Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
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.
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
.
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 New Jersey Realty’s 2019 Circle of Excellence Award Recipients
There was a lot to celebrate at the NJ Realtors Awards luncheon on March 4, 2020. New Jersey Realtors® Circle of Excellence® Sales Award® recognizes members who have demonstrated excellence in salesmanship. And, just as in years past, several members of Green Team New Jersey Realty were recognized.
GTNJR Award Recipients
Green Team New Jersey Realty’s Circle of Excellence Award Recipients were all smiles as they accepted their awards.
Silver
.
Charles Nagy and Theodore Van Laar received Silver Awards for $6.5 million and 20 units minimum. This is not Charlie and Ted’s first time receiving Circle of Excellence Awards. Since 2014 they have been in the Circle of Excellence multiple times. And since the creation of Green Team New Jersey Realty, this is their 3rd consecutive year.
Bronze
Further, receiving the Bronze Award for $2.5 million and 15 units minimum, were: Barbara Tesa, Kristi Anderson, Keren Gonen, Alison Miller, and Heidi Hyland. Unfortunately, Heidi was unable to attend the awards luncheon, but her co-workers/friends made sure that she received her award.
A History of Achievement
Most of these Sales Associates from Green Team New Jersey Realty have received Circle of Excellence Awards in the past. In addition, this group of high achievers received additional awards at Green Team Realty’s 2019 Awards Ceremony. Charles Nagy, Ted Van Laar and Karen Gonen received the President’s Club Award. That was given for achieving a sales volume of $5 to $10 Million. And the team of Charlie and Ted was awarded Yearly Sales Leader. Alison Miller, Barbara Tesa, Heidi Hyland and Kristi Anderson received the Captain’s Club Award, for $3 to $5 Million in sales volume. Ann Nussberger and Cathie Witte, also shown in the photo below, received Honorable Mention for sales of $1.5 to $3 Million. It’s not surprising that Green Team New Jersey Realty is #1 in Vernon. And this is the result of both sales volume and units sold.
Pride at the Green Team New Jersey Realty Table
Geoff Green, President of Green Team Realty, and Amy Green, Vice President of Mortgage Lending, Guaranteed Rate, celebrated with the award recipients. And the pride they took in the Circle of Excellence award recipients was obvious. This was an occasion to celebrate achievement – and friendship. A true circle of excellence.
Vikki Garby is Green Team New York Realty’s 2019 2nd Quarter Sales Leader
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.0.48″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.18.2″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]Vikki Garby is having a great year. She was 1st Quarter Sales Leader for 2019, And now Green Team New York Realty is very proud to announce that Vikki is 2nd Quarter Sales Leader. According to Geoff Green, President of Green Team New York,
“Vikki Garby is a smart, focused Real Estate professional. Furthermore, the analytical abilities developed during her time as an investment banker and real estate investor contribute to her success in both Residential and Commercial Real Estate. It’s exciting watching Vikki grow her Real Estate Business. Green Team New York Realty is extremely blessed to have her as part of our Agency.”
More about Vikki…
As mentioned above, Vikki was an investment banker for a major bank in New York City. During that time she reviewed and negotiated complex contracts on a regular basis. And it was also during that time that Vikki became a real estate investor, negotiating on her own behalf as a buyer.
Her love of real estate and skill at navigating its many transactional parts lead her to obtain her license so that she could help others achieve their real estate goals. Furthering her education and skills, Vikki obtained her Commercial and Investment Properties Real Estate Certification (“CIREC”) last summer.
Vikki had this to say about her recent achievements:
“I have been blessed with a great year working with wonderful and supportive clients. Their loyalty has allowed me to grow my business each year. It has been an extremely rewarding and fulfilling year so far. The great team I have at Green Team New York Realty helps tremendously.”
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
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
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…
Nancy Sardo, First and Second Quarter Sales Leader Award Winner
Nancy Sardo does it again…
The Green Team is pleased to announce that Nancy Sardo is the Sales Leader Award Winner for both the First and Second Quarters of 2018. Nancy is not a stranger to this achievement. In 2017 she was the winner for the Second and Third Quarters. And some things just don’t change. Nancy still does not want to talk about herself. Instead, she would prefer to talk about the Green Team and the support and training offered.
