Excellence in Real Estate 2022 by Vancouver Is Awesome

2022 EDITION

Providing excellence in real estate is all about the value these real estate all-stars bring to the people they serve. ELIZABETH ROSALYN THE

elping people navigate the biggest and most signif icant purchasing decision one could make — buying a home — is no easy feat, and it’s a responsibility that Realtors take very seriously. This crop of award-winning real estate leaders from across Metro Vancouver bring in years of knowledge and experience to their trade. Coming from professional backgrounds as diverse as financial planning, journalism, and restaurant franchising, these Realtors all share a mutual passion for supporting buyers and sellers in making smart real estate decisions that are aligned with their vision and goals.

From first-time homebuyers to downsizing families, these Realtors are committed to their full-service, client-centric approach to real estate, ensuring that the buying and selling experience is handled with trust, care, and satisfaction, and that these interactions are built into long-term relationships. Providing excellence in real estate is all about the value these real estate all-stars bring to the people they serve, which their loyal clientele can absolutely attest to. • ELIZABETH ROSALYN THE EDITOR

EXCELLENCE in

REAL ESTATE 2022 EDITION

MICHELLE YU RE/MAX Real Estate Services

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DORRIS GEE and PHIL MOORE RE/MAX Crest Realty

LORI FRALIC Keller Williams Realty VanCentral

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Elizabeth The DESIGN + PRODUCTION

Jodeen Hodgson SALES

David Chiew MARKETING + SALES ASSISTANT

Karen Ngan

PHOTOGRAPHY

Mike Wakefield

ANDREW LASKO Oakwyn Realty Downtown

MICHELLE RAYMOND RE/MAX Select Realty

Nicola Campbell Mint Home Team

DENISE MAI RE/MAX City Realty

MORNING YU Laboutique Realty

ANNA LITVAK B.C. Prime Real Estate Group

REBECCA PERMACK Royal LePage West Real Estate Services

Michelle Bhatti EDITORIAL

STEVEN OEI RE/MAX Select Properties

DAVID RICHARDSON The Colour of Real Estate

PUBLISHER

For inquiries regarding the next edition, contact David Chiew at dchiew@vancourier.com or 604.250.3025

Michelle Yu

Personal Real Estate Corporation Staying on the pulse of the evolving real estate industry

ith over 27 years (and counting) of experience in the real estate business, award-winning RE/MAX Vancouver realtor Michelle Yu PREC is dedicated to making a difference. Yu was recently awarded the 2021 RE/MAX Luminary of Distinction title, a distinguished award in which only 19 RE/MAX agents in Western Canada have been eligible to receive as of August 2021. “This was an honour,” she says. “This is great news in my real estate career. I have two achievements I am proud of - the 2020 Community Care Award from RE/MAX’s head office in Denver, and now, the 2021 Luminary of Distinction Award.” Yu’s team started back in 2002, with each member possessing their own expertise and skills. Yu believes collectively “they can motivate each other, using our strengths and our skills. My idea is that everyone can maximize our abilities and the resources we offer our clients.” Staying ahead of the real estate curve during the past 2 years of the pandemic has been a challenge, and Yu is proud of her team’s ability to shift gears and uphold the exceptional reputation she holds as a cornerstone to their success. “Most of our clients are from referrals, and we build up confidence in our relationships, even from the signage in the city which lets people know what we are doing,” she says. What trends has Team Michelle Yu seen in terms of real estate in the past few years? Starting with 2020, the first year of the pandemic, Yu notes that “for some, it was the best year in real estate in a long time.” She continues, “it was mostly local people buying versus overseas buyers.” The market remained strong in 2021. “The interest rate was super low, and people still had more time to stay at home working, and with their families. For renters, why not buy a condo while it’s

more affordable?” As restrictions continue to ease in 2022, it is clear that the norms in real estate have changed. For Team Michelle Yu, health and safety precautions remain in place for showings and open houses, from enhanced sanitation practices to admitting one group at the time during appointments.

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Most of our clients are from referrals, and we build up confidence in our relationships. MICHELLE YU

Virtual showings have also become commonplace. To accommodate buyers from across North America and overseas in Hong Kong, Yu and her realtor team conducts Zoom meetings online and presents videos of the properties. For the presale projects, interested buyers can utilize virtual reality to take a virtual walkthrough of future developments with VR headsets to get an understanding of the look and feel they would otherwise see through the physical showroom.

With a brand as high profile as Team Michelle Yu, potential clients hold them accountable to do more in the community. Says Yu, “I like to help others and give back, and I’d like for my team to do the same.” What that transpires are fundraising initiatives, including donations to the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, the BC Cancer Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, VGH, Richmond Hospital, World Housing, Learning Buddies, Green Technology Education Centre, and more.” Yu looks towards the new generation of realtors to carry on the spirit of giving back to society through their work. She supports the young realtors on her team with building their real estate careers by giving them direction, sharing best practices, and imparting on them the importance of community involvement. As Yu says, “I am committed to passing the torch and helping the new generation of realtors succeed.” •

SUITE 110, 3540 W 41 AVE VANCOUVER. B.C. TEAM: 604.329.8228 OFFICE: 604.263.2823 MICHELLEYU.COM 5

Steven Oei

RE/MAX Select Properties Friendly service, professional results, and enabling clients to achieve real estate success

