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Agent to Watch – Jaeden Wilson
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Meet Jaeden Wilson, one of our November Agents to Watch! A savvy business owner even before she joined W, Jaeden knows that her success in the real estate industry comes down to making the most of the opportunities that cross her path, and there’s no denying that she has hit the ground running since joining our team. Keep reading to learn more about Jaeden!
What was the first thing you wrote on your to-do list for today?:
Pick up groceries hahaha
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?:
“Work until your idols become your rivals”
What is your favorite part about working in real estate in this part of the world?:
The opportunity! While there are a lot of other agents in Sonoma, there are even more clientele, houses, people moving to the area, people selling & leaving, just so much opportunity to grow! I know of other areas where everything is very stagnant and there are too many agents than there are clientele and that would make it really challenging to grow in real estate.
Tell us about a recent challenge you came upon and how you conquered it.:
A recent challenge I came upon has definitely been to not lose my cool during high-stress moments! During each transaction, there will be times when things aren’t going as planned or maybe you aren’t seeing eye to eye with one person involved in the transaction and my initial reaction is always to get my clients what they deserve and sometimes that can result in me just lashing out in anger if I think something should be going a way that it isn’t going. I remember having to call Melissa during both escrows and just vent about my frustrations and she would be my sounding board and make sure I didn’t make any rash decisions. Through her guidance, I was able to see things in a different light and that is something that will help me throughout the rest of my real estate career whenever things become challenging!
What role has mentorship played in your career?:
I would be nowhere without the help from Angela & Melissa with Sonoma County Home Group! As a new agent, I knew that I needed all the help I could get and having the ability to mentor with experienced agents is so necessary when you’re first starting out. I came across so many different challenges throughout both escrows that if I didn’t have the help from SCHG I probably would’ve made so many mistakes that both deals could’ve fell through. Sometimes you just need someone to ask questions to and bounce ideas off of so it’s nice to be given a mentorship opportunity through W.
What’s your favorite home design feature that you wish more homes had?:
Butlers Kitchens. As a baker, the ability to have a whole separate kitchen area to make a mess in & then be able to hide that mess if guests are over would be such a game changer! It’s definitely a must-have if I ever built my own home!
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?:
My grandma, even tho I never called her “Grandma.” Her name was Dorris but when I was little I couldn’t pronounce her name so for some reason I called her “Abby” and it just stuck LOL. When I was growing up, both of my parents worked full time so I was with my grandma every single day. She passed in 2021 but had suffered from dementia for years prior so she never truly got to see me move away and start this whole new life for myself. It truly was something that changed my life and ultimately was the turning point that made me decide college wasn’t for me and pursue real estate. Although, I don’t know if we’d get dinner… breakfast was more of our thing. 😉
Someone is coming to visit Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County. Where should they go first?:
My answer to this will probably be very unexpected but growing up in Humboldt County, Sonoma was THE CITY lol! Everyone from Humboldt would make the trip to hit all the outlet malls & brand name stores, especially right before going back to school! So, the places that I always remembered were Cottingtown & The Santa Rosa Mall (Probably sounds so strange BUT if you’ve ever seen the only mall in Humboldt you’d know why it was so exciting coming to Sonoma) I remember when I started at SRJC I had a night class and out the window I could see the Cottingtown Mall sign and man, I really thought I made it in life LOL! Sometimes it’s the small things! 🙂
What’s something you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year? (Wedding, vacation, new opportunity, etc.):
Something I look forward to in the upcoming year is meeting new people! Sonoma is such a huge place compared to my home town and I just know there’s so many people out there who might be looking to buy or sell that I would be the perfect agent for but we just haven’t met yet! 😉
Agent to Watch – Jenna Shepherd
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Say hello to Jenna Shepherd, an October Agent to Watch! The market may be constantly changing, but that doesn’t stop Jenna. She loves finding her clients the perfect place to call their own, and you’ll never catch her backing down from the challenge. Check out our blog below to learn more about Jenna!
What was the first thing you wrote on your to-do list for today?:
After household chores and preparing meeting notes, my to-do list was to call back all current sellers and seller leads.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?:
Ever?? That’s tough….. but I think it’s “Other people’s opinion of you are none of your business.”
What is your favorite part about working in real estate in this part of the world?:
I love the hunt! I love taking out new buyers to tour homes, dreaming with them, planning with them, and seeing their real estate dreams come to reality.