A Mutual Admiration Society
When Nancy and Geoff Green talk about each other, their mutual admiration is evident. Nancy is proud to be with a broker who is constantly on the cutting edge of technology He provides Green Team sales sssociates with the marketing tools, technical training and practice sessions they need to provide the utmost in client service.
Nancy finds the Green Team Home Selling System to be unsurpassed when it comes to providing education, training and support. And, whether an agent is new or seasoned, Geoff always makes time to talk and brainstorm a problem. He may not know this, but he inspires Nancy to get out there and do her best everyday.
And Geoff’s thoughts on Nancy? He takes great pride and joy in all of her successes. He has called her a true superstar, and that description continues to hold true, maybe now more than ever.
It Takes a Team
One of the reasons Nancy doesn’t like to talk about herself is that she believes it takes more than one person to properly market a property or create a presentation to a perspective client. The team approach is a major part of the Green Team’s way of doing business. Geoff makes sure that his sales associates are backed up by a talented support team: office support, marketing director, graphic designer, copywriter, and computer specialists.
Being in the business of listing and selling homes throughout Orange County since 2005, Nancy has seen the positive impact of the Green Team’s approach as opposed to other brokerages. The emphasis on exceptional service and client appreciation has made a very real difference in her business.
New Construction: Combining passion and expertise
Nancy enjoys real estate in all its forms, whether helping someone buy, sell, or lease a property. However, her real passion is new construction. She has extensive experience working with both builders and clients. Her experience has led her to serve as listing broker for many subdivisions throughout Orange County. Nancy keeps up-to-date on new building codes and their impact on current and planned building designs and costs.
Nancy walks the buyer through all the steps of building their dream home. From the first meeting with the builder, obtaining financing, selecting finishes and upgrades and making sure that decisions are made in a timely manner to meet construction schedules, Nancy is there. Her goal is to make the experience of building a home as positive and stress-free as possible. And she keeps costs in mind as she guides buyers through the process, doing her best to keep them on their budget and not overspend on finishes and options.
The Whole Package…
With a shortage of existing homes on the market, new construction offers an option that might not have been previously considered. If you choose this route, being represented by a sales associate with knowledge, experience, an eye for detail, and the ability to keep track of and explain the process is priceless.
Nancy Sardo has all those qualities and more. Her real estate credentials are impressive. She’s an Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR), earned her Associate Broker’s License, and also has the Seniors Real Estate designation (SRES). She works non-stop and is constantly in motion. But there is something else about Nancy that makes her stand out and helps explain her success. Even in the midst of difficult times, she remembers to look for the good. Combine her knowledge, expertise, and energy with a remarkable attitude and you know that Nancy is, indeed, the whole package.
Excitement is building at Green Team New Jersey Realty
Excitement is building at Green Team New Jersey Realty, which launched in September of 2016. In less than two years it has become one of the top 20 real estate agencies in all of Sussex County. Furthermore, it is now one of the top 5 agencies in Vernon. Its formula for success is simple. Follow the systems and training set up by Geoffrey Green, founder of the Green Team Home Selling System in Warwick, New York and a partner in the New Jersey Office. Then put together a dynamic team of realtors who take to heart the Green Team’s commitment to exceed client expectations.
JOYCE ROGERS – FIRST QUARTER SALES LEADER, GOING FOR BROKE(R)
For Joyce Rogers, the first quarter of 2018 has shown what can be accomplished when someone sets a goal and keeps going until it’s achieved.
Joyce became the Sales Leader at Green Team New Jersey Realty for the first quarter of 2018. For Joyce, there is a great deal of personal satisfaction in joining the ranks of those who taught her. And, in this case, surpassing their sales. It has meant a lot of hard work, something Joyce is used to. She makes herself available to her clients whenever they need her. She appreciates the ability the Green Team affords to be able to work from wherever you are. She’s even closed a deal in Shoprite’s parking lot. Joyce feels she is hitting her stride and, while this is her first time achieving this goal, it is most likely not her last.
What makes Joyce’s achievement even more laudable is that she was going for her broker’s license at the same time. She began in December 2017, taking classes twice a week and studying hard and in March got her broker’s license on her first try!
Geoff Green describes Joyce as “driven,” and as someone he knows can make happen whatever she wants. Joyce appreciates Geoff’s support and his vision of the telecommuting model, as well as the camaraderie that sales associates have with each other. They work well together and help each other. And we applaud and congratulate Joyce on her double achievement, looking forward to seeing what comes in the future.
