PSA’s Fundraising Collaboration for Shoes That Fit: A Successful Conclusion

At Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate (PSA), we believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. This August, we proudly teamed up with the Friends of Fusion Foundation for a remarkable cause: providing sneakers to homeless children enrolled in Delaware public schools through the Shoes That Fit program. Thanks to the overwhelming support from our agents, partners, and friends, we’re thrilled to announce the incredible success of our month-long campaign.

Pictured:

Front row: Brian Hadley, Jeffrey Leggett, Joanne Glauser, and Nic DeCaire; Middle row: Terri Wamba, Linda Hanna, Angela Allen, and Donna Greenspan; Back rows: Casey Hadley, Karen Burke, Dave Iliff, Vicki Feeney, Sal Sedita, and Nicolette Pomijie.

Building Momentum: An Empowering Partnership

Our collaboration with Friends of Fusion began with a powerful goal—ensure every homeless child in Delaware starts the school year with a new pair of sneakers. When the Delaware chapter of Shoes That Fit identified over 3,200 children in need across the state, PSA committed to stepping in with our network of support. For every transaction that reached settlement in August, we donated a pair of shoes to a child in need.

The Friends of Fusion Foundation, known for its unwavering commitment to supporting local children, young adults, and first responders, found a perfect partner in Patterson-Schwartz. From the moment we launched our collaboration in early August, the impact was immediate, sparking an outpouring of online donations for Shoes That Fit on day one. Nic DeCaire, founder of Friends of Fusion, took to social media to applaud the campaign’s swift momentum: “Thank you, Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate, for raising enough funds for 28 pairs of sneakers in just 24 hours. We truly appreciate your incredible support.”

The energy for this campaign only gained in speed from there.

The Impact: Over 350 Pairs of Shoes Donated

When PSA set our internal goal for the campaign, we aimed to donate 250 pairs of shoes through transactions alone. But thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we exceeded that target by over 100 pairs! By the end of August, PSA had donated a remarkable 379 pairs of shoes to Shoes That Fit.

These donations were made possible by the contributions of our agents, affiliates, friends, and partners— including Pike Creek Mortgage, who matched our donations for the loans they closed with PSA in August.

Our agents were quick to jump on board, spreading the word and contributing to the cause. Andrea Carbaugh from the Lauri Brockson Group in PSA Newark shared, “As a former teacher, I bought countless pairs of shoes for students. You CAN make a difference!” Gina Cockerille of PSA Rehoboth echoed this sentiment, saying, “This is one of the many reasons I love Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate.”

The Hadley Group of PSA Hockessin took their commitment one step further, pledging to continue donating a pair of sneakers for every transaction they complete for the remainder of 2024.

Our agents’ passion for this cause will continue to benefit local children long after the campaign’s official close.

Celebrating a Successful Campaign

In early October, members of the PSA family had the opportunity to meet representatives from Friends of Fusion and the Delaware chapter of Shoes That Fit to celebrate the campaign’s tremendous success. It was an emotional and inspiring moment for everyone involved.

Jeffrey Leggett, President of the Friends of Fusion Foundation since its inception, shared his heartfelt gratitude: “I get really emotional at this… the golf outings, the running community, and now Patterson-Schwartz, you’ve been so generous to us. It’s amazing. Coming up on our 5-year anniversary, when we set out to do this, we never thought we’d be able to give out $20,000-25,000 to the community. With this campaign, we’re probably going to hit about $140,000. It’s mind-blowing.”

Joanne Glauser, who has been running the Delaware chapter of Shoes That Fit alongside her husband for 26 years, expressed her deep appreciation for the campaign’s success. She highlighted how this groundbreaking partnership brought the goal of providing a pair of sneakers to every homeless child in Delaware schools within reach. “It’s never been done before. We are the first state to accomplish this nationwide,” she shared.

Click here to learn more about the PSA and Friends of Fusion Shoes That Fit Campaign.

Moving Forward: A Commitment to Community

As we celebrate the conclusion of this campaign, we remain dedicated to supporting our community in meaningful ways. The success of this fundraiser demonstrates what we can accomplish when we come together.

Thank you to everyone who participated and donated to Shoes That Fit. Your generosity has made a real difference in the lives of children across Delaware, and we are deeply grateful. Together, we’ve shown that every step matters, and we look forward to continuing our work to help those in need.

