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Jennifer Owens, Vice President of Resident Services at Columbia Residential, featured by Fortunes Time Magazine on cover of The 10 Most Admired Women Leaders Making a Mark in Real Estate, 2024
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ARTICLES The Evolving Role of a Realtor in a Changing Real Estate Landscape April 2024
EDITOR’S NOTE The involvement of women in property problems occurs quite infrequently. Why? This is due to the fact that women have historically been viewed as an uneducated segment of society with no voice or participation in decision-making. Women's conditions are quite bad, particularly in rural areas. However, since the real estate industry grows quickly, all of its operational procedures are expanding significantly. The real estate industry is also one of the most successful and is growing steadily, with equal involvement from men and women. The New Era of Real Estate Through a variety of business initiatives, women have progressively overcome their low position and gained authority. The finance sector's many regulations pertaining to house loans and other property-related matters have made it easier for an increasing number of women to actively participate in the home-buying process. Fortunes Time's latest edition “The 10 Most Admired Women Leaders Making a Mark in Real Estate, 2024” highlighted women leaders who are addressing and fostering a more welcoming and encouraging atmosphere for women's leadership and business in the real estate sector. The cover has the Vice President of Resident Services at Columbia Residential, Jennifer Owens who boasts extensive experience in managing supportive services delivery to low to moderate-income families and seniors, ensuring housing stability. She has overseen resident relocation projects focused on preserving affordable housing and developed culturally diverse community-led programs. She is recognized as one of Urban Land Institute Atlanta Women's Leaders 2021. In her role at Columbia Residential, Jennifer manages the delivery of services and resources to residents, aiming to maintain housing stability and promote healthy communities. Her team works closely with residents to understand any challenges that may affect their housing or create barriers for growth, such as changes to employment, physical and mental health issues, lack of access to affordable childcare and youth educational programming, and emergency assistance for special needs. Jennifer fosters relationships with community partners to increase access to resources and services, alleviating potential challenges and barriers for residents. Also, while you flip through the pages, don't forget to read the articles created by our in-house editorial staff and industry experts.
FORTUNES T IME CREDIT PAGE Elizabeth Graves Vijay Khulpe Dafny Meyer Tony Anderson Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Executive Editor Assistant Editor Art & Design Director Head of Design Department Charles Lee Sanket Zirpe Associate Designer Sarah Jones Business Development Manager Business Development Executive Tracy Miller Robert Taylor Digital Marketing Manager Sales Manager Marketing Manager Technical Specialist Circulation Manager Laura Wright Albert Hill Stacey Flores Jennifer Thomas Carol Green APRIL 2024 For More Details : Email: info@fortunestime.com Address. 8 The Green Suite R, Dover, DE 19901, USA Copyright 2024 Fortunes Time, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from Fortunes Time Reprint rights remain solely with Fortunes Time.
Jennifer Owens Improving Resident Services and Community Empowerment at Columbia Residential
Content Page 18 20 28 Caroline Cheng 32 Claudia Nieves Lacey Conway 42 36 Natasa Grdinic Lauren Freedman 46 Loubna Sadiki Articles 38 24 The Evolving Role of a Realtor in a Changing Real Estate Landscape The Resilience of Real Estate Tawny Wolf
Jennifer Owens Owens Improving Resident Services and Community Empowerment at Columbia Residential Cover Story Fortunestime.com | 09
The Vice President of Resident Services at Columbia Residential, Jennifer Owens boasts extensive experience in managing supportive services delivery to low to moderate-income families and seniors, ensuring housing stability. She has overseen resident relocation projects focused on preserving affordable housing and developed culturally diverse community-led programs. She is recognized as one of Urban Land Institute Atlanta Women's Leaders 2021. In her role at Columbia Residential, Jennifer manages the delivery of services and resources to residents, aiming to maintain housing stability and promote healthy communities. Her team works closely with residents to understand any challenges that may affect their housing or create barriers for growth, such as changes to employment, physical and mental health issues, lack of access to affordable childcare and youth educational programming, and emergency assistance for special needs. Jennifer fosters relationships with community partners to increase access to resources and services, alleviating potential challenges and barriers for residents. In 2017, Jennifer expanded service delivery by founding Dash and Dwell, LLC, a relocation services entity providing quality relocation services to residents affected by redevelopment or acquisition of their apartment homes. As Founder and