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Green Team 2018 Awards Ceremony celebrates another year of growth and success
Agents and staff of Green Team Realty gathered together on January 18 at the Warwick Country Club to celebrate a year that was momentous in many ways. Geoff Green welcomed everyone and outlined some of the year’s milestones.
Among them, a new home for Green Team New Jersey Realty and a beautiful renovation of the Warwick Office. Add to that the many new sales associates that have joined Green Team New York Realty and Green Team New Jersey Realty.
Growth was an important topic. Through dedication, hard work, support, creative marketing and consistent training programs, many Green Team sales associates saw their businesses grow. And both offices saw sales volume increase. In fact, Green Team New Jersey Realty became #1 in Vernon (based on a comparison to all GSMLS offices in the township by closed sales volume for the period of 1/1/18-12/31/18). This achievement is made even more impressive considering GTNJR first opened its doors in 2016.
Award Presentations
Geoff Green believes in acknowledging and rewarding both growth and achievement. And what makes the award presentations so special is the support and pride that the whole Green Team family shows to the recipients.
Yearly Sales Leaders & 4th Quarter Sales Leaders
President’s Club
As several sales associates achieved between $5 and $10 Million in Sales Volume, a new award category became necessary. Meet the charter members of the President’s Club.
From Left to Right: Jennifer DiCostanzo, Ted VanLaar, Joyce Rogers, Charles Nagy, Pip Klein, Tammy Scotto, Nancy Sardo and Dean Diltz.
Captain’s Club
This established award is given to those who do $3 to $5 Million in Sales Volume.
From Left to Right: Keren Gonen, Barbara Tesa, Vikki Garby, Lucyann Tinnirello, Linda VanDeWeert, Chris Kimiecik and Kim Lesley.
Honorable Mention
This new category was created to acknowledge those Sales Associates who had $1.5 to $3 Million in Sales Volume.
From Left to Right: Kimberly Lasalandra, Janine Blandino, Angela Murphy, Jacque Kraszewski, Mary Lynch, Terry Gavan, Toni Vogel, Tom Folino, Alison Miller, Ann Nussberger.
Not shown: Julianna Green, Toni Kreusch, Connie Marines, Denise Schmidt.
The Momentum Builder Award
The People’s Choice Awards
The winners of these awards are selected by their peers.
Citizen of the Year
Team Player Award
And a special thank you goes to…
BHGRE Green Team’s 2022 Awards Ceremony
An afternoon to Celebrate one of our Most Memorable years yet
BHGRE Green Team’s 2022 awards ceremony was held on March 3rd at the Warwick Valley Country Club. This year was full of transformation, learning, and success for our team and we couldn’t wait to celebrate.
In May 2022, Vikki Garby stepped into the position of Green Team Realty’s new President. Since then she has invested countless hours of hard work into improving our company. Shortly after, our beloved Broker manager for our NY office, Lucyann Tinnirello stepped down. After being in this position since 2018 she decided it was time for her to begin focusing on working full-time with her clients. Carol Buchanan was chosen to take her place and has done a fantastic job as our NY office’s new Broker Manager.
Arguably our largest change came in July of 2022. After 17 years as an independent agency, the decision was made to affiliate with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate. This opportunity was unparalleled; the marketing tools and training they provide to our agents give us a huge advantage in the business.
Getting the Afternoon Started…
Our President Vikki Garby started the afternoon with an inspiring speech. Since her promotion to president, she has made inspiring teamwork and improving the experience of our agents her priority.
Following Vikki’s speech, our CEO Geoffery Green stepped up to take the mic. He extended his appreciation to our agents as well as our “behind the scenes” team. He invited our ASMs, Natalee DiMichele and Morgan Beattie, and our Broker Managers Carol Buchanan, Kim Lasalandra, and Krissy Many. As well as our headquarters team, Nicole McCormick, Britanni Gaucher, Ryan Fischer, Lora Chandra, Vikki Garby, and Jane Steinhoff. These individuals keep our team running smoothly and help our sales associates be as successful as they can be.
He also thanked Linda VanDeWeert, our “jack of all trades” as well as Lucyann Tinnirello, NY’s former Broker manager.
After Geoff’s speech, our Marketing Director Nicole McCormick took over to start the awards.
The Emerald Elite, Yearly Sales Leader, and Citizen of the year awards go to… Kristi Anderson!
Kristi’s hard work and dedication to her clients and her career placed her at the top this year. She blew us away when she not only closed out 2022 with $12,422,350 in total sales volume but also was the top-selling agent in Vernon, NJ for 2022. She was proud to have helped 45 different families with their real estate dreams.
With all these accomplishments, it’s no surprise Kristi reached Emerald Elite status and received the Yearly Sales Leader award. Additionally, for the second year in a row, Kristi was selected as BHGRE Green Team’s Citizen of the year. This award is given in recognition of their valuable contributions and outstanding support to their community.
Congratulations Kristi!
The Platinum and Team Player of the Year awards go to… Barbara Tesa!