About Us

At Patterson-Schwartz, we believe in giving back to our community. In addition to the countless hours our sales associates and employees dedicate to charitable causes, we donate a portion of the proceeds from every real estate transaction to the PSA Foundation. Since 2001, the PSA Foundation has donated nearly $1.4 million to local charities and organizations close to our hearts

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On the Move: Sam Dali’s Path from PSA to Paradise

Meet Sam Dali, whose impressive journey spans nearly 34 years in the real estate industry—29 of which have been dedicated to Patterson-Schwartz. From starting in academia to thriving in corporate relocation, Sam’s career has taken many exciting turns. Today, he continues to oversee much of our relocation business, all while embracing life in sunny Florida. Join us as we dive into his inspiring story, exploring what has kept him at PSA, what sets our company apart, and how he balances work with a passion for cars, sports, and music.

How long have you been at PSA?

My real estate career extends to almost 34 years, 29 of those years with Patterson-Schwartz. When PSA acquired Gilpin Real Estate in 1995, I was already in a Corporate Relocation role. Today, I still oversee much of the relocation business at PSA with Brian Pomije, my colleague and Director of Property Management & Relocation

How did you choose your career in real estate?

Before entering the real estate world, I was in academia as a college instructor and dean. I was involved in scheduling and marketing the real estate licensing course(s) for the college. However, I never thought of real estate as a career for me. Never say never. As I felt the need to change careers, a position in relocation became available and I took advantage of it.

What aspects of PSA’s reputation and culture have influenced your long-term commitment to the company?

My responsibilities were to meet with companies to develop, and later maintain, corporate relocation business for Patterson-Schwartz. It was easy to talk about PSA’s reputation to those I met with. I never had to apologize that I was from PSA. Everyone knew about the reputation of the company and I liked that a lot.

What sets PSA apart as a company?

I remember saying many years ago to Dick Christopher, and later Joe Pluscht, “When I leave Patterson-Schwartz, I will leave real estate.”  I’m not sure why agents go from company to company trying to find something better. PSA has been a great match for me: a company that is supportive, community-oriented, cares about their employees and staff, provides opportunities, and has an outstanding reputation.

Patterson-Schwartz has always trusted me to make the right decisions and be self-managed—a major reason for my extended stay. 

Over five years ago, my wife, Christine, accepted a position with a major bank in south Florida. When I shared the news with Joe Pluscht, he asked me to think about taking my relocation position to Florida and working remotely. I am still working remotely. I thought my PSA career was coming to an end. It was just beginning a new phase. That’s who Patterson-Schwartz is!

What do you do when you’re not in the office?

Relocating to Florida has provided a lot of things to do as we explore its many areas, including several visits to The Keys along with time in the Gulf Coast, central FL, Ocala, and the east coast of FL from Miami to Cocoa Beach, Vero Beach, West Palm Beach, etc. 

Most of my outside activities center around four things: cars, sports, music, and exploring the area. Cars have been a passion of mine my entire life. I just love high-performance luxury brand cars like Porsche. I have been a P-car owner for almost 20 years and we are still members of the Porsche Club of America, Gold Coast Region. Chris and I still like cycling and ride both our road and mountain bikes. Cycling in our area is a very big deal and there a lots of riders everywhere. Swimming is a given—we do that all time. Watching all kinds of sports is something that occupies a lot of our time as we enjoy watching the competition. As a former musician, music is also a passion and interest. Music is always on in the house and we often attend concerts for musical artists of all levels across various locations in Florida.

Ready to Grow with Us?

Sam Dali’s remarkable journey at Patterson-Schwartz exemplifies the spirit of adaptability and passion that defines our team. From his roots in academia to a thriving career in corporate relocation, Sam’s story inspires us to embrace new opportunities and challenges. We’re grateful to have him as part of our family, continuing to contribute to our success from the sunny state of Florida. Here’s to many more years of growth and adventure, both personally and professionally!

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Delaware Tops the Charts as the Best State to Retire

Delawareans have always known the charm and benefits of living in “The First State,” and now it’s official—Delaware has been recognized as the best state to retire in the U.S., according to Bankrate’s latest rankings. Rising from second place last year, this accolade is a testament to the state’s commitment to affordability, quality of life, and superb healthcare, making it an ideal destination for retirees.

