kch&s real estate experts 2015
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RE/MAX 40th Anniversary Special Section featuring Dennis Curtin.TRANSCRIPT
Dennis Curtin proves that leadership is not simply a title, but an example.“Simply do the right thing for the right reason, and you’ll get your reward.”
40TH ANNIVERSARY
KCH&S SALUTESDENNIS CURTIN
S P E C I A L S E C T I O N
KCHSR E A L E S T A T E
E X P E R T S
40 years ago, Dennis Curtin had a dream tobecome a real estate leader in helping peoplebuy and sell their homes. Purchasing his firstRE/MAX franchise in 1975, Dennis quickly grewhis offices through dedication and hard work.Kansas City Homes & Style recognizes this greataccomplishment with this special issue.
RE/MAX MID-STATES & DIXIE REGIONDennis Curtin
RE/MAX METROPOLITANPam Turner Harbin & Courtney Filing
RE/MAX PREFERRED TEAMBrian Reed, Carie Averill, Mary Godfrey, Tina Roe & Shelby Tipton
RE/MAX PREMIER REALTYSharon G. Aubuchon
RE/MAX STATE LINEThe Scottie Broderick Team
RE/MAX RESULTSDan & Brenda Vick
RE/MAX HOUSE OF DREAMSPatty Farr
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40TH ANNIVERSARY
CONTENTS
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S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N TR E A L E S T A T EEX P E R T S
Always doing the right thing for the right reason
PROVES THAT LEADERSHIPIS NOT SIMPLY A TITLE, BUT AN EXAMPLE
KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015 | 3
DENNIS CURTIN
STORY BY ANN E. BUTENAS | COVER PHOTO BY APR IL MICK PHOTOGRAPHY
S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N T
S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N TR E A L E S T A T EE X P E R T S
Above... Dennis Curtin participating in a RE/MAX balloon luanch in the late 70’s.
On the Cover... L to R Paul Catterson, Kelley Curtin Catterson, Olivia Zappia, Domenic Zappia, Kerrie Curtin Zappia, Brooklyn Zappia, (Front) Dennis Curtin, Evan Catterson, Tamara Libbey
short, it’s a veritable page-turner that, when told by the man
himself, captivates you from the first moment you meet him. His
friendly and approachable demeanor instantly puts you at ease,
and his ability to connect with any audience is undoubtedly his
true secret to success. As he stands on the threshold of 40 years
of dedicated service within the RE/MAX organization, Curtin is
showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon, and to spend
just an afternoon with him is to understand that sometimes the
best life lessons are learned, not just preached. Curtin has been on
an incredible journey, certainly not without its trials, but for the most
part, he appears to have come through it all relatively unscratched
and with a strong spirit of enthusiasm for what’s still to come.
Currently, as a region owner, Curtin devotes his time to providing
leadership and strategies for existing franchisees in addition to
mentoring for market dominance throughout his seven state
region. His resume boasts an impressive timeline of events, but
Curtin prefers not to stand in the limelight of his accomplishments,
and instead chooses to offer his insight and experience to assist
those who continue to champion the RE/MAX name as franchisees,
agents, managers, administrators and all others who comprise not
just a business organization, but a true family.
Certainly the numbers from RE/MAX International tell a compelling
story, there are 101,903 agents in 6,893 offices world-wide. The
company has offices in nearly 100 countries –– more than any
4 | KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015
t has been said that desire is the starting point of all
achievement. Bearing that sentiment in mind, it would appear
that Dennis Curtin, Region Owner of RE/MAX Mid-States &
Dixie, has always been someone with significant desires with
respect to his professional ambitions. Like most success stories,
this one is peppered with a litany of anecdotes, life lessons, and
certain inevitable stumbling blocks, all notably tempered with
unparalleled achievements, personal growth, and inspiration. In
IDennis Curtin and the 2015 RE/MAX Mid-States Region staff.
other real estate organization. One of the most inspirational stories
comes from the heart of the man who has kept his finger on the
pulse of this amazing organization for four decades and counting,
as an agent, franchisee and region owner. He will tell you that, yes,
RE/MAX is the most productive real estate network offering a
highly recognizable brand and massive global presence, but the
relationships its agents build with their clients make it seem more
like a friendly next door neighbor in whom you trust and with whom
you enjoy a wonderful relationship. The familiar red, white and blue
brand wrapped around a hot air balloon logo doesn’t just catch
your eye, it can also capture your heart once you understand the
company’s overall philosophy.
Curtin, a native of St. Joseph, Missouri, with a B.S. degree in
Business Administration and Marketing from Rockhurst College in
Kansas City (Class of 1972), is known in RE/MAX circles as the
guy who purchased the first RE/MAX franchise in the country. Prior
to taking this leap of faith, he was working as a Realtor for a father
and son team north of the river in Kansas City. In 1975, Curtin had
read an article about RE/MAX in the Kansas City Star newspaper
and his interest was piqued. Curtin, along with the afore
mentioned son, decided to check it out and went to Colorado to
meet with Dave Liniger, co-founder and Chairman of RE/MAX
International. Six months later, Curtin became the first franchisee
and opened his new office in North Kansas City in an area which
is now the Cerner Campus. PLEASE TURN THE PAGE
“Some folks thought I was nuts with respect to where I opened
my offices, but I wanted to take a different approach and appeal to
professional agents and serious clients, which is why I wanted
these offices to be in professional centers, similar to the image
associated with medical and legal offices,” explained Curtin.
