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      You are here: Home / Archives for Agents

      Home Offices Essentials

      July 28, 2014 By CENTURY 21

      Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a freelancer, or a student, having an office space in your home is important. (Not everyone can get work done while lounging on the couch in pajamas!) We’ve already shared some handy productivity tips, but having the right environment can also make a world of difference.

      Here are some essentials for your home office:

      Designated Work Space: We don’t mean the kitchen counter or your comfy bed. Set aside a specific room or corner of a room as your “office.” This will help train your brain to be in “work mode” when you sit down and “off the clock” when you leave. By creating a designated work space, you’ll be able to achieve better work-life balance.

      Desk: The right desk is key. Think about what type of desk best suits both your needs and the size of the space. Do you need just a simple flat table? Will you need multiple drawers for storage? What about a conference table so that you can really spread out or have meetings?

      Comfortable Chair: If you don’t have a comfortable chair that you love sitting in, chances are you won’t end up actually using your office much (and will instead head to that comfy couch or bed). Look for a chair with arm rests and the ability to tilt, swivel, and roll.

      Computer, Printer, and WiFi: This is how the work actually gets done. Make sure that you have functional tools to research, create, and communicate in our modern world.

      Good Lighting: Aim for having both natural and artificial light. Exposure to sunlight has been known to improve mood, sleep patterns, and productivity. And when you’re working past sundown, you’ll need good (soft, non-fluorescent) artificial light. We recommend having both a desk lamp and an overhead lamp to better adjust the light.

      To Do List or Planner: Start each day with a list of specific tasks that need tackling. Make sure that the list is manageable and the timeframe is realistic. Making this a tangible to-do list (rather than using an app) gives you that extra satisfaction of crossing items off when you complete them, thus helping to spur your motivation through the work day.

      Calendar: Have a place that allows you to look at the bigger picture and plan ahead. Sure, you might have a calendar on your computer or phone, but having an accessible, physical calendar that’s in plain sight allows you to easily glance at upcoming events. We like DIY chalkboard or Post-It note calendars.

      Coffee and/or Tea: Whatever beverage of choice gets you going in the morning (or during that afternoon slump), make sure you have plenty of it on hand. You’ll save time and money if you don’t have to take frequent trips to the local coffee shop or store. Plus, sometimes even the ritual of making coffee or tea can help signal “work mode.”

      Decorations & Inspiration: Some might call these “nice-to-haves,” but we think they’re essential. Having a window, piece of artwork, or family photo on display can give a nice reprieve from staring at your screen. Consider hanging a photo of the dream vacation you’re working toward or an inspiration quote or mantra to keep your motivated.

      We hope that these tips help you create a productive work environment. An added benefit is that having a designated work area will allow you to see the rest of your home as a relaxing and fun area for spending time with friends and family. Close the door and you are done for the day.

      Recommended Reading:

      -Productivity Tips for Working from Home

      -The Secrets to a Perfect Staycation

      -5 Ways to Take Your Bedroom from Good to Great

      -Good to Great: How to Take Your Kitchen from Good to Great

      Syndicated via Century 21 Blog. Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/century21/wAvv/~3/ivQh6QTRv8w/

      Filed Under: Agents, DIY, office, work

      Cents and Sensibility: 5 Mistakes That Could Decrease Your Homes Value

      July 17, 2014 By CENTURY 21

      Renovating or improving something too much sounds like an oxymoron, however when it comes to attracting a buyer and generating a return on investment, it is possible. The decisions you make may be best for you and your family, but it is crucial to consider the mindset of potential buyers.

      Here are five common renovation mistakes that may decrease your home value:

      1. Over improvement: Your home should be similar to other homes in the neighborhood. If your home costs much more than other homes in the neighborhood, potential buyers may choose that the updates you made do not outweigh the increased cost.

      2. Over personalization: You may love bright paint, built-ins, and elaborate tiles but the potential buyer may see changing it as too much of a hassle. You want buyers to be able to picture themselves living in the home so it is helpful to have a neutral design aesthetic when you show your home.

      3. Inconsistency: It is better to spend smaller amounts on many projects than spend a large amount of money on one project while neglecting other parts of the home. Instead of spending upwards of $30,000 installing a pool while keeping old and outdated appliances, it is a wiser decision to update the appliances.