Steven Oei, a professional Realtor with Re/Max Select Property, aims to achieve all of this, and more, with each of his clients. Whatever the circumstances, Oei is there to meet his client’s needs. From first-time homebuyers entering the market, to growing families, to seniors looking to downsize, Steven Oeiunderstands that people’s real estate needs change over time. With almost three decades of award-winning experience, he helps his clients move forward with their life goals, achieve real estate success, no matter what life throws at them. Since he was a teenager, Oei has had a passion for real-estate. “I used to borrow my mom’s car to visit open houses and talk to Realtors,” he says, adding when he was younger, his interest was sparked by the positive experience his family had with their family’s Realtor. Since then, he earned a BBA from Simon Fraser University, training in marketing luxury properties, and real estate appraisal. He strives to constantly expand his skill set, seeking out industry seminars, training, and discussions so that he may further help his clients find the perfect home. “Favorable results require effort and dedication”, says Oei, who prioritizes each client’s unique situation. “It’s my job to fully understand both my client’s needs, a property’s potential value, neighbourhood amenities, market conditions, and the target market”, he explains. “This requires focused time for us to explore how to make the real estate journey efficient and enjoyable.” Time and effort is exactly what Oei dedicates to each and every one of his clients. “Explaining the steps in advance can make the process less stressful and more meaningful.” Wisdom, garnered over his long and fruitful career, have left Oeimeticulously clear with his words and actions. “Building a timeline and marketing plan with a client is a lot more personal and involved than putting up a sign and waiting to see what happens,” he says. Oei

believes that real estate analytics, such as market and pricing trends, are valuable tools, but they need to be applied with a human touch. Not only is Oei charismatic and approachable with his clients, but his expertise and years of service provide him with a bounty of market knowledge. This leaves him in a unique and advantageous position in the industry. In his words, he can “highlight a property’s salient features, develop effective marketing strategies, and care for his clients in the best way possible.” Oei has formed long-term relationships with many clients and enjoys serving them whenever their housing needs have evolved. “Last year, I sold the home of a couple whom I had helped with their property over twenty years ago. Nowadays, I am also work with some of my clients’ children, which is kind of neat,” he says, adding that he earns his clients’ long-term repeat business and referrals through hard work, up-to-date industry skills, and customer care. Oei also likes to encourage clients to include their children in the real estate journey. “Younger people often don’t understand the challenges their parents face when they buy or sell a home,” he says. “When kids have the chance to get to know the process, this can make them more real-estate savvy and enhance their financial literacy.” While Oei has sold many magazine worthy homes, he is dedicated to helping all his clients achieve maximum success with their listings. “Right now, I’m helping some seniors who are downsizing,” he says. “I’ve arranged for landscaping, for power-washing, painting and changing light fixtures. I’m also helping with the staging of the home.” As always, Oeihas a passion towards his clients that always exceeds expectations. With this level of service—and consistently amazing results—it’s no wonder Steven Oei’s clients always come back for more. •

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It’s my job to understand both my client’s needs, a property’s potential value, neighbourhood amenities, and market conditions. This requires focused time for us to explore how to make the real estate journey efficient and enjoyable.

STEVEN OEI

5487 WEST BOULEVARD VANCOUVER, B.C. OFFICE: 604.737.8865 CELL: 604.808.8850 STEVENOEI@AOL.COM STEVENOEI.COM 7

Doris Gee and Phil Moore RE/MAX Crest Realty

Dedicated to selling and buying your home successfully

oris Gee and Phil Moore are a husband-and-wife realtor team with over 4200 clients, but what they are most proud of are the relationships they’ve cultivated during their careers. Doris became a licensed realtor in 1988, and Phil in 1989. Since 1990, the couple have grown to become one of the Lower Mainland’s most dedicated and successful real estate teams at Re/Max, including receiving the Re/Max Pinnacle Club Team award in 2021, and “realizing our client’s dreams,” is what Gee says means the most. New construction, condos, townhomes, detached homes; residentially they cover it all. With Gee’s Asian heritage, many of her clients are comfortable with her and trust her insight, while Moore is a former policeman born and raised in the Vancouver area and is an active player in the community. Their combined interests and skills are the secret to why they are continually awarded by Re/Max, the Vancouver Real Estate Board, the MLS President’s Club, and are consistently in the Top 1% of the industry since 1991. “It’s such a good feeling to do what we love, which is helping buyers find a new home and helping sellers sell their home,” says Gee. “I have great relationships with amazing clients who are so happy we were there with them every step of the way. Relationships matter.” Moore adds that “we become their trusted advisors. People reach out to us for estate planning, mortgage advice, renovations ideas, we even get phone calls when their kids are graduating,” he smiles. “We develop relationships where we are part of their family and that is the key to repeat business.” Eighty percent of the team’s business is repeat or referral base. Gee and Moore are well known in the industry for being knowledgeable, experienced, hardworking

and trustworthy, and they do their best to mitigate the stress of buying and selling a home. “We do our best to communicate and give professional guidance to our clients. We educate buyers with pre-approvals that can give confidence and educate the clients with the current market trends so their expectations are realistic,” says Gee. And when it comes to the role of technology in real estate? “It comes down to who is going to be the rockstar in the relationship, is it technology enhanced by the realtor, or is it the realtor enhanced by tech?” says Moore. “We use tech, but we’ve taken a back-to-basics approach. We are seeing realtor teams of ten to thirty which is a fine business model, but we prefer to keep our teams small.” Moore, a past president of the Real Estate Board and present director for CREA, is at a point in his life where giving back to the community is crucial. He presently works with youth at risk via the VPD, plus the East End Boys Club, and during the floods of November 2021 he stepped up in a truly inspirational way. “A realtor friend of mine approached me and said, we have to do something,” he says. By social media, their call for help reached other realtors and previous clients to raise $57,000 so that “forty-one helicopter flights moved thirty tons of food and goods to stranded people in BC. These were our clients, and it was heartbreaking to see people displaced from their homes and trapped on highways.” Their efforts landed helicopters in Hope eighteen hours before the military arrived. “Giving is living,” says Moore. “Selling homes and helping people goes hand in hand but helping in the community is a greater cause.” To Doris and Phil, the term “Making a World of Difference” is more than just a slogan, it’s a way of life. •