Curtin’s visibility quickly gained velocity and inquiries to purchase
franchises came from other prospective buyers but Liniger offered
first rights to Curtin.
“He told me he had a guy who wanted to buy all rights to
Missouri, but that I was his first guy,” recalled Curtin. “So I bought
the regional rights in 1977 just for the state of Missouri (with the
exception of St. Louis).”
The evolution of Curtin’s rise to success had begun and he soon
purchased three more offices in Kansas City. He then purchased
the sub franchise rights to Kansas, then Arkansas and Oklahoma
in 1985, giving him the Mid-States Region. By 1990 the four state
region had started to take off and Curtin decided to sell his
Northland offices so he could fully focus on franchise development
in his region. At the time he sold the offices to his managers the
operation had more than 110 associates and sales volume in
excess of $200,000,000 that constituted a market share of 43%.
Three years later, Curtin purchased the RE/MAX Dixie Region,
which gave him the sub franchise rights for Mississippi, Alabama
and Louisiana, giving him a seven-state region. Now as a Master
Franchisor, Curtin sells the rights to franchisees and services
them by providing marketing, training and technology for them. His
vision and hard work have combined to make RE/MAX Mid-States
& Dixie Region a powerhouse with 3,360 associates in 228 offices
to date.
KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015 | 5
Left... Dennis Curtin when he first started RE/MAX.
Right... RE/MAX LLC was just barely starting in Denver, Colorado when Dennis heard of it and journeyed out to investigate the new real estate concept. These are the renegadeswho started it all, Daryl Jesperson, David Liniger, Don Hachenberger, Dennis Curtinand Bob Fisher. (Not pictured is Gail Liniger.)
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There are some folks who might want to paint a rosy picture of
Curtin’s success. After all, he got into this business on the ground
floor. Lady Luck was certainly on his side, right? In reality, it took a
spirited combination of hard work, dedication and perseverance
to weather the inevitable storms that came his way over the years.
He learned how to effectively adjust his sails and likes to joke that
Liniger, in the early days, told Curtin that in this business a person
can work just half a day to be successful.
“You just have to decide which 12 hours you want to work,”
laughed Curtin.
Of all his primary senses, it’s a safe bet to assume that Curtin’s
sense of adventure and sense of humor are usually on full throttle.
When opportunity knocks to experience something new and exciting,
he’ll boldly open the door, and wherever he goes, fun and laughter
typically tag along. He may not be one to take himself seriously,
but he does take this business seriously with respect to its growth
and the people who take pride in promoting the RE/MAX name,
and he recalls that point in time when it hit home for him.
Curtin points to 1986 as a pivotal year. That was when he
began to notice the momentum was building. RE/MAX may have
struggled with certain limitations in the beginning, especially when
comparing itself with the bigger players in the arena, but it certainly
had no problem setting out to defy those limitations.
“By 1986, we were on a roll,” recalled Curtin. “We were getting
recognition in various trade journals and finding our way among
the big boys in the industry. We were newer, obviously, but
making strides while breaking the status quo. We gave our
agents the opportunity to get in business for themselves, not just
by themselves.”
RE/MAX’s claim to fame, according to Curtin, is that the company
sells more real estate than anyone else. That doesn’t mean they
have more agents, and Curtin gives a strong nod to Century 21
and Keller Williams in that regard, but he attributes that dynamic to
the different business models they employ.
“With our model, our agents invest in themselves,” expressed
Curtin, keeping an open mind to the possibilities in the industry.
“There is room for a lot of models out there, and with RE/MAX, we
know what works for us.”
It was an exciting morning on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange on Nov. 12, 2013as RE/MAX LLC went public. As one of the original franchisees, Dennis was part ofthe group that rang the bell to announce the IPO to the market.
The original co-founders of RE/MAX LLC, Dave and Gail Liniger with Dennis at anopen house in 1986. The initial open house to announce RE/MAX of Kansas City washeld Nov. 19th, 1975. The 40th anniversary celebration will be held this year onthe same date with brokers, sales associates and guests joining.
Curtin’s commitment to ensuring the success of fellow RE/MAX
agents doesn’t necessarily equate to just a significant bottom line.
Instead, he prefers to celebrate with them when their hard work
translates to such rewards as making a spouse’s dream come true,
sending a kid to college, or benefiting a local charity. Curtin aspires
to make a difference and believes that RE/MAX has changed the
lives of so many individuals for the better. Sure, agents have made
good money, but it is what they do with that money that makes all
the difference in the world.
As Curtin eyes his future, he realizes that after 40 years of
being in business, he is not the new kid on the block anymore and,
admittedly, while he did enjoy those early years, he now appreciates
how his business has evolved over the last four decades while still
allowing for tremendous future growth.
“We have about 60,000 agents in the US now,” he noted. “With
roughly one million real estate agents overall in the US, we represent
about six percent of that population.”
