Category Archives: Real Estate Agents

Remembering Vance Burkey

Vance Burkey of Realty Executives Associates.

Realty Executives and the East TN real estate community mourns the loss of Vance Burkey, a well-known leader and the founder of Realty Executives Associates. Burkey passed away in December of 2024 at the age of 89. Born in 1934, Vance dedicated his life to transforming the real estate industry through strong leadership, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to the success of his agents.

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Catherine Kut Named REALTOR® of the Year

During their recent annual meeting at Farmstead Golf and Country Club, Sussex County Association of REALTORS® named Catherine Kut REALTOR® of the Year for 2024.

The winner of this respected award is chosen annually by a committee of REALTOR® peers. The criteria for being named REALTOR® of the Year include involvement in the Sussex County Association of REALTORS®, National Association of REALTORS®, community and humanitarian service activities, business accomplishments, and overall REALTOR® spirit.

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Strengthening Client Connections Through Advocacy in Real Estate

A real estate agent shaking hands with clients.

Today’s clients seek trust, reliability, and guidance from professionals who understand their needs and actively advocate for their best interests. Advocacy in real estate goes beyond selling homes—it is about building lasting relationships, establishing trust, and becoming a go-to resource for clients long after the transaction is complete. Real estate professionals with industry knowledge, negotiation skills, and strong advocacy will stand out in this competitive field.

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Investing in the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol in the southern part of Spain.
The gorgeous Costa del Sol spans numerous cities along the southern coast of Spain.

Known for its Mediterranean charm, rich culture, and incredible investment opportunities, Spain is fast becoming a favorite for international property seekers, particularly in the Costa del Sol region. This region offers a unique blend of sun-soaked beaches, vibrant lifestyle, and pleasant climate, drawing visitors from around the globe each year.

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KW Leader Joins Realty Executives Associates

Mike Howell and Becca Johnson of Realty Executives Associates in Knoxville, TN.

Realty Executives Associates (REA) of Knoxville, Tennessee is thrilled to welcome Mike Howell, a known leader in the local real estate industry, along with his powerhouse team. With years of experience and a proven track record of success, Mike and his team bring unmatched expertise and a deep commitment to client satisfaction to REA.

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The Energized Team: Business Expands into Geneva

The Energized Team of Realty Executives Premiere in Illinois.
The Energized Team of Realty Executives Premiere in Illinois.

June 1, 2024, was a momentous day for The Energized Team of Realty Executives Premiere. New office doors proudly opened on the corner of 3rd Street and Campbell in Geneva, Illinois- a symbol of the team’s expansion plan coming to fruition.

“Our team had significant success in expanding business into the Fox Valley area, frequently earning listings in Geneva, Batavia, St. Charles, and surrounding areas,” said Becky VanderVeen, Team Lead and Owner of The Energized Team, Inc. “Having a physical presence in the community was our natural next step and will allow us to further develop our market expertise and best serve our clientele.”

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Real Estate Experts and Why You Should Make Use of One

A couple speaking with a real estate expert while looking at homes for sale.

Thinking of buying or selling a property? You should consider working with a real estate expert to help ensure each element of the transaction runs smoothly. There is not just a single type of realty expert- there are many, and which ones you will need depends on your situation and goals.

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Utilizing Analytics to Power Your Real Estate Marketing Strategy

By: Edrian Blasquino

Utilizing analytics in a market can help with sales and marketing strategies.

Personal relationships have long been the secret sauce to real estate success: connections lead to new leads, referrals, and repeat business. It is a loop that can, in theory, keep your business growing indefinitely.

In today’s digital age, where technology and social media dominate, the dynamics of building and nurturing relationships—which stand at the core of any effective real estate marketing plan—have evolved significantly. We are not merely contending with an overwhelming influx of data and information, but also witnessing a transformation in the modes of interaction and communication. For real estate professionals, attempting to manage everything single-handedly is a direct route to exhaustion.

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Seeing is Believing: Enhancing Real Estate with VR & AR Technology

A person holding a tablet that is using VR to record a home tour.

The way we experience products pre-purchase is changing, and we have two types of technology to thank for that: VR and AR.

When potential buyers browse listings online, high-quality photos and videos are among the first things they look for. Not only do these visuals provide an excellent overview of what a property looks like and what it has to offer, but they also offer an element of convenience as they either encourage or discourage an in-person viewing. However, with advancing technology, real estate agents can now offer an online viewing experience that transcends mere two-dimensional browsing.

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Pam Vreeland Named 2023 Realtor® of the Year

Pam Vreeland receiving her Realtor® of the Year award at Farmstead Golf & Country Club.

On November 1st, Pam Vreeland, a Sparta, New Jersey Realtor® with Realty Executives Exceptional Realtors®, was named Realtor® of the Year. The award was announced at Farmstead Golf & Country Club during the annual breakfast meeting of the Sussex County Association of Realtors®.

Candidates for the award were considered based on Realtor® spirit, involvement in local, state, and national associations, business accomplishments, community service, and humanitarian services.

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