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It’s such a good feeling to do what we love, which is helping buyers find a new home and helping sellers sell their home. DORIS GEE

SUITE 1 - 5050 KINGSWAY BURNABY, B.C. DORIS GEE: 604.250.0177 PHIL MOORE: 604.230.3772 DORIS@DORISGEE.COM PHIL@PHILMOORE.COM DORISGEE.COM 9

David Richardson RE/MAX Select Realty

Selling Vancouver since 1983

ince 1983, David Richardson has been listing and selling family homes in Vancouver. Known and respected for his dedication to clients, resourcefulness, and keen insight into the real estate market for nearly four decades, those skills along with Richardson’s relaxed professional style sets him apart in a highly competitive business. Richardson has been the recipient of numerous RE/MAX and Real Estate Board awards and accolades over 39 years, and as appreciated as those are, it is his connection with people that has kept him inspired throughout his lengthy career. “You are always meeting different people, it’s never dull,” he says, waving to at least a dozen folks within his community from his office window during the interview. “You develop relationships with people, you get invited into their homes for dinner, you watch their families grow. I’m doing a lot of multi-generational sales now. I’m now doing estate sales for my first clients that were in their 50s back when I started, finding homes for their adult children, and helping their grandkids buy condos from me. I’d hate to date myself,” he laughs. “I really love what I do.” Richardson is a skilled valuator of properties, his opinions are highly regarded and sought after by appraisers, tax assessors and real estate agents. Vancouver Westside is his core business, and to say he’s seen it all in a highly volatile market is an understatement. Can the price of homes continue to climb? “Yes. I know that sounds crazy, but we are allowing 400,000 new immigrants here this year, and even if only 5,000 come to Vancouver that has a huge impact on local prices, for instance,” he says. “Nowadays, there are never more than 50 houses available for sale in Kits, where back in the 80s there would be over 200 houses available. Interest rates were at 18-19% back then and now they are less than 3%.” The Westside is such a highly desired area to live in Vancouver, but is it completely out of reach for most? “It is very tough, but a lot of people consider

buying a duplex or triplex because of the revenue suites,” says Richardson. “People need those revenue suites to afford the mortgage payments.” About 25 years ago, Richardson saw that his clients were struggling with getting organized for listing their homes. He had an idea to create a support team to assist his sellers, something that no other agent was really doing at the time. “They didn’t have contacts for house cleaning, staging, junk removal, or landscapers for instance,” he says. “So, I decided to start paying people to do this for my clients. I have had the same landscaper prep my houses for 25 years. I just give him a date, an address, take a picture of the front yard and backyard and he just comes to it with everything. He knows I want potted plants on the front stairs and sidewalks powerwashed,” he laughs. “Same goes with my house cleaners and my home stager - they know exactly what I need done without asking.” “Everything sells from the outside in, not the inside out. These included services take a lot of pressure off my sellers.” Using technology to his advantage, Richardson tells us how he “listed a really cool two-bedroom condo yesterday, which looks beautifully furnished online. But it is actually empty - we just virtually staged the property with photoshop.” When buyers look at an empty room, they often struggle with “Where would we put this? Where would we put that? This technology helps buyers see the possibilities.” As a people person, Richardson truly values his team including his long-time assistant Ashley, and gives back at an annual fundraiser for West Side Family Place by personally matching every donation. Presently he enjoys spending time with his daughter and grandchildren. “I’m not working 14-hour days anymore, and my only regret is that I worked too much back then and wasn’t there for my kids and wife at the time. Like any other business you have to make some sacrifices.” Seems Richardson is at a place now where he can have the best of both worlds. •

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I’m now doing estate sales for my first clients that were in their 50s back when I started, finding homes for their adult children, and helping their grandkids buy condos. DAVID RICHARDSON

Select Realty

4806 MAIN STREET VANCOUVER, B.C. OFFICE: 604.678.3333 CELL: 604.649.2305 DAVID@THECOLOUROFREALESTATE.COM

THECOLOUROFREALESTATE.COM

Lori Fralic

Personal Real Estate Corporation Buying, selling, renovating, and maintaining houses with a history

hoosing the right realtor is very personal. For many sellers, finding a good fit with an individual or team who ultimately represents you, and your biggest asset, is crucial. “You need to be a great communicator with a thorough understanding of the property you’re selling and the community it’s in,” says Lori Fralic, Realtor with Keller Williams Realty VanCentral. “We work everywhere,” Fralic says of her and business partner Leslie Gray, with presence in several B.C. real estate markets from New Westminster to Burnaby, and from Vancouver to the Sunshine Coast. Having worked at the same brokerage, she and Gray were both asked to co-list a property together and realized they shared an affection for historic and character homes, having both lived in and renovated heritage homes in New Westminster. They bonded over living in early 1900s homes themselves and a soft spot for the TLC involved in buying, selling, renovating, and maintaining houses with a history. In her twenty-year career working for The Vancouver Sun and The Province newspapers in marketing, promotions, and as an editor and writer in the homes and design sections of both the Vancouver Sun and The Province, plus WestCoast Homes + Design magazine, Fralic worked with developers, designers, landscapers, and architects throughout B.C. Moving over to the real estate world seemed like a natural progression, and the inside edge of her deep knowledge of all the moving parts means she can bring that value to her clients. The late Shelley Fralic, long-time columnist and editor at the Vancouver Sun, was Lori’s mother-in-law, and was instrumental in nudging her along to make the move into real estate. “She was my hero. She was a mentor, my biggest cheerleader, and my biggest fan,” says Fralic. “She taught me so much and we talked often about homes and how they are more than just structures. She once said, ‘this is the house that will always be your home,