Will Curtin ever retire, or will he pursue this endeavor until his
last breath? The undeniable passion and tenacity he has for this
business seems to suggest the latter, and he certainly has the
enthusiasm to go the distance. Besides, Curtin presents more as
someone who, in the end, would rather wear out than rust out.
“I’ve told people that if you see me becoming irrelevant, that it
is time for me to leave,” he pondered. “But I love the game, and it’s
not about the money. It’s about positively influencing others.”
Curtin has created his own success story not simply on just a
wing and a prayer, but by sheer determination, enthusiasm and a
“roll-up-your-sleeves and get it done” mentality from which all-day
success seminars could be developed. However, he is quick to
point out the inherent fallacy of an “all work and no play” mindset
within the real estate arena.
“I know a lot of agents who burn the candle at both ends, but in
doing that, you have no quality of life,” he assessed. “To stay long
term in this industry you need to create balance in life. You want to
serve, but you sometimes have to back off to serve better.”
KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015 | 7
PLEASE TURN THE PAGE
Left... RE/MAX has long been a supporter and major fund raiser for Children’s MiracleNetwork, Dennis literally “got into it” participating in a dunk tank to raise money in the 90’s.
Middle... A love of travel combined with the world-wide presence of RE/MAX has madefor some interesting business trips. After consulting with newly organized RE/MAXSouth Africa in Capetown, Dennis found his way to the great Pyramids of Gizaand of course, planted a RE/MAX sign. (This was in 1995.)
Right... Following a presentation by motivational speaker Bob Davies who challengedthe audience to “face their fears” Dennis joined a group of brokers and associateswho tandem jumped out of a perfectly good airplane.
Branding has played an important partin the growth of RE/MAX both
locally and internationally.
S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N TR E A L E S T A T EE X P E R T S
8 | KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015
That approach has led RE/MAX to maintain its number one spot
within the industry with respect to productivity. As of this year
the company booked 890,000+ U.S. residential transaction sides.
While some folks might try to conjure up the reason for the
consistent success realized by RE/MAX agents, the secret
ingredient employed is to attract high-producing individuals.
“You simply become better and more productive when you
surround yourself with more productive people, and that is the
environment we foster for our agents,” explained Curtin, who noted
that while the industry average for yearly transactions is seven,
RE/MAX agents typically realize 17 transactions per year.
And there was one potential transaction for Curtin years ago that
taught him the best approach to being productive, which doesn’t
necessarily equate to being perpetually busy.
“When I was a young agent, perhaps 26 or 27 years of age, I
was always trying to do too much and was often a few minutes
behind schedule,” recalled Curtin. “I was excited about a listing
appointment I had with a client who was probably in his 50s. Well,
I was running about 15 minutes late and when I got to his home, I
extended an apology for my tardiness, to which he replied, ‘I can
see you are busy. It was nice to meet you, but we won’t be doing
business together. It’s obvious you had something more important
than doing business with me.’ I lost the listing, and it was a great
one, by the way. I thought I was being productive, but in reality I
was not. That potential client did me a huge a favor and made me
realize that as an agent, my time is not more important than the
priorities of my clients. Now, I always make sure to be on time as
it is so important to have respect for others’ time.”
Any number of factors can be applied to the formula for Curtin’s
own success, but the pivotal one to which he gives the credit was
his passion for the deal.
“As an agent, I loved it. I was good at it, and I approached it not
with an ego mindset but with an attitude of servant leadership. You
have to do what is in the best interest of others, not solely yourself.
It’s not about the ego. It’s not about the money. It’s about doing
what’s right for your client and making a huge difference in their
lives by helping them get into the right home. For me, there was
always a self-high that came from that experience,” Curtin reflected.
When one person gives, two people receive. If ever Curtin were
to pen a book on success in business –– that would be the title, the
message, the inspiration and the call to action.
“Simply do the right thing for the right reason, and you’ll get your
reward,” smiled Curtin.
Above.. Dennis networking with Irish Associates at theRE/MAX International Convention held in Vegas yearly.
Left... RE/MAX has been a source of wonderful lifetime friends and traveling togetherhas provided an excellent opportunity for brainstorming and networking. Julie and Mark Kortingof RE/MAX Alaska, Nan and Daryl Jesperson, RE/MAX LLC (retired),Dennis Curtin and Tamara Libbey, Vinnie and Michelle Tracey, RE/MAX LLC (retired).
2860 NE Kendalwood Pkwy, Gladstone, MO 64119Toll Free: (800) 397-3629 | Local: (816) 459-7740Email: [email protected]
Mid-States & Dixie RegionDENNIS CURTIN: Region Owner
s the faces of RE/MAX Metropolitan, the dynamic mother-daughter team of
Pam Turner Harbin and Courtney Filing has certainly made a name for itself
within the metro area. With offices in the heart of Kansas City at 300 Westport
Road, they can easily get to any destination within minutes to make a client’s
dream come true.
A native of Iowa, Pam came to Kansas City in the early 1970s and began in her
work within the real estate industry in the mid-1990s. By 2001, Courtney acquired
her real estate license and within two years had partnered with her mom. After
three years of working together at another RE/MAX office, Pam and Courtney
decided to completely join forces and purchase their own brokerage in 2006.
Working with family members may not always be the best choice for some, but
Pam and Courtney appreciate a harmonious balance of professional strengths.
