Realtor Conversations

Paige Tollefsbol

Today we’re chatting with Paige Tollefsbol, an up-and-coming real estate phenom. From a young age, Paige knew she was going to enter the real estate industry. Now, three years in, she’s learned a lot—which lends to her coming across a lot more seasoned than she is. Being at the start of her career, she also brings a lot of excitement, enthusiasm, and a willingness to do whatever it takes to get the best outcome for her clients.

 

In this episode:

• The moment that Paige knew she was going to get into real estate.
• How shadowing her dad at work inspired her career.
• What she has learned in her three years in this industry.
• Her favourite part about her work (along with the most difficult part).
• How Paige handles first impressions and why her work speaks for itself.
• What she’s seeing in the market now and where it’s
• What springtime tends to bring and why it’s great for agents.
• How Paige approaches multiple offer situations to get her clients what they want.
• The distinct challenges of working on the buying side versus the selling side.
• How real estate isn’t as dramatic as what you see on TV.
• The secret personality traits of top-performing agents.
• What Paige saw her parents doing that influenced her work ethic.
• The optimism and enthusiasm she brings to her work and why it matters.
• Why honesty and transparency are important in the buying and selling processes.
• Why Paige especially loves working with first-time home buyers.

 

Contact Paige:

Cell: 651-295-9996

Email: paige.tollefsbol@results.net 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paige.tollefsbol/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptollefsbolrealestate/

Dominique Redmann and Amanda Gilman

We have the pleasure of hosting both Dominique Redmann and Amanda Gilman of Coldwell Banker and The Home Sweet Homies Team today. These women have transitioned from careers in nursing and the military to real estate, so they tell us all the details about their decision to launch their own venture. With candid stories, they share the realities of the post-COVID housing market, and debunk myths about the so-called “glamorous” life of realtors. They discuss the diverse skills required in their field, and offer very useful insights and advice for first-time homebuyers and sellers.

 

In this episode:

• How Dominique and Amanda transitioned from nursing and military to real estate.
• How the two met Stig while playing golf together.
• Why their diverse backgrounds enhance their real estate team's dynamic.
• The challenges that have been arising in the post-COVID housing market.
• Why they focus on first-time homebuyers and what makes them specialists.
• How Amanda's extroverted nature complements Dominique's introverted tendencies.
• Why they prefer personal networking over avenues such as cold calling.
• How their experience in nursing and the military benefits client relationships.
• What advice they offer to first-time homebuyers regarding pre-approval.
• Why painting might be the best return on investment when selling a home.
• How they balance tasks and roles within their real estate team.
• Insights about the less exciting tasks involved in being a realtor day-to-day.
• Why they value support from Coldwell Banker and their local office.
• How they handle the fluctuating real estate market, especially with multiple offers.

 

Contact Dominique:

Cell: 715-573-2521

 

Contact Amanda:

Cell: 763-442-6593

Nick Moucha

Nick Moucha, a charismatic real estate expert with Keller Williams, is chatting with us in this episode. He takes us through his bold exit from banking to navigating the challenges of commercial real estate, including an unbelievable phone call he received while on vacation in his early days. We explore his transition to the residential market in Rochester, Minnesota, leveraging his banking connections and navigating a tight-knit community. We also hear Nick’s take on current real estate dynamics, including why moving can be a tough sell for homeowners right now.

 

In this episode:

• The strong impression Nick made when he first met Brad and Stig.
• How the support of Nick's wife and three children has fueled his resilience in real estate.
• How a commercial real estate project disrupted Nick while on vacation.
• How Nick utilized his connections to break into Rochester 's residential market.
• Why familial ties and major employers like the Mayo Clinic shape Rochester's real estate landscape.
• House hacking that Nick was involved with around the time his daughter was born.
• Why Nick says living in an apartment and owning real estate is the most passive, easy way to enjoy life.
• Nick’s time spent working at Delta Airlines when he decided to move to the Twin Cities.
• Why economic shifts are impacting real estate buying decisions, prompting more calculated moves.
• How life events influence real estate choices in unpredictable ways.
• Why Nick emphasizes the importance of perseverance and adaptability in achieving real estate success.
• Signs that there isn’t a lot of “impulse buying” happening right now.
• How Nick went above and beyond for a client recently, with the help of Brad and Stig.

 

Contact Nick:

Cell: 608-692-4688

Website: www.nickmoucha.com  

Collin Vold

We welcome Collin Vold with eXp Realty in this episode, a military veteran turned real estate agent who has now been in the industry for over 15 years. Collin shares his captivating journey from serving in the Army with deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq to finding his calling in real estate. We hear about his genuine passion for real estate, exploring his insights on the evolving market and the importance of mentorship. Collin also talks about what he does in his personal life, from growing up on a 60-acre hobby farm to enjoying the vibrance of Minneapolis.