no matter where you go, the physical vault that is the echo chamber of your life.’ “Recognizing that moving is more than just a change of address is paramount,” says Fralic. “It’s so important to connect with clients and to let them know that you’re with them every step of the way. Whether they’re downsizing or upsizing, clients want to know you’re doing everything you can on their behalf to make the process a smooth and rewarding one.” Fralic has evolved into a dedicated realtor with a client-centric approach, saying “my clients tell me that I have the ability to help people see the possibility in any home. I help people mentally move into a space, to see how to transform a home to make it their own.” In her first year as a licensed realtor, Fralic quickly rose to the top, winning the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver’s Rookie of the Year Award. Since then she has achieved Medallion Club status annually and took home Keller Williams’ Triple Platinum Award in 2021. Fralic approaches every listing she works on as “a privilege” and has earned a reputation for her think-outside-the-box approach to selling and buying, and for being a hands-on and energetic representative for families looking to buy and sell their properties. “Our work ethic is second to none and we always represent our clients with integrity, professionalism and trust”, says Fralic. Regarding today’s market and how disheartening it can be for the buyer? Fralic says this, “your condo or house is out there. We will find it. We are realistic about finding options, solutions, and keeping an open mind. In contrast, it is equally important to educate sellers about what it means to sell in a shifting market. We are headed for some interesting months ahead, pricing strategy will be key and there will be opportunities.” “Simply put, I love real estate. I love working with people. I love the business of promoting and marketing and buying and selling and renovating and styling homes, from For Sale to Sold.” •

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2022 EDITION

Whether they’re downsizing or upsizing, clients want to know you’re doing everything you can on their behalf to make the process a smooth and rewarding one. LORI FRALIC

3995 FRASER STREET VANCOUVER, B.C. 604.312.0738 LORI@LORIFRALIC.COM LORIFRALIC.COM 13

Andrew Lasko

Personal Real Estate Corporation, CPA CA Enabling clients to make strategic real estate decisions

background in financial planning and analysis, including Chartered Professional Accountant and Chartered Accountant designations, plus experience in the hotel industry, real estate, urban planning, banking and auditing industries – combined with a passion for community-building – give Andrew Lasko of Lasko and Associates an advantage when it comes to enabling clients to make strategic real estate decisions. He values “a methodical approach and due diligence” for collaboratively navigating an industry, where structures are useful but market trends sometimes require a quick response. That’s where experience is a big asset, he believes. “Over time, you get to know buying patterns; you see where things are offered and where people are looking,” says Lasko. “I can help you explore real estate as a step towards achieving your overall financial and lifestyle goals. I can also speak intelligently about a range of financial products.” Over his 10+ years in real estate, Lasko has been committed to delivering full service and the right kind of experience for every client. Andrew believes full service is truly thinking out every step in advance for his clients and exceeding their expectations. He gauge what the client’s ideal methodology is and tailors full service to that. “That’s why it’s important to start with a conversation to understand their expectations,” he says. “It’s not just about whether they are looking for two or five bedrooms or what kind of amenities they want nearby. I am interested in learning what process works best for them; for example, do they like to be hands-on? Or do they prefer to outsource as many tasks as possible?” With many of his clients being busy professionals, including accountants, engineers, doctors and lawyers, Lasko aims to minimize the stress that can come with selling or buying a home. “I have pretty big shoulders, so you can trust me to carry much of the load,” he says. “And I’m constantly challenging myself to go the extra mile, to uphold the ethics – and improve the reputation – of the profession.” Lasko grew up in Toronto and lived in Sydney, Australia, and Copenhagen, Denmark,

before settling in Vancouver in 2007. Moving frequently inspired an appreciation of the “emotional strain that can come with the process, even if you’re super-organized. “The last time I moved, I had a spreadsheet. I hired a packer and a mover,” he recalls. “I was going to wake up in one place and go to sleep in another.” Needless to say, it wasn’t quite as stress-free as anticipated, he admits, and experiences like this have reinforced his commitment to offering his clients “the right experience.

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I can help you explore real estate as a step towards achieving your overall financial and lifestyle goals. ANDREW LASKO

“I really focus my attention on what they need,” says Lasko, who loves to discover commonalities, for example, in demographic or socio-economic backgrounds. With his ties to the financial, Jewish and LGBTQAI2S+ communities and his active lifestyle, there is always overlap, “like a Venn diagram,” he notes. Lasko also hopes to help enhance his clients’ financial flexibility, perhaps by discovering unrealized value. “I love the fact that I can help people enter the market with a condo,” he says, “and move their way up to million-dollar estates.” His efforts and results have not gone unnoticed, and Lasko has repeatedly earned professional recognition. Yet what matters most is when clients tell him he’s “the best Realtor,” says Lasko. “This gives me the shivers, in a good way.”