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Bankrate’s comprehensive evaluation weighted affordability most heavily, a factor where Delaware shines due to its no sales tax policy and no income tax on Social Security benefits. Alex Gailey from Bankrate highlights, “While you might not think of Delaware as a typical retirement haven, it has many strong selling points for retirees,” as reported in a recent CBS News article by Megan Cerullo. Delaware’s focus on affordability is particularly significant given the economic landscape, offering much-needed relief to retirees.

Besides economic advantages, Delaware’s high-quality healthcare system and its rich cultural and demographic diversity are pivotal in enhancing its attractiveness as a retirement haven. Access to quality healthcare is a cornerstone for retirees, and Delaware excels in providing this.

Our Seniors Real Estate Specialists® Weigh In

Our agents with the Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation, like Craig Schwartz and John Zacharias, play a crucial role in advising mature Americans on their real estate needs.

Craig shares, “The unique approach of SRES Designation encapsulates a broader view inclusive of concepts such as aging-in place and living in regional destinations. Delaware’s central location allows access to a variety of airports, cultural events, exhibits, museums, and culinary adventures. There is an enormous selection of specialized healthcare nearby too. Beyond Delaware’s 55+ communities or independent living, the state offers a lifestyle that can be carefree or adventurous as you want. In addition, Delaware offers great value with home prices, low property taxes, and no sales tax!”

John adds, “Buying a forever home is one of the biggest decisions one can make in their lifetime. I understand the stakes are high to make a sound investment and financial stability. I pride myself of leaving no stone left unturned and working with my clients to have a profound sense of satisfaction with their purchase.”

For retirees interested in exploring what Delaware has to offer, our website includes an active adult communities search that showcases homes specifically suited to the active adult lifestyle.

For those considering retirement, partner with an SRES® agent as your expert guide in navigating the real estate landscape tailored for your needs. Explore the possibilities of retirement living with confidence and let them help you find the perfect home that aligns with your lifestyle and aspirations. Your ideal retirement home in Delaware is just a conversation away.

As Delaware continues to garner recognition, we remain proud and excited for more people to discover the advantages of retiring in our beloved state. For more details on why Delaware claimed the top spot, check out the original ratings at Bankrate’s retirement guide.

About Us

Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate is Delaware’s largest independent real estate brokerage and offers a full range of services that include residential home sales, purchase and rental, relocation services, and property management. We’ve been guiding home buyers and sellers since 1961, and invite you to connect with us when you’re ready to partner with a local real estate expert.

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Making Strides for Local Students in Need

We’re excited to announce a new collaboration at Patterson-Schwartz! 🎉 Introducing our charitable partnership with the Friends of Fusion Foundation, an organization dedicated to aiding efforts that offer crucial support to children, young adults, and first responders across Delaware. Together, we’re on a mission to provide sneakers to every homeless child enrolled Delaware public schools through the Shoes That Fit Program.

Shoes That Fit, Delaware

Founded in 1992 in California, Shoes That Fit has chapters in every state and helped nearly 165,000 kids nationwide in 2023. The Delaware chapter, started in 1998 by Newark resident Joanne Glauser, has provided shoes to an estimated 40,000 children.

Shoes That Fit defines homeless students as those who lack fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. The children and teens benefiting from the program are often sharing housing due to economic hardship, or living in emergency shelters or medical facilities. Earlier this year, the Delaware chapter identified 3,291 students needing their assistance with new sneakers: 804 in Kent County, 1,960 in New Castle County, and 527 in Sussex County.

Infusing Hope

“When The Shoes That Fit program came across our radar, it was all we talked about,” says Brian Hadley, PSA Hockessin sales associate and board member of the Friends of Fusion Foundation (FOF).

The Friends of Fusion Foundation has a strong track record of helping the local community. Since joining FOF in late December 2023, Brian has helped organize a golf outing that raised over $12,000 and a donor recognition event where seven FOF supporters each received $1,000 to donate to a charity of their choice. He is also in the final stages of planning a mid-July event with the Facebook group, Hockessin Gossip Girls. 

In May 2024, The Friends of Fusion Foundation committed $30,000 to support Shoes That Fit through community donations.

“The Friends of Fusion mission is to help those around us who need it most,” says Brian. “When we learned about the Shoes That Fit program, we quickly decided to aim higher and help every homeless child in Delaware, not just in New Castle County.”

Brian emphasized that partnering with PSA was a natural fit due to their shared commitment to community support. “The reach that PSA has with our agents and affiliates is massive,” he shared. “I’m excited to see and hear the positive impact we can make by providing name-brand shoes to every homeless child in the state.”

