Insight Magazine presents our Third Annual “Who’s Who in East Orlando Real Estate?” special section to help you identify some of the top real estate professionals in the area. From buying or selling a home to obtaining a mortgage and even dealing with the closing, we’ve chosen some of the area’s most qualified experts based on customer service satisfaction ratings, various skill sets and local experience and knowledge. The listings below are in alphabetical order by last name and are not intended to indicate any type of numerical ranking.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Tracy Canning
With a marketing degree from The Ohio State University and a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) specializing in short sales, Tracy Canning knows what it takes to get a job done right. Still, she is known more for her customer service than the numerous additional certifications and skill sets she possesses. “From the time we make initial contact my buyers/sellers will always feel like they’re my number one and only when working with me,” she says. “I like to be available as often as I can, answer calls, show up on time and get the job done right.” That’s why 98 percent of her customers are referrals and repeat customers.
She says that in this market, sellers must know it is a buyer’s market and buyers must realize with most homes being real estate owned (REO) or short sale properties, the properties are priced at the amount the house will sell for. “Sometimes they will even go for a bit over asking price, so it’s something the buyer has to be mindful of,” she says.
Name: Tracy Canning, PA, CDPE
Position: Realtor
Company: Thomas Lynne Properties, LLC
Yrs of Experience: 9
Phone: 407-484-7978
E-mail: Canning8@Comcast.net
Web site: www.TracyCanning.com
___________________________________________________________________________________
Kathleen Carlson
Having helped relocate hundreds of families for Fortune 500 companies over the past 29 years, Kathleen Carlson knows what it takes to assist customers in the process of “Saying goodbye” and Saying hello” to a new area. Utilizing her undergraduate and graduate education from Cornell University, Purdue, Memphis State and the University of Delaware, combined with her Corporate Relocation experience, Carlson helps clients strategically find and/or market their homes Worldwide using state-of-the-art online exposure, print advertising, and television/radio ads.
Carlson specializes in helping customers buy and sell homes in the rapidly expanding “Medical City Corridor ” as well as the theme park community areas. She focuses on helping customers find a home – meaning a community and lifestyle they’re searching for, rather than just a house. “Because I listen and care about my clients, the friendships that have ensued over these 30 years are my biggest reward,” she says. “My father always emphasized that, ‘Service is the rent we pay to live on this earth.’ This ‘servant’ attitude keeps things in perspective and allows me to listen and empathize with others’ stories, helping them transition to new opportunities.”
Name: Kathleen Carlson
Position: Owner/Broker
Company: Imagination Realty Inc
Yrs of Experience: 29+
Phone: 407-361-7653
E-mail: KCarlson@ImaginationRealty.net
Web site: www.ImaginationRealty.net
___________________________________________________________________________________
Victoria Dobbins
When it comes to an experienced home mortgage professional, no one in the area may be more qualified than Victoria Dobbins. Having lived in the Lake Nona area for 20 years, she and her husband have seen the region grow firsthand.
As such, she knows all too well about the changes and challenges in today’s local and national marketplace. “The challenges and restrictions over the past years have changed the way we do business, but we still close loans every day, even if it a takes a village ” she says. “After all these years in the business it’s still one of my greatest pleasures to tell someone that their dream of home ownership is now a reality.”
After meeting with a client and determining their needs and what program will be the best fit, it’s time for her to do what she does best: get them the loan they need. “I’ve been through it all and that experience sets me apart,” she says. “The business is a lot different than it used to be, and we continue to adapt and grow with it.”
Name: Victoria Dobbins
Position: Branch Manager
Company: Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
Yrs of Experience: 20
Phone: 407-659-6844
E-mail: victoria.dobbins@wellsfargo.com
Web site: themortgageteam4you.com
___________________________________________________________________________________
Veronica Figueroa
How do you wind up in the top 5 percent of Realtors according to the Orlando Regional Realtor Association? In addition to continuously producing for your clients, you have to go the extra mile to create something more than just a transaction, and that’s exactly what Veronica Figueroa does. Living and loving the community of Avalon Park with her family inspired her to open Avalon Town Center Realty, providing her expertise to the community. “I still find time to give back to the community as well and I am involved in local volunteer groups, like Kiwanis,” she says. “It’s all about making this a better place to call home.”