“We have learned how to work with each other over the years and how to
accommodate our different strengths while respecting how each other work,”
noted Courtney. “Our number one goal above all else, though, is taking care of
our clients.”
Striving to find ways to best serve their clients is always at top of mind with
this team, and by employing each others’ talents, skill sets, interests and
strengths, they have successfully created a winning combination to that end.
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816.286.1122TurnerFilingHomes.com
PAM TURNER HARBIN & COURTNEY FILINGRE/MAX METROPOLITAN
300 Westport RoadKansas City, MO 64111
A
KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015 | 11
“Pam has an incredible eye for detail,” expressed Courtney. “She knows exactly what to look for to
help the seller get the biggest return possible and to help the buyer acquire the best deal. Her past
experiences with selling homes she fixed up definitely prepared her for this business and was a
natural transition for her.”
And when these two professionals work together, it’s easy to understand why their business enjoys
the success that it does. By integrating each of their respective talents, experience and skillsets, they
have created a strong and cohesive partnership. Pam and Courtney each bring to the equation unique
skill sets that highly complement one another, providing an undeniable winning edge. While Pam
embraces a highly creative mindset, Courtney offers dynamic marketing and technology prowess that
allows the team to effectively brand itself while simultaneously providing the best in customer service
and, most of all, results, which stem from Pam and Courtney’s unwavering passion for what they do.
“Most of all, we both love Kansas City and we both love
houses,” emphasized Courtney.
Now working with a highly experienced and growing
team, Pam and Courtney work diligently to keep ahead of
the game by remaining continually well-versed in all areas of
the market. They understand that purchasing a home is
the single largest investment for people and they endeavor
to make the process as simple, seamless and effortless
as possible.
“We want to make it a success for our clients,” said
Courtney. “We offer a black and white solution in an area
that is typically gray for them because it is an emotional
decision. We do this by educating them as much as we
can and offering the best guidance to make the best
decision for them.”
Further, this team is completely dialed in from a technological standpoint and takes
advantage of every opportunity to promote the home, both in online presence and in person.
From the first day on the market, the house is perfectly staged and poised for sale. The team
uses a professional photographer who knows how to effectively showcase each home, and
they also utilize a vast database of Realtors and potential buyers to quickly spread notice of
the home within the market.
“Often, our houses will sell within days, if not hours, of being on the market,” assessed
Courtney. “We work diligently up front to get the home on the market, and, yes, we do ask
a lot of our clients in the process, but our intention is to sell that home quickly.”
The team at RE/MAX Metropolitan has streamlined its processes to make the
entire experience efficient and satisfying, and all of the agents are incredible
business people with an intense entrepreneurial drive, which is evidenced by a
186% increase in sales volume in the last two years.
“We give our agents access to all the tools and technology they need,” said
Courtney. “We want them to be able to work smarter and make more money
in the process. And we always welcome new agents who are ready to grow
their business.”
S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N TR E A L E S T A T EE X P E R T S
resolve to continue the legacy he had established with his mom and
he now oversees RE/MAX Preferred with the same determination and
purpose as when it began.
With a primary focus on homes within the greater Lee’s Summit
area, most specifically the west side, Brian approaches each transaction
with one of the most important philosophies inherent to exceptional
customer service.
“I simply treat my clients just as I would want to be treated,” he
expressed. “It is my job to look out for their best interests and to give
advice as if it was my own money.” Buying or selling a home is an
extremely emotional process, and Brian resolves to mitigate any related
stress and anxiety by assisting his clients to make the best decision.
“I just like helping people make a good decision,” he offered.
“And in order to do that, I simply represent them the way I’d want to
be represented.”
Within his office, Brian enjoys working alongside two dynamic
teams which include business partners Mary Godfrey and Tina Roe
and independent agent, Carie Averill, all of whom appreciate the
positive and supportive environment that allows each of them to grow
their businesses.
“We continually share resources,” noted Brian. “Our primary
motivation to start a RE/MAX office was because of the way it makes
people feel welcome and excited to come to work. Plus, there is
so much opportunity for growth because we do all share insight,
information and resources. It’s all about supporting each other and
being happy with each other’s successes.”
s broker/agent for RE/MAX Preferred,
Brian Reed presents as a natural leader
with an ability to remain just as welcoming
and friendly as the guy next door. He has
certainly earned his stripes not only as an
agent but also as a broker, and operates his
office with an open door policy for all of the
agents working under his broker umbrella.
“I essentially have two roles –– one as broker of the office and the
other as a real estate agent,” he explained. Opening this RE/MAX
office has allowed him to successfully wear both hats while at the same
time offering an opportunity for other agents to grow their businesses.
The experience Brian brings to the table provides immeasurable
insight for those agents, and he is more than willing to avail himself to
their future growth.