      4. Removing a wall: It may seem as though knocking down a wall between two small rooms to make one larger room is a no brainer but having more rooms is almost always better when it comes to increasing the value of your home. Your family may be smaller than the potential buyers and, for them, it may be better to have more rooms regardless of their size. Removing bedrooms can also decrease the value of your home. Turn an extra bedroom into an office or gym while you are living there, but switch it back to a bedroom when you are getting ready to sell.

      5. Functional Obsolescence: Make sure that your renovations make sense. For example, potential buyers will probably not want to have the only way to enter one bedroom be to go through another bedroom. Another example would be turning a garage into a guest house. Although having a guest house might be better for your family, many families would prioritize having a garage.

      Remember these mistakes when you are choosing renovation projects around your home. What seems like a good idea might not actually lead to a return on investment or, worse, may detract someone from buying your home.

      Recommended Reading:

      -Picture Perfect: How to Take Great Photos of Your Home

      -Do This, Not That: Tips for Staging Your Home

      -Your Pre-Sale Checklist

      -Seller Marketing Plan

      -Adding Value to Your Home

      Syndicated via Century 21 Blog. Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/century21/wAvv/~3/poGpmw5fz44/

      Filed Under: Agents, Buyers, DIY, Featured, Home, Sellers, value

      Veteran Climber Natalia Aulenbacher Joins Climb With Rick Davidson

      July 15, 2014 By Molly

      Natalia Aulenbacher of CENTURY 21 Freedom Realty is an outdoor adventure junkie. After moving to Alaska in 2000, she has served as a mountain guide and a rafting guide. Upon learning of Century 21 CEO Rick Davidson’s passion for climbing, she introduced herself at this year’s Global Conference and within minutes, had accepted the offer to join the Climb for Kids team.

      We sat down with Natalia to hear more about her passion for the outdoors and how she’s preparing for this year’s trip.

      C21: How did you get involved in this year’s Climb for Kids?

      NA: I’ve lived in Alaska since 2000. I move here to climb mountains. That’s why I wanted to live in the state. I went to Alaska Pacific University where I received a degree in Outdoor Studies, which was gearing me towards owning my own guiding outfit.

      As for this year’s Climb, I knew Rick loved to climb and I had just joined CENTURY 21 a year ago (in March 2013) and so when I found out her was a big climber, I wanted to reach out and talk to him about if the Climb would ever return to Alaska.

      When Rick and I met in person at this year’s Global Conference in Las Vegas, we began talking about climbing and then offered for me to join this year’s trip.

      C21: Each year the Climb supports Easter Seals. Is this your first time fundraising for the organization?

      NA: This is my first time fundraising for Easter Seals. They don’t have as large a presence in Alaska as they do in other states.

      C21: We know you love the outdoors, but how did you first get involved in real estate?

      NA: When I graduated college I decided to work near Denali as a mountaineering guide. It made me realize that type of climbing wasn’t what I wanted to be doing. I decided to head back where I had worked as a raft guide in the summers. At that point I got very into fly fishing, which is probably the second most popular income generator for Alaska. I wanted to be a fishing guide.

      A while later I would up working in Cooper Landing for Alaska River Adventures. I was there for four years when I decided I wanted to ask the owner if I could buy the business and take it over. I started to pursue that, I had three investors and then I had a moment where I thought, “I am buying a job. Why would I do that?” so I put on the brakes. I wound up working there for three more years and that is where I met my husband. He’s the one who introduced me to real estate.

      C21: How did your real estate interest develop?

      NA: My husband and I started investing in some properties. That lead me to meeting a realtor who recommended I get my real estate license. I spoke to that agent’s broker and I hung my license with them. In the fall of 2012, I officially started working in real estate.

      C21: How have the first two years been?

      NA: I definitely struggled that first year. The following summer I had a very good year and I’ve been cruising along ever since.  I really do enjoy real estate – helping people purchase and sell. I have built a niche here now. I help people analyze their investment opportunities and make a profit.

      C21: We’re happy to have you in the CENTURY 21 System, Natalia. We look forward to hearing the tales of your climbing adventure with Rick and the team.

      Natalia, Rick and team are aiming to raise $100,000 in support of Easter Seals. To help the team reach their goal, donate here.

      Syndicated via Century 21 Blog. Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/century21/wAvv/~3/rXAjCJtoN7k/

      Filed Under: Agents, Alaska real estate, Climb for Kids, Easter Seals

      5 Ways to Take Your Bedroom from Good to Great

      July 15, 2014 By CENTURY 21

      Your bedroom should be a comfortable oasis where you can peacefully start and end each day. Make your bedroom your favorite room of the house!

