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It is our pleasure to introduce October’s Agents of the Month, Doug Del Fava and Shannon Parker! The dynamic team pride themselves on their real estate knowledge, as well as their ability to work together to boost up each others skill sets, and to work hard for each of their clients. Keep reading to learn more about Doug and Shannon, and just what makes them such a powerful duo!

To what do you attribute your success?
Shannon and I pride ourselves in great communication, excellent negotiating/problem-solving and a consistent follow-up. Our clients our are family and we pride ourselves on maintaining our client base. I would estimate that around 50% or more of our business are referrals from previous clients.

What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?

What software/tech tools can you not live without?

Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?

Shannon and I both make time for activities and a life outside of work. My balances come from my passion of being a musician for over 50 years and a regular round of golf with friends. Shannon usually finds herself with another new home project to keep her busy. We feel it is very important to find a harmonious balance between your work life and finding time for yourself, your family, your relationships.

What is a unique aspect of the Sonoma/Mendocino County/SF County Residential Real Estate market?
The proximity and accessibility to the greater Bay Area makes Sonoma County very unique and desirable. The various types of properties available in the North Bay offer buyers every aspect of real estate to choose from.

What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business? (i.e. thank you cards, social media, etc)

What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?

What is a quote that inspires you?

If you had one piece of advice to give someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
My advice to new agents would be to align yourself with an experienced agent/mentor and attend as many seminars and conferences as possible. This can help you get acclimated in the industry. A lot of this business is experience and learning the ropes. Ask questions and try to absorb all the information you can.

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Jonathan, a Sonoma County native, is our newest Agent of the Month! Jonathan found his love for real estate early, eventually going on to gross millions in sales all while he was still finishing his degree. After Jonathan graduated from Pacific Union College with his degree in Finance, he continued his career journey by becoming more involved in the renovation and construction side of real estate as well. Jonathan believes having this well-rounded experience helps him be the best agent possible for his clients and to produce excellent outcomes. Read on to learn more about our Agent of the Month Jonathan!

To what do you attribute your success?
I have been blessed to have many great mentors to look up to and learn from, in addition to my amazing clients and the relationships I have been fortunate enough to build over the years. I truly believe is a people business.

What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
I am not a big reader, but I believe educating yourself in as many areas as possible is invaluable.

What software/tech tools can you not live without?
My phone is my number 1 tool. The capacity and versatility that a phone has, which we all carry with us at all times of the day, is crucial. I am also a big believer is keeping back-end parts of my business organized with tools like QuickBooks allows me to focus my energy and effort in the areas that best serve my clients.

Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
Yes, I believe boundaries have to be set and that priorities have to be recognized in order to achieve a balance and allow time for different aspects of life. I believe that finding what makes you feel fulfilled in your personal life will allow you to feel more recharged in your professional career and vice versa.

What is a unique aspect of the Sonoma/Mendocino County/SF County Residential Real Estate market?
The diversity of property types and areas is really unique. Across the North Bay, we have almost every type of property imaginable. Whether it be your suburban homes in family-centric neighborhoods, to vineyard estates, modern showpieces, or homes with incredible ocean views, the North Bay really has it all to offer.

What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business? (i.e. thank you cards, social media, etc)
Relationships and circles of influence. I rely heavily on my sphere and referrals and having many groups that I am involved in are key to that.

What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
That it fits a client’s unique needs and goals for a property. Whether that be optimizing cashflows, buying in the path of progress, or buying a property that may fit a client’s personal needs for use. People can get so caught up in the numbers, which are critical, but it has it to be right for the individual. A property may have a great CAP rate, but be in an area or be a type of property that does not fit the client’s goals or objectives.

What is a quote that inspires you?
Don’t stop when you’re tired. Stop when you’re done.

If you had one piece of advice to give someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
Find a mentor and do not be afraid to ask questions. It is how we all learn.

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To know him is to love him, Adrian Roach is back again but this time as our Agent of the Month!

Native to Denver, Colorado, Adrian has unique knowledge of the many benefits of living in Sonoma County. Adrian currently resides in Windsor with his supportive wife and two boys. You can catch Adrian all over town—from showing houses and coaching his sons’ sports teams to finding him enjoying local restaurants or at the salon he owns with his wife in Windsor. Continue reading to learn more about our latest Agent of the Month, Adrian!