Barbara joined our team in 2017 and brought her 20 years of exceptional real estate experience. Over the years she has continued to excel and has become one of our top Sales associates. Barbara has been described as an intelligent, responsive, and hardworking agent who will stop at nothing to achieve her client’s goals. This professionalism and work ethic continue to set her apart from the competition and these qualities are what earned her the Platinum sales award for $8-11.99 Million in sales volume.
Additionally, Barbara also received one of the “Team Player of the year” awards. The recipient of this award is chosen by their peers to recognize their reliability, positivity, and dependability while exhibiting dedication and devotion to the agency and team.
Congratulations Barbara!
Gold Awards for $6-7.99 Million in Sales were presented to:
Kristine Many, Chris & Megan Kimiecik, Vikki Garby, Charles Nagy, and Ted Van Laar.
Silver Awards for $3 to $5.99 Million in Sales were presented to:
Tammy Scotto, Carol Buchanan, Nancy Sardo, Cara Dumond, Barbara Matchett, Ed Sattler, Tom Folino, Pip Klein, and Renee Williams.
Bronze Awards for $1.5 to $2.99 Million in Sales were presented to:
Robert Valentine, Linda VanDeWeert, Kimberly Lasalandra, Guillermina Tavares, Lucyann Tinnirello, Angela Murphy, Kathy Eubanks, Toni Vogel, Terry Gavan, Kathy Moran, Toni Kreusch, Britanni Gaucher, Vanessa Wight, and Jacque Kraszewski.
Team Players, Mentor, Citizens, Student, and Rising Stars of the Year…
Team Players are chosen by their peers, “in recognition of their reliability, positivity, and dependability while exhibiting dedication and devotion to the agency and team.” Our sales associates selected Barbara Tesa and Brian Cisek as the recipients of this award for 2022.
Krissy Many earned her award for Mentor of the Year “in recognition of her dedication, dependability, and devotion to Her mentees.”
Citizens of the Year are selected in recognition of their valuable contributions and outstanding support to our community. This award was given to Walter Ross and Kristi Anderson to recognize all they do for their communities.
Pip Klein was presented the “Student of the Year” award in recognition of her dedication and devotion to expanding her knowledge.
For the first time this year, we introduced the Rising Star award. This is given to agents to recognize their exceptional and ongoing growth in the Real Estate Profession. Barbara Matchett and Kathleen Moran were presented with these awards for their extraordinary success as newer agents.
Additional Awards…
Joseph Mackey was presented with the “Smallest Big Deal” award for 2022. This award was given to recognize his dedication to even the smallest of sales, proving that this career is about relationships and building long-lasting connections.
Teresa “Terry” Gavan was given the Legacy Award in recognition of the dedication she has shown over her 40-year career as a real estate agent. Afterward, she gave a wonderful speech recounting the amazing memories she has made over the years.
The Momentum Builder Award was given to Cara Dumond this year. This award is given to acknowledge “her ability to create the most positive and consistent momentum in her professional career while maintaining the same impetus reflected in many aspects of her personal life.” During Cara’s speech, she opened up about the many challenges she faced over the years. Her two children joined us for our award ceremony to show the support and pride they have for all their mother’s achievements.
Finally, Vanessa Wight was awarded a certificate for the “Funniest Survey Answer”. While preparing for our awards ceremony our associates were sent an “endless” amount of survey requests. Vanessa kept the entire team laughing with her humorous responses while completing them.
Time for food, fun, and friends…
Once the award presentations finished our team spent the rest of the afternoon celebrating. Despite the challenges, 2022 was an amazing year we won’t soon forget.
Green Team 2019 Awards Ceremony Looks Back at Momentous Year
Agents and staff of Green Team Realty gathered together on January 17 for their 2019 Award Ceremony. Warwick Valley Country Club was the perfect place to celebrate a year that was momentous in many ways.
2019 – A Year to Remember
According to Geoff Green, President of Green Team Realty, the “Green Team 2019 Awards Ceremony is all about appreciation for our Sales Associates. They are the ones out there in the field doing the hard work of listing and selling homes. This is a tough business that puts many demands on their time and resources. The Green Team Award Ceremony is a way to say thank you, highlight their achievements, and get them ready for another busy year.”
Geoff welcomed everyone and outlined some of the year’s milestones. Once again, through dedication, hard work, support, creative marketing, and consistent training programs, many Green Team Sales Associates saw their businesses grow.
Green Team #1 In Warwick and Vernon for Sales Volume and Units Sold
It was with great pride that Geoff announced Green Team was #1 in Warwick and Vernon. Green Team New York Realty (“GTNYR”) was #1 in Warwick for sales volume and units sold. Furthermore, Green Team New Jersey Realty (“GTNJR”) was #1 in Vernon for sales volume and units sold for the second year. Both did well in their respective counties, too. GTNYR was #8 out of 385 real estate offices in Orange County. And they were #9 out of 385 in terms of units sold. GTNJR was #8 out of 388 in terms of sales volume in Sussex County. And it was #6 out of 388 in terms of units sold.
Award Presentations
Geoff believes in acknowledging and rewarding both growth and achievement. And what makes the award presentations so special is the support and pride that the whole Green Team family shows to the recipients. This year Green Team Realty had a special presenter. Geoff’s wife, Laura, announced the winners in each category. She was aided by Donna Roberts, Green Team’s Agent Service Manager for the Vernon office, and event planner extraordinaire.