      We’ve put together five simple ways to help take your bedroom from good to great:

      1. Beautiful Bedding: Your bed is the focal point of your bedroom and a vital component for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. A good night’s sleep is essential, and a comfortable bed will increase your chances of getting rest. Use our tips to make your bed beautiful and cozy!

      2. Art and Personal Photographs: Surround yourself with your favorite art and personal photographs. You’ll love being surrounded by art and some of you favorite memories. Buying art doesn’t have to be expensive. There are a lot of resources for buying decor on a budget.

      2. Sitting Area: A sitting area will help elevate your bedroom from good to great! Curl up in your favorite chair to read, chat with your family members while you savor your first cup of coffee, listen to music, and relax. If you are short on space, put a bench or two x-benches at the end of your bed. If you have more space, add a couch, chairs, and a coffee table or ottoman.

      4. Storage Space: Create a place for everything so that your room always looks neat and tidy. Getting rid of clutter will also make your space feel much larger. Buy multipurpose furniture, storage bins for under the bed, and a bookshelf. If you have a large closet, you could optimize the space by getting built-in shelving, shoe racks, and drawers.

      5. Paint or Wallpaper: Choose paint or wallpaper that matches your style and decor. We have put together a few different color palettes to choose from. Paint or wallpaper can make a huge difference in making your room come together!

      One great thing about these changes is that they do not have to be expensive. You can take your bedroom from good to great in just one weekend. These small changes can make a big difference in making your bedroom your new favorite room of the house!

      Recommended Reading:

      -Sweet Dreams are Made of These: How to Style a Bed

      -Good to Great: Take Your Kitchen from Good to Great

      -How to Decorate Your Home on a Budget

      -How to Style a Nightstand

      -Serene Spaces: 5 Tips for Creating a Calm Bedroom

       

      Syndicated via Century 21 Blog. Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/century21/wAvv/~3/19G4iNz_q0w/

      Filed Under: Agents, bedroom, Buyers, decor, DIY, Home

      5 Simple Pinterest Tips for Real Estate Agents

      July 13, 2014 By CENTURY 21

      Pinterest can be a valuable tool for real estate agents. For those unfamiliar, Pinterest is a place to discover and bookmark images that inspire you. When you follow someone on Pinterest, their recent Pins will show up in your home feed. Draw inspiration from the many categories on Pinterest and from following people with similar passions, professions, and interests.

      Now that you understand the basics of Pinterest, let’s go through the best practices so that you can start using it to promote listings, blog posts, and resources that will be relevant for your clients.

      1. Search Best Practices: Pinterest users can use search to discover Pins, Boards, and other Pinners. Your Pin descriptions should be informative. Pretend that the Pinner can’t see your image and simply had to rely on your description for information. Explain what they will see and include relevant keywords. Popular keywords for realtors are: real estate, home, home sale, home buying, real estate agent, realtor, house, neighborhood, listing, homeowner, and interior design. Don’t just write “helpful” or “nice home” because that won’t do well with search!

      2. Board Best Practices: Create board names and descriptions. Examples of good board names would be: Real Estate Tips, Homeowner Tips, Home Buyer Tips, Home DIY Projects, Real Estate Marketing, Real Estate Agent Advice, and Interior Design Tips. Think about what your clients, past clients, future clients, and other real estate agents will be looking for when they go to Pinterest. It may seem like Home DIY Projects or Interior Design Tips are titles irrelevant to being a real estate agent, but providing this type of advice keeps you top of mind and increases the chance that you’ll be discovered by future clients. Even if you just sold a house to a family, there is a high probability that they will want to buy again in the future.

      3. Image Best Practices: Pinterest is a visual platform. Images that are visually appealing will get more repins. Vertical images are ideal. If you have a blog, use Pinterest to publicize your blog posts with an image. We recommend making custom images that include the blog post title.

      4. Time Best Practices: Experiment to determine the times when most of your followers are Pinning and Repinning content. Once you are aware of the trend, you should try to Pin at those times. It is also helpful to Pin every day–even if you just Pin five or six Pins per day. Doing this will ensure that you are in your followers home feeds daily (at the very least).

      5. Business Account: Once you are comfortable with Pinterest, apply to set up a business account. You will be able to install a Pin It button and Rich Pins. You will also have access to analytics. Install a Pin It button on your site so that people can easily click to Pin homes, blog articles, and more. According to Pinterest, “Rich Pins are Pins that include extra information right on the Pin itself. Right now, there are five types of Rich Pins: movie, recipe, article, product and place.” Place Pins include a map, address, and phone number, making them a very valuable way to share listings! Use Analytics to track impressions and reach and see which of your Pins are most successful.