CEO, she manages all operations, ensuring compliance with federal and state relocation policies while supporting residents' comprehensive needs throughout the process. Dash and Dwell has successfully completed nine relocation projects, assisting over 1,700 families and seniors. In 2022, Jennifer founded Core Connect, Inc., a non-profit entity of Columbia Residential, to extend access to direct financial assistance resources for residents. The organization's vision is to see every family become financially stable by meeting basic needs, championing affordable housing, and prioritizing education as a pathway to build generational wealth. As Board President, Jennifer establishes the vision and strategic direction of the organization, working to identify an Executive Director to fulfill the mission. Prior Journey Jennifer grew up in Massachusetts and has called Atlanta, Georgia home for the past 18 years. She pursued undergraduate studies in Anthropology and International Affairs at the University of New Hampshire, driven by her deep interest in other cultures. This passion led her to serve in the United States Peace Corps in Ecuador as a Public Health Extensionist from 2001 to 2003. Fortunestime.com | 11
Jennifer earned a Masters in Social Work at Georgia State University, with a focus on community organizing and building. Columbia Residential is dedicated to strengthening neighborhoods by upholding a culture of respect, integrity, character, responsiveness, responsibility, and excellence. These values guide the development of their properties and the relationships they cultivate with residents. Central to Columbia Residential's approach is prioritizing listening to and learning from partners, customers, and stakeholders to overcome barriers to development. They are committed to upholding their commitments to the highest standards and reinvesting in communities to ensure their ongoing health and vitality. Jennifer's journey with Columbia Residential began shortly after graduate school when she provided supportive services to residents through a grant at one of their mixed- income housing communities. The Founder and then CEO, Noel Khalil, recognized the importance of providing support to all residents and offered Jennifer the opportunity to develop an internal Resident Services department enhancing the company's customer service model. This allowed her to leverage her social work and community building background to create widespread impact. Empowering Growth Jennifer emphasizes her commitment to continuous growth and development as a leader by initiating and creating solutions to challenges faced by her teams. She believes in modeling a proactive and exploratory approach, encouraging her team to feel confident in responding to obstacles in a similar manner. Jennifer acknowledges that many successful leaders have been challenged to solve problems where solutions were not readily available. Over the past eleven years, Jennifer has built a a dedicated team of Resident Services professionals serving families and seniors in Georgia, established non-profit partnerships supporting residents in Florida, New Orleans, and Texas, and developed a relocation team providing advisory services to residents during property redevelopment. Additionally, she founded a non-profit entity focused on increasing access to basic needs, education, and housing resources and services for all residents. Jennifer's work exemplifies her commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families by ensuring access to safe and secure housing. For Jennifer, the most satisfying aspect is not just the end product, but rather the process of balancing strategic planning with risk-taking to stretch her professional skills. She finds fulfillment in inspiring others to boldly lead their own career development journey, fostering a culture of growth and empowerment within her team. Columbia Residential Sharing Significance of Patience Columbia Residential was founded in 1991 with a mission to develop quality mixed-income housing for families and seniors in areas underserved by the affordable housing industry. Over the years, it has evolved into a fully integrated real estate development and management company, encompassing master planning, development, project management, construction management, and property management disciplines. Jennifer observes that many of today's emerging leaders lack patience in investing in themselves. She notes that some individuals choose career paths based on a false sense of expedience, seeking high titles or large salaries without understanding that effective leadership requires a personal journey and macro-level vision gained through long-term experience. She highlights that the expectations of success among emerging leaders can often be grounded in entitlement and self-confidence in completing tasks, rather The company's portfolio includes 79 multifamily and senior apartment communities, totalling 9,976 apartment homes. 12 | April 2024