MVP Award
Jennifer DiCostanzo received the MVP Award for over $12 Million in sales for 2019. Jen, the first and only recipient of this award, also achieved the MVP in 2017 for over $10 Million in sales. Geoff Green had this to say about Jennifer: “While everyone can stand back and marvel at Jennifer’s accomplishments, what truly is the reason for her success is her work ethic. No one takes their business more seriously than Jennifer. She is a true professional in every sense of the word, and she works hard for everything she receives. There is no doubt that Jennifer will be at the top of Orange County, NY Real Estate Sales Associate production charts for many years to come.”
Yearly Sales Leaders
GTNJR’s team of Charles Nagy and Ted Van Laar received the Yearly Sales Leader Award for the second year in a row
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And Jennifer DiCostanzo received GTNYR’S Yearly Sales Leader award for the fourth year in a row.
President’s Club
In 2018 a new level of achievement was introduced. The President’s Club Award is given to those sales associates achieving between $5 and $10 Million in Sales Volume. For 2019, recipients of the award were, from left to right: Charles Nagy, Keren Gonen, and Ted Van Laar of Green Team New Jersey Realty. And Vikki Garby, Nancy Sardo, and Dean Diltz of Green Team New York Realty.
Captain’s Club
This established award is given to those who do $3 to $5 Million in Sales Volume. From left to right, recipients are Kristi Anderson, Heidi Hyland, Alison Miller, and Barbara Tesa of Green Team New Jersey Realty. And from Green Team New York Realty we have Tammy Scotto, Lucyann Tinnirello, Kristine Many, Angela Murphy, Carol Buchanan, and Toni Vogel. Not pictured is Chris Kimiecik.
Honorable Mention
This category was created in 2018 to acknowledge those Sales Associates who had $1.5 to $3 Million in Sales Volume. Recipients of this award, from left to right are Ann Nussberger and Cathie Witte of Green Team New Jersey Realty. Not pictured: Kimberly Lasalandra. From Green Team New York Realty are Pip Klein, June Cosgrove-Hays, Walter Ross, Tiffany Megna, Tom Folino, and Jacque Kraszewski. Denise Schmidt was given the award posthumously, with the certificate accepted by her daughter, Dana. Not pictured: Guillermina “GIdget” Tavares, Kim Lesley, and Linda VandeWeert.
The Momentum Builder Award
Every year Geoff Green selects a sales associate who has demonstrated hard work and determination while overcoming obstacles. Someone who has come through a tough spot in life and turned challenges into great success; not just in real estate but in life. A person who shows no signs of going backward. Because it’s all about building momentum towards a brighter future. This year’s Momentum Builder was Denise Schmidt, and there was not a dry eye in the house when Denise’s daughter, Dana came up to receive the award on her mother’s behalf.
Denise passed away suddenly in 2019, leaving family, friends, and co-workers in shock. She was much loved and is missed by all. Dana spoke movingly about Denise and her legacy. As a loving, hardworking single mom, Denise did whatever it took to provide for her family. In addition to being a sales associate with Green Team New York Realty, she was also a bus driver for the Warwick Valley Central School District.
The People’s Choice Awards
The winners of these awards are selected by their peers.
Citizen Of The Year
Recipients of this award are nominated by their co-workers. Both have made outstanding contributions to our local communities. This is the fourth year in a row that Jen DiCostanzo has been named Citizen of the Year by Green Team New York Realty. Jen originated Light Up the Holidays for Green Team to raise funds for local charities. The program evolved into Team Up for Hope, an initiative to raise funds and awareness of local organizations working in the fields of mental health, substance abuse prevention, and suicide prevention.
Keren Gonen has been named Citizen of the Year by her peers at Green Team New Jersey Realty for the third year. Keren has been instrumental in raising funds for local charities. She is also extremely active in Team Up for Hope.
These women truly believe in giving back to the community and put in the time, effort, and commitment to make things happen.
Team Player Award
Recipients of this award are deemed the most reliable, positive and dependable. Furthermore, they work well with others and have great problem-solving skills. It is no coincidence that the award went to the Agent Service Managers of each office. Andrea Wynn was voted Team Player by her peers in the Warwick office. And Donna Roberts was voted Team Player by her co-workers in Vernon.
In addition to her position as ASM of the Vernon, NJ office, Donna is a talented Event Planner and Coordinator. Her skill was evident in the many details of the Award Ceremony on display.
A Special Thank You To Our Sponsors
The event’s sponsors helped transform the Awards Ceremony into an awards Celebration!
Amy Green, VP of Mortgage Lending at Guaranteed Rate, was a Diamond Sponsor. Geoff Green watched with pride as his sister, Amy, addressed the gathering. Douglas R. Stage, Esq..of Stage Law Firm, LLP (formerly Stage & Nathans) was a Platinum Sponsor. And Gold Sponsors were: Joe Mayers of Septic Experts, LLC; David Willner, Pillar to Post Home Inspections; Kenneth Flood, Quest Financial Services; Jamie Fiscus, Allied Title, LLC, and Frank Frasco, Home Inspection LLC. As is usually the case when real estate professionals get together, there is “shop talk.” The Awards Ceremony provided an opportunity for Green Team Sales Associates to discuss local market conditions and community with sponsoring companies.