Kicking Off a Charitable Partnership

Not long after meeting with members from the Friends of Fusion Foundation, Patterson-Schwartz signed on in support of their Shoes That Fit fundraising goal, committing to donate one pair of shoes for every closed transaction in August.

“Reading about homeless students being fitted with new sneakers after dealing so long with ill-fitting shoes, and how it positively affected their self-esteem and school performance, was inspiring,” says Donna Greenspan, PSA’s EVP and Managing Broker of the PSA Brandywine Sales Center. “We’re joining FOF to amplify the Shoes That Fit cause during what is typically one of our busiest months, ensuring every disadvantaged child has the shoes they need for the school year ahead.”

In addition to fundraising through transactions, Patterson-Schwartz will raise awareness for the Shoes That Fit cause with online and in-person donation events, including an upcoming summer networking event at the beach.

Click here to learn more about the PSA and Friends of Fusion Shoes That Fit Campaign.

About Us

At Patterson-Schwartz, we believe in giving back to our community. In addition to the countless hours our sales associates and employees dedicate to charitable causes, we donate a portion of the proceeds from every real estate transaction to the PSA Foundation. Since 2001, the PSA Foundation has donated nearly $1.4 million to local charities and organizations close to our hearts

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PSA’s Patty Rash: The Admin Who Keeps Our Offices Buzzing

Meet Patty Rash, admin at our Newark and Middletown offices. Since joining us in December 2001, Patty has quietly excelled in her role supporting the daily operations of listings and sales alongside her admin partner, Nancy Colligan. Patty’s commitment to the real estate process and her colleagues is evident in everything she does. Join us as we chat with Patty about her love for real estate and what keeps her grounded at Patterson-Schwartz.

How did you choose your career in real estate?

I have always been interested in houses and I knew I could not be an agent, so the next best job would be to work in-house as the administrative assistant. I still get to be involved in the process of listing the house in the MLS and processing the sale all the way to settlement. It still gives me the satisfaction of the real estate business that I was looking for.

What do you love about your job?

I love to come to work every day. The agents and staff are my family and friends. Everyone works together for the same goal to help the sellers and buyers in their most important transaction in their life. It makes me happy when a new sale or listing is turned in to me. It’s like I am a big part of everything going on and I get to help make it a little easier on the agent to do what they should be doing—taking care of the clients.

What keeps you at PSA?

That is an easy answer: the company values! Charlie Schwartz, Joe Pluscht, Chris Cashman, and Dave Watlington are part of my managerial team and they are great managers to work with. They ask for your opinion and they are so easy to approach to answer any question you have.

The agents are a bigger part of my interaction on a daily basis and we treat each other like a working family. There is respect and appreciation among the staff and the agents that is none like I have had in any other career.

Patterson-Schwartz has been a very good company to work for and I will finish my career here upon retirement. 

What do you do in your spare time?

My spare time is filled with taking good care of a Goldendoodle we adopted in February 2023. Luna is a sweet pup, but it felt like having a newborn in the beginning! She is becoming a good girl, but it has been a real struggle. The only time I have away from her is coming to work every week day. My work family is so less stressful than my time at home with her.

My husband, Dave, and I enjoy working in the yard. My favorite pastime is watching Netflix series while sitting on the beautiful deck he built for me; it is my oasis. We will have been married for 45 years in September. We love to go on cruises as many times a year as we can afford.

Ready to Grow with Us?

Discover the heart of Patterson-Schwartz through Patty’s story—a testament to dedication and community spirit. Her quiet expertise and unwavering support for our team and clients exemplify the values that define us. Patty’s journey highlights our commitment to excellence and camaraderie, setting us apart as a cherished community and a great place to grow your career in real estate.

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From Keyboard to Key Player: Izetta Hackett’s PSA Journey

Meet Izetta Hackett, a cornerstone of PSA’s accounting department for the past 38 years. From her beginnings as a Computer Operator in the mid-80s at our Wilmington office to her current role overseeing many crucial accounting and HR processes, Izetta’s journey reflects dedication and growth. Her steadfast commitment has not only shaped her career but has also left an enduring impact on PSA’s evolution. Join us as we explore Izetta’s experiences, her unwavering dedication to PSA, and what inspires her to continue contributing to our community and success.

How long have you been at PSA? How did you grow with the company?

I have been with the company for 38 years. I have been able to grow with the company’s accounting department and its innovative technology.