Although she works with about 70 percent foreclosures and short sales, Figueroa still creates a unique, custom profile for each client, detailing what they’re looking for before gathering her team and executing to deliver on their goals. “Communication is my main priority whether you’re a corporation or a family down the street,” she says. “I am assertive and I go after what my clients want. As long as it’s ethical, we’re always willing to go the extra mile.”
Name: Veronica Figueroa
Position: Broker/Owner
Company: Avalon Town Center Realty
Yrs of Experience: 10
Phone: 407-301-9574 Cell or 407-281-1053 Office
E-mail: Veronica@ATCRealty.com
Web site: www.AvalonTownCenterRealty.com or www.ATCRealty.com
___________________________________________________________________________________
Brenda Kolbrich
Brenda Kolbrich has a proven track record of success, winning “Best in Client Satisfaction” awards two years in a row from Florida Home Buyer’s Magazine while recently obtaining her Council of Residential Specialists designation – an accolade only 4 percent of the real estate agents nationwide currently have.
She attributes her success to her unwavering dedication. “One transaction that stands out is when I brought a buyer and seller together in two different countries on Skype to negotiate at 4:00 a.m.,” she says. “We closed and both parties were happy and I went to sleep!”
It’s just one example of how she works tirelessly to keep her clients satisfied, whether they’re buying or selling a home. “I am a dedicated listing specialist and I have a top producing buyer’s agent who works with me,” she says. “If I am chosen to list their home, I get to work immediately on an intense marketing campaign and I usually sell my listings within 45 days.”
For Kolbrich, the day isn’t over until her clients are satisfied. “I’m only happy when they are,” she says.
Name: Brenda Kolbrich
Position: Licensed Realtor, CRS – Council of Residential Specialists
Company: Keller Williams Advantage Realty II
Yrs of Experience: 10
Phone: 407-963-6876
E-mail: Brenda@TopOrlandoHomes.com
Website: TopOrlandoHomes.com
___________________________________________________________________________________
Amanda Ladd
After several years owning her own brokerage company in New York, Amanda Ladd decided to pursue her dream and move to Orlando. Since moving, she has become known for her communication and organization skills as a Realtor dedicating herself to working with clients from morning to evening.
She says that in today’s market it’s important to make sure buyers and sellers hire a good Realtor, home inspector and mortgage company and that the research is worth it in the long run. “Real estate at this rebirth and growth period can be an unknown territory for some, but with knowledgeable people behind you, you can rest assured you’re well taken care of,” says Ladd.
When asked what sets her apart from the competition, she answers candidly, saying that answering her phone makes all the difference in the world. “I believe communication is key,” she says. “I constantly hear clients complain that other Realtors either never answer their phone or take forever to call back,” she says. “With over 20 listings in East Orlando alone, it’s important to be responsive and accessible.”
Name: Amanda Ladd
Position: Realtor
Company: Mighty Realty
Yrs of Experience: 7
Phone: 315-243-6742
E-mail: AmandaLadd@live.com
Web site: www.CFLMedicalCityHomes.com
___________________________________________________________________________________
Pam & Allyn Maycumber
With a combined 50 years of licensed real estate experience, Pam and Allyn Maycumber have created a seasoned, successful partnership based on keeping clients satisfied every step of the transaction. As a Certified Residential Broker, Pam represents the top 2 percent of Realtors nationwide, with her knowledge and passion for the area. “Upon our first meeting, I’ll provide you a questionnaire with all your wants and needs and then take that information and transform your options to the very best choices,” she says.
According to the Maycumbers, looking for a house in this market is incredibly beneficial. “After 30 months of declining values, prices appear to be stable or appreciating, especially in the Southeast Orlando corridor,” says Allyn. “Also, the current mortgage rates are amazingly low, which equates to home affordability.” In fact, adds Pam, “Freddie Mac says the average rate on the 30-year loan fell to 4.55 percent from 4.60 percent recently. That’s a low for the year and makes now a perfect time to buy.”
When not working the couple can be found kayaking Lake Nona, volunteering or spending time with their two strapping young boys.