There was also the opportunity to dance! DJ Freddie Z kept the crowd entertained and energized. And George Tsakanias and Klaus-Peter
However, there was something else evident in the room. There was a sense that this was a TEAM. And as members of a team, there was pride, support, friendship, and respect for each other’s accomplishments. What’s more, you could tell that plans, goals, and dreams were beginning to take shape and would see the members of the Green Team through the coming year.
Green Team Awards Ceremony for 2017
Geoff Green takes the name of his company, the Green Team, quite seriously. Being an agent here is all about being part of a team. It’s about perfecting your craft, providing consummate service to each and every client. Also, it’s about providing support to your team mates. Furthermore, it’s about reaching for and achieving goals. At the Green Team Awards Ceremony, those goals were recognized. On January 26, 2018 the Green Team family came together to celebrate a very good year. 2017 saw many agents not only succeed in their goals, but surpass them. As a result, Geoff presented the framed certificates with pride.
Geoff was asked how it felt to have so many of his agent’s reach various levels of success. “I have an overwhelming sense of gratitude,” he replied. After starting this company 13 years ago, Geoff is seeing his goals surpassed by people he deeply cares about. One of the things that he loves about this business is its ability to help improve, even change, lives. And knowing that he has had a part in creating the training, the support, the vehicle and the opportunity for change means everything. Because, above all, this business is about people.
Awards were presented at Albert Wisner Library, followed by a Post Awards Ceremony Celebration hosted by Jeremy Miller of First Home Bank at the Historic Warwick Inn.
Presentation of awards was by category.
And the Green Team’s First MVP Award, for $10+ Million in Sales Volume, Goes To…
Finally someone broke Geoff Green’s record of $10 Million in sales in a year, and he couldn’t have been happier or prouder. When Geoff first met Jennifer DiCostanzo, he told her that he saw her as becoming the #1 Agent in all of Orange County, not merely in the Green Team. When asked about how she felt on achieving over $10 Million in sales in 2017, Jen replied… “Rewarded.” “Humbled, honored to be recognized for all the hard work and long hours I put in. This is something you don’t take lightly. The numbers don’t mean everything. You need tunnel vision; just focus on meeting the expectations and needs of your clients. That is ultimately the goal, and in the end, everyone wins.” Jen is excited to have raised the bar, both for herself and for her fellow Green Team associates.
Jen lovingly acknowledges the support and contributions of her family. She couldn’t have done this without them. They’re a team, organizing and having flexibility because of her often erratic schedule and long work hours. Her recipe for success? When you are given an opportunity, determination, hard work, keeping current, and keeping steady will keep you on track. “When you love what you do,” says Jen, “it’s not work. I can’t imagine doing anything other than Real Estate.”
In addition to the very special MVP Award, Jen was awarded Yearly Sale Leader for 2017 and Citizen of the Year, for her outstanding contributions to our local community. In the middle photo, Jen and Vernon Yearly Sales Award Winner, Keren Gonen, happily display their awards.
And It’s Another Triple Win…
In the Vernon office, Keren Gonen scored a triple play. In addition to being Yearly Sales Leader for 2017, Keren was voted Team Player and Citizen of the Year by her coworkers. What makes this all even more special is that this was Keren’s first year as an agent. Furthermore, to Geoff Green, Keren is a shining star, a remarkable sales person with tenacity and drive to be at the top. Keren truly believes that where a person lives has a big impact on their happiness. Therefore, she loves helping her clients, whether they are buying or selling, achieve their goals and enhance balance and happiness in their lives. She dedicates herself to providing them with the best real estate experience possible. In real estate, Keren has found her balance and happiness. And, in the Green Team, a new home.
Momentum Builder Award
This is a very special award for the Green Team Sales Associate who has created the most positive and consistent momentum in their professional career. The nominee has had the same impetus reflected in many aspects of their professional career, and in their personal life. This year, Tammy Scotto was honored and moved the ceremony attendees with her story and words of inspiration.
The Captain’s Club
The Captain’s Club is one of the ways that Geoff recognizes and rewards the members of his team who have achieved a certain level of success in their business. Agents who have achieved a sales volume of $3 Million or more are acknowledged. There are benefits that go along with getting to this level. According to Geoff, it’s about more than sales volume. It is about showing that you have what it takes to be the captain of a team.
Captain’s Club – Warwick
From left to right: Dean Diltz, Angela Murphy, June Cosgrove-Hayes, Pip Klein, Tammy Scotto and Vikki Garby. Not shown in photo: Chris Kimiecik, Nancy Sardo, Denise Schmidt and Lucyann Tinnirello .
Captain’s Club – Vernon
From left to right: Barbara Tesa, Charles Nagy and Keren Gonen.
Top Producer Awards
Agents in this category reached over $2 Million in sales volume.