Tell us about a recent challenge you came upon and how you conquered it.:
In this ever-changing market, it was a challenge getting buyers to commit to the process. I found that reviewing the numbers and their bottom line gives them confidence in their decision. Along with my approach of education being more important than the sale, has helped buyers feel in control not along for the ride.
What role has mentorship played in your career?:
It has reminded me to remain patient and persistent, it has taught me to adapt and adjust my own procedures over time, and it has been an incredible opportunity to teach with passion something that I love doing.
What’s your favorite home design feature that you wish more homes had?:
Large pantries with electrical outlets for those bulky appliances that need a place to live.
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?:
Great question, I am a sucker for old movies so it would be John Wayne. I would love to know what inspired him not only to get into movies but what it was that set him apart from everyone else, what made him the immortal cowboy that lives on today.
Someone is coming to visit Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County. Where should they go first?:
A great welcome to Mendocino County is a drive through the redwoods to the coast, eating gourmet food from local farmers found in many lovely restaurants and of course a glass of wine from one of our many organic wineries.
What’s something you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year? (Wedding, vacation, new opportunity, etc.):
Next year I will be traveling a lot more (thank goodness for wi-fi and laptops) and there may even be wedding bells in the wind….
Agent to Watch – Steve Bowne
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Meet Steve Bowne, one of our October Agents to Watch! Steve is newer to the real estate game but you wouldn’t know it. He takes a future-oriented approach to his business, through which he finds the motivation to stay up to date on market trends and challenges so that he may continue to make the best possible decisions on behalf of his clients. Keep reading to learn more about Steve!
What was the first thing you wrote on your to-do list for today?:
Don’t forget to take lunch. I often get too busy and don’t have time to stop my day for 30 minutes.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?:
The best piece of advice I have ever been given is “Don’t compare yourself to others.” It’s natural for us to compare ourselves to others, especially in the age of social media where everyone’s highlights are on display. Instead of focusing on what others have or have achieved, it’s important to focus on our own journey, progress, and personal growth.
What is your favorite part about working in real estate in this part of the world?:
The ability to go to the snow and the ocean all in the same day. Northern California is a great place to reside.
Tell us about a recent challenge you came upon and how you conquered it.:
Competition has been a challenge while being a new agent. Successful agents stay updated with market trends, have effective marketing strategies, and build a strong network of potential buyers and sellers. Buyers and sellers often have different expectations, and it’s my role to bridge the gap and provide realistic guidance. Clear communication, setting proper expectations, and providing expert advice have helped me overcome this challenge. Finally, the ability to stay motivated and resilient despite occasional setbacks is crucial. Having a positive mindset, continuous self-improvement, and a strong support system have helped me conquer these challenges.
What role has mentorship played in your career?:
Mentorship has given me success by teaching me everyday values. The work you put in today will impact you 90+ days down the road. This helps me stay focused and set goals.
What’s your favorite home design feature that you wish more homes had?:
I lived on the East Coast for many years. A large percentage of homes in Central NY have a basement, these provide many uses. I think we need more homes with basements here in California.
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?:
I wish I could have dinner with my sister. She passed in 2007. We were close in age and shared friendships, hobbies, and many similar interests.
Someone is coming to visit Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County. Where should they go first?:
I would recommend to go and see the Redwoods. There are many Redwood Groves throughout our counties that are absolutely amazing and provide different experiences. The world’s 11th tallest Redwood is located just outside of Ukiah in Montgomery Woods State Park.
What’s something you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year? (Wedding, vacation, new opportunity, etc.):
I am hopeful that interest rates will be going down in the upcoming year.
Agents of the Month – Tedi Spain and Maria Kenney
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Congratulations to our October Agents of the Month, Tedi Spain and Maria Kenney! The dynamic duo behind Home Team Platinum, Tedi and Maria work hard to present a united front to their clients that is built on professionalism and market knowledge. No matter what they end each transaction with their client’s needs not just being met, but exceeded. Keep reading to learn more about Tedi and Maria!
What three words would you use to describe your approach to the real estate business?:
Maria: Compassion, Integrity, Relationships. Tedi: Professionalism, Integrity, Relationships.
What’s one aspect of your business that you are looking to improve on this year? In what ways/how would like to see yourself improve?:
Maria: We both appreciate W’s commitment to education and training. Participating in further education programs and earning more designations.
Tedi: There’s always room for improvement. I have 4 professional designations and I would like to earn more. I may even at some point like to get my Brokers License. I love to keep learning!