      We hope that these tips help you use Pinterest to generate traffic and leads. There are over 70 million users on Pinterest. That’s over 70 million people that could, potentially, discover your content. Use these best practices to leverage the power of Pinterest.
      Recommended Reading:

      -CENTURY 21® Social Creative Content Sweeps Advertising Awards

      -5 Simple Twitter Tips for Real Estate Agents

      -6 Simple SEO Tips for Real Estate Agents

      -The Top 5 Reasons Your Real Estate Business Needs Google+

      Syndicated via Century 21 Blog. Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/century21/wAvv/~3/snqKyS1wHxw/

      Filed Under: Agents, Featured

      Century 21 North Homes Volunteers With Veterans

      July 1, 2014 By Molly

      Two weeks ago, the team from Century 21 North Homes in Puget Sound, WA spent the day volunteering with the Veterans Memorial Clean Up Project. Started by Rich Sundance, a veteran and former Century 21 System member, the project focuses on giving much needed care to veterans’ memorials in the Puget Sound area.

      Rich works for Veterans Affairs as a counselor and his office is inside the Century 21 North Homes office. When he began the project, the Century 21 team was eager to help.

      Scott Heiner of Century 21 North Homes shared, “Rich is very passionate about this cause. Everyone in the office knows Rich and his commitment to the project. We all wanted to help him and these veterans. Our people jumped at the opportunity.”

      On Saturday, June 21st, a dozen members of the Century 21 North Homes team headed to Annacortes, WA to help spruce up Causland Memorial Park, along with local disabled veterans. Causland Memorial Park is the largest veterans memorial in the county. It was created in 1920 and needed some extra TLC after nearly 100 years of weather exposure.

      Rich has organized a few veterans memorial clean ups, this being the fourth.  For each project he researches the type of medal the memorial is made of so the volunteers can use the right cleaning solution to spruce, without causing any damage.

      Rich explained, “There are monuments all over the country that have never seen any care. I’ll never stop doing this. I have three more on my radar right now. “

      Over the weekend, 50 volunteers participated in the clean up at Kaufland Memorial Park.  The Century 21 North Homes team volunteers together several times per year, including activities in support of Easter Seals. The office is ranked #12 in the Century 21 System for donations to Easter Seals.

      Syndicated via Century 21 Blog. Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/century21/wAvv/~3/qtW7X6v5zDc/

      Filed Under: Agents, Memorial Clean Up, Puget Sound Real Estate, Veterans, Veterans Affairs

      Download The Sound Of Soccer

      June 17, 2014 By Molly

      As the Official Real Estate Company of U.S. Soccer, the CENTURY 21® brand could not be more excited for this month’s games in Brazil.

      What better way to show your support for the team than to have the sound of victory ringing through your cell phone with each and every incoming call from your family, friends, clients and partners?

      In honor of the games, select one of two ringtones for your phone:

      -       Ringtone #1

      -       Ringtone #2

      Download a ringtone today and start hearing the sounds of the U.S. Soccer team kicking their way to the top!

      Syndicated via Century 21 Blog. Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/century21/wAvv/~3/5QO4Q2tK2wI/

      Filed Under: Agents, Brazil, Buyers, Sellers, Soccer, U.S. Soccer

      Picture Perfect: How To Take Great Photos of Your Home

      June 8, 2014 By CENTURY 21

      Staging your home for sale is an important part convincing buyers of the quality and value of your property. With most real estate listings online, the power of a good photo goes beyond a clean space.

      Here are some tips to help you take picture perfect photos of your home:

      • Invest in a Quality Camera: Show your buyers the best of your space by investing in a camera that will give you sharp images. Blurry photos do not highlight the space well or give a good first impression. Better images will make homebuyers more eager to see your home. Spending a few extra bucks now might make you extra cash in the long run.

      • Use Natural Light: Take advantage of a sunny day to photograph your home. Natural light makes a space feel warm and inviting while flash creates shadows and reflects off windows or mirrors. (HGTV) Buyers look for homes with extra light so use this as another opportunity to sell your home. Keep in mind when photographing the exterior to make sure the sun is behind you to avoid dark shadows.

      • Show Your Space: No one likes to feel cramped. According to Houzz, buyers want to get a better feel of the movement and floor plan in your home. By photographing in one spot and showing several rooms, you show the buyer an expansive view of the space.