Brian initially got his feet wet in the industry working as an appraiser
at just 22 years of age back in 1998 and within two years had
established is own business, Appraisal Works, Inc. After the economic
downturn several years ago, Brian refocused his efforts on real estate
sales and acquired his license in 2009. He spent his first 18 months
with RE/MAX Heartland and was named Rookie of the Year during his
inaugural year. From there, he transitioned to RE/MAX Elite. In July of
2013, he realized an opportunity to partner with his mom, Mary Carol
Schriefer, to establish RE/MAX Preferred. With Brian’s background in
real estate sales and Mary Carol’s 40+ years of experience in the
mortgage arena, they were a perfect fit. The team spent nearly two
years working together providing some of the best real estate services
in the Lee’s Summit area. Unfortunately, Mary Carol passed away in
May of 2015 from a brain tumor. However, that did not diminish Brian’s
12 | KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015
THERESA KIOH, TINA ROE, BRIAN REED, MARY GODFREY, CARIE AVERILL & SHELBY TIPTON
RE/MAX PREFERRED TEAM
A
icensed since 2003, Carie Averill can
barely contain her enthusiasm for her
job. Originally from Kansas City, she spent 20
years in northern California, the last 10 of
which she worked in real estate, before
returning to the metro area three years ago.
A noted short sales specialist, Carie also
covers all price brackets, because for her, it’s all about the client.
“I absolutely love what I do,” she beamed. “I love it when I can put
a smile on someone’s face.”
An integral part of Carie’s success exists not only in the rapport she
shares with the other agents and teams within the RE/MAX Preferred
office, but also her ability to effectively communicate with her clients.
“I believe that if you are a good communicator, you can do anything,”
she explained. “Of course, my goal is to make someone happy and
get a referral in the process, but it requires being honest and speaking
the truth every step of the way.”
Carie’s easy-going yet focused demeanor translates to her ability to
reduce the stress of her clients while continually staying on point to
achieve the desired results. She is unafraid of the negotiating process
and whether helping someone sell or purchase a home, her primary
focus is to ensure the client is making the right decision.
Carie also appreciates the vast availability of resources that RE/MAX
provides its agents, including the continually available training and
technology tools.
“We also enjoy sitting down and sharing our successes with other
RE/MAX agents so we can learn from each other what has made us
marketable,” noted Carie, who is licensed in both Kansas and Missouri.
“I have my SFR, Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource certification.”
KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015 | 13
o-partners, Mary Godfrey
and Tina Roe have
worked together since 2011
and enjoy a harmonious
business relationship that
allows for each of them to
hone their own skill sets
while simultaneously building a strong and cohesive team built upon
mutual respect, trust and passion for the business.
“We both love working together and helping people,” said Tina.
“When you like who you work with, it’s a fun and rewarding job.”
As they motivate each other and keep one another accountable,
they remain clearly focused on their clients. They take extreme pride in
the level of customer service they deliver and prefer to surround
themselves with people who embrace the same philosophy. Shelby
Tipton is one such agent who works with Tina and Mary, and as they
grow their team, they purposely aspire to align each member with the
mindset of fully servicing each client without growing to the point where
they are unable to do so.
“We pride ourselves on customer service. Our conviction reflects our
client’s trust in us to the extent that 100% of my personal transactions
this year to date are referrals from contacts or past clients,” said Mary.
In addition to their attention to unparalleled customer service for
buyers and sellers in all price brackets, Mary and Tina are Certified
Luxury Home Marketing Specialists (CLHMS) with specialized training
and experience in the upper bracket market. Realizing that there are
more challenges within that sector, the team has developed a premier
product for listing those homes with a group of IT specialists
called Showing.ly, which utilizes the latest in iBeacon technology
to showcase detailed aspects of mid to upper bracket homes.
With successful test-marketing completed, they hope to roll out this
product within the next six months.
“Showing.ly will provide more detailed information about a home
which will benefit both the seller and buyer,” explained Tina.
This technology, along with a host of effective marketing tools and
strategies, allows the team to fully educate their clients.
“We want to provide the highest level of technology while also
adding a personal touch by maintaining regular contact with our
clients,” smiled Mary. “We love our RE/MAX Preferred team, as it is all
about sharing ideas in a fun and ethical environment.”
816.783.5800 | PreferredKC.com
C
L
S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N TR E A L E S T A T EE X P E R T S
cell: 816.863.3003office: 913.529.1414
Sharong.Remax-MidStates.com
f results are what you seek, then look no further than to Sharon
G. Aubuchon of RE/MAX Premier Realty. An independent agent
who surrounds herself with the best of the best, it’s no surprise
that she is a multi-million dollar producer serving both sides of
the state line and has been the recipient of numerous industry
honors, including Voted #1 Agent, Best of KC 2012, 2013, and
2015; 5 Star Professional Award Winner; and Top Agent by
KC Magazine, July 2015.
Aubuchon has been an integral part of the real estate scene
in the metro area for the past five years. However, her business
savvy and prowess was developed well before she acquired her
license. With her strong background in corporate leadership
roles, sales and highly successful entrepreneurial endeavors,
Aubuchon understands business and approaches each transaction
with that mindset while simultaneously incorporating a highly
personal touch.
“The sale or purchase of a home is the biggest financial
undertaking most families will make in a lifetime, and I treat it as
such,” explained Aubuchon. “When an agent becomes numb to
that philosophy, then it is time to transition to a new career. My
priority is to treat my clients like a friend or family member with
the express intent of keeping their best interests at top of mind
from beginning to end.”