To what do you attribute your success most?:
Maria: Our partnership as a team. One of us is always available for our clients and we are able to continually give 100%. We keep each other laughing and work hard together when things get challenging. Success is loving what you do!
Tedi: Hard work and our partnership as a team! Both of us have kids and grandkids and we help each other balance work and family. Also, the support of our family, friends, and clients as they are the heart of our business. Success is loving what you do!
If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?:
Maria: Familiarize yourself with all the listings in your area. Attend broker tours and see new listings. When someone asks you about a listing, knowledge is key. Be the expert!
Tedi: Work your sphere and know current market conditions.
What’s the one piece of advice you always give your clients first?:
Maria: We don’t think our job is to give advice first. Our job is to listen to our clients and keep their needs in our mind while accomplishing our job. For first-time buyers, we always tell them there are no dumb questions. We know this can be stressful, and we are here to help facilitate and make this process as easy as possible.
Tedi: We don’t think our job is to give advice first. We listen to our client’s needs while accomplishing our job. We try to make the process as easy as possible for them. Price, Condition, Availability. It’s all relative to their needs!
Failure is a natural part of achieving success. How do you recoup when things don’t necessarily go your way?:
Maria: Tedi and I will bounce ideas off of each other, and discuss how we could have done things differently. There are so many personalities that we deal with and it’s impossible to predict how things will go. We are constantly learning and growing, boosting each other up, and moving forward.
Tedi: We bounce ideas off of each other and discuss how we could have done things differently. We are constantly learning and growing. Positive thinking, communication, learn from it, and turn it around. There are always hurdles, keep moving forward.
If work-life balance is important to you how can you tell if you are getting it right?:
Maria: Having enough money to support doing all the things you love! Our partnership as a team allows us to have a work-life balance. Family always comes first. We both feel that way.
Tedi: Teamwork. Use your support team. Stay Motivated. Our partnership allows us to a work-life balance. We both feel family comes first.
What roles have mentors played in your life and career?:
Maria: Tedi invited me (Maria) to join her in Real Estate 9 years ago, so I was able to change careers. She was definitely my mentor, spending so much time helping me with the ins and outs of a transaction. Throughout the years, she has always been so positive and light-hearted. If I can mirror that, I am a winner!
Tedi: They told me family comes first. I have worked hard but have also enjoyed the flexibility to raise my kids, enjoy time with my grandkids, and enjoy life as well.
What risks were you willing to take when starting out in your career and how have they benefitted you?:
Maria: Starting a career that is 100% commission is stressful. Just getting out and doing the job when you don’t have the experience is truly the only way to learn. You gain confidence when you push yourself out of your comfort zone.
Tedi: Real Estate has its pros and cons. Going from a full-time salary to a commission-based only is tough. You have to stay motivated, constantly market yourself, and work hard. You have to be able to adapt to many different situations and stay positive through the good and bad times. On the flip side, it is great to have the flexibility to spend time with family and friends so you have that balance of life and work.
If you could only ever visit one business again in Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County, what would it be and why?:
Maria: A Sonoma County winery!!! Everyone is happy! So much beauty in our vineyards!
Tedi: This is tough because we have so many great businesses surrounding us. We are truly blessed to live and work where we do. Do What You Love…Love What You Do!
How To Buy A Generator For Your Home
Female hand starts a portable electric generator standing on the grass in front of a summer house in summer evening
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It’s no secret that weather conditions and extreme weather events continue to wreak havoc in the Bay Area and across the state, resulting in sometimes more frequent and prolonged power outages. Having an alternative energy source gives you peace of mind by ensuring a continued power supply whenever there’s a blackout. A reliable generator enables you to continue running your heating, air conditioning, and other home appliances essential for living in your home safely, especially during extreme weather.
If you’re in the process of buying a home generator, we have put together this quick guide to help you make an informed decision.
Types of Generators
Before we look into the factors you should consider when buying a generator for your home, let’s first discuss the types of generators available. Mainly, there are four options standby, portable, inverter, and solar generators.
Home Standby Generator
Home standby generators start automatically when the power goes out. They provide an added convenience, especially when the power goes out when you’re not at home. Though the generators are more expensive than the portable types, they offer more safety and higher power outputs, mainly between 5,000 and 20,000 watts.
Portable Generator
Portable generators are wheeled units, making them ideal for use in any open space on your property. They produce high levels of carbon monoxide; hence, they should never be used in an enclosed space. Most portable generators supply between 3,000 and 8,500 watts.