      • Clear the Clutter: You want to give buyers a space to imagine themselves in without feeling like it’s lived in. Store away any unnecessary items that take away from the main focal point of the room. Keep your home clean and tidy. If you’re trying to photograph a small space, make extra room by rearranging furniture or photograph from a doorway. (Design Sponge)
      • Edit the Small Stuff: Don’t worry if you don’t get the exact shot you want. Photo editing sites, like PIXLR, are great for quickly touching up photographs. Crop out what you don’t need or adjust the brightness to enhance the space. Try not to go overboard with editing which can turn off buyers.

      Buyers are attracted to homes that have a good presence, and what better way to showcase that than with a good photo. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words.

       

      Syndicated via Century 21 Blog. Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/century21/wAvv/~3/CWg7_4Xk97s/

      Filed Under: Agents, DIY, Featured, Home, house, photos, Sellers, Selling, staging

      Krista Clark of CENTURY 21 Signature Real Estate Named To REALTOR Magazine’s “30 Under 30”

      May 30, 2014 By Molly

      Krista Clark was the first person in her family to graduate from college. Adding another accomplishment to her growing list, she has earned a spot on REALTOR® Magazine’s “30 Under 30” list.

      Krista, 29, was planning to open her own brokerage when a single conversation with a CENTURY 21® broker changed her course. After less than one year with CENTURY 21 Signature Real Estate in Ankeny, IA, Krista did $13.1 million dollars in sales volume in 2013.

      We sat down with Krista to learn the secrets to her success.

      C21: When did you join the CENTURY 21 System?

      KC: I just joined this past summer in July. Joining CENTURY 21 was my way of breaking past the plateau I was on. I was always with a small independent brokerage and I had always worked from home. I didn’t realize all the things I was missing out on.

      C21: How did you decide to make the move?

      KC: It was a close friend through the Young Professionals Network, Megan Hill. I was about to open my own brokerage. I had my application in, my logo designed – everything. Megan asked me if I would meet with her CENTURY 21 broker. I am not one to turn down meetings. You can always learn from meeting new people and networking. I figured, she asked me, I will take it. I kind of did it as a courtesy to her. I walked out of the meeting with the broker and thought, “Crap! Now what do I do.”

      C21: Do you have a specialty area in real estate?

      KC: I sell commercial real estate- multi family homes, apartment complexes – investment properties, really. CENTURY 21 is pushing the commercial side of things and wanted to focus on that locally, so they wanted me to come in and help them do that.

      At this point, I’m the commercial specialist. We have five offices and I am the only full time commercial person right now. Our team is great about sending me referrals almost every day. Eventually we want to build up our commercial team and have people in every niche area – leasing, land sales, etc.

      C21: You did $13 million dollars in sales volume in 2013. How did you achieve that?

      KC: First of all, joining CENTURY 21 has given me a lot more motivation to push harder. I see people in my office doing $20 million dollars in residential sales and that just pushes me to rise to the occasion.

      I’ve also benefited a lot from the marketing tools available through CENTURY 21. When I used to do my marketing presentations, I was spending hours and hours creating each packet. Now I use 21Online, click on “ad campaign,” input the information and it just generates those materials for me.

      I’ve also been able to set up automatic property notifications for my clients. I have a group of about nine core investors that make up about 80% of my business. For them, I can set up these automatic updates, a task that would have taken at least an hour every happen otherwise.

      C21: How did you decide to apply for the “30 Under 30” list?

      I’ve been involved with the local, state and national Association, so I was very familiar with the honor. Every year I had people calling me, encouraging me to apply. I thought, “Ok, I will try this one time.” It’s a long application process and I am the kind of person who only does things 100 percent, so I knew I would have to really take the time to commit to this.

      Finally, this year I did it. Once I completed it, I thought, “Well now that I’ve done it, I really want this!” It’s been amazing. I am so glad I did it.

      C21: This month you are featured on the cover of REALTOR Magazine. How does that feel?

      KC: I ordered 100 extra copies of the magazine. I handed them out to every person I’ve ever walked by! That’s so not me, but it was just too exciting.

      They did such an amazing job selecting people with character, not just people with high production numbers.

      C21: You are on the cover with another CENTURY 21 agent, Kel Svoboda of CENTURY 21 Affiliated. Did you two connect?

      KC: Kel and I met in person and discovered we had a lot in common. We both got into real estate straight out of high school.