From Left to Right: Linda VanDeweert and Terry Gavan of the Green Team Warwick Office proudly display their awards, as do Ted Van Laar and Joyce Rogers of the Vernon office. (Not Shown in Photo: Stacy Springer, Vernon office)
And last, but definitely not least…
The Warwick office selected Donna Roberts as its Team Player of 2017. Donna is the person who is there for everyone, doing everything. She keeps the agents and the offices running smoothly. And, she did a remarkable job coordinating this event. Thank you, Donna!
Looking forward to another great year!
1st Quarter 2020 Sales Leaders
Congratulations From Geoff Green, President Of Green Team Realty, To Our 1st Quarter Sales Leaders
I am pleased to announce our 1st Quarter Sales Leaders for 2020. They are Jennifer DiCostanzo of our Warwick Office, and Barbara Tesa of our Vernon Office. 2020 started out strong, giving us all high hopes for a very successful year. Then towards the end of the 1st quarter, everything changed. Normally, I’d be photographed presenting an award to each quarterly sales leader. However, while I can’t congratulate them in person, I can do so here.
Once again Jennifer tops the production charts. Her work ethic is second to none and it shows. Jen is a tremendous Realtor who we are extremely grateful to call a Green Teamer!
Barbara is the consummate professional. Always responsive, always learning, and always producing. We are extremely fortunate to have Barbara as part of our team.
Jennifer DiCostanzo and Barbara Tesa at Green Team 2019 Awards Ceremony
Jennifer DiCostanzo, Green Team New York Realty
Jennifer DiCostanzo is no stranger to the Sales Leader Award. She has received the Yearly Sales Award each year since joining Green Team in 2015. Jen received the MVP Award in 2017 for more than $10 Million in Sales. Then again, in 2019, for more than $12 Million in Sales. Jen attributes her success to caring about her clients, working hard, and constantly learning. By keeping informed, she is best able to serve her clients to the best of her ability. Even in the midst of a pandemic.
With the challenges presented by COVID19, Jen has shared relevant information and resources with the community. She has written columns published in local newspapers. Jen feels it is important for people to understand their options. And that can range from mortgage forbearance to understanding current restrictions. Further, she has advocated on behalf of local organizations needing help and support as they give help and support to the community.
Jen’s thoughts on Covid19’s impact on real estate transactions
We began the first quarter off with a very strong market. Then suddenly overnight COVID changed every aspect of our lives. We had to immediately customize business practices and protocols. However, even though we are in a climate of social distancing, real estate needs are very much a priority and at the forefront of keeping the economy stable and on track. And by implementing cutting edge technologies, we are able to handle complex real estate market operations.
Stepping off of 2020 1st quarter has fueled stronger client relationships. We have had to seamlessly accelerate to virtual and remote platforms. And by doing so have transitioned both home buyers and sellers safely during a COVID market.
This is truly an essential time for both buyers and sellers to evaluate options and their own financial stability. It’s also an essential time to work with experts who understand the changing requirements and regulations that impact the decision to buy or sell a home. Now, more than ever, it is vital to work with real estate professionals, from your agent, lenders, attorneys and home inspectors, who are familiar with local regulations, safety concerns, etc. to make sure that your transaction proceeds on track and safely, with as little stress as possible. However, setting a level of expectation is vital so you can easily adapt to COVID timing factors. They have also been adjusted with remote and limited staff in all business platforms, from local, municipal and state agencies, and may indeed require more patience. It’s important to remember they are also working through COVID conditions as well.
Barbara Tesa, Green Team New Jersey Realty
Barbara Tesa is also no stranger to the Sales Leader Award, She received the award for the 3rd and 4th Quarters of 2017. Barbara also received the Captain’s Club Award for 2019, with between $3 and 5 Million in sales. Further, she received the New Jersey Realtors Circle of Excellence Award for 2017, 2018, and 2019. When Barbara joined Green Team New Jersey Realty, she brought with her an extensive resume. She has 20+ years of experience in residential and commercial real estate management. And she has been a successful, licensed real estate agent in New Jersey for 11 years now. Barbara’s motto is, “YOUR Property… MY Priority!” Which is fitting, because it’s important to her that her clients feel confident their interests are top priority throughout a transition.
Barbara’s thoughts on Covid19’s impact on real estate transactions
The beginning of the quarter started off strong with a very active January/February and early March. It felt like buyers and sellers had a lot of confidence in the market on both sides. Then, the uncertainty of real estate in COVID-19 times gave buyers and sellers a pause in mid-March. However, it seems to have been only temporary because buyers have remained active with their searches, their desire to see homes in person, and their desire to move. And sellers still want to sell.
We are just doing things a little differently now, taking every precaution with clients under social distancing guidelines when entering properties, meeting for home inspections, and right through to closing a transaction. People are still on the move and we will keep them moving as smoothly as possible. Despite COVID-19, based on the activity I’ve been seeing in the last 3-4 weeks, I’m looking forward to a robust remainder of the year. I am finding that people still want to move on with their plans, so the determination is there in the market.