than possessing the skills to lead others toward a shared vision. Jennifer encourages emerging leaders not to rush for external validation of success but to focus on something they truly believe in, where they have the space to fail, relearn, and make a measurable impact. She advocates for a more holistic approach to leadership development that prioritizes personal growth and long-term vision over short-term gains. structures. Jennifer sees this approach as a full-circle win for the real estate industry, benefiting both residents and investors alike. company cultures thrive on these characteristics, making office work more beneficial overall for both the company and its employees. Power of Kindness and Professionalism While remote work may allow individuals to cross more items off their to-do lists, Jennifer emphasizes that professional success and growth are not solely about completing tasks. Instead, they involve collectively exploring new ideas, experiencing non- verbal cues from others, engaging in spontaneous conversations with colleagues outside of one's team, and feeling a part of something shared and bigger than oneself. She underscores the importance of in-person interaction and collaboration in fostering a vibrant and dynamic workplace culture. Jennifer advises individuals starting their careers to always be kind to others and to present themselves in a courteous and professional manner, regardless of their surroundings. She emphasizes that we never know when we might cross paths with someone who could impact our future. Jennifer shares a personal anecdote of being approached by the Founder of Columbia Residential at a local bookstore after he observed her collecting book donations at the store. This impromptu meeting marked the beginning of her ten-year (and counting) career with Columbia. She believes that wonderful opportunities can arise anywhere and at any time, and it is crucial to be present and open to receiving them. Vision as an Expert Jennifer acknowledges the significant challenge of affordable housing shortages across the nation and emphasizes the need for reevaluation of how underutilized commercial real estate can be repurposed and redeveloped for residential use. She believes that this approach can increase housing availability in dense areas, limit environmental harm, and make housing more affordable for the growing low to moderate-income population. Breaking Barriers Jennifer asserts that, like in many industries, there are ample opportunities for women to grow and lead in the real estate sector. Historically, women have faced societal barriers to reaching leadership positions, but Jennifer observes a positive shift as more women embrace their potential and assert themselves in the industry. She expresses gratitude for this progress and emphasizes the importance of women making space for themselves and others at the c-suite and executive tables. Jennifer believes that by leaning into their greatness, women can continue to break barriers and thrive in leadership roles within the real estate industry. Future Outlook In addition to increasing access to affordable housing, Jennifer advocates for greater expansion of funding for resident supportive services by real estate investors and developers. She recognizes that the longevity of housing is directly impacted by the overall health of residents and emphasizes the importance of investing in people, not just the physical Jennifer predicts that most companies will, at a minimum, adopt a hybrid schedule where employees work together in the office a few days a week. She believes that human behavior is positively influenced by in- person connection, shared vision, and spontaneous dialogue. Furthermore, Fortunestime.com | 15
Director | RIPCO 18 | April 2024
Caroline Cheng, an accomplished professional in the field of commercial real estate, currently holds the esteemed position of Director at Ripco Real Estate. With a strong focus on both Landlord and Tenant representation, Cheng brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role. Prior to joining RIPCO, she held the position of Director of Retail Leasing at Franklin Street, a renowned commercial real estate firm based in Tampa, Florida. Ripco Real Estate, established in 1991, emerged with a mission to deliver excep?onal, personalized services in retail real estate throughout various regions including Manha?an, the Outer Boroughs, Long Island, New Jersey, Connec?cut, and Florida. Recognizing the dis?nct needs of retailers, landlords, and developers, Ripco Real Estate serves as a trusted intermediary, providing exper?se and guidance to all par?es involved in the process. Boasting an impressive career spanning over 15 years in the industry, Cheng has honed her skills in deal making and transaction management, making her an invaluable asset to Ripco Real Estate. One of her notable achievements includes leasing kiosk spaces for the second largest Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) in the United States. Her exceptional negotiation skills and in-depth understanding of the market allowed her to secure favorable leasing agreements on behalf of her clients. Cheng's expertise extends beyond leasing as she has also served as a Real Estate Manager at Checkers, a prominent restaurant chain, where she played a pivotal role in expanding the company's corporate footprint. Additionally, she oversaw the growth of four franchised brands under the former Global Franchise Group, which included renowned names such as Great American Cookies, Pretzelmaker, Marble Slab Creamery, and Hot Dog on a Stick. This experience provided Cheng with valuable insights into the complexities of franchise operations and real estate management. A key strength of Ripco Real Estate lies