      I just completed my Bachelor’s degree. I have eight nieces and nephews and when I got the college diploma I could show them what it means to achieve something great and that was so meaningful. I told each of them that if they get into college, I will pay their tuition. I would be honored to be able to pay for eight people to go to college.

      The harder you work and the more dedication you have, the more you can accomplish in life. I want my nieces and nephews to know that.

      C21: For people graduating high school or college and thinking about a career in real estate, what advice would you offer them?

      This biggest piece of advice I would have for young people is not to apologize for your age. In my experience, people value the forward-thinking and the visionary minds of our generation.

      While it seems intimidating to be young in this industry, it helps you stand out. Own it. Let it be your driving force. It will open doors for you.

      There is a lack of excitement in our business and when someone comes in with passion, that’s contagious.

      I would also tell them not to be afraid to try or reach for something. Like with Associations for example, don’t wait for people to open the door for you. Knock!

      Don’t ever feel like you don’t have the opportunity to do new things. You have plenty to offer, no matter your age. Decide to pave your own way. You’ll be glad you did.

      C21: Thank you, Krista. You are a true inspiration. Congratulations again on the “30 Under 30” recognition.

      To connect with Krista, visit her website.

      Syndicated via Century 21 Blog. Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/century21/wAvv/~3/lYcdoCgxHhw/

      Filed Under: 30 Under 30, Agents, Commercial Real Estate, Iowa real estate

      Recruiting America’s Heroes: Michael Frederickson

      May 26, 2014 By Molly

      Today, Memorial Day, we celebrate those who have proudly served our country. With that in mind, we’d like to introduce you to Michael Frederickson, a 27-year army veteran who joined CENTURY 21 Family Realty last year.

      We sat down with Michael to hear about his army service and what brought him to real estate.

      C21: Can you tell us about your military service?

      MF: I was in the army for 27 years. I retired last year as Master Sgt. and Cavalry Scout. I worked as a career counselor for my fellow soldiers, with the goal of maintaining the all-volunteer force. I’d meet with each individual, hear what they most wanted to do and try to find them a job they would like and would fit their skills.

      C21: How do the skills from your role as counselor transfer to your work in real estate?

      MF: As a career counselor, you are charged with taking care of your commander and taking care of each soldier. You have to listen to what they need and help them find it. The same is true in real estate.

      C21: When did you join the CENTURY 21 System?

      MF: When I was in the army, one of the men who worked for me was Jose “Joe” Pomales. When Joe was getting ready to move on from the army, he was considering real estate. He worked for a few different brokerages as an independent agent, then CENTURY 21 started recruiting him. Joe joined CENTURY 21 just as I was getting ready to retire. He offered me the opportunity come work for him part time.

      C21: How did you enjoy your first few months in real estate?

      MF: I started January and got licensed last June. In all honesty, when I first started doing this full time, I was used to knowing what to do in my job every day and what needs to happen – I had been doing it for 27 years! When I started at CENTURY 21, I didn’t know how to do everything yet. I didn’t have all the answers and it was hard. When I joined the army, there was a sergeant there who told me what to do. As soon as that difference clicked in my head, I knew everything would be ok. I just had to learn to do my job again.

      Now, I enjoy the flexibility of real estate. That flexibility provides me the opportunity to spend more time with my children.

      C21: What is the biggest lesson you learned?

      MF: As you step away from the army, you are beginning a new career. You have to spend the time and the effort to become as proficient in your new career as you did in the military.

      C21: How was your team at CENTURY 21 Family Realty helped with the transition?

      MF: In our office, we have a bullpen where new agents sit. When a call comes in and you don’t know the answer right away, there is always someone there to answer your questions. Everyone in our office is so helpful. Joe also has training every Wednesday. Some offices, no one teaches new agents how to succeed, here we have great resources. We really are a family. It’s such a wonderful place to work.

      C21: How do you spread the word to other veterans who may be thinking about a career in real estate?

      MF: The army does have a program for transitioning to retirement, leaving the army and becoming a civilian. Joe has created flyers about that transition from the army to real estate. We have ten veterans in our office and Joe still serves in the Army Reserve.

      C21: It sounds like you and Joe have created a welcoming environment for veterans looking to move into real estate. We thank you both for your service and are proud to have you as members of the CENTURY 21 System.

      Syndicated via Century 21 Blog. Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/century21/wAvv/~3/I6Ba97dxmOQ/

      Filed Under: Agents, Featured, Memorial Day, recruiting america's heroes, Veterans in real estate, veterans services

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