Her tenacity, drive, enthusiasm and results-driven mindset
provide the fuel for her to reach the desired results, and she is not
satisfied until her clients are satisfied. Unafraid of hard work, she
will do whatever it takes to get the job done, and she realizes that
she has positioned herself to be top leader in the industry because
she chose to become a part of a dynamic real estate organization.
Choosing to align herself with RE/MAX was done without hesitation
on her part.
“These are the most seasoned and experienced agents ever,
both on a national and worldwide scale,” she noted. “I feel that
within this organization I am surrounded with better resources;
more knowledgeable people and have much greater opportunities
for exposure.”
14 | KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015
SHARON G. AUBUCHONRE/MAX PREMIER REALTY
P R E M I E R R E A LT Y
I
2210 W. 75th StreetPrairie Village, KS 66208
KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015 | 15
That level of exposure frequently translates to fast results, too. The minute a home goes
live, it hits the MLS syndicate and is given a broad band of exposure. Because of such a vast
network, some houses get sold well before someone ever sets foot in them.
“The internet gives the first impression of a home before it is even seen,” noted Aubuchon.
Thanks to all of the tools that RE/MAX has provided Aubuchon to succeed, she remains a
dominating force in the industry and has successfully learned to surround herself with resources
that, like herself, are at the top of their professional game, including stagers, inspectors,
photographers, movers and other key individuals that allow her to continually produce the results
her clients desire.
“I do well because I have these resources
and because I am available at all times, including
holidays, weekends and during events,” said
Aubuchon, who rarely unplugs from her role,
which is essentially an advisory one, and one
that she takes quite seriously.
“My goal is to get top dollar when selling a
home,” she expressed, noting that she does
not put it on the market until she has completed
her homework. “You have to care enough to
take the time to do it right. I know my clients
are busy and overwhelmed, so I make it easy
for them. I’ll do what is necessary to make it happen, but in return my clients
must be willing to listen to me in order to make this a successful transaction.”
In an effort to cover all of her bases, Aubuchon is extremely hands-on
throughout the process. She attends all of the inspections and conducts all of
the negotiations. (Thanks to her former sales background, this comes quite
naturally to her!) She is also one of the first agents to utilize the 360 tours (as
opposed to a virtual tour). She will even sit with the client at the computer to
instruct them on how to complete the requisite paperwork. Whatever tool is
available to her that works to the advantage of her clients, she will employ.
“I can do a contract from anywhere,” she noted. “The technology we use and
the systems we have in place have made it so much easier and
have allowed me to be so much more organized and efficient.”
Aubuchon is quite forthcoming when it comes to revealing the
true secret to success in her industry, and it has less to do with
selling and more to do with teaching.
“It’s an educational process, and it is my job to make it comfortable
for the clients from beginning to end,” she emphasized. “And to let
them know I am still available after the closing. It’s not just a
transaction. It’s a relationship.”
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S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N TR E A L E S T A T EE X P E R T S
16 | KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015
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be the agent she is today if it wasn’t for the dynamic organization
known as RE/MAX.
“I want to congratulate Dennis Curtin on his 40th anniversary with
the company and to thank him for introducing me to RE/MAX when I
first began in 1980,” smiled Scottie.
Scottie offers a fun and vibrant face to the field of real estate sales.
She came to Kansas City in 1973 by way of New York, and ever since
she dove into the real estate arena, she has been continually making
monumental strides. Among her many notable accomplishments
include being a part of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame since 1990; Realtor
Salesperson of the Year; the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement
Award and the Distinguished Service Award, as well as being recognized
as the #1 RE/MAX agent in Johnson County since 1996.
When it comes to her business philosophy, Scottie is not interested
in reinventing the wheel. Instead, she aspires to perfect it. Even though
she has risen to the championship heights within the industry, that does
not mean she ceases learning and growing, a habit that, in the end,
results in continued growth due to impressive word-of-mouth praises.
“We are always teaching, learning and improving,” she emphasized.
“And one of the best compliments we can receive is a referral from a
client. We love it when we not only help a family buy or sell a home, but
ultimately help them with subsequent transactions and those involving
their children and eventually their grandchildren. We enjoy being a part
of their lives for the long-term.”
With her new tag line, “Re-defining Real Estate,” Scottie’s team is an
adaptable company that generates new opportunities. Never settling
hen you meet Scottie Broderick, Owner/Partner of RE/MAX
State Line, if you sense a genuine, kind hearted, driven and
welcoming presence, then please don’t abandon that initial conclusion.
She is someone who can immediately put your anxieties at ease and
is clearly passionate about what she does. She is unafraid to dream big
and go for what she wants, and in the process she makes sure her
clients get what they want. In short, working with Scottie is a veritable
“win-win” for everyone.
Despite all of her well-earned accolades and awards which run as
deep as they do wide, Scottie will be the first in the room to take the
spotlight off of herself and shine it on those to whom she feels she
owes a debt of gratitude. To that end, she realizes that she would not
18 | KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015
913.312.3620ScottieBroderickTeam.com
THE SCOTTIE BRODERICK TEAMRE/MAX STATE LINE
W
KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015 | 19
for the status quo, the company always redefines its core business in ways that open up new avenues
for growth. For more than 35 years, The Scottie Broderick Team’s mission has been to redefine the
real estate experience through innovation, integrity and collaboration with a strong approach to build
and strengthen relationships with clients and achieving goals by providing exceptional results.