in its comprehensive understanding of the dynamics between retailers and property owners, managers, and developers. By possessing knowledge from both perspec?ves, Ripco Real Estate is uniquely posi?oned to create mutually beneficial deals and maximize the value for its diverse clientele. Having spent over six years as an independent broker, Cheng has represented numerous national and franchised retailers, guiding them through the intricacies of the real estate market. Her vast network, coupled with her strong industry knowledge, has enabled her to facilitate successful transactions and establish long-lasting relationships with clients. Over the years, Ripco Real Estate's reputa?on grew, as sa?sfied retailers and developers recognized and appreciated the firm's capabili?es. The posi?ve word-of-mouth led to sustained success, and many of the early rela?onships Ripco established con?nue to be valuable clients to this day. Building upon its strong founda?on, the firm has expanded its opera?ons to include the thriving Florida market, with offices in Tampa and Miami. Caroline Cheng's commitment to professional development and industry collaboration is evidenced by her membership in the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC). As an active member, she stays up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in retail real estate, ensuring that she remains at the forefront of the industry. Fortunestime.com | 19
Journey in Marketing and Blockchain estate developments tokenization, NFTs and other De-Fi products. Claudia has had a successful 15-year career as a marketer for both B2C and B2B. She has a track record of delivering growth, increasing engagement, and launching commercial successes at multi-billion-dollar companies. For the past five years, she has worked in high-growth Fintech and Blockchain startups in Asia, Latin America and United States defining the overall roadmap of marcoms, product and commercial offerings, digital revenue and acquisition campaigns. However, developing and promoting fintech and blockchain products come with numerous challenges including: awareness and education of tokenization. Organizations have the need without even knowing it. Legal and regulatory compliance, anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) requirements, cybersecurity, scalability to handle a large volume of users and transactions and interoperability. Embracing Innovation and Risk-Taking She believes that in the coming years there will be more convergence and tokenization in the space. As more and more people adopt these technologies, there will be an accelerated migration of digital assets onto the Blockchain. People will invest and have access to all sort of tokenized assets. According to Claudia, the traditional management approach used by big corporations falls short in turning uncertainty into business opportunities. This is because companies and their leaders are programmed to avoid risk, and static cultures and processes stifle innovation. AI is joining the pool of converging technologies. We are seeing increased productivity of specialized workers such as: developers, graphic designers and video producers. Fidunova also offers AI solutions for the RWA tokenization and exchanges. Claudia believes that the leadership team must clearly communicate the big goal, instill a passion for insights and problems faced by users and foster a culture of experimentation- fail, and learn quickly through concept testing, prototyping, A/B testing, and minimum viable products (MVPs). Unique Approach to Marketing and Life Claudia's background in engineering and statistics combined with her focus on user behavior, gives her a unique perspective in marketing. She recognizes the importance of engaging users by understanding communities and their ethos within a market i.e.- crypto communities, digital natives or high value users. Furthermore, it's essential to have team members who are good at generating insights, such as T-shaped marketers. I- shaped professionals with specific expertise should be added to the team later. Communication should be assertive, accountability emphasized. Hands-on meetings regular, and an element of fun incorporated to ensure that team members enjoy and feel free to express their creativity. This understanding has served her to define and execute the overall product and marcoms roadmap for fintech and Web3 offerings, working closely with tech teams to launch innovative products such as: a super apps, digital wallets, tokenization services and other fintech and blockchain products. Vision for marketing leadership Claudia emphasizes that as a marketing leader, the primary responsibility is growth and increase the company's value. This involves delivering the product roadmap, building a strong and inspired team with a clear vision and well- defined roles; a brand story that builds trust and engages communities, and a flexible marketing executional framework. The brand has to be managed as a publisher by having a clear marcoms plan that includes engagement and conversion campaigns, key calendar moments, Navigating the Challenges of Fintech and Blockchain Claudia's experience spans across both B2C and B2B domains in the fintech and blockchain industries. Now with Fidunova, she is working on offering a series of services such as: investments on tokenized RWA, real 22 | April 2024