Inverter Generator
Inverter generators are also wheeled but have more complex engines that allow them to regulate the power needed by throttling up and down, making them more energy-efficient. They also emit lower levels of carbon monoxide and are less noisy. Inverter generators can supply between 1,500 and 7,600 watts.
Portable Power Stations
Also known as solar generators, portable power stations provide clean energy as they do not require propane or gas. Instead, they charge by plugging into solar panels or electric outlets. These can be safely used in enclosed spaces as they do not have emissions. They’re quieter but provide less power, mainly between 1,200 and 1,500 watts.
Factors to Consider
Some of the most important factors to consider when choosing an ideal generator for your home are type, performance, fuel source, and safety features. Here is a rundown of the features to look out for and why you should consider them.
Safety is of utmost importance. Manufacturers test generators for safety and performance before releasing them into the market. Ensure that a nationally recognized testing laboratory certifies the generator.
Power Requirement
Assess your power needs in case of an outage to determine the size of the generator you need. For instance, you can analyze the power requirements of your most vital devices and appliances as follows:
- Refrigerator – 500 – 1,000 watts
- Laptop – 20 – 75 watts
- Light bulbs – 5 – 80 watts
- Microwave – 600 – 1,500 watts
- Sump pump – 800 – 1,000 watts
- Portable heater – 750 – 1,500 watts
- Water heater – 4,000 – 5,000 watts
- Window air conditioner – 500 – 2,000 watts
- Dryer – 2,000 – 6,000 watts
Fuel Source
Both standby and portable generators can use propane. Portable generators use gasoline, while natural gas is exclusively used in standby models. Solar energy is also a common fuel source but has a much lower power output.
Transfer Switch
Standby generators have pre-installed automatic transfer switches, while there are manual switches that can be used with portable generators. Portable generators mainly run on extension cords, but these are a hazardous option in case of a power overload. The alternative is using a transfer switch, which enables a safe connection to a circuit panel for easy switching between grid and generator power.
Cost
Mainly, the cost depends on the type of generator and the energy output. Standby generators can range between $2,000 and $15,000, while the portable types can cost you between $400 and $6,000.
Automatic CO Shutoff
A generator with an automatic CO shutoff kills the engine when it detects harmful levels of carbon monoxide. Also, be on the lookout for models that have low CO engines.
Fuel Gauge
Some generators have a fuel gauge that allows you to monitor the fuel level. Likewise, some models have low-oil shutoff that kills the engine when the fuel drops below a certain level, so be on the lookout for those as well.
There you have it! Crucial factors to consider when buying a home generator. We hope you’re now more prepped to pick the best unit to keep your home appliances running through power outages.
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Agent of the Month – Andrew Saltzman
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Congratulations to our September Agent of the Month, Andrew Saltzman! Loyalty and a depth of market knowledge are the name of the game for Andrew. He knows that as an agent, he can bring value to his clients by successfully guiding them through the ups and downs of the home-buying process, and through his ability to close their transactions. Andrew’s ongoing success is a true testament to his hard work. Browse our blog below to read more about Andrew!
What three words would you use to describe your approach to the real estate business?:
Professional. Loyal. Go-Getter.
What’s one aspect of your business that you are looking to improve on this year? In what ways/how would like to see yourself improve?:
I would say probably learning more social media tricks. I am great at talking to people face-to-face. But social media has always been my Achilles heel.
To what do you attribute your success most?:
Being loyal to my clients. Being a hard worker. Never giving up. Being patient.
If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?:
When I mentor new agents. I always say pick an area you like such as Fountaingrove, Rohnert Park, etc., and study that area and be the best in that area of knowledge. Know every sale. Know every floor plan. Go to every open house. See what’s selling. So when that time comes and you’re on a listing appointment. You shine to those sellers and blow them away.
What’s the one piece of advice you always give your clients first?:
Buying or selling a house is a stressful time. But I am here to make it less stressful and let’s just have fun. Let’s enjoy the process and if we hit a roadblock or hurdle we will address it. That’s why I’m your agent.
Failure is a natural part of achieving success. How do you recoup when things don’t necessarily go your way?:
We all have had ups and downs in this industry. I think failure at times is a good thing because it humbles a person and then makes them have that drive and passion even more. It makes them want to achieve that goal even more.