To what do you attribute your success?
A supportive wife and family.

What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
The Millionaire Real Estate Agent by Gary Keller. But, this was also about 10 years ago, so don’t judge. I should definitely do more reading. haha!

What software/tech tools can you not live without?

Nowadays it would have to be my iPhone since I can do just about everything on it. But back when I started it probably had to be the Thomas Guide. LOL

Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
This is one that is a constant challenge, but yes, I do believe you can have both. You have to put just as much of a conscious effort into your personal and family life as you do your work life, and vice versa.

What is a unique aspect of the Sonoma/Mendocino County Residential Real Estate market?
I would say that a unique aspect of Sonoma County real estate is the vast differences that it has to offer. From coastal properties in Bodega Bay to Vineyard and estate properties in Sonoma. The hotter climates of Cloverdale to the cooler micro-climates in Petaluma and Sebastopol. I feel that there is truly something for everyone. We are so fortunate to live in this amazing county.

What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business? (i.e. thank you cards, social media, etc)
I would say the most underrated aspect of my business that I am always working to do more of is personal notes. They go a long way in this day and age of texts and emails.

What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
If you are purchasing an investment property it’s all about the numbers. If you are purchasing for yourself, make sure your wife likes it. LOL

What is a quote that inspires you?
“Do, or do not. There is no try.” -Yoda

If you had one piece of advice to give someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
Prospecting is the name of the game. There is no easy route and your success will be tied to your work ethic. Try to find a mentor that will help guide you through the challenges of this business.

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Congratulations to our newest Agent of the Month, Mandy Corriea!

There truly aren’t enough good things we can say about Windsor-based agent Mancy Corriea. She was one of the first agents to join W Real Estate back in 2007 and has since made a massive impact on our company. From not only being a top producing agent but also a mentor and trainer to our group of over 200 agents. Having been raised in Sonoma County she has a great deal of appreciation for the area, just as we have an appreciation for her.

Continue reading to learn more about our latest Agent of the Month, Mandy!

To what do you attribute your success?
My success would not be possible without the support of my family. Our business requires a lot of crazy hours, days, and last minute appts. So, having young active children at home can be tough, but possible with good support and understanding. My husband has been a key to our success. Also, just staying current with education updates in this market and with the ever-changing rules & regs. So important to stay educated in your career.

What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
Shift: How Top Real Estate Agents Tackle Tough Times by Gary Keller.

What software/tech tools can you not live without?
Canva, Mojo app and my phone, which all of these are on it!!

Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
It is definitely is possible to be successful and still be successful at home. Its not easy but it can be done. For me it requires getting up a couple hours earlier than my family. I work best in the morning. And it is not selfish to take a day off. It may consist of working a few half days, but you need it or what are you working for!!

What is a unique aspect of the Sonoma/Mendocino County Residential Real Estate market?
Sonoma Co: It’s our location and affordability when compared to residents in San Francisco. We are a part of the Wine Country, and I believe a more desirable place to live with all our trees, community activities and parks & trails.

Mendo Co: Is a straight shot North with no commute traffic, which is great for the residents here that need a more affordable place to buy a home.

What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business? (i.e. thank you cards, social media, etc)
Consistency with online presence. We are building a brand and need to be in front of our peers, clients and family all the time. Hardest part is juggling the sales from the personal and keeping the attention without being overkill, but, also, trying to stay consistent with postings.

What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
“Good Bones.” I am looking for those high dollar items. Do they need replacing or repairs? Paint and carpet are inexpensive fixes, but roofs, windows, furnaces can be steep for the budget.

What is a quote that inspires you?
“Do or Do Not, There is No Try”– Yoda, Jedi Knight

If you had one piece of advice to give someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
Set up a system for networking and prospecting and stay consistent on the activities you do to try and stir up business. It will take 6 months, typically, to procure that first transaction. Set your alarm, wake up and get dressed ready to meet a new client everyday!!

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Congratulations to our newest Agent of the Month, Tyler Pedroncelli!