Primarily specializing in the cities of Leawood, Overland Park and Fairway, Scottie has a team of
seven agents and eventually hopes to grow that number to 12.
“We don’t want to get too big, or we risk losing that sense of family,” she cautioned.
Scottie is blessed to have among her talented team two of her daughters, Heather Broderick and
Shannon Broderick. Heather has been working alongside Scottie for 18 years as an agent and
Shannon brings to the table her prowess as a business analyst, helping the team to streamline its
processes and forecast where it is headed in the next 10 years and beyond.
“Shannon is teaching us to run our business like a
business and identifying growth areas and mapping
extended financial plans,” said Heather.
This well-oiled machine enjoys a family-like atmosphere
and most of their agents have been with them for many
years. Team members are encouraged to discover their
niches in the market and communicate with their clients
and friends on a more consistent basis. This team does
not focus on the selling, but rather on bringing useful
information to the market in a fun and social manner.
“We focus on goal setting and accountability,” expressed
Heather. “Working with the team members to set their goals
and seeing those goals on paper and what it will take to get
us there is extremely motivating.”
With a strong focus on growth and expansion, it is imperative to bring on the right team
members who display passion for customer service, are driven, and understand team
dynamics while simultaneously displaying a level of respect that this is a business for the
entire group, not just a hobby. Team members include Kasey Bourk, Brent Arnold, Jason
Willett and Lesa Simonson.
“We enjoy working together and love to be able to take care of our clients, as they, too,
become a part of our family,” said Scottie. “Our clients are extremely important to us. They
understand just how much we care, and they also know that we will provide the best
service possible. They are comfortable with us and have learned that we can and will help
them with all of their real estate needs.”
More than anything, Scottie and her team desire to instill trust in their clients,
and they do so by pursuing excellence in all areas, surrounding themselves with
the best in the industry, and making sure to fully understand the needs of their
clients by listening first to understand and then to reply. While they utilize the best
in technology to promote their listings and continually stay abreast of such trends,
they also endeavor to place a premium on open and honest communication. They
never want to lose that comforting sense of familiarity with their clients.
“When we hand over the keys to someone who has found that dream home,
it’s a highly personal matter, and we are not just a Realtor at that point; we are a
friend…someone with whom the client has shared so much,” reflected Heather.
S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N TR E A L E S T A T EE X P E R T S
816.210.7359DanVick.com | BrendaVick.com
E/MAX Results agents Dan and Brenda Vick need a mantel
extra long and extra wide to accommodate all of the
awards they have acquired over the years for their prowess
within the real estate industry. However, despite all of the well-
deserved accolades, that is not what inspires or fuels their
ambitions. Instead, they are motivated by providing the ultimate in
customer service.
With over 38 years of experience in real estate, the last 32 of
which have been with RE/MAX, Dan brings an incredible amount
of industry knowledge and expertise to the table. Four years ago,
he merged RE/MAX of k.c., where Dan had been Broker/Owner
previously, with Greg Koons at RE/MAX Results near Zona Rosa.
This afforded Dan the opportunity to release some of the day-to-
day operational duties to which he previously dedicated the
majority of his time and focus more on what he loves the most:
spending time with clients.
“You realize how much you love your town and all of its sur-
roundings as you show people around,” he noted.
With an equal amount of drive and determination, as well as
passion, Brenda teamed up with Dan 12 years ago after retiring
from her job at Hallmark Cards as an IT Helpline Manager. The
skills she acquired from that endeavor have seamlessly translated
to successful and efficient systems for their real estate team.
“With Brenda’s IT and organizational skills, she has taken
the services we provide to a much higher level now,” noted Dan.
“And she really helps me to not let things fall through the cracks.
Because of her efforts, we have highly efficient systems in place
that allow us to excel with each client’s needs.”
Success seems to come naturally to this husband and wife
team, as they are recognized as the number one real estate
team at RE/MAX Results. RE/MAX Results is Platte County’s most
productive office in terms of total volume and transactions and is
home to an additional 45 agents.
When Dan broke into the real estate arena, he was Rookie of
the Year for the entire metro area his inaugural year and was
inducted into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame in 1995. Since combining
forces with Brenda, some of this team’s awards and honors
include the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2003 and the RE/MAX
20 | KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015
DAN & BRENDA VICKRE/MAX RESULTS
RESULTS
7020 NW 83rd Terr.Kansas City, MO 64152
R
KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015 | 21
Mid-States Distinguished Service Award in 2006. The team has also been selected as a Five
Star “Best in Client Satisfaction Real Estate Agent” for seven years and was also heralded as
Missouri Broker/Owner of the Year in 2009. Dan’s years of experience coupled with Brenda’s
personal touch have created a winning force and most recently this duo was picked as the
top-rated Zillow Agent for Missouri in 2014.
Even though all of the best systems, years of experience and industry knowledge have
definitely leveraged this team, what truly places Dan and Brenda on a unique level is their
understanding for what this business is truly all about.
“We are not just providing a transaction; we
are creating relationships with our clients,”
emphasized Dan.
