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Congratulations to our April Agent of the Month, Savannah Wellander! A dynamic team member out of our Sonoma Office, Savannah is the definition of client-focused. She consistently adapts her business practices to meet her clients' needs, and she knows that a strategic, well-informed approach to each transaction is what's needed to get the job done. Keep reading to learn more about Savannah!
What three words would you use to describe your approach to the real estate business?:
Professional, Strategic, and Client-Focused
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'm looking to enhance my services for investor clients and leverage technology to streamline processes, allowing me to be more client-facing. By integrating smarter tools and systems, I can provide even more personalized attention while delivering data-driven insights that help my clients make informed investment decisions. My goal is to create an even more seamless, high-touch experience for every client I work with.
To what do you attribute your success most?:
I attribute my success to my ability to act quickly, take strategic risks, and confidently navigate complex transactions. Where others may hesitate, I trust my expertise and instincts to make bold yet informed decisions that benefit my clients. Real estate moves fast, and I pride myself on staying ahead of the curve, ensuring my clients never miss an opportunity. My confidence in my ability to deliver results allows me to serve my clients at the highest level.
If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?:
Make it your mission to ensure everyone you know is aware that you're in real estate. Your network is your biggest asset, and the more people who think of you when they need an agent-or know someone who does-the more opportunities will come your way. Talk about real estate often, provide value, and position yourself as the go-to expert in your circles. Consistency and visibility are key to building a strong foundation in this business.
What's the one piece of advice you always give your clients first?:
The first piece of advice I always give my clients is to be ready to act when the right opportunity comes. In real estate, timing is everything, and the best deals often go to those who are prepared. Whether buying, selling, or investing, having a clear strategy, strong financing, and the right mindset allows my clients to move with confidence. I make sure they understand the market and their options so they can make swift, informed decisions when it matters most.
Failure is a natural part of achieving success. How do you recoup when things don't necessarily go your way?:
Failure is part of the path to success-I truly believe you have to fail to get a win. When something doesn't go my way, I don't dwell-I reset, learn, and move forward faster. Every 'no' gets me closer to the 'yes' that matters.
If work-life balance is important to you how can you tell if you are getting it right?:
To me, work-life balance isn't about splitting time evenly-it's about feeling present and fulfilled in both spaces. I know I'm getting it right when I can give my clients 100% without feeling like I'm sacrificing being a present mom, wife, or friend. If I'm showing up fully in my work and still have the energy to enjoy dinner with my family or a weekend reset, that's the sweet spot. Balance doesn't mean perfect-it just means aligned.
What roles have mentors played in your life and career?:
My mentors have always been the people who expected the most from me. They saw my potential and didn't let me coast-they pushed me to rise to the occasion. I'm most inspired by people who are both incredibly successful and deeply humble in their expertise. That mix of confidence and groundedness is something I've always admired and try to embody in my own career.
What risks were you willing to take when starting out in your career and how have they benefitted you?:
When I started out, I took the risk of doing something completely different-and I didn't give myself a backup plan. I went all in with a no-options mentality. That mindset changed everything for me. I wake up every day and attack the goals I've set with full focus and energy. And when I get close to reaching them, I raise the bar. That willingness to bet on myself and keep pushing has been the biggest driver of my growth and success.
If you could only ever visit one business again in Sonoma/Napa/Mendocino/SF County, what would it be and why?:
Kivelstadt is hands down the one place I'd keep going back to. I can go there with friends, family, clients-even my kids-and it always feels just right. The owner, Jordan, has a way of making everyone feel like a good friend. We're constantly supporting each other's businesses and finding ways to collaborate. It's more than just a great spot-it's community, connection, and wine country at its best.