Tyler Pedroncelli was born and raised in beautiful Sonoma County. With her husband and two young children, she currently resides in Sonoma, CA. Tyler has had a pretty incredible track record during her time in real estate – she is consistently recognized as one of W Real Estate’s top agents, even winning the “Highest Sale Price of the Year” award in both 2016 and 2017.

Continue reading to learn more about our latest Agent of the Month, Tyler!

To what do you attribute your success?
Consistency and hard work.

What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
My daughter’s night time books.

What software/tech tools can you not live without?
My cell phone and local marketing.

Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
Yes, absolutely. I was 9 months pregnant while closing deals and getting agent of the month and dealing with my 2-year-old working from home. It’s all about balance and working hard when your kids are napping. I love to travel and spending time with my family, and having a successful career has always been very important to me.

What is a unique aspect of the Sonoma/Mendocino County Residential Real Estate market?
For the Sonoma real estate market since it’s a small town,  it’s personal relationships in the community.

What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business? (i.e. thank you cards, social media, etc)
Thank you cards and being thoughtful and appreciative of the business you have gotten.

What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
Does it make sense as an investment and if it is priced right.

What is a quote that inspires you?
Live like there is no tomorrow.

If you had one piece of advice to give someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
Stay consistent and you have to be confident in yourself going into this business.

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Congratulations to our newest Agent of the Month, Todd Schapmire!

Todd Schapmire is the Team Leader of the Todd Schapmire Team and co-owner of W Real Estate. He’s enjoyed major success in both residential and commercial real estate in Mendocino and Sonoma Counties (and a short stint in Long Beach). He is known for his knowledge, honesty, impeccable customer service and not to mention a fun attitude. He has achieved so much but what we love about him most is his humble attitude and unwavering appreciation for the people who support him. 

Continue reading to learn more about our latest Agent of the Month, Todd!

To what do you attribute your success?
An incredible group of role models and mentors. From my parents and grandparents who gave me a work ethic and an unbreakable belief that I can achieve anything I set my mind to, to the real estate and business people that took me under their wing with no expectation of anything in return. And finally the friends, family, and colleagues that currently surround me and are just good human beings.

What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
Well don’t tell anyone but I don’t really read. The book that articulated the way I see the world is called, The Happiness Advantage. The book that changed how I viewed my business and therefore changed my reality is, The Entrepreneur Roller Coaster. Those are the only two books I have read or listened to in the last decade or so. Both helped me a lot, so maybe I should read more now that I put it that way, haha.

What software/tech tools can you not live without?
Nothing makes me happier than a beautiful spreadsheet, so I love Excel. Docusign saves me about 10 hours a week. TurboScan and Dropbox have played a huge part in allowing me to be super mobile. Goodnotes is the newest tech I am implementing, and I am liking what I am seeing.

Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
Balance is a mirage. No one even knows what that means. It’s not about balance, it’s about being in the moment in all your relationships. If you are in the moment and make the effort to do special things with your loved ones, then you are going to have a great personal life no matter how much you work. If you don’t mentally engage, then how much you work probably isn’t the reason your personal life seems out of balance. I no longer define success by how many houses I sell or how much money I have. I define success by the positive impact I make on others and by whether the people I want to love me, actually do love me.

What is a unique aspect of the Sonoma/Mendocino County Residential Real Estate market?
I just love that we can do so many types of property… houses, ranches, vineyards, retail, office, industrial, hospitality, etc. In big cities, you have to specialize in one defined thing and that would be so boring to me.

What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business? (i.e. thank you cards, social media, etc)
Probably how much Miriah and I actually work. Unfortunately, there is no magic bullet to replace actually showing up.

What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
No matter how much Tony Shira makes fun of me… I am all about cash flow!

What is a quote that inspires you?
I am going to go with two John Wooden quotes…

“Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do” and “Things turn out the best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out”

If you had one piece of advice to give someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
Talk to people and let them know what you are doing. Pick the phone up. Go to events. No one is going to call you and ask if you are in real estate. It is your job to make sure people know what you do. Once you talk to people… focus on helping them and look at the situation from their perspective, not yours. If you focus on helping people, closed deals will follow.

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Congratulations to our newest Agent of the Month, Michael Ferl!