 

In this episode:

• Why Collin decided to pursue real estate because of a pivotal moment in Iraq.
• How a chance encounter with NFL star Jason Elam happened.
• The strong friendships that Collin was able to form while serving in the military.
• How Collin's genuine passion for real estate goes beyond the industry's glamor.
• Why mentors and personal growth are significant in Collin's real estate journey.
• How current market dynamics are compared to last year's conditions.
• Collin's experiences from rural farm life to city living in Minneapolis.
• How Collin came up with his slogan, "Collin Vold gets it sold."
• Why adaptability and understanding evolving real estate dynamics are essential.
• How Collin values the utility and personal significance of homes beyond just financial investment.
• Why Veterans Affairs loans are likely the most underrated tool in lending.
• A new hobby that Collin has recently gotten involved with.
• How Collin enjoys both listings and buyer interactions, emphasizing work-life balance.

 

Contact Collin:

Cell: 651-395-9268

Email: collin@collinvold.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collinvold

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/collinvold

Leanda Andrade

We have the pleasure of hosting Leanda Andrade from RE/MAX Advantage Plus. Leanda shares her journey into the real estate industry, beginning with her ambitious goals in multifamily investing and the challenges she encountered along the way. Supported by Minnesota's diversified workers program, Leanda transitioned into a successful real estate agent after attending Minnesota Realty School. Our discussion explores the importance of mentorship and authentic support, and we talk about the excitement of the upcoming 2025 spring market.

 

In this episode:

• How Leanda's journey in real estate began with multifamily investing ambitions.
• Why Leanda transitioned from multifamily investing to becoming a real estate agent.
• How Minnesota's Diversified Workers Program supported Leanda's career shift.
• Leanda’s background as a paralegal.
• What challenges Leanda faced in the real estate industry and how she overcame them.
• How a transformative conference introduced Leanda to the syndication model of investing.
• Why mentorship and authentic support are crucial in real estate.
• What strategies are effective for successful open houses and client relationships.
• Leanda’s involvement with the dance team at Highland Park High School.
• What unique business ideas Leanda explores, including entrepreneurial ventures.
• How communication and support from lenders are valued by real estate agents.
• What advice Leanda offers for first-time homebuyers about home ownership possibilities.
• How creative strategies and action-taking set top agents apart in real estate.
• Why Leanda uses door knocking to get people to attend her open houses.
• A new business idea that Leanda has been thinking about recently.

 

Contact Leanda:

Cell: 612-222-0159

Email: realty@leandaandrade.net

Kim Jackson and Elise Tagg

In this episode, we are thrilled to have real estate experts Kim Jackson and Elise Tagg from Keller Williams Premier in Stillwater. Their journey spans nearly two decades, with Elise transitioning from a sandblasting business to real estate, driven by her passion for design. Kim, on the other hand, moved from a career in corporate relocations and is also regularly involved in house flipping. Together, they provide so many insights into property potential and improvements. Our discussion covers the allure of unique homes like “barndominiums” and container houses, as well as anticipated market trends for 2025, such as developments in Wisconsin's White Pine Ridge and Hillside Estates.

 

In this episode:

• How Kimand Elise transitioned into real estate from different career backgrounds.
• Why Kim chose to start house flipping and how it became a successful venture.
• How Elise's passion for design eventually led her from sandblasting to real estate.
• Why Keller Williams was their brokerage of choice, emphasizing education and leadership.
• How “barndominiums” and container homes are capturing buyer interest in Wisconsin.
• Why Wisconsin offers cost-effective real estate options compared to Minnesota.
• How anticipated 2025 trends are affecting real estate opportunities.
• Why maintaining a sense of community is vital in real estate.
• How increased inventory in 2025 might provide buyers with more choices.
• How professional relationships and long-term success are built through dedication and adaptability.
• Why educating clients about real estate is more effective than traditional sales tactics.

 

Contact Kim:

Cell: 651-334-5586

Email: kimjacksonhomes@hotmail.com

 

Contact Elise:

Cell: 612-759-0993

Email: elisetagg@gmail.com

Jeff Sundsmo

Today we’ve got Jeff Sundsmo of the Olsen Group and Keller Williams Premier Realty, who was involved in the medical field and in selling cars before transitioning to real estate. We hear about the origins of the Olsen Group and explore the resilience that Jeff strongly believes is needed in the industry. Our conversation takes a lighter turn as we discuss family dynamics, Jeff's passion for softball, and the resurgence of direct mail. We wrap up with Jeff's charity efforts and his predictions for the real estate market in 2025, highlighting the importance of education and patience in this ever-changing field.