Lasko also believes in giving back to community and is sponsoring a nationally-ranked cyclist – the son of a client – in Squamish, an area that is included in his sphere of business, which reaches from Tsawwassen to the Seato-Sky corridor, he says. “In Geography and product, my business is organically moving toward the west side of Vancouver and into single family houses and duplexes.” A child’s crayon drawing, showing three happy people in front of their new home, graces the Lasko’s office. It was a gift from the eight-year-old daughter of a couple from the Philippines – a thank-you gesture for helping the immigrant family purchase a house in Canada by matching their budget with a motivated private seller. “I keep this picture around,” says Lasko. “I look at it and remind myself of why I’m doing what I do.” •

OAKWYN REALTY DOWNTOWN LTD.

1286 HOMER STREET, 4TH FLOOR VANCOUVER, B.C. 778.988.5443 ANDREW@LASKOASSOCIATES.COM

LASKOASSOCIATES.COM

Michelle Raymond RE/MAX Select Realty

Hard work and a heart-centred approach goes a long way in Real Estate

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t age 42, I feel like I am just getting started!” says Michelle Raymond of being honoured with a recent RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award. Michelle is a heart centered Realtor with a strong work ethic and incredible track record in her Real Estate dealings. Born and raised in Vancouver, she comes from a family of Realtors and specializes in both Vancouver and the North Shore. “Buying a home is a special experience,” says Michelle. “It’s likely to be one of the largest purchases you will make, but it also extends far beyond that; it is where you live, where you raise your family, where you entertain and truly it is an extension of yourself.” Michelle goes on to say that her primary role is to ensure that her clients not only find a wonderful place to call home, but also one that is a sound investment. “I dive pretty deep with my clients in our first consultation to talk about their dreams, visions and goals, and then together, we create a pretty awesome roadmap to get us there.” She feels blessed to have had incredible mentors in Real Estate and among them her family. “It is an absolute gift to work closely with my Mom, Pamela Hooper, who I mastermind with on the daily. This family feeling extends to my clients and they know they will be treated as such.” “My Dad, Mark Raymond, now retired, was a luxury Condo specialist downtown. He taught me both strength and integrity in negotiating. Both him and my Mom have been wonderful role models to me over the years.” Michelle’s brother Brent has also joined the family legacy as a licensed Realtor. Michelle is committed to upholding a sense of a family-run business with a warm and approachable feeling that extends onto her clients. “What is important to me is that I deliver

an elegant Real Estate experience that brings forth results in a smooth and seamless way and one that is aligned with the client’s intentions and vision,” continues Michelle. “That is what gives me the goosebumps.”

Michelle knows that conscientious research goes a long way to help her clients feel safe in their decision making. “Everything sells in a good market” says Michelle. “The key to buying right is to ensure the home has the fundamental components that make it salable in any market; that way your future success is not dependent on what the market is doing.”

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I deliver an elegant Real Estate experience that brings forth results in a smooth and seamless way, one that is aligned with the client’s intentions and vision. MICHELLE RAYMOND

Clearly her business style works for her loyal clients, who appreciate the two rules she lives by. “Number 1 – I would never let a client purchase a home I would not buy myself. Number 2 – It does not matter when a client buys, so long as they buy right.” So far, this patient and protective caring approach has worked wonders for the Realtor and her clients.

“When a client is looking to sell, before I even set foot into the home, I have a tradition of sending a special gift to them. For me it’s an opportunity to genuinely thank the clients for welcoming me into their home; it also represents the comfort and peace of mind I intend for them to feel and experience throughout the process,” she says. Michelle is deeply appreciative of every relationship she has built over the years. She has sat on the RE/MAX of Western Canada Advertising Committee, was past President of a high end, Business Networking International group in Vancouver, and has championed many successful charity events. Michelle was inducted into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame and is often found in the top 100 list of RE/MAX Realtors across Canada. Compassionate, heart-centred, with over 20 years experience makes this a winning combination for both Michelle and her clients! •

4806 MAIN STREET VANCOUVER, B.C. OFFICE: 604.678.3333 CELL: 778.893.7827 MICHELLE@RAYMONDREALTY.CA

RAYMONDREALTY.CA Michelle Raymond michelleraymondvancouver

Nicola Campbell Mint Home Team

Women led team of dynamic realtors in the Lower Mainland

ith an approach to selling and buying real estate that exemplifies industry leading client care and impressive investment returns, MINT Home Team is the powerhouse Vancouver real estate team that has become synonymous with innovative, customization and unsurpassed client satisfaction. Founded by three independently successful realtors, Nicola Campbell, her mother Dorothy Walter, and Sylvia Fierro, were confident that team MINT would fill in gaps that clients might experience during their home selling or search process. MINT has grown to five licensed realtors, a team behind them of stagers, trades and movers; and their multifaceted, stellar Office Manager Carver Holinaty. “I feel so lucky to have this incredible group of smart, talented, amazing people, all of whom come with their own unique accomplished backgrounds and strengths,” says Nicola. “We support each other, which allows us to be there for our clients in the best possible way.” The firm’s culture of collaboration, networking and idea-sharing has been in place since the beginning. “Truly understanding our clients and the unique aspects of their homes, allows us to anticipate their wants and needs; creating meaningful experiences, and successful sales,” says Nicola. “We offer white glove service from start to finish - A ReFRESHing Approach to Real Estate. We have the experience and expertise to curate the most well executed plan and path for you to sell or buy your new home - allowing you to enjoy the best results.” Fierce, strategic, adaptable, Nicola’s known for being calm under pressure. Her exceptional skills as a negotiator have earned her a spot in the top 2% REBGV Realtors, RE/MAX Titan and Lifetime Achievement for 2021. Her clients range from investors, to new-tothe-market buyers, to seasoned family sellers with their 4th and 5th transactions with her. Nicola’s expertise extends to pre-construction, detached homes, multifamily construction, land acquisition, and new home builds. Loyalty is the backbone of her business, as her clients well know how she fights to protect their best interests.