Because of that dynamic, their business
has grown exponentially through repeat clients
and referrals.
“I enjoy meeting new people and feel so
lucky to be in Kansas City,” stated Brenda.
“Everyone is genuinely nice here and it’s fun
getting to know people. Some of our clients
have become some of our very best friends!”
While simultaneously cultivating those
relationships, Dan and Brenda have created a
significant network that allows them to list a
home within 72 hours on over 260,000 web sites.
“Ninety-five percent of buyers start their search for a home
online now, and it is our job to stay on top of that dynamic,” noted
Dan. To that end, Dan and Brenda are highly visible on Zillow,
Trulia and Homes.com and also use the latest digital technologies
such as DotLoop and social media platforms that include
Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Google+ and Instagram. Their goal
is to help clients achieve their own goals.
“Getting to work with Dan is my very favorite thing. It’s
such a joy to work with him and if I didn’t work with him, I’d
probably never see him!” laughed Brenda. “And I can honestly
say that Dan approaches each day with consistent effort and a
positive attitude.”
As Brenda’s biggest fan, Dan suggested that he could not do
the volume of business he does without her.
“She provides a unique personal touch to each client, even something as simple as a
handwritten note or a gift for a new born baby,” he stated. “The relationships we create with our
clients don’t just end at the closing table.”
S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N TR E A L E S T A T EE X P E R T S
or Patty Farr, an independent RE/MAX agent with House of
Dreams in Smithville, Missouri and her newest location in Platte
City, Missouri, her bottom line is not measured in dollars and cents,
but in acts of service rendered selflessly from the heart. Being a
real estate agent is simply a side benefit of who she truly is.
Patty grew up in the Platte County area so she knows this land
like the back of her hand. Born of homegrown sensibilities and a
natural desire to be of service to others, her undeniable heart of
compassion can be seen in all she does. She loves this area. It’s
where she raised her two sons and it’s where she leaves footprints
of service all over the land. She eagerly maintains a steady finger
on the pulse of all the activity that makes her hometown exciting.
She is also the kind of real estate agent who is not afraid to
throw on some jeans and boots and trudge through a muddy field
if that is what it takes to get the job done and the property sold.
“I dress for the walk,” she noted. “I have walked many acres of
land with clients.”
An award-winning and highly respected real estate agent and
broker specializing in the Platte County and Clay County areas,
Patty has extensive experience within the rural and farmland
market in Platte City, Smithville and in all of the small towns north
of Kansas City. However, she is equally adept at assisting buyers
and sellers in a wide range of price brackets, markets and
neighborhoods. In short, Patty is an esoteric fountain of knowledge
for her clients.
Even though she leans heavily towards the rural market, Patty
personifies what it means to be a top agent and broker within the
RE/MAX family. Because of her commitment to all that RE/MAX
champions, Patty stands out for multiple reasons.
First of all, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She is
well-versed in the industry, the market and the neighborhoods she
serves. She has also created a vast network of connections within
the industry upon which she consistently relies, from other agents
and brokers to buyers and sellers to appraisers, home inspectors
and mortgage loan officers. Her friendly and approachable
demeanor easily draws others into her influential circle of contacts.
22 | KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015
PattyFarr.com
PATTY FARRRE/MAX HOUSE OF DREAMS
House of Dreams1103 S. 169 Highway N | Smithville, MO
816.873.03002000 Kentucky Ave | Platte City, MO
816.858.9009
F
KCH&S Real Estate Experts 2015 | 23
Patty with the Mayor of Platte City,Frank Offutt.
“I get to work with some of the friendliest people in this market,” she smiled. “Not only are they
great people, but many of them become good friends.”
Patty also pays attention to detail. She is extremely organized; follows up on leads; and most
important, pays attention to the needs of her clients. She wants to make sure her clients get the
best deal possible. She understands that listing and marketing land or homes for sale can be
challenging, especially when the market gets a bit persnickety. It’s one thing to just tidy up the
property. It’s another thing to get it ready for sale. Patty’s job is to ensure a property is ready to
list, and it’s also her job to ensure that buyers get the best price possible on that property.
Patty also has that undeniable drive and hustle. She operates on nothing less than
full throttle and consistently puts work at top of mind. Sure, she puts in the hours, but she
also employs a smart work ethic. She dedicates the right amount of time to make sure the
deal is perfect, and best of all, she does so with enthusiasm. Patty has a way of making
the transaction fun and without all the added stress and anxiety that typically tags along in
these matters.
Of course, all of this lacks some of its luster without an engaging and fun loving personality to
keep it flowing. Her natural ability to make friends wherever she goes definitely works to her
advantage. She is confident in her abilities, is extremely motivated and works to solve any
problems that come her way. Her strong entrepreneurial drive is what motivates her to remain at
the top of her field, but her ego never gets in the way.
“I am really just a small town, country person who appreciates friendly and honest people,”
she noted.
Buying and selling real estate is a complex business and should be handled by someone who
truly understands the subject matter. As an experienced broker and agent, Patty has that
understanding and is indispensible to her clients when it comes to eradicating any surprises at
closing time. Patty does her homework for her clients, giving them the power of knowledge and
peace of mind.
S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N TR E A L E S T A T EE X P E R T S
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