Photography: James Woodley
Clothing and accessories: Trina Turk’s 2017 fall collection
Art direction: Melanie Smit
Fashion assistance: Sydney Hartman and Dreamweaver Brand Communications
Shoe styling: Jenna DeBrino and the Hot Pink Style team
Special thanks to: Redline Media Group in Dania beach
Trina Turk: Visit the Miami store at 7200 Biscayne Blvd., or check out the 2017 fall collection online at trinaturk.com.
Susan Rindley
Title: Global estate agent
Company: One Sotheby’s International Realty
Residence: Fort Lauderdale
What drew you to real estate as a profession?
I grew up in South Florida and love showing others what it’s all about. I was drawn to real estate because when people choose a home, they are also choosing a neighborhood, a community and a lifestyle. I feel like I’m their tour guide or concierge.
Why are you good at what you do?
I understand South Florida and its communities better than anyone. I also will outwork anyone.
What’s the best advice you could give to people looking to buy/sell a home?
For those looking to buy: location, location, location. [Decide] where you want to be first. You can change a house. You can’t change where it is. For those looking to sell: update, simplify and clear out the clutter.
Moonrise dress ($398) and Hollywood Hills stone tassel earrings ($78), from Trina Turk; Francesco Sacco shoes, from Rinaldi, Fort Lauderdale
Maria Scarola
Title: In-house sales associate
Project: Auberge Beach Residences & Spa, Fort Lauderdale
Residence: Hollywood
What drew you to real estate as a profession?
My parents owned numerous businesses, from an exotic car dealership to an exotic pet store. As a young girl, I learned to sell—and I acquired entrepreneurial skills—by watching them and by being involved in the daily business.
What’s the most valuable business lesson you’ve learned from being in real estate?
Always remember that people never forget how you treat them. Never judge a client or anyone at first glance; I have been proven wrong—and [it can] cost you money.
Why are you good at what you do?
I am consistent, and I listen to what people want. I always say that I’m a walking dollar sign; if I don’t make calls, meet people, and constantly talk about and love the product I am selling, then [why] is anyone going to want to buy it?
Beverly dress ($298), Hanalei bangle ($88) and teardrop earrings ($48), all from Trina Turk; Gianvito Rossi shoes, from Rinaldi, Fort Lauderdale
Agata Foley
Title: Sales associate
Project: Paramount Fort Lauderdale Beach
Company: OneWorld Properties
Residence: Pompano Beach
What drew you to real estate as a profession?
When I first moved to this country, I started in the service industry. This taught me a few things about myself. First, that I have a knack for selling. Second, I’m an outgoing person who loves to interact with different personalities. I feel like real estate is a natural extension of the service industry. … In the end, it’s all about making your clients happy.
What’s the most valuable business lesson you’ve learned from being in real estate?
Integrity is the name of the game. If your word means nothing, you won’t get anywhere.
What’s the best advice you could give to people looking to buy/sell a home?
Find somebody who has your best interests at heart—somebody willing to listen to your wants and needs, [and who will take] them into consideration and guide you through the process.
Iman dress ($368), tassel-drop earrings ($78) and five-piece bangle set ($158), all from Trina Turk; Cesare Paciotti shoes, from Rinaldi, Fort Lauderdale
Mabel Mullan
Title: Director of regional sales and marketing
Company: Nu World Title
Residence: Weston
What’s the most valuable business lesson you’ve learned from being in real estate?
Be self-reliant. In real estate, you are your own business. And as a business you must hold yourself accountable for the actions you take. No one else is going to make things happen for you. If you want something, figure out a way to achieve what you are after.
Why are you good at what you do?
I’ve learned that you must treat others as you would want to be treated. It’s a simple rule that I live by. My success lies in the fact that when you need me I am there.
What’s the best advice you could give to people looking to buy/sell a home?
Find a realtor that you can trust and that has experience. Make sure the realtor has a great title company. This will ensure that you get to closing. Get your finances in order, and find a mortgage company you can trust. Lastly, have a great time.
Flashy dress ($378), from Trina Turk; Francesco Sacco shoes, from Rinaldi, Fort Lauderdale
Rebecca Batterman
Title: Director of sales
Project: The Residences at W Fort Lauderdale
Company: Related Group/RelatedISG
Residence: Boca Raton
What drew you to real estate as a profession?
As a real estate professional, I’m in control of my success. Real estate isn’t about being lucky; it’s about being strategic, persistent and always sticking to the plan. Also, it allows me to use my entire skill set—marketing, finance, public relations, creativity, networking and my love for learning about people.
What’s the most valuable business lesson you’ve learned from being in real estate?
Never take the first, second, or third “no” as an answer. Be persuasive, persistent and passionate.
Why are you good at what you do?
I build relationships with both my clients and my real estate partners, which I believe is the foundation to success. I listen to the wants and needs of my clients. I’m organized. And I see a project through.
Demming top ($328), Kait pants ($268) and tassel-drop earrings ($78), all from Trina Turk; Jimmy Choo shoes, from Joya, Delray Beach
Melanie Kimpton
Title: Waterfront specialist
Team: Kimpton Howard
Company: Douglas Elliman Residence: Fort Lauderdale
What drew you to real estate as a profession?
I started in real estate in my hometown of Montreal after traveling the world and living abroad in my 20s. My international life experience made it easier to connect with my clients. I was drawn to the industry because it’s always evolving with plenty of challenges.
Why are you good at what you do?
I do real estate the same way I live my life: authentic, true and passionate.
What’s the best advice you could give to people looking to buy/sell a home?
For sellers, timing is everything and going on the market at the right price is key. Keeping a clean and minimalist home while on the market is important. For buyers, create a list of needs and desires, understanding that you will need to bend a little on certain items.
Janice top ($248), Link shorts ($98) and five-piece bangle set ($158) all from Trina Turk; Stuart Weitzman shoes, from Joya, Delray Beach