influencers, PR and thought leadership. Believing in Making Impact Claudia´s personal project is OMtheWay Marketing. She offers a series of 3 programs covering: Marketing leadership, Brand and Marketing Strategy and blockchain advanced knowledge to help women boost their Marketing careers and access the Web 3.0 space and job market. The world needs more women in tech and Claudia helps them to get there with these programs. For her, career growth is not about a good job and financial security. Rather, it is about creating a fulfilling life where one can be present for others, add value consistently, and enjoy every step of the journey. Outside of work, Claudia prioritizes spending time with her loved ones and an active lifestyle. Health and fitness cannot be bought, it must be earned and maintained by cultivating mental endurance, discipline, and consistency- she adds. Rodrigo Venegas | Founder She likes to take a forward-thinking approach to her life. By regularly reviewing her vision and making necessary adjustments, she has been able to consistently achieve her goals and stay on the right path to living a fulfilled life. You can follow Claudia https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia You can follow Fidunova https://www.linkedin.com/company/ fidunova/ Fortunestime.com | 23
The Resilience of Real Estate Real estate has long been considered a solid investment and an essential component of wealth creation. However, the industry is not immune to challenges and market fluctuations. This article explores the resilience of the real estate market, how it has weathered past crises, and the opportunities it presents for investors and homeowners alike. 24 | April 2024
Homeownership Advantages For individuals and families, homeownership remains a cornerstone of stability and financial security. This section explores the benefits of owning a home, including building equity, potential tax advantages, and the sense of community and pride associated with homeownership. It also provides tips on navigating the homebuying process and understanding the local market. Real Estate Market Challenges While real estate offers numerous opportunities, it is essential to acknowledge and address the challenges that can arise. This section discusses factors such as fluctuating interest rates, regulatory changes, and market oversaturation, highlighting the importance of due diligence, risk management, and strategic decision-making. Technology and Innovation Historical Resilience Technological advancements have revolutionized the real estate industry, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and customer experiences. This section explores how proptech (property technology) innovations, such as online listing platforms, virtual tours, and blockchain-based transactions, are reshaping the way properties are bought, sold, and managed. The real estate market has demonstrated resilience throughout history, rebounding from economic downturns, recessions, and even major crises. This section highlights notable examples, such as the recovery from the 2008 financial crisis, to emphasize the industry's ability to withstand challenges and regain momentum. Global and Regional Trends Adapting to Market Shifts Real estate markets vary across regions, and it is crucial to understand local dynamics. This section provides insights into global and regional trends, such as urbanization, demographic shifts, and the impact of economic factors, enabling investors and homeowners to make informed decisions based on specific market conditions. Real estate is a dynamic sector that adapts to changing market conditions. This section examines how the industry has responded to evolving trends, such as the rise of remote work and the increasing demand for sustainable properties. It also explores the emergence of new property types, like co-living spaces and mixed-use developments, that cater to changing lifestyles and preferences. What's Ahead! Investment Opportunities Despite the challenges it may face, real estate remains a resilient and rewarding industry. By understanding historical trends, adapting to market shifts, recognizing investment opportunities, and leveraging technological advancements, individuals and investors can navigate the real estate landscape successfully. Whether as a long-term investment or a place to call home, real estate continues to hold substantial value and potential for growth. Real estate continues to offer a range of investment opportunities. This section discusses the potential for long- term appreciation, rental income, and diversification within a well-structured investment portfolio. It explores different avenues, including residential, commercial, and real estate investment trusts (REITs), and provides insights on factors to consider when evaluating investment options. 26 | April 2024