If work-life balance is important to you how can you tell if you are getting it right?:
This job can be insanely stressful. This job can keep you up at night. So having an outlet is important. Working out and being with my fiancé and two dogs is my way to keep a solid level life. This job can absolutely consume you if you let it.
What roles have mentors played in your life and career?:
Mentors have played a huge role in my career. I’m not afraid to ask for advice or ask an even more seasoned agent for help or even run an idea by them. My mentor starting out was very honest and said you have to grind and no one is going to hold your hand and pay your bills for you. So that has always stayed with me.
What risks were you willing to take when starting out in your career and how have they benefitted you?:
I was all in when I first started real estate. I didn’t have a backup plan. So failure was not an option for me.
If you could only ever visit one business again in Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County, what would it be and why?:
Catellies in Geyserville. It’s hands down my top three favorite restaurants in Sonoma County.
Agent to Watch – Savannah Wellander
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Meet Savannah Wellander, one of our September Agents to Watch! No deal is too big, no client request is too difficult for Savannah. Pulling from her industry knowledge and relying on her “No Options” mentality, Savannah hit the ground running at W and is showing no signs of slowing down. Keep reading to learn more about Savannah!
What was the first thing you wrote on your to-do list for today?:
Send out ratified contract to Maggie Mae and title!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?:
Live with a no options mentality. No one is going to save you.
What is your favorite part about working in real estate in this part of the world?:
I love to help people and put deals together. I like the chaos of making all the pieces fit and having insider info!
Tell us about a recent challenge you came upon and how you conquered it.:
My son has a lot of health issues and they randomly pop up and when they do it is life or death. I have learned to smile, pray and know that some good will come from everything, even when it feels impossible.
What role has mentorship played in your career?:
The mentors who have had the highest expectations of me are those I have respected and learned the most from. I don’t want att-boys, I want feedback that makes me even more competitive/successful.
What’s your favorite home design feature that you wish more homes had?:
BLACK PAINT!
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?:
Mark Cuban, I think he is an incredibly intelligent forward thinker. I respect his hustle.
Someone is coming to visit Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County. Where should they go first?:
Sonoma, The Plaza of course.
What’s something you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year? (Wedding, vacation, new opportunity, etc.):
Achieving the goals people are currently telling me are too big.
Agent to Watch – Amy Ramirez
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Congratulations to one of our September Agents to Watch, Amy Ramirez! It’s no secret that real estate in Sonoma County is highly sought-after, and at times can feel out of reach for our clients. But that’s where Amy comes in! A SoCo native, Amy combines her local knowledge with her detailed and organized approach to make her client’s goals a reality. Keep reading to learn more about Amy!
What was the first thing you wrote on your to-do list for today?:
Coffee. There’s always a long to-do list so forever first, coffee. Then, I can actually write the list and today it was contacting photographers for my new listing!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?:
Where you are right now is exactly where you’re meant to be.
What is your favorite part about working in real estate in this part of the world?:
I’ve lived here all my life so I’m very familiar with all the beautiful things that come along with being a Sonoma County resident and also realize it’s an expensive place to live. I’d have to say my favorite part of working in real estate here, specifically, is the opportunity to be involved in my clients’ achievement of home ownership. What a huge accomplishment to own a home here and to be able to help make that happen- definitely a favorite part.
Tell us about a recent challenge you came upon and how you conquered it.:
Learning how to balance real estate with life. I have scheduled each day out, by the hour, to make sure I make time for work, myself and all of my other priorities. Although there’s usually variance, it’s given me great structure to feel accomplished at the end of the day.
What role has mentorship played in your career?:
It has been amazing to have my hand held through the diversity of real estate encounters! I feel incredibly lucky to be able to have TWO mentors who each have different perspectives who have been there for me through it all. Thank you Sonoma County Home Group!
What’s your favorite home design feature that you wish more homes had?:
Indoor/outdoor living
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?:
My dad who passed away when I was young; I’d give anything to have that opportunity!
Someone is coming to visit Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County. Where should they go first?:
Definitely Amy’s Beautique for a relaxing, organic facial treatment. I am not biased in any way.
What’s something you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year? (Wedding, vacation, new opportunity, etc.):
I’ve planned a surprise vacation with my husband I’m looking forward to! No one tell him and he probably won’t read this but if he does… surprise!
Agents of the Month – Nicole Manville
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Congratulations to our August Agent of the Month, Nicole Manville! Though her career is established and her business is strong, Nicole knows there’s always room for improvement and to never forget where she started. From knocking on doors to build her client base, to making mental notes around agents she admires, Nicole is a student of her craft and she has the successes to show for it. Keep reading to learn more about our Agent of the Month, Nicole!