Analytical, direct, knowledgeable – Sylvia brings more than 30-years of expertise in the Westside market to MINT Home Team. She co-leads the team, further broadening a seamless level of coverage to sellers and buyers; while her membership in the Lifetime Medallion Club and RE/MAX Chairmans Club speak to her notable track record. Dorothy, well respected by her North Shore colleagues over nearly four decades, built a sterling reputation for the unwavering service and level of care she bestowed to her clientele. Rhonda Roe hails from a corporate background bringing great business sense, and is known for being patient, steady, thorough and dedicated. Georgia Heraty, following in her grandmother’s footsteps as successful realtor, comes by her tenacious, determined attitude honestly; while Mackinley Wilson, whose passion for design, is further amplifying her offering with BCIT School of Interior Design training. Ever evolving, the Team recognizes that successful acumen is a factor – but also keeps the big picture in view.

“Supporting our community and advocating for our beautiful ecosystems is paramount – it’s what forms our picturesque neighbourhoods, shapes the lives of friends & family, and makes our City so desirable,” says Nicola. “We sought out local, boots-onthe-ground charities like Backpack Buddies, Eco Justice, and Covenant House that have a DIRECT impact for people and biodiversity in BC. This is why we support these charities with every transaction we do.” Everyone at MINT Home Team knows trust from clients can only be assured when they have confidence in their knowledge. With a collective 80+ years of experience, MINT Home Team has proven that collectively they are leaders with experience across all facets of real estate. With local specialists in each area, and across generations, the team is perfectly poised to deliver unprecedented service and results.

Together, this team has amassed numerous accolades, including RE/MAX Diamond Club Team, REBGV Medallion and Top 100 Teams RE/MAX Western Canada, so it’s no surprise that 95% of their business is comprised of returning clients and their referrals. •

EXCELLENCE in

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We have the experience and expertise to curate the most well executed plan and path for you to sell or buy your new home - allowing you to enjoy the best results. NICOLA CAMPBELL

Missing in Action - Dorothy Walter, Rhonda Roe and Mackinley Wilson

1428 W 7TH AVE, VANCOUVER

1453 BELLEVUE AVE, WEST VANCOUVER

604.767.4600 NICOLA@MINTHOMETEAM.COM MINTHOMETEAM.COM

Denise Mai

Personal Real Estate Corporation Consistently creating amazing customer experiences year after year

s the founder/owner of Denise Mai Personal Real Estate Corporation Denise has created a true powerhouse of real estate professionals to serve her clients. In addition, she has multiple accolades under her belt, including being a two-time TEDx speaker and having experience working for two Fortune 500 companies. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Denise consistently ranks as one of Greater Vancouver’s top realtors. An overachiever, Denise has been in the real estate industry since 2010, with nine years spent with RE/MAX before moving to EXP in 2019. In that time, she became a Top 1% REALTOR in Vancouver, and the recipient of numerous awards, including the Exp ICON award since 2019, RE/MAX Hall of Fame and RE/MAX Chairman’s and Platinum, 100% and Executive clubs. Born and raised in Vancouver, Denise earned a communications degree from Simon Fraser University before working with two Fortune 500 companies - Accenture & Johnson and Johnson. Denise found the nine-to-five didn’t really work for her. The turning point for Denise happened in 2009. “I entered a Coffee News contest to win a trip,” explains Denise. “For the competition, I had to sell ads, so I decided to target realtors. I ended up winning the contest, which proved to me that I could sell, and so I took a leap of faith and got my real estate license and now here I am today.” She earned her real estate license shortly thereafter. Working for two major Fortune 500 companies taught Denise valuable skills, such as how to work effectively under pressure, how to manage time, and most importantly, how to deal with all kinds of people. Denise recognizes the key to success in this highly competitive and ever-changing industry is a combination of experience, integrity, professionalism, innovation, strength and a team approach. That means offering the best possible customer service tailored specifically to each individual client’s interests and always putting the client’s needs as a priority. To that end, she develops a customized

marketing approach for each listing she markets and advertises- highlighting the features and benefits of each home she sells. Utilizing her strong social media presence, which includes 17.8K Instagram followers and 1,040 on YouTube, Denise creates maximum exposure for her clients through customized marketing videos. “We strive to deliver world class service with integrity, honesty and professionalism, helping our clients get the most value for their homes and real estate investments while supporting our families and our community,” says Denise. “As a real estate investor myself, my goal is to help others achieve financial freedom through investing and providing friendly knowledgeable advice that you can trust.” Talk to any of Denise’s happy clients and they’ll tell you that Denise consistently delivers an awesome customer experience each and every time. She offers the most effective marketing tools, highly proficient staff and support systems; the best trained and most successful agents in our marketplace; the most productive sales team in the marketplace; and, collectively gives back to the community, contributing to making the world a better place. “My mother was a refugee from Vietnam, and we were on welfare. I remember going to the Union Gospel Mission when I was young for meals,” says Denise. “To be in a position now where I can give back to the Union Gospel Mission feels really good.” Besides making a large yearly donation to the Union Gospel Mission, Denise donated to the Children’s Miracle Network and last year rappelled 25-storeys down the Guinness Office tower in Vancouver to raise funds for the Easter Seals 2021 Drop Zone Challenge. She raised $1,000 for children and families with disabilities. When she isn’t out working hard for her clients, Denise is an avid investor, and owns 10+ properties with a $12M+ portfolio. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, a growing family, a relocator, an investor or a retiree, Denise Mai Personal Real Estate Corporation will always have your best and unique interests at heart. •