Charles Nagy and Theodore Van Laar – 4th Quarter and Yearly Sales Leaders for Green Team New Jersey Realty
The Dynamic Duo
The team of Charles Nagy and Theodore Van Laar was Green Team New Jersey Realty’s 4th Quarter and Yearly Sales Leaders for 2018. The Dynamic Duo, as Geoff Green affectionately calls them, are equity partners in the brokerage. And they are committed to leading by example. They are strong believers in the Green Team’s unique system of training and support which gives sales associates the tools to provide the best possible customer service and experience.
The Dynamic Duo come from diverse backgrounds in real estate. Yet together they form a productive, successful team. One bond that unites them is their love of resort properties and living. Charles and Ted have been recipients of the Circle of Excellence Award multiple times between 2014 and 2017. That Award requires minimum sales of $2.5 Million and 15 transactions to qualify. In addition, they were Second Quarter Sales Leaders at Green Team New Jersey Realty for both 2017 and 2018.. In 2018 they also became part of the Green Team’s President’s Club, which honors those associates with $5 to $10 Million in sales volume.
Thoughts from Charlie, the Team’s designated spokesman
Charlie Nagy is the team’s designated spokesman. And there was a lot of growth and success for him to reflect upon. “2018 was an exciting year for GTNJR on a number of fronts. First and foremost it was a year of great accomplishment for the Team. Not only did we bring on some new and experienced talent who came to us with many years of experience and achievement, but we bought our own office building and as a result of the Team effort, we ended the year as the #1 firm in sales volume and transactions in all of Vernon, NJ after only our second year in business. While it’s exciting to have won the award for top producer in the fourth quarter, it is more exciting for me to see what we all did as a Team for the entire year. Congratulations to us all.”
Tom Folino – This former teacher is getting straight A’s from his clients
Upon retirement, this well-respected teacher and coach decided to turn his attention to a new career – real estate. When Tom joined the Green Team, Geoff Green said, “There might not be a better person to get into Real Estate in the Warwick market than Tom Folino. A true example of someone who has a huge network, is extremely likable, and always acts with integrity. What people might not know about him is that he is extremely diligent in his follow up and a very smart guy to boot. We are extremely blessed that Tom has decided to join our company.”
Geoff’s predictions are coming true. In his first year as a sales associate with Green Team New York Realty, Tom received an Honorable Mention Award for 2018, for achieving $1.5 to $3 Million in sales volume. And, while awards are good, the true reward for Tom is knowing that he has gone above and beyond for his clients. It’s now the former teacher who is being “graded,” and by the looks of it, he’s getting straight A’s!
A Special Transaction
A very special transaction was with Claire and Nick Previdi. Claire was a former student of Tom’s at Kings Elementary School. They purchased their first home in Chester, NY. Tom was also the listing agent for this home! This property was listed on December 4, 2018, and closed on January 18, 2019.
Client Testimonials
Barbara and Rob Lattimer – Warwick, NY 10990 — May 2020
Thomas Folino: Realtor Extraordinaire We recently purchased a condo in Warwick long distance. Tom guided us through the process with patience, professionalism and so much more. The Home Inspection needed to be done. We were 1200 miles away. Tom oversaw that. Major repairs were needed for the heating and a/c system. He supervised that work. Since we have taken ownership we have received texts from Tom letting us know all is well. It is obvious Tom loves his job and genuinely cares for those he serves. Thank you, Tom Folino!
Don Denmead – Warwick, NY — March 2020
Tom did an outstanding job in guiding me through the sale of my rental property. He was able to uncover multiple buyers even though the property had not been officially listed. Additionally, he explained the process and helped with the paperwork which optimized the time it took to complete the sale. I would recommend him to a friend and plan to use him again when I decide to downsize in the future.
Greg Maher – Warwick, NY — March 2020
I have known Tom Folino for roughly 20 years as he was my former elementary school physical education teacher. When I learned Tom was doing real estate I knew he would be the right person to guide me through my first home purchase. I wasn’t wrong. Tom was knowledgeable, compassionate, and understanding of all the questions I had. He regularly called to make sure I had everything I needed. I’m pleased with my new home and glad we could close in nearly 4 weeks. Job well done !!!
Evelyn Rosado – Greenwood Lake, NY — December 2019
Thomas is responsible, dedicated, respectful. He’s someone you feel comfortable working with. I’m very grateful I was able to count on him. I would definitely highly recommend his services.
Troy Edwards & Dashika Stewart– Monroe, NY — October 2019
Working with Thomas Folino was the best choice my fiancé and I could’ve ever made in choosing a real estate agent. We were both first time home buyers looking to relocate out of NYC. Thomas was so kind and patient each step of the way and assured us that everything would be fine within the process. He even went out of his way to connect us with a local mortgage broker who did a phenomenal job. We ended up closing on a three-bed condo in Monroe that we absolutely love. I would totally recommend Thomas to anyone and will for sure use him again. If he ever retired I would ask him to be my agent again one last time. 2019
Patricia and Thomas Lorgan – Warwick, NY — July 2019
We’ve known Ton Folino for over 40 years and both had the pleasure of teaching him. We were able to see his growth into an outstanding young man. Tom also became a teacher, and once again, we saw his growth as both a teacher and coach. He was our son’s basketball coach, and he was our other son’s supervisor as a swimming instructor. Tom was a wonderful and caring role model for not only our sons, but for all those who were fortunate enough to come in contact with him.