Michael Ferl is the founder of Hiraeth Homes, the number one team (by volume) at W Real Estate. He has a passion for continued growth, learning and helping others do the same. Not only does Michael seek out ways to help his fellow agents, but his team also volunteers monthly at a local non-profit. 

Continue reading to learn more about the Sonoma County native.

To what do you attribute your success?
I would attribute my greatest success to my ability to say NO to everything that doesn’t contribute to my personal or professional goals. I have said no to drinking beers with friends on a Saturday night, new business ideas with the promise to get rich quick, creative marketing ideas, investment opportunities, etc. Having a clear vision of what I want in life also helps provide clarity to everything else that is a distraction from that.

What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor. I believe that most of us focus on money first as we believe that this will lead to happiness. It is my belief that we should focus on happiness first. Once I made happiness my greater focus, I experienced more financial success than I ever have.

What software/tech tools can you not live without?
My phone, yellow pad of paper, and a pen. Technology is not a magic pill that will make you successful. Focus on developing good habits, systems, and processes first. You can then leverage technology to scale by making everything more efficient.

Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
The most important thing is to first ask, “How do you define success?” Our culture promotes money, cars, homes, vacations, titles, etc. as a measure of one’s success. I believe that instead of asking how can I get these things, we should ask, “Why do we want these things?” For me, success isn’t about how much money is in our accounts or how many cars are in our driveway, it is about how are we contributing to the world and if we are having a positive impact on the lives of those around us. From this perspective, my personal and professional lives are one as they both serve this greater purpose.

What is a unique aspect of the Sonoma County Residential Real Estate market?
Sonoma County has an incredibly diverse real estate market. Sandwiched in between the wine industry and Bay Area, this location offers many types of industry and opportunity. From small cabins in the beautiful woods of Forestville to large estate properties in Sonoma, Sonoma County has a home for nearly every type of buyer.

What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business? (i.e. thank you cards, social media, etc)
Processes and systems. These are not sexy to talk about and as a result, they often aren’t a focal point for many in our industry. By creating a solid system allows us to create consistency. It also allows us to clearly identify opportunities for growth and improvement.

What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
The first thing to ask is, “What are my goals and why do I want to buy a house?” Buying a home because your parents told you all your life that it is a good financial decision is not a solid reason to purchase a home. Also, having a clear vision of what your needs/wants are not only now, but potentially over the next 10+ years is important.

What is a quote that inspires you?
“To love someone is to strive to accept that person exactly the way he or she is, right here and now.” – Fred Rogers

If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
Find a successful coach/mentor. There is no need to re-invent the wheel. There have been thousands of successful people in our industry, pick one that you admire and respect. Also, keep it simple. Stop trying to be all things for all people. Your job can be summarized into three main functions: Develop new leads, follow-up with those leads, and convert those leads to escrows. Do that at a high level and hit repeat and you will be very successful.

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Congratulations to our newest Agent of the Month, Wendy Tam!

As a successful San Francisco realtor and mother of 5, is there anything Wendy Tam can’t do? Oh, and did we mention her impeccable design sense? She is able to transform homes into works of art. Any client would be lucky to have her in their corner and we’re fortunate to have her as part of the W Real Estate family. Wendy shared with us what she believes has attributed to her success the most and the tools she uses to juggle her personal and professional life. All this, and more, below. 

To what do you attribute your success?
I would attribute my success to setting goals that are in line with things that I love doing and then keeping a positive mental attitude, especially when faced with challenges. This helps me to wake up every morning feeling excited to take the forward steps – whether large or small that are necessary to reach those goals.

What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
The Great Gatsby

What software/tech tools can you not live without?
Google Suite – all-in-one for my emails, word processing, spreadsheet, calendar, storage – and best of all: not having to remember if I pressed the save button!

Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
Yes, I believe that it is possible to be successful and enjoy family life. We juggle sales, development and having 5 kids. Actually I find that being in real estate actually allows me the freedom to schedule my time around my family’s activities allowing me to be at school functions and not behind a 9-5 desk. So I am very thankful for that! Having a good routine that everyone in the family is on board with really helps when we have to schedule for showings, open houses and appointments.