My journey began in the mid-80s at the Wilmington office at 913 Delaware Avenue. I was hired as a Computer Operator in the Data Processing Department under the Accounting Department. My responsibilities included data entry and processing across all of the company’s departments. I also operated several IBM mainframe systems and all its peripheral equipment. Technology hadn’t evolved to where it is today so we needed two computer operators and five accountants.

I briefly left PSA to seek new and exciting opportunities, as many do in their 20s, and, when that didn’t work out, I mailed my resume in response to a job ad at an unidentified PO Box that turned out to belong to Patterson-Schwartz… for the same role I’d vacated two years prior. Joe Pluscht, then CFO, was thrilled to welcome me back. I did not realize how much PSA meant to me until I returned!

Over time, I added the roles of Personnel Administrator and Accounts Payable Coordinator to my General Accounting duties, which also encompass HR (benefits/payroll), credit card processing, and on/off-boarding within the accounting system. Joining (IAPP) International Accounts Payable Professionals allows me to network with other A/P professionals from different companies and share ideas on how to streamline the A/P platform. This organization gave me the tools and knowledge to implement changes within my day-to-day operations.

What keeps you here?

My PSA family, positive company culture, growth, and development keeps me here. The company’s commitment, dedication, and loyalty to its clients is something that cannot be replaced. My supportive leadership is what keeps me at PSA.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside PSA founders: William Patterson, Sr., and Charles Schwartz, Sr. I want to give a huge “thank you” to our PSA leadership over the years: Joe Pluscht, Charlie Schwartz, and Richard Christopher. My journey has been nothing but amazing, and I will never forget the wonderful people and memories made here at PSA.

What does PSA mean to you?

When I hear PSA, I think of perseverance. During the housing market crash in 2008, PSA continued to be independent and remained strong throughout the challenges. As the #1 independent real estate company in Delaware, PSA is a symbol of strength—and that means the world to me.

Looking back over my 38 years, I am the only original member of the accounting department. I give my thanks to Joe Pluscht for giving me the opportunity to return to PSA and to see such a stellar organization grow over the decades and be part of the innovative change has brought value to my career.

What is your key to success?

Remain humble, faithful, persistent, motivated, and loyal to all. Kindness and respect are my keys to success.

Do you have a motto that you follow?

I have three, all about teamwork.

1) Teamwork makes the dream work!

2) Unity is strength… when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.

3) Coming together is beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.

How do you like to spend a relaxing day?

I like to relax by spending quality time with my family and friends and grand-dog, Ziggy. I also love to travel, enjoy jazz concerts, and live life to the fullest!

Ready to Grow with Us?

Izetta Hackett’s nearly four decades at PSA exemplify the essence of the PSA family: growth, community, teamwork, and resilience. From her early days as a Computer Operator to her current role managing HR, Accounts Payable, and more, Izetta’s journey has significantly shaped our company’s evolution. Her story underscores the opportunities for professional development within a supportive community that defines PSA. If you’re inspired by Izetta’s journey and interested in joining a team where commitment and innovation thrive, explore opportunities with us today. Let’s continue to build success together at PSA!

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Celebrating Excellence: PSA Agents & Teams are Tops in Delaware

We are thrilled to announce that eight of our finest agents and teams have made the prestigious RealTrends Verified rankings! This incredible achievement places them among the top 1.5% of approximately 1.5 million real estate professionals nationwide.

What Makes This So Special?

The RealTrends Verified rankings are the gold standard in real estate, measuring closed transaction sides and closed volume for 2023. The year’s tight housing market resulted in fewer agents and teams qualifying compared to the previous two, making it no small feat to earn the recognition as top performers.

Our Stars Shine Bright

Our 2024 honorees have proven their mettle time and again, consistently delivering outstanding results for their clients and businesses. Their innovation and dedication set them apart in the industry, and we couldn’t be prouder to have them on our team.

Insights from Our Top Agents & Teams

We asked our RealTrends Verified designees what delivering exceptional service to their clients means to them and how they navigate the challenges of the real estate market. Here’s what they shared about their experiences and the inspirations behind their achievements:

Victoria Dickinson of Victoria Dickinson & Associates, beautifully articulates the importance of personal connections: “In today’s tech-driven world, real estate thrives on personalized interactions, with exceptional customer service being the key to success. While technology aids in efficient information gathering, prioritizing long-term partnerships with buyers and sellers remains paramount.“

John Zacharias of PSA Ocean View, shares his passion: “I live vicariously through my clients when I help them buy and sell their beach house. The excitement and joy is contagious and it drives my desire to succeed in my career if not for me then for my clients!”