As a realtor, Tom continues to be just as outstanding. He worked tirelessly for us as we sold our home. Living in the same house for over 50 years and raising our 2 sons there meant we had some long-lasting memories, which were not easy to give up. Tom guided us through all those emotional times, and he made the transaction of going from homeowner to home seller as smooth and caring as possible. We had complete trust in Tom, and as always, never disappointed us. Whatever the highest rank possible for a realtor, Tom Folino is a deserving candidate. I wish all those who decide to sell their loving home to be as fortunate as we were to have Tom guide them on their emotional journey. Simply put, Tom Folino is the BEST !!!!
Brian Cisek – Warwick, NY — Mar 2019
Tom was very professional and easy to work with. He found me a great place in the location I wanted.
Miriam Stanford-Cusack– Greenwood Lake, NY — Mar 2019
We happened on Tom while wandering beautiful Warwick and knew from that moment he would be amazing! He is so patient and genuine. Tom found us exactly what we were looking for and was personable and informed. The whole process was practically stress-free and I love the place we found. I would recommend him!!
Mary Cusack– Greenwood Lake, NY — Mar 2019
Tom was knowledgeable, honest, always good-natured, and very hard working. He never stopped looking for possible places that might meet our needs and he did accomplish it. Tom found a beautiful place that exceeded our expectations. He negotiated a great price for us as well. Tom was always available when we had questions or requests. We had had previous experiences with realtors and Tom was a breath of fresh air!!! We’d recommend Tom without hesitation to anyone in the future!!!
Claire and Nick Previdi – Monroe, NY — Jan 2019
We are so pleased with our experience working with Tom to purchase our first home! He guided us through the entire process and was always available to answer any questions we had while responding quickly to calls and texts. I couldn’t believe how fast we closed on our house! Tom worked hard for us and always made sure we felt comfortable and understood what was happening at every step along the way. He immediately put us at ease as first-time homebuyers with his kind and personable nature. We highly recommend Tom for anyone looking to buy a house!
Joe LaBarca – Greenwood Lake, NY — Jan 2019
I met Tom Folino from Green Team Realtors when I decided to sell my home. Tom was very personable and upbeat about the process. Our home went up for sale in July and closed in Nov. He worked hard on selling our home and his marketing skills and negotiations were the best. We had lots of conversations about selling the house. He listens to all that is said to him He is fantastic. BIG Thank You, Tom. With his help, we are also in our new home 2500 miles away in Nov. also and I highly recommend Tom if you are buying or selling a house
Nicholas Mazzella – Warwick, NY — Dec 2018
I am so thankful to Mr. Folino, he really helped me find and get a place that I absolutely love, answering all questions, and putting in the time needed to help me. He was always in my corner from start to finish keeping me up to date and informed about any available homes and getting showings. Tom’s a hell of a real estate agent and will give you nothing but the best in service and work his tail off to get you what you’re looking for. Truly a pleasure to work with.
Kathleen Cisek – Warwick, NY — Dec 2018
I’ve never worked with a real estate agent as skilled and kind as Thomas Folino. He didn’t waste my time with rentals that weren’t for me, and found me the perfect house for rent based on the guidelines I gave him from price, number of rooms, to the bright kitchen. Tom knew exactly what I needed without my embellishing. As a woman, sometimes agents take advantage & waste time, but I’m happy to say Tom is not one of them! I was very happy with my experience. Tom was very thorough and helpful with any questions I had regarding paperwork, state regulations, rental procedures, the house, landlord & neighborhood. He helped me put in a strong application and the landlord chose me. With this competitive market, when I buy a house in the future I will definitely contact him. Thank you, Tom!
Joanne Haberlin and William Schwartz – West Milford, NJ — Dec 2018
Mr. Folino is the epitome of professionalism. He had a great knowledge of this area and several others. Tom also had the patience of a saint with my husband and I being so unsure of what exactly we really wanted. He stuck with us found us exactly what we needed and when this lease is up we will be using him again hopefully to purchase versus rent this time. I would highly recommend using him to anyone renting or purchasing!
Alberto Mata – Suffern, NY — Dec 2018
Mr. Folino is a great human being. Always ready to help in any way he can. I will highly recommend him as your realtor. He will always go above and beyond to satisfy your needs.
Scott and Victoria Cable – Washingtonville, NY — Nov 2018
Tom did a great job of helping us purchase our first house. He is a great negotiator and does a great job of communicating with the listing agent to expedite the whole entire process. He was very knowledgeable and informative which was fantastic since this was our first home. Tom is always there for us, responding to text or calls quickly no matter the time or the day! We went through other realtors before Tom and once we met Tom it was night and day in quality of service. I will recommend Tom a thousand times over!