EXCELLENCE in

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I believe customer trust and satisfaction are key factors, and that’s how I’ve built my business and will continue to do so. DENISE MAI

1500 - 701 WEST GEORGIA ST VANCOUVER, B.C. 778.858.0996 DENISE@DENISEMAI.COM DENISEMAI.COM 21

Morning Yu Personal Real Estate Corporation Maintaining the quality of client service is the key

orning Yu chose a path “a bit different than the traditional realtor career.” Prior to breaking into the business in Vancouver in 2010, she was a successful insurance broker in Asia. With a toolbox full of professional skills that transferred easily to her clients looking to buy and sell real estate in Greater Vancouver, plus numerous leads and relationships established, Yu felt ready to make the significant career change. And she has never looked back. Leading a team of 45 people since 2013, Yu has seen the shift in how realtors do business, firsthand. “I think the biggest difference back then was creating the team structure,” she says. “Realtors generally do very local business, and I was told by some of my buyers that it is hard to reach their realtors who are often very busy without a lot of manpower to help them. They just did not have time to maintain the listings.” The solution for Yu was to go team focused. “When we created a team structure, we introduced a very formal training program to teach our realtors how to maintain listings and take care of clients carefully,” she says. “We wanted to get the most exposure to our clients’ listings and offer the best way to get to the seller.” As a team leader Yu shares that “it’s very busy, training and recruiting, being responsive to listings, and we must maintain the quality of the service. That is the key point, to serve the client better.” As an example, Yu trains her team on the start to finish of conducting open houses, with a focus on scheduling, contacting the seller, how to be well prepared as both realtor and client, and more. The team structure “balances it all for the client, so they have more service from numerous people, at any time of day.” Yu believes that licensed realtors on her team “have a good chance to learn, get into the business, and come to understand

that clients are our priority. You can’t go further without the training.”

When asked how she advises her clients in today’s market, Yu has this to say, “the market is shifting. It started in mid-March after the increase of interest rates. The market has slowed down and we advise buyers not to rush if they can, and then they have a chance to shop around, and wait. That way there could be more choices, more inventory and more opportunities to negotiate the price.” As for sellers, “I always say the timing is important and you have to make a decision quickly during peak season, without the luxury of too much time thinking.”

EXCELLENCE in

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The team structure balances it all for the client, so they have more service from numerous people, at any time of day. MORNING YU

As a woman in real estate, Yu is reflective. “As a female realtor, it’s not easy to be successful, or outstanding in the business. We often have families to take care of and sacrifices to make. When I started my kids were teenagers, so I didn’t have enough time for them sometimes. However, every important event I was there with them, no matter how busy I was. I will always be there for them, and now they are adults and doing well.”

With her refreshingly honest approach, she tells us about a past situation where the struggle was very real. “One thing I really regret is that I wasn’t there for the kids’ graduation photos. I had a client emergency and was late. I tried my best, but sometimes we can’t have both.” “My daughter is just graduating from university this year. Both kids have scholarships, and I am so proud. They are very focused, they study hard, and they say, ‘mom you are our role model’. They don’t seem to mind that I am not a good housewife (laughs), but I helped them know themselves and what they want.”

Yu is fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese, English, and French, and won the 2011 BC Outstanding Chinese Women Award. She is one of the top 1% REALTOR® in Great Vancouver Real Estate board since 2014. •

900-2025 WILLINGDON AVE BURNABY, B.C. 604.719.3307 SOLD@MORNINGYU.COM MORNINGYU.COM 23

Anna Litvak Joseph B.C. Prime Real Estate

Service that extends beyond a transaction and focuses on building lifetime relationships

“ ’m not just there for the paperwork,” says

Anna Litvak Joseph of BC Prime Real Estate Group. Litvak’s natural progression into the real estate world came about five years ago and she’s never looked back. With a career in sales since age nineteen, a mineral makeup store chain, plus selling restaurant franchises, her experience and interest in real estate grew simultaneously. “I always knew real estate was my thing; I was always interested in houses, structures, lands, creating passive income and wealth through real estate rentals,” she says. “When it came to self employment, it was clear that I wanted to continue working for myself.” “It comes very natural to me. My husband and I have moved thirteen times,” she laughs. “We have renovated, bought and sold, and gutted places. I have a lot of first-hand experience personally, going through many types of properties and transactions myself.” Litvak’s client base are mainly families looking to upgrade to their dream homes, families who need to find the right fit to their growing families, and families who relocate. She offers a variety of destinations based on their desired lifestyle and budget plan, including Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Langley, and the Tri-Cities. “Many of my clients are moving to B.C. because they are considering a job change or dreaming about better weather with less snow and cold.” Litvak has posted videos on YouTube to target folks looking at living in these areas, and a quick Google search has helped many find her. “Another big portion of my clients speak Russian or Hebrew, as do I.” With a small team that includes husband Tal Joseph and colleague Svitlana Pelletier, Litvak feels they can minimize the hassle and upheaval of relocating to a new community. She also “moves a lot of people out of Vancouver into the suburbs,” especially with the market in its current state. If a growing family “love the mountains and nature then the Tri-Cities or Maple Ridge are ideal, or for people who like brand-new neighbourhoods and new schools, Willoughby in Langley or Burke Mountain in