An Inspiring Journey Lacey's journey into real estate began early, as Latter & Blum is a family business deeply ingrained in her life. Starting with internships in her teenage years, she has held various roles within the company, including sales agent, manager, and executive. This diverse experience has given her a profound appreciation for the company's rich history, founded in New Orleans in 1916. Today, Latter & Blum boasts a footprint spanning the Gulf Coast region, with over 3,500 real estate professionals under its brokerage. From Houston, Texas to Louisiana and Mississippi, the company facilitates approximately 20,000 transactions annually, with an impressive $6 billion in annual sales. Renowned for its excellence, Latter & Blum is consistently recognized as a top brokerage in the United States and is affiliated with prestigious networks such as Leading Real Estate Companies of the World and The Realty Alliance. Through decades of experience, Latter & Blum has weathered numerous market cycles and emerged resilient, a testament to its enduring legacy. Blend of Creativity, Empathy, and Adaptability At her core, Lacey finds fulfillment in seeing people happy. In the workplace, her creativity fuels innovative problem-solving, while her calm demeanor guides her through challenges with composure. Shaped by a blend of life experiences and influential figures, Lacey reflects a unique combination of her artsy, literary mother and philanthropic, gifted businessman father. Supportive and empathetic, Lacey believes in adapting her leadership style to suit the moment and situation, recognizing the necessity of being demanding, direct, reflective, or quiet as circumstances require. Accessible to both her management team 30 | April 2024
and agents, she values open communication and enjoys frequent calls and emails. As a mother of two children, an animal lover, and an equestrian, Lacey's personal life informs her professional ethos. Drawing inspiration from her creative mother and compassionate businessman father, she approaches her work with the same core values and beliefs she applies to her family life. Leading a family-owned business like Latter & Blum, Lacey prioritizes adaptability and compassion, making difficult decisions for the company while seeking advice and counsel from others. Seizing Opportunities significant role in life, and waiting too long can lead to a mindset of feeling unqualified. Lacey suggests that delaying action can result in self- imposed limitations and encourages women to seize opportunities when they arise, rather than waiting for perceived readiness. According to Lacey, numerous studies indicate that men often pursue opportunities as they arise, regardless of whether they feel fully qualified, whereas women may hesitate, even when they possess the necessary qualifications. In Lacey's view, women could benefit from aspiring to higher positions, even if they don't feel entirely prepared. She believes that timing plays a Reserved and calm, Lacey's character allows her to be an attentive listener, essential for effective leadership. Beyond her professional endeavors, she remains dedicated to supporting friends and family, finding solace and reflection in her passion for equestrianism and her time spent in nature. Fortunestime.com | 31
Lauren Freedman Freedman Freedman Your Trusted Real Estate Professional in Connecticut 32 | April 2024
“Work hard, build your name and your reputation.” In real estate, where every client presents a unique set of needs and expectations, the paramount focus is on delivering optimal results while ensuring absolute comfort. The commitment to this philosophy is embodied by Lauren Freedman, now a licensed real estate broker. Lauren's journey in real estate began in 2010 when she obtained her initial real estate license with the intention of collaborating with her mother, a seasoned real estate appraiser. However, as she delved into the industry, Freedman discovered her true passion lay in the realm of sales. Over the years, she dedicated herself assiduously to emerge as one of the most renowned and respected Realtors in the area, earning accolades not only from her clients but also from her peers. The evidence of Lauren's excellence is reflected in stellar client reviews, a 5-Star ranking on Zillow, and global recognition in the Top 30 under 30 of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage associates. Additionally, she has been honored with inclusion in the National Association of Realtors' 30-Under-30, standing as a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence and the unparalleled service she consistently delivers. “I am ready to impress my clients with my service, encourage them with my trustworthiness, and thrill them with my commitment to urgency,” says Lauren, who is energetic, passionate, knowledgeable and “all about the client”. “The customer's needs and concerns are my number one priority.,” She explains. “My goal is to be available to my customers and to work with their best interest in mind. I consistently go above and beyond for my clients and will strive to find the right buyer, the right property to fit their needs and desires.” A Trailblazer with a Record of Success Lauren possesses an easygoing style paired with an intense attention to detail. With her boundless energy, formidable marketing abilities, top-notch negotiating skills, and an in-depth knowledge of both the area and the real estate business, she emerges as the ideal choice for clients seeking assistance with their real estate needs. 34 | April 2024
