous relief.

3

THINK OF THE WORST CASE SCENARIO

Although it might seem counter-productive, truly assessing what the worse outcome of the situation you’re afraid of serves two purposes. It might lead you to realize the worst case scenario isn’t that bad 24

after all. Of course it could also lead you to a really uncomfortable thought, you could lose your job. As bad as that is, it also gives you an opportunity to start focusing on what really matters, and how you might grow from the experience and possibly end up better off. Countless people in their dream jobs now, were once fired and thought it was the end of the world.

Hopefully, that won’t happen to you, but learning to have confidence in your abilities to always find a way, will be a great tool in overcoming fears.

4

COMPARTMENTALIZE

If you’re a super-organized type, you might try actually setting aside time in your day to focus on your fears. It might seem odd, but it will let you NOT focus on your fears during the other hours of your day. Think of it as a task, you aren’t just sitting there worrying, you’re taking in your fears and figuring out ways to overcome them.

5

START THINKING OF YOUR FEARS AS OPPORTUNITY FOR GROWTH

Start thinking of fears as challenges. As scary as it might seem to face them, for the most part they are things that can be fixed. A lot of fear is based on inexperience which leads to a lack of confidence.

A common fear is workplace evaluations. Instead of looking at it as hearing everything that is wrong about you, think of it as an opportunity to see where you can improve. Going into it with a positive attitude rather than a defensive posture, will make the whole thing better for both parties.

Overcoming fears is oftentimes about a simple attitude adjustment. Like anything it takes practice, but the results of that practice will lead to a life that you’re able to thrive in both personally and professionally.

Top Agent Magazine

Top Agent Magazine

JENNIFER PERCE With a passion for helping others and an insatiable love of real estate, Jennifer Perce has found her true calling as a REALTOR® in Northern Orange County California. She got her start in property management, and quickly realized the competitive nature of the region and the vast housing needs of the community. “I got very invested in helping the clients, and knew it was going to take a lot of hard work,” she says. “So I became licensed as a real estate agent. Coming from New York and not knowing a single person, I started from scratch and did whatever it took to get where I am today.” It’s now been 8 years, and Jennifer is showing no signs of slowing down.

You will regularly find her signs popping up on lawns across her city. She believes it’s her commitment and dedication that keeps clients coming back and spreading the word about her work. By providing superior service and guidance throughout her transactions, the vast majority of Jennifer’s business comes from repeat clients and referrals.

“I love meeting people,” she explains. “I tend to get very invested in helping my clients. So I love hearing their stories about where they will move or why they are looking to buy. I don’t consider myself doing my job unless I have a very happy client and that means listening to their needs.” A true professional, she goes above and beyond to get her clients to their goals. “If a client is buying a condo, for instance, and it’s unclear what the HOA rules and regulations are, I will go to a board meeting and ask the questions. If there is a discrepancy on a lot size, I’ll visit the assessor’s office. I will do whatever it takes to make sure that my client’s are fully informed and protected on the sale or purchase of their home.”

After the transaction, clients leave glowing reviews about their experience using Jennifer as their trusted REALTOR®. One recently said, “Jennifer is an amazing agent! She initially contacted me before my house was

even for sale because she had a prospective cash buyer.

After listing my house on the NMLS I received a full price offer on day 1, thanks to Jennifer. With Jennifer’s guidance, I countered the initial offer for a slightly higher price and the buyer agreed. The appraisal came in at 100% of the purchase price so I felt like Jennifer got me the most amount possible for my property which is an absolutely great feeling when you are leaving a home because it holds more value to you than probably anyone else. Jennifer is a great negotiator, very organized, professional, responsive and great at her job. You should definitely use her for your next purchase or sale - you will not be disappointed!”

While talking with Jennifer, she emphasized how giving back to the community is a very important part of her career. She annually hosts a “Shred Event” where people can come to her office and shred their documents for free.

“We also hold canned food drives each year, where we will personally go to everyone’s homes who offer canned goods and my family will bring them to Second Harvest Food Bank.” Jennifer is also involved in community school fundraisers. “Orange County will be my forever home, and hosting these programs helps my family feel connected to our neighbors and allows me to give back all the support they have shown me.”

When Jennifer isn’t working, she loves spending time with her family, including her husband and their three children.

They regularly travel around southern California for quick weekend getaways and experience new places.

As Jennifer looks ahead, she hopes to continue growing her business to help more people make informed decisions about real estate. Someday she would love to see her kids get involved in the industry.

“What I love most about my career are my clients. For years I have met so many different faces and heard their stories, but they all needed a knowledgeable advocate they could trust, and I am so proud to be that for them.”

For more information about Jennifer Perce, please call 714-618-7931 or email jensellsoc@gmail.com Top Agent Magazine

Copyright Top Agent Magazine 25

mailto:mag@topagentmagazine.com

26

Top Agent Magazine