Name: Pam Maycumber
Position: Broker-Associate
Company: Keller Williams Realty Advantage III
Yrs of Experience: 26
Phone: 407-251-1314
E-mail: Pam@Maycumber.com
Web site: www.WeKnowNona.com
___________________________________________________________________________________
Pamela Rehbein
Buying a house is rarely ever an “easy” process, but it helps when your realtor can empathize with the stress of moving like Pamela Rehbein, a veteran mover from her days as the wife of an NFL coach, can. “I feel my life’s experience sets me apart,” she says. “I know the feeling of moving my family cross country and a move within the same area. I have sold, bought and built homes, so I have been through it all.”
Now a six year resident and expert in the East Orlando area, Rehbein says she still feels relief and an immense pride every time she is able to help a family. “I’m so proud to have been an intimate part of their lives,” she says. “It’s a true blessing to be a part of the process.”
Known for going above and beyond or helping her clients in any way to find their dream home, Rehbein says the pride of a job well done keeps her motivated. “When I see the joy of my buyers in their home that lets me know I have done a great job,” she says.
Name: Pamela Rehbein
Position: Realtor, GRI Specializing with Buyers
Company: Keller Williams Advantage ll Realty
Yrs of Experience: 5 years
Phone: 407-488-4078
E-mail: Pamela@HomeforyourHeart.com
Web site: HomeforyourHeart.com
___________________________________________________________________________________
Marshall Rice
Buying or selling a house can be stressful – but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun along the way. That’s the way that Marshall Rice approaches every one of his clients. “It’s a very serious undertaking, but it should be enjoyable as well,” he says. “My clients should expect straight talk. If I don’t know something, I will tell you and we will figure it out together.”
Rice does his best to go above and beyond for clients leaving no stone unturned, working 24/7 if he has to, ensuring his clients get the best deal possible. “I tell people whether it’s an auto mechanic, a mortgage broker or a realtor, there are only two things that really matter: they know what they’re doing and they’re honest. I am both,” he says. “I won’t try to talk clients into something. I always give them the same advice I would give someone in my own family.”
When not working with clients, he can be found fishing with his two sons or spending time with his wife and six grandchildren, all aged six and under.
Name: Marshall Rice
Position: Sales Associate
Company: Frank G. Canty Realty Inc.
Yrs of Experience: 6 Years
Phone: 321-438-5824
E-mail: Marshall@RealtyOrlando.com
Web site: www.OrlandosTopHomes.com
___________________________________________________________________________________
Terry Sible
Having lived in East Orlando for over 25 years, it’s no wonder Terry Sible knows the real estate market here so well. “When working with buyers or sellers, it always gives you a good feeling knowing that you have helped your customer get the best deal possible,” he says.
With almost three decades of real estate experience, he understands the stress that goes into buying or selling a home and does everything in his power to make the process easy and stress free. He has even gone as far to help clients move, paint and repair if needed. “No one likes surprises when they are making an investment,” he says. “With me, the customer will be educated on the art of buying or selling.”
Sible says that working with people so much and helping them achieve their dreams continually keeps him motivated. “I try hard to coach, but not pressure, a customer to help them find the right solution. There are other good Realtors in the community to work with, but I know I can get the job done.”
Name: Terry Sible
Position: Broker/owner
Company: Krowne Realty, Inc
Yrs of Experience: 27
Phone: 407 823-8855
E-mail: Terry@MyAvalonPark.com
Website: www.MyAvalonPark.com
___________________________________________________________________________________
Karen Spell
“If we close your transaction you will receive unparalleled service, experience, knowledge and I will personally perform the closing,” says Karen Spell, attorney and owner of her own law firm focusing on real estate. With more than 20 years in the industry and approximately 500 deals closed in the past two years alone, Spell has the credentials to back that statement up.
Education is of the utmost importance when buying or selling a home, that’s why Spell offers complimentary consultations to anyone who needs to know their options. “My office goes the extra mile every day in every closing to make sure whatever it takes is done to ensure a smooth transaction,” she says.
In fact, her office has a complete division dedicated to the facilitation of short sales since 70 percent of the homes in her area are listed as such. “Most realtors don’t have the time or experience to facilitate their own short sales, which is where we step in,” she says. “I have many grateful clients who appreciate my willingness to speak to them personally about their situation with straight talk and honest answers.”
Name: Karen R. Spell
Position: Attorney/Owner
Company: Karen R. Spell, P.A.
Yrs of Experience: 20+
Phone: 407-306-0454
E-mail: Karen@krenrspellpa.com
Web site: karenspellattorney.com or myshortsalerescue.com