Coquitlam would be perfect.” Litvak believes it’s very important to consider “the community you are going to fall into, what ethnicities live there, and taking time to consider your wants or hopes. For some people, an hour commute to work is not a problem especially if they are used to it, from moving from another large city, for instance. In this case A nice house in the suburbs is perfect. For some a fifteen-minute commute is maximum and living by the freeway is a must so we would focus on specific areas.” When it comes to condos vs. houses, Litvak says “I am dealing a lot with buyers and sellers, focusing mostly on detached homes. Land is land, and a smart investment beyond just lifestyle.” Litvak’s Love it or Leave it Guarantee means that if you change your mind within the first twelve months of moving in, because you fell in the wrong community than what you were hoping for, or the house or neighbourhood is not what you thought it would be, her team will sell it for free and help you move elsewhere. This helps alleviate the fear some buyers face of being stuck in the wrong place. “We dedicate a lot of time listening and understanding the clients needs and lifestyle, going through showings and analyzing the correct items of importance, we will make sure we find the best home that meets the budget or we sell it for free (on the listing agency portion side) for you. Our job is to make your life as stress free as possible.” For Litvak, the care she provides her clients with “all starts with listening. I don’t just put people on an automated system. I put a lot more thought into their needs, what things will look like in five years, and in ten years. It’s not cheap to sell real estate. Clients pay commissions, pay property transfer tax, and need their investment to grow enough to cover all those expenses. I want to make sure the choice they are making is the best one for them on the lifestyle aspect and to be a smart money investment. I have never had a client buy something and regret it.” Helping families make calculated moves is Litvak’s passion. •

EXCELLENCE in

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Our service extends beyond a transaction, we focus on building lifetime relationships, and enjoy meeting new forever friends. ANNA LITVAK JOSEPH

10- 228 SCHOOLHOUSE STREET COQUITLAM, B.C. OFFICE: 604.262.1581 CELL: 604.442.9422 ANNA@BCPRIMEREALTY.COM BCPRIMEREALTY.COM 25

Rebecca Permack Permack and Associates and Burke Mountain Homes

Realtor leads by example by giving back to her community

here’s no mistaking the fact that Rebecca Permack, one of the top award-winning Realtors in B.C., loves what she does. But while she enjoys offering the best in customer service and sales expertise, it’s the community connections and people she’s met along the way that give Rebecca the most joy. “If someone were to take a survey, I bet Realtors are some of the largest financial supporters of youth sports,” says Permack, Founder and Team Lead at Permack and Associates and Burke Mountain Homes. “Our team supports youth hockey, soccer and lacrosse teams — whether it’s to help with their fundraising or to sponsor equipment. I don’t have kids of my own, but it’s just kind of what we do as members of the community and it feels great.” She adds that an unexpected benefit of her philanthropic efforts is the goodwill and word-of-mouth recommendations by friends, clients and people looking for a Realtor. “I’ve met many clients because they’ve learned about the sponsorships that our team does or the events that we put on in the community,” says Permack, “and I think that the fundraising I do personally just really speaks to a lot of people.” Giving back is so important to Permack, she looks for that same spirit and empathy when hiring new team members. The two other agents on the Permack and Associates team, Sonia Lagiglia and Eric Dove, also have deep roots in their communities and collectively they are one of the most generous and community-minded teams in the Tri-Cities. Buying a home is one the most important transactions someone will undertake in their lifetime, so Permack wants a team willing to go the extra mile to ensure a client’s experience with Royal LePage and Permack and Associates goes above and beyond. Permack wants to change the perception of some people that all Realtors are simply in it for the money. It’s a change she’s very happy to lead by example.

“We treat our clients like family because we participate in their search for the most important asset they’re going to purchase in their lifetime,” says Permack. “We are often there to help them through very difficult times. I have a great deal of empathy for how stressful the process can be.” She notes in Real Estate, Realtors are always involved when there’s transition. “You know, that scary first purchase, growing families, divorces, downsizing, aging out of their home,” says Permack. “Whatever the situation, people can be at their most vulnerable during the time we are working together, so we try to bring them into our family and really put their needs first and foremost. It creates cheerleaders for life.” Permack is also heavily involved in fundraising efforts for Royal LePage nationally, and is a consistent top one-percent donor for the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to funding women’s shelters and violence prevention programs. To help raise money for the Shelter Foundation, Permack spends months training each year to complete gruelling challenges, including hiking Machu Picchu in Peru, a trek through the Sahara Desert and a 115-kilometre trek through the lava fields in Iceland. To date, these efforts has raised more than $3 million across the country. “The amazing thing about fundraising for the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation is that all of the funds raised come directly back to our community. So, in my case, all the money we raise goes towards supporting the Tri-City Transitions [Society] women’s shelter,” says Permack. “It’s been extra important in these last couple of years as women’s shelters have seen an increase in the incidence and severity of domestic violence during the pandemic.”

Permack adds that even though the past couple of years have been challenging for many people — and the Real Estate industry has had to change and adapt — her team is still committed to helping clients achieve their dreams with expertise, insight and compassion. •

EXCELLENCE in

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We treat our clients like family because we participate in their search for the most important asset they’re going to purchase in their lifetime. REBECCA PERMACK

2185 AUSTIN AVENUE COQUITLAM, B.C. 604.939.6666 HELLO@PERMACKANDASSOCIATES.COM

PERMACKANDASSOCIATES.COM