Matt Brittingham, leader of the Delaware Shore Properties team, highlights the human element in real estate: “Real estate and real estate agents are unique in the sense that all the new technologies help assist with the process; however, the personal/human engagement far supersedes anything else. Without personal contact, the industry would fail to exist.“

Kate Bianchino of PSA Greenville, underscores the importance of professional integrity: “Strong negotiating skills, attention to detail, up-to-date market knowledge should always stand beside integrity, ethics and transparency. I believe that thoughtfulness, honesty and consideration need never be compromised in professional dealings.”

Steve Crifasi, a veteran in the industry, reflects on the timeless fundamentals: “Over my 50 years of real estate there have been many, many changes in technology, marketing, social media, etc., but the basics never change. I take pride in giving exceptional personal service to my clients in order to build confidence & trust. That quality never changes no matter what market we are in!”

Chris Patterson, another agent with incredible tenure, emphasizes the rewarding nature of the profession: “Having worked at Patterson-Schwartz for 47 years as an agent, I have experienced all types of market conditions. The support of and from within the company has been invaluable. It has been extremely gratifying helping people with one of their most valued possessions—their home.”

AnnMarie Germano of the AnnMarie Germano Group, expresses her gratitude and
commitment: “We are so honored to be recognized this year and grateful for our clients, the support of Patterson-Schwartz, and
fellow co-broke agents. We look forward to growing and servicing the needs of our buyers and sellers with the highest attention to value.”

Team Landon, a team out of PSA Newark, highlights their commitment to client satisfaction: “Because we strive to exceed expectations, the majority of our business comes from repeat clients and referrals. We are grateful and appreciative that our continued commitment drives our success from past to future generations.”

Congratulations to Our Top Performers

Our local brand and legacy of service are stronger than ever, thanks to these exceptional agents. They are ready to tackle any market challenge and continue to excel. Let’s celebrate their success and dedication to raising the bar in real estate!

Discover the full list of our top-performing agents below and learn more about the incredible individuals who make Patterson-Schwartz a leader in the local industry.

RealTrendsVerified– Delaware Rankings 2024

Individual Agents:Ranking:
John Zacharias (Ocean View)Volume #4 / Transaction Sides#14
Chris Patterson (Greenville)Volume #6
Kate Bianchino (Greenville)Volume #16
Small Teams:Ranking:
Delaware Shore Properties (Rehoboth Beach)Volume #3 / Transaction Sides #4
The AnnMarie Germano Group (Hockessin)Volume #4
Team Landon (Newark)Volume #8 / Transaction Sides #6
Medium Teams:Ranking:
Victoria Dickinson & Associates (Greenville)Volume #4 / Transaction Sides #9
The Crifasi Group (Greenville)Volume #9

About Us

Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate is Delaware’s largest independent real estate brokerage and offers a full range of services that include residential home sales, purchase and rental, relocation services, and property management. We’ve been guiding home buyers and sellers since 1961, and invite you to connect with us when you’re ready to partner with a local real estate expert.

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Meet Sue Kennedy: A Pioneer In Real Estate Tech

Introducing Sue Kennedy, an integral part of the PSA family for an incredible 42 years! From her early days at the reception desk to her pivotal role in shaping PSA’s technological landscape, Sue’s career is nothing short of remarkable. Join us as we explore her passion for growth and innovation that brings the best tech solutions to our team!

How did you get started at PSA?

I started as a part-time receptionist in the Newark office in 1982 — 42 years ago this August. A couple of years later, I became the admin for the Land and Farm Division. When the advertising department needed assistance to bring their new computerized advertising system online, I was asked to help with that while continuing to work with the Land & Farm agents.

You’ve been at PSA for four decades! How has your role evolved since joining PSA?

In 1991, I helped to implement the Real Estate Hotline. I oversaw the installation of the system and set up procedures for having professional voice talent record a “talking ad” for every one of our listings. I managed that system from its introduction in 1992 until 1995 when I moved to the technology department.

I supported our in-house computerized listing management system, the physical computers in the offices, and each office’s computer/network infrastructure.  When the decision was made to take our listing system onto the “World Wide Web”, I worked on the development and implementation of our first version of PS@net. Our intranet was introduced to the agents in the fall of 1998 — 25 years ago! It has changed over the years and is still going strong!  I was also involved in the development and implementation of our public facing website as well – www.pattersonschwartz.com.