What is a unique aspect of the San Francisco Residential Real Estate market?
One unique aspect in San Francisco is that our homes are very different from one to another, even when they are on the same block. Most of our homes were not built tract homes so being across the street can make all the difference with regards to having a drop-dead view or no views at all. We have a constant demand from buyers for the newest and more innovative homes so newly renovated homes can set record prices with no comps available.

What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business? (i.e. thank you cards, social media, etc)
The amount of time spent to find a good deal for buyers in San Francisco.

What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
Buying the best location that your budget allows and property that may still have more potential to grow into or build.

What is a quote that inspires you?
“Your past does not equal your future.”

If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
Go out and see as many properties as possible on tour, it provides great education on the current market and you will also make great business contacts through meeting other agents.

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Congratulations to our newest Agent of the Month, Drew Nicoll!

Drew Nicoll is the Team Leader of the highly-successful Nicoll-Pallini Group. Drew’s unwavering determination to accomplish his client’s real estate goals is truly something to be admired. He pushes the envelope in his business and continues to surpass even the most unattainable goals he sets for himself. 

We value Drew’s insight on business strategy and market conditions and we think you will find it beneficial as well. Continue on to read Drew’s opinion on work/life balance and his advice to agents just starting out in the industry. 

To what do you attribute your success?
Utilizing proven systems to achieve desired results, being willing to work at a level most people don’t want to or are not willing to work at, learning from my mentors in real estate and being willing to break real estate norms to provide clients with a higher level of service and value.

What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
The 5 am Club

What software/tech tools can you not live without?
Google Business Apps, My iPhone Max, Slack.

Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
Absolutely, this is my goal; however, it does not just happen, you have to build your business to work that way. You have to write down your business goals and the plan to get there. You have to surround yourself with the right people. You have to leverage people, systems and technology to help you be in multiple places at the same time and multiply your efforts. You have to be willing to work like nobody wants to for a few years so you can live the rest of your life like everyone wishes they could. Also, you have to be willing to take calculated risks and make less money upfront to make more down the road, essentially invest in yourself!

What is a unique aspect of the Mendocino County Residential Real Estate market?
The variety of different property types we deal with varies greatly from single-family homes to large ranches and cannabis properties. Also, the amount of people moving from the bay area to Mendocino county is a very interesting observation that I have made as to what the future for property values will look like here in our county.

What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business?
The most overlooked part of my business is the conversations I have with leads and the questions I ask to determine timing and motivation and then the offers that I make to clients over the phone in order to propel them to come and meet with me.

What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
Location, condition, how long you are wanting or going to own it and/or live there and the overall purpose or goal of the home financially. You get hurt in Real Estate investing when you have to sell. If you don’t have to sell you can ride out any market until the correction you’re looking for takes place. So the property would need to cash flow enough to be able to at least pay for itself and not make you go broke if you have it not rent for a period of time.

What is a quote that inspires you?
“Success is never owned, it is rented and the rent is due every day.”

If you had one piece of advice to give someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
Don’t do what everyone else is doing; find what your strengths are in the business and focus on making those a priority. Use systems. Write out a plan for success and execute it every day. If you don’t have a direction, then you will just drift and you may not like what you bump into.

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In our new Agent of the Month series, we will be highlighting one W Real Estate agent with outstanding sales performance and work ethic. 

Our first agent to be recognized is J. Belmont. He has been a full-time realtor in Sonoma County for over a decade where he is consistently ranked as one of the area’s top agents. In this business, it’s easy to get lost among the many talented agents but J. has a way of rising to the top.

Read on to learn J.’s keys to success and words he lives by.

To what do you attribute your success?
Common sense and always thinking of the client’s needs and goals first. 

What was the last book/audiobook you read/listened to?
Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek.

What software/tech tools can you not live without?
My phone.

Do you believe it is possible to have a successful career while having a fulfilling personal life? Does this balance exist?
It is hard… I haven’t found the answer yet. 

What is a unique aspect of the Sonoma County Residential Real Estate market?
Geographical setting and demographics.

What is the most underrated/overlooked part of your business?
Public advertising.

What are the main things that you should look at when investing/purchasing a new property?
Location. Location. Location.

What is a quote that inspires you?
“Never give up, always move forward.” 

If you had one piece of advice to give someone just starting out in real estate, what would it be?
Patience, don’t be greedy, think about others, and create a good reputation among your colleagues.