Meet Jared Kunish
Every new sales associate who joins the Green Team brings a unique background and skill set. And Jared Kunish is no exception. With his background as a hedge fund trading manager, Jared’s professional knowledge of 
interest rates and housing market trends was a definite plus. But Jared was looking for more than the fast-paced, stress-filled life he’d been living in the financial world. Rather, he was looking for a quality driven life. One to share with his three children. He began following his passions, expanding his knowledge base. Woodworking, making furniture with his own hands, helped ground him. So did being an amateur chef.
Becoming a real estate sales agent in Sussex County and a resident of Crystal Springs seems like a natural progression to Jared. He’s far away from the rat race. And he enjoys working with people, helping them find the place that will bring them happiness. Jared enjoys making things as easy as he can for his clients
Green Team’s 2018 Launch Competition was a blast!
Green Team’s Launch Competition is all about inspiring sales agents to get back to basics. It’s about enhancing those skills that lead to the exceptional client service that the Green Team is known for. This annual event, with agents competing individually and on teams, is both fun and energizing and sets the stage for success each year.
The CRM is one of the most important tools an agent can use
The Green Team’s custom-designed CRM (customer relationship management system) is one of the most important tools an agent can use. It provides a way to input and keep all needed information in one place. By keeping track of client information, activities pertaining to transactions and much more, the CRM can be an agent’s best friend. Most of all, it enables agents to refine their client appreciation programs, keep in touch with past, present and future clients, and maintain those relationships.
According to Geoff Green, agents who fully know and use the CRM can provide better service to their clients while getting better control of their businesses and their lives. The Launch Competition offers incentives for agents to really build outstanding client appreciation programs, using CRM as the mechanism.
First Place Winner, Third Place Winner and a Winning Team
For the first time, agents from both offices competed against, well, everyone for the top three places. And it was a “friendly,” albeit tight race, run by some very motivated participants.
Keren Gonen of the Vernon office started 2018 just as she finished 2017… on top. With the highest number of points, Keren won first prize in the individual category, and what a prize it is! Provided by Jeremy Miller of First Home Bank, she received a full conference pass to Inman ConnectNY 2019, along with a three-night hotel stay for the four-day conference. Keren is the first to admit she is highly competitive and motivated. However, there was another reason for her high score.
Last year Keren participated in Launch, competing only with her Vernon colleagues. She did well, coming in third place, then stopped using those basic skills she had learned. And found that stopping was affecting her business! Consequently, she went back to using the CRM. As a result, she says, “All the information is there! Instead of sorting through texts and emails, it’s easy to keep track of everything, including notes.”
Team work…
Furthermore, as captain of one of the Vernon office’s two teams, Keren worked with a group of highly motivated agents. She stressed to everyone the importance of using the system, updating their databases, and maintaining them. When newer agents hadn’t yet grasped how to best utilize their CRM, Keren did training sessions with them. Keren’s team went on to win the Vernon Office team competition and team members received gift certificates to a local florist. Congratulations to Keren Gonen, Heidi Hyland, Joyce Rogers, Cathie Witte, Kimberly Lasalandra, Ted Van Laar, Loida Claudio, Jamie Dalton, Yvette Saldana and Tom Shields. And thanks to Pam Zachowski’s team for their participation in the competition.
Heidi does it again…
Heidi Hyland was definitely a major asset to her team, but her participation and efforts led to another win, as well. She scored third in the individual competition and was presented by Geoff with a $100 gift certificate to her favorite restaurant! Heidi is another highly motivated agent. Last year she came in second place in the Vernon office’s individual competition, and who knows how high she’ll place next year!
Second Place … and another winning team!
From the look of delight on his face, it’s almost as though Dean Diltz of the Warwick office had strategized to come in second so that he could win this great 43” LCD TV. However, we know that’s not really the case. Right, Dean? And while he admits to using the CRM intermittently, during Launch his priority was to take stock of how it worked and update his records with the help of CSA Ali Yurchuck.