 

In this episode:

• How Jeff transitioned from medicine and cars to real estate, encouraged by his stepfather and mother.
• How the Olsen Group began with Mike Olsen's ventures in downtown St. Paul.
• Why sports are a big deal in Jeff's personal and professional life.
• Jeff’s recollection of teaching his stepfather how to use email.
• Why direct mail and personal connections are making a comeback.
• How Jeff's passion for softball impacts his life and his daughter's sports journey.
• The sportsmanship and respect that Jeff learned from being a hockey referee.
• Why humor is a powerful motivator in both personal challenges and real estate endeavors.
• How the real estate market trends are evolving, with predictions for 2025.
• Why education and patience are crucial in navigating the unpredictable real estate industry.
• How Jeff’s experiences highlight the importance of adaptability and passion in real estate.
• Why listening to podcasts is part of Jeff's routine for continuous learning.
• The reason why Jeff recently decided to shave his beard.

 

Contact Jeff:

Cell: 651-491-3037

Email: jeff@mikeolsen.com

Angel Rangel Chavez

We’re joined by Angel Rangel Chavez with RE/MAX Advantage Plus today, a remarkable individual excelling in both the healthcare and real estate sectors. Angel shares his inspiring journey from Mexico to the United States, highlighting the challenges he overcame, such as mastering English and navigating a new education system. As a registered nurse and a savvy real estate agent, Angel discusses how he balances these two demanding careers, drawing on lessons from his father, a seasoned contractor. He talks about the nuances of property flipping, the differences between healthcare systems in the US and Mexico, and the evolving real estate market.

In this episode:

• How learning a new language and education system shaped Angel's professional path.
• Why Angel draws inspiration from his father in real estate.
• How construction knowledge benefits Angel in advising real estate clients.
• Why potential real estate market shifts in 2025 could be significant for Angel's team.
• How political changes and interest rates could impact real estate in 2025.
• Why Angel emphasizes the importance of connections in healthcare and real estate.
• Why continuous learning is crucial for Angel's success across diverse fields
• How Angel navigated the challenges of entering both nursing and real estate professions.
• Why Angel prioritizes work-life balance, especially in managing multiple responsibilities.
• How Angel's experiences allow him to offer valuable advice for first-time homebuyers.
• Why understanding construction gives Angel a competitive edge in real estate.
• How Angel builds trust with clients by sharing his knowledge and expertise.
• The sometimes shocking differences between online photos and actual visits.

 

Contact Angel:

Cell: 651-253-7936

Email: arc@mnrealestateteam.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelrc_re

Danielle Eaves

Danielle Eaves with eXp Realty is our guest in this episode. She shares her thoughts about living in Inver Grove Heights and her creative parenting strategies for her daughter who is a promising swimmer. Getting into the current housing market, we discuss the implications of interest rates and the potential influence of political shifts. Danielle explains financial and seasonal trends that are poised to shape the market as well, and also shares renovations and maintenance that homeowners can do in 2025 to make their houses sell quickly.

In this episode:

• The bartering system that Danielle uses with her daughter to encourage her swimming skills.
• Why interest rates and political changes are influencing the 2025 housing market.
• The ability of cash buyers to take advantage of today’s market.
• What the nonprofit organization Homes for Heroes provides assistance with.
• How Danielle's personal connection to public service influenced her involvement in Homes for Heroes.
• How Danielle got “recruited” into real estate due to a chance encounter at her daughter’s preschool.
• How financial and seasonal trends are expected to shape the market in the coming months.
• Why having a knowledgeable realtor can prevent costly real estate mistakes.
• How the National Association of Realtors’ forecast predicts many more deals in 2025 compared to 2024.
• The impact of seasons on the Minnesota and Wisconsin real estate market.
• What Danielle has been seeing as a result of the NAR settlement.
• What homeowners need to do if they want their homes sell quickly this year.

 

Contact Danielle:

Cell: 612-730-1512

Email: realtordaniellee@gmail.com

Justin Tolle

This conversation is with Justin Tolle, who started out in the mortgage industry in 2004 before becoming an agent. Justin's journey is marked by strategic foresight and a passion for property investment, which began when he purchased his first home at 21. Justin shares how the support of his wife and his dedication as a family man have fueled his success. We also discuss the importance of building relationships, maintaining a client-first mindset, and leveraging social media to enhance personal branding.

 

In this episode:

• Why Justin left the mortgage industry before the market crash.
• How buying his first home at 21 sparked his passion for real estate investment.
• Why family support was crucial in his transition to become a real estate agent.
• How Justin navigated the challenges of establishing himself as a dedicated realtor.
• Why persistence and problem-solving are vital in building a successful real estate business.
• How relationships and personal branding contribute to long-term success in real estate.
• Why maintaining a client-first mindset is essential for trust and lasting connections.
• How social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have helped Justin reach his audience.
• Why networking and community presence are key to real estate success.
• How Justin's background in startup mentality influenced his strategic approach in real estate.
• Why new construction opportunities can offer valuable deals for buyers.
• How time blocking and consistent outreach activities help maintain momentum for Justin.
• Why working with experienced real estate professionals benefits home buyers.
• Why Justin believes that going to networking events, open houses, etc is so important.

 

Contact Justin:

Cell: 612-532-1298

Email: justin@nowrealty.net

Website: https://nowrealty.net/justintolle/