Over her 15-year career in the real estate business, Lauren has demonstrated remarkable success, having sold over $403 million worth of real estate and closed deals on nearly 1,400 properties. This impressive track record has positioned her as the #1 Realtor in New Haven County and Middlesex County. Moreover, she has consistently held the title of CB #1 Realtor for Connecticut and Westchester NY for multiple years. HVAC specialist, and other high-quality, affordable tradespeople. Among her many accolades, Lauren has been twice named to the Coldwell Banker "30 Under 30" and recognized as one of the Top 100 real estate agents in the United States in the REAL Trends "The Thousand" report published in "The Wall Street Journal." She has received top agent honors from New Haven Living Magazine and the New Haven Middlesex Association of Realtors. Lauren has also earned professional designations as an Associate Broker, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Property Specialist, and Graduate, Realtor Institute. Additionally, she has served on the Board of Directors of the New Haven Middlesex Association of Realtors for five years. Throughout her career, Lauren has earned numerous accolades, establishing herself as a leading real estate agent in the New Haven shoreline area. Since 2015, she has held the coveted position of the No. 1 real estate agent in the Coldwell Banker Realty office in Branford, extending her dominance to surrounding towns as well. Her Real Estate Journey Commencing her career at the age of 20, Lauren has steadily ascended the ranks to become a top-producing real estate agent in her market, boasting millions of dollars in closed transactions. Leveraging Coldwell Banker's cutting- edge technology and extensive marketing plans, she maximizes exposure for her properties on various platforms, including coldwellbanker.com, realtor.com, zillow.com, trulia.com, lauren- freedman.com, and others. Before venturing into real estate, Lauren garnered valuable experience in the restaurant industry. This background not only provided her with the chance to meet a diverse range of people but also honed her communication and multitasking skills, setting a solid foundation for her current profession. Lauren's commitment to unparalleled service is evident in the reviews and five-star ranking she has earned. Her approach is rooted in the belief that each client is unique, emphasizing the importance of tailoring her efforts to achieve optimal results while ensuring their comfort and exceeding expectations. Communication is a cornerstone of her methodology, and she pledges to keep clients informed at every step of the process. Lauren's commitment to her clients is unwavering, evident in her 24/7 availability and willingness to assume as much responsibility as necessary to ensure a smooth transaction. She leads a team of professionals, including a licensed buyer transaction assistant, general contractor, painter, stager, photographer, cleaner, carpenter, window washer, hardwood floor refinisher, electrician, paver, plumber, Fortunestime.com | 35
Loubna Sadiki Loubna Sadiki A country, Morocco, where she partnered with luxury hotels and palaces in the enchanting city of Marrakech. Originally from Casablanca, Morocco, Loubna completed her education in the United States at the University of Washington in Seattle, where she initially started on a career in the tech industry as an Operations Data Analyst. However, she soon discovered her true calling in entrepreneurship and interior design. As an immigrant, Loubna faced sexism and challenges while pursuing her passion for serial entrepreneurship in the real estate, hospitality, and interior design fields. Nevertheless, her persistence and innovative thinking have opened doors for her, establishing her as a voice for young women confronting similar obstacles. Notably, her interior design services have been sought after by NBA athletes and esteemed American celebrities, including French Montana. An ambitious entrepreneur, interior designer, and real estate investor, Loubna Sadiki is a driving force in the world of design and entrepreneurial growth. With her unwavering passion and determination, she has broken barriers in the mainly male-dominated industry, achieving remarkable success and inspiring young women to fearlessly pursue their dreams. Loubna is also the visionary behind Xenia Homes, a luxury vacation rental and concierge service. She started her vacation rental business in Seattle in 2016 and expanded to Los Angeles and Miami. Her discerning clientele has included NFL and NBA players, as well as renowned figures such as Swae Lee and CeeLo Green. Loubna's entrepreneurial endeavors didn't stop in the United States; she extended her luxury vacation rental business to her home 36 | April 2024
About the Company In order to help both property owners and buyers, Xenia Homes works as a one-stop shop. Both those looking for vacation rentals and those who own properties can get solutions from the company. Property owners can fully enjoy their downtime without worrying about the upkeep and maintenance of their properties thanks to Xenia Homes, a company that specializes in managing vacation homes for them. Finding the ideal vacation rental with Xenia Homes is a stress-free experience for visitors. ?e company's commi?ed employees go above and beyond to ful?l the needs of their visitors, providing an upscale housekeeping service and a private concierge service to guarantee a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Fortunestime.com | 37