One of the things that kept Dean motivated during the competition was being fully vested in helping his team. Angela Murphy led Murphy’s Master Minds by being an upbeat motivator. She kept on top of the team members, organizing social gatherings so they would bond. And when agents needed help learning how to input data, there were CRM training sessions. As winners of the team competition in Warwick, Murphy’s Master Minds received gift certificates to a local car wash. Congratulations to team members Angela Murphy, Dean Diltz, Terry Gavan, Nancy Sardo, Tom Folino, Toni Kreusch, Pip Klein, Linda VanDeWeert, Jim Moser, June Cosgrove-Hays, Walter Ross and Jane Reilly. And thanks to Jacque Kraszewski and her team for their efforts and participation!
The bar is set high for next year
Each year there is an increased commitment to Launch as shown by the numbers. Winning scores have doubled since last year, and scores indicate that many agents have a better understanding of the CRM. In addition, prizes offered this year provided an added incentive. Most of all, no one loses when they participate in the annual Launch. Each agent finishes the competition with a better understanding of the CRM and the Customer Appreciation Program so they can better serve their clients… It’s a win-win for everyone!
Winning Your Own Race
2017 Green Team Momentum BuilderAward
This is a very special award, given to the Green Team Sales Associate who has created the most positive and consistent momentum in their professional career and personal life.
The 2017 Momentum Builder Award was presented to Tammy Scotto of the Green Team’s Warwick Office. Just as Tammy persevered in both her professional and personal life, Geoff Green persevered in his belief in her. To Geoff, it’s all about the journey, and about not giving up, no matter where the road takes you. According to Geoff, there are three components to success in the real estate business: time, intellect and persistence. Seems like sometimes the three may not align in the beginning. But, as in Tammy’s case, the intellect was there, her persistence paid off and eventually she had the time to put into her real estate career.
Tammy’s Story – In Her Own Words
“Firstly, I want to say thank you to Geoff for giving me this award this year. I really do appreciate the acknowledgment. There are MANY other agents here at the Green Team that deserve to be standing up here right along with me, so thank you. When Geoff called to tell me he wanted to honor me with this award, he said he was really thinking about the year and was going to talk about “Overnight Success.” I said to him, “Are you sure you want to give this award to me? I’ve had my license for 19 years!”
19 years ago I got 2 licenses. One was my Real Estate license, the other my marriage license. I’m happy to say both are in full effect and going strong today. But, as many of you know, this means I have been selling real estate through all stages of family life. I was selling as a mom with infants, toddlers and now teenagers. I am anything but an overnight success. Yet for me, that worked. My marriage and my family were and are number one in my life. But the reason I stuck it out with real estate is because it’s the only job I know that allows you to control your own schedule. We can turn it on and off as life requires. Lord knows we work all hours of the night and weekends. Yet we can also schedule around volunteering in school, sports events and other activities.
And the rest is history!
I’ve learned a LOT over these past 19 years. But, to be honest, I’ve learned the MOST the past 4 years. Four years ago I was selling real estate (very part-time) and working another job. Finally, I thought maybe I should just let my license go. The company I was with was going to start charging a monthly fee that I was not willing to pay. So I thought about it and was just going to get out of the business. My husband said, “Don’t do that, you’ve had it this long, maybe look at other options”.
So after a phone call to LucyAnn [Tinnirello] which led to a phone call from Geoff Green, the rest is history. In 2015, Geoff, LucyAnn, Jacque & I went to a Buffini convention in Philly and Geoff was talking about the Captain’s Club. He looked back and said, “Next year, right Tammy?” I said, “Nah, 2017.” Well, I had that gut feeling I needed that ONE extra year to get my business really going. And with all of the tools that Geoff provides for us, I learned how to really ramp up my business. It means a lot to actually have a broker that wants you to be successful and that is why you will be stuck with me for a VERY LONG TIME!!!!!
Winning your own race…
Part of the Green Team mission statement says: “A Real Estate Agent that is highly productive is more likely to deliver excellent client service than someone who is not. Couple that with a Real Estate Agent who has the time and ability to lead a meaningful life, and you have the perfect environment for an exceptional client experience.”
We’re all different and unique in this room. Some of us are go-getters right out of the gate. I was more of a Tortoise than the Hare….slow and steady… But I’m winning my personal race and wouldn’t give anything for the time I spent with my young kids. Finally, whichever one you are, make sure you’re doing it for you. I am living a meaningful life, have time to enjoy my family along the way and now I’m making a great living as well. 2017 was a great run and I’m looking forward to more years like it ahead! “