Amanda Calabrese – Warwick, NY — Jul 2018
I just wanted to reach out with some positive feedback regarding one of your agents, Tom Folino. I’m not sure if this is the best forum to send this to you, but wanted to start somewhere. My husband and I have been working with Tom since April and he has shown us nothing but dedication, hard work, positivity, and communication. Tom made himself available to us even on his own personal time and followed up with every question in a very timely manner. I have had a few experiences with other realtors and Tom, by far, has exceeded all of these other experiences. Although we haven’t bought a home yet with Tom I would not hesitate to use him in the future and would highly recommend him to everyone looking for an agent in Warwick, New York. Please let me know that you received this email and would love to put this in a more formal letter if that would be helpful. Thank you for your time, Amanda Calabrese
This post has been updated 6/16/2020
Sussex County Real Estate – November 2017 Market Review
Green Team’s Real Estate Market Overview
2017 – A Year of Growth and Success
The last Real Estate Market Review Meeting of 2017 marks a year of growth and success on both company-wide and individual levels. In both the Warwick and Vernon offices, many sales associates have met or exceeded the goals they set at the beginning of the year. Many of the agents in Warwick doubled their sales from last year, including Nancy Sardo, Vikki Garby, Tammy Scotto, Angela Murphy, Chris Kimiecik, Julianna Green and Jane Reilly. As the Vernon office opened this year, there are no numbers from 2016 to compare to. However, the New Jersey sales associates are setting the bar high for next year. Eight agents had sales exceeding $1 million – and some exceeding $4 million! Keren Goren, Charles Nagy, Barbara Tesa, Ted Van Laar, Joyce Rogers, Heidi Hyland, Stacy Springerand Kimberly Lasalandra will have to set their goals high for 2018 to compare with their sales this year.
The Importance of setting goals
The numbers from December won’t be available until next month, but projections look very good and once the final numbers are in and tallied with the year to date numbers, award winners will be determined. The excitement builds! Will Jennifer DiCostanzo, winner of 2016’s Sale Leader Award take the prize again this year for the Warwick office? Will Keren Goren, a highly motivated newcomer to real estate, take the prize for the Vernon office? Stay tuned…
The Green Team Annual Award Ceremony will take place on January 26, and Fourth Quarter Sales Leader Awards and Sales Leader Award for 2017 will be announced. All of the agents who have become Quarter Sales Leaders and Sales Leaders for the Year have been goal setters. According to Geoff Green, the importance of the Personal Action & Engagement Plan for 2018 cannot be overstated and he encourages all Green Team agents to complete and submit theirs and start the New Year on the right note!
How is the market?
It is imperative that agents understand how to analyze local real estate stats and be able to provide a clear and accurate portrait of market conditions to their clients. Fluctuations from month to month may seem minor, but tracking them throughout the year gives a good indication of where the market stands. Trends towards a sellers or buyers market will affect advice to clients, whether they are buying or selling a home. The importance of this information is why a monthly meeting is held to go over the previous month’s statistics and overall trends for the year.
Local Market Reports – Sussex County, NJ
Average Sold to Asked Ratio
The percentage a house sold for under or over the last asking price (not the original price).
Sussex County: There was an increase in the Average Sold to Asked Ratio from October to November, from 96.38% to 96.76%, continuing the trend of 2017 being higher than any of the previous four years.
Units Sold
The term units here includes single family homes, condominiums, town homes and multi-family homes with 1-4 units.
Sussex County: The stats show that the market continues to be hot, with more units being sold this year than in any of the years from 2013 to 2016. While there was a rise in units sold from September to October, there was a slight dip in units sold in November. Even with that dip, the number of units sold this November is higher than the number of units sold in the same month in each of 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016.
Average Days on Market
The faster things are selling, the hotter the market. Look for the lowest number on the graph as opposed to the highest. The calculation was changed in New York State. It’s now from the List Date to the Contract Date, rather than the Binder Date.
Sussex County: Consistently lower than the previous four years, November stats showed an average of 86.86 days on the market.
Homes that sold at 100% or more of last asking price
Sussex County: This number rose from October. 36.42% of homes sold at 100% or more of their last asking price – more than one-third!
Average Price
Sussex County: Despite the market being hot, prices have gone down since 2013, when the average price was $243,909. In 2017, it’s $221,994. November has seen a rise in average price to $229,779 from $214,056 in October. On average, prices are lower this year than the last four years. So it is essential to look at hyper-local comparables when pricing a home for a client.
What do these stats mean for buyers and sellers?
All the of above statistics show a market where sellers are in a strong position. A quarter to over a third of homes are selling at 100% or more of the seller’s last asking price. Homes are remaining on the market for shorter periods than any of the last five years. This is not a market where buyers have a strong upper hand when it comes to negotiating. Nor do they have the luxury of time. Thinking about selling? Now is a great time to find out what your home is worth.
The importance of a strong offer
With the shortage of inventory in today’s market combined with the above data, it has become increasingly important for buyers to come in quickly with a strong offer on the house they would like to call home! Buyers may not realize that increasing their offer by a few thousand dollars may only amount to an additional $20 or $30 in their monthly mortgage payment. Sellers may be receiving multiple offers. And other buyers may not be reticent about making a strong offer if they really want the house. It’s important to discuss your options with your real estate agent. Your agent will advise you on making that all important offer on the home that you want!