T technological advancements, shifting market dynamics, and changing consumer preferences. Amidst this transformation, the role of a realtor has also evolved, adapting to meet the needs and demands of today's buyers and sellers. This article explores the changing landscape of the real estate market and highlights the key aspects of a realtor's role in the modern era. he real estate industry has witnessed significant changes in recent years, fueled by Fortunestime.com | 39
Niche Specializa?ons In a compe??ve real estate market, realtors o?en specialize in specific property types, geographical areas, or customer segments. This sec?on explores the benefits of niche specializa?ons for realtors and how it allows them to establish themselves as experts in their chosen fields. It also highlights the importance of ongoing educa?on and professional development for realtors to stay relevant and informed within their niche. Building a Strong Online Presence Embracing Technology Providing Personalized Guidance In today's digital age, having a robust online presence is crucial for realtors to a?ract clients and stay ahead of the compe??on. This sec?on discusses the importance of a well-designed website, ac?ve social media presence, and posi?ve online reviews. It also explores the use of content marke?ng and digital adver?sing strategies that realtors can employ to enhance their visibility and reach. Technology has become a game- changer in the real estate industry, empowering realtors to streamline their processes, enhance customer experiences, and reach a wider audience. Realtors now leverage advanced tools and pla?orms for property lis?ngs, virtual tours, and online marke?ng. This sec?on discusses how realtors are leveraging technology to stay compe??ve and provide value-added services to their clients. Despite the availability of online resources, many buyers and sellers s?ll rely on realtors for their exper?se and personalized guidance throughout the real estate process. This sec?on explores the various aspects of a realtor's role in providing tailored advice, nego?a?ng deals, and facilita?ng smooth transac?ons. It also emphasizes the importance of strong communica?on and interpersonal skills for realtors in building trust with their clients. The role of a realtor has transformed significantly in response to the changing real estate landscape. By embracing technology, staying informed about market trends, providing personalized guidance, adap?ng to consumer expecta?ons, specializing in niche markets, and building a strong online presence, realtors can thrive in the modern real estate industry. As the market con?nues to evolve, realtors must con?nue to adapt and innovate to meet the needs of buyers and sellers in an ever-changing environment. Naviga?ng Market Trends Adap?ng to Changing Consumer Expecta?ons Market trends and condi?ons play a crucial role in real estate transac?ons. Realtors are expected to possess up- to-date knowledge of local market trends, property values, and emerging opportuni?es. The ar?cle delves into how realtors analyze market data, interpret trends, and guide their clients to make informed decisions based on current market condi?ons. Today's consumers have higher expecta?ons when it comes to the real estate experience. They seek realtors who understand their needs, communicate effec?vely, and offer personalized services. The ar?cle examines how realtors are adap?ng to these changing expecta?ons by providing excep?onal customer service, embracing transparency, and priori?zing client sa?sfac?on. 40 | April 2024
Real Estate Advisor and Business Development at Engel & Voelkers and Platinum Luxury Auctions acknowledged her success. As a Florida native and a graduate of the University of South Florida, Tawny holds degrees in Mass Communications, Public Relations, and Marketing. Her passion for luxury real estate led her to join the Business Development team at Platinum Luxury Auctions in 2017, where she has contributed to the sale of over $50 million worth of luxury properties across the United States. Tawny Wolf, famously known as the "Wolf of Wellington," has made a name for herself as a prominent figure in the real estate industry. Her love for horses brought her to the Wellington/Palm Beach area 15 years ago, where she became an active show jumping competitor. This unique background enables her to connect with clients who seek the perfect blend of the equestrian world and the luxurious Palm Beach lifestyle. Over the past 5 years, Tawny has achieved an impressive sales record, with real estate transactions totaling over $200 million. Beyond her trailblazing work in equestrian real estate, Tawny is an active member of her community. She has served on the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Club of Wellington for many years, demonstrating her commitment to giving back. When she is not riding horses or engaged in real estate transactions, Tawny dedicates her time to volunteering and supporting the youth in her neighborhood. Her rapid success, self-made persona, and unwavering dedication to her clients have positioned her as a pioneering force in her field, and she continues to be a rising star to watch in the years to come. Tawny's accomplishments have garnered widespread recognition in the South Florida real estate market. She was featured on the cover of Braman magazine in 2022, showcasing her remarkable achievements. Golfer's Digest, Haven magazine, Engel & Volkers' GG magazine, and other notable publications have also 46 | April 2024