What three words would you use to describe your approach to the real estate business?:
Clients come first!
What’s one aspect of your business that you are looking to improve on this year? In what ways/how would like to see yourself improve?:
I want to improve my listing presentations, to showcase my 22 years in the business.
To what do you attribute your success most?:
Always putting my client’s needs first and working diligently to ensure their successful transactions.
If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?:
Remind your friends, family, and neighbors that you sell real estate, but make sure you are always offering insightful information and never really asking for their business, but always earn their business!
What’s the one piece of advice you always give your clients first?:
Remember this is an investment, always make sure that you are buying in the best location you can afford, trust my advice, I will always tell you if you are making a good investment and I would never let you make a knowingly bad decision.
Failure is a natural part of achieving success. How do you recoup when things don’t necessarily go your way?:
I remember that this is a relationship business, and not everyone is going to be a perfect match for you. Don’t take it personally, always treat everyone with kindness and respect. My husband always tells me he can’t believe how nice and kind I am to clients that might be difficult or rude. I tell him, this is a high-stress business, clients are dealing with one of the most stressful transactions and I have to stay calm, kind, and professional at all times.
If work-life balance is important to you how can you tell if you are getting it right?:
I have worked for the past 22 years, ever since I was pregnant with my first child. I have always tried to put family first, but when I couldn’t I made sure I communicated to my husband and children and they understood that sometimes, work is the priority. I also try to set expectations with clients, so they understand I have a life outside of the transaction. I have learned that communication is the most important element of a successful relationship.
What roles have mentors played in your life and career?:
I did not have a specific mentor, but I did make mental notes around experienced agents, I notice what they did that was creating success and took from them what naturally felt comfortable to me. There is a lot of competition in this business, you have to appreciate what works for you and develop your strengths.
What risks were you willing to take when starting out in your career and how have they benefitted you?:
I was willing to knock on doors and walk neighborhoods when I didn’t have the money to do a mailer, I got my name out there and had some awkward rejections, but those face-to-face interactions did give me an incredible perspective on how to communicate with prospective seller’s and offer them market knowledge while never acting like a “sales” person. I don’t appreciate high-stress sales tactics, so I have never approached anyone that way.
If you could only ever visit one business again in Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County, what would it be and why?:
Malibu Farm in Tiburon~ I am so impressed with the owner’s mission to offer sustainable, fresh, organic, and amazing quality food with a stunning waterfront location…hard to beat! But my close second would be Fishetarian in Bodega Bay, amazing fresh tacos again on the water, gorgeous sunsets, local wine, and beer ~ definitely somewhere I would miss! I am a sucker for a waterfront restaurant!
Agent to Watch – Kelly Casanova
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Congratulations to one of our August Agents to Watch, Kelly Casanova! Communication is key for Kelly. Whether it’s connecting with her mentors for guidance or working side-by-side with her clients and fellow agents through a transaction, Kelly may be relatively new to the real estate industry but she’s developing habits that will bring her success in the long term. Learn more about Kelly below!
What was the first thing you wrote on your to-do list for today?:
Call back agents who are requesting information on my listing.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?:
Communication with everyone involved in a transaction is key to a smooth and successful escrow.
What is your favorite part about working in real estate in this part of the world?:
I am familiar with the Bay Area and know many people from years of living and working here.
Tell us about a recent challenge you came upon and how you conquered it.:
Since I am relatively new to the industry, everything seems challenging. Currently, my go-to solution is to call my mentors Angela Etimos and Melissa Hill for advice.
What role has mentorship played in your career?:
I am still in the mentorship program because it gives me peace of mind knowing that I have resources to connect with when I encounter new situations.
What’s your favorite home design feature that you wish more homes had?:
Walk-in showers with no glass doors.
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you choose and why?:
I would want to have dinner with the person that knows the most about what our government knows about UFOs because I think it would be a very interesting conversation.
Someone is coming to visit Sonoma/Mendocino/SF County. Where should they go first?:
Any of the old-growth redwood forests.
What’s something you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year? (Wedding, vacation, new opportunity, etc.):
Working swing dance conventions with my daughter; competitions shut down during the pandemic and now they are coming back to pre-pandemic numbers so it is good to connect with people from all over the world again doing what we love to do – dance!