I continue to oversee the ongoing development of PS@net, provide technology support for our agents, and work on vetting/implementing new technology tools for our agents. With that, no two days are the same. I have seen so many changes in the way business is conducted in real estate. From physical multi-list books updated every two weeks to instant updates for all listings online.

Tell us what you love about your job and why. What excites you about the business?

I have been given the opportunity to learn so much over the years working for PSA. I was able to grow and develop in new areas that interested me. I love the varied nature of what I do. I can be vetting new technologies, managing help-desk requests, or teaching a class on the tools/technology we have available. All on the same day!

I always feel like my input is wanted and valued.

What do you do when you’re not at the office?

I enjoy sailing on Chesapeake Bay, reading, and spending time with my husband, four girls, and three grandkids.

Ready to grow with us?

Sue Kennedy embodies the innovation and adaptability inherent in our people-centric, tech-forward culture. With over four decades of pioneering solutions, whether in professional development or technological advancements, she ensures PSA remains at the forefront of industry standards. Her unwavering commitment to continual growth sets a high bar for all. If you’re looking for a workplace where your talents are celebrated and innovation thrives, Patterson-Schwartz could be your new home. Join us in shaping the real estate market and discover the endless possibilities that await!

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Thriving in Real Estate: Why Our Successful Start Training Program Works

Are you considering a career in real estate or just starting out in the industry? With the market constantly evolving, it’s crucial to equip yourself with the right knowledge and skills to thrive. At Patterson-Schwartz, we understand the challenges new agents face, which is why we’ve developed our Successful Start program to set you up for success from day one.

Since our winter 2022 session, our Successful Start agents have facilitated over 115 transactions, totaling an astounding $45,616,846 in volume. These numbers speak volumes about the effectiveness of our training and the productivity of our agents in a competitive market

But what sets our program apart? Let’s dive into the specifics.

Firstly, our instructors are not only knowledgeable but also experienced professionals who have navigated the intricacies of the real estate industry for decades. They provide invaluable insights and practical tips that you can immediately apply to your business. As Christine Menozzi from Hockessin attests, “The presenters shared a wealth of information on various topics, providing essential insights for new agents as we navigate our new roles.”

Secondly, our program goes beyond traditional classroom learning. We reinforce what you learned in pre-licensing while expanding your experience and confidence so that your clients have the most educated and prepared agent possible. Leah Sharpe from Rehoboth Beach highlights this, stating, “What sets this program apart is its hands-on approach and real-world simulations, which allowed me to gain practical experience and build confidence.”

Furthermore, our support doesn’t end with the training sessions. Our office managers, administrative teams, and PSA peers are here to provide ongoing guidance and support as you embark on your real estate journey. As Rich Navarro from Newark shares, “As a new agent, I found the Successful Start program to be a great resource and solid foundation to start my business.”

In a market where many agents are struggling, our program equips you with the tools and resources needed to stand out and succeed. As Caroline Wellford from Greenville expresses, “With the ongoing and in-depth support of the leadership team, marketing, education, technology, admin, and years of proven ‘Patterson-Schwartz professionalism,’ one can feel confident they are with a first-class company.”

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you’re considering real estate as a career or you’re already in the field with a few years of experience, our Successful Start program is designed to elevate your career to new heights. Join us and experience the Patterson-Schwartz difference today!

For more information about our training program and how you can get started, contact us today. Your success starts here!

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Behind The Scenes: Sheri Kohl’s Role in Patterson-Schwartz’s Success

Introducing Sheri Kohl, our in-house direct mail expert and a steadfast presence at Patterson-Schwartz for two decades! From witnessing the company’s evolution amidst technological shifts to embracing the ethos of flexibility and adaptability, Sheri’s journey reflects both the resilience of the organization and her personal commitment to growth. But what truly sets Sheri apart? Join us as we sit down with her for an insightful Q&A session, where she shares her experiences, values, and the secrets to thriving in an ever-changing environment.

How long have you been at PSA? How did you grow with the company?

I provide support for all agents who want to market themselves by sending out postcards, letters, flyers, and other mailed materials. I help guide them so they can get the best results from partnering with the Business Mail Center.

I have been with Patterson-Schwartz for 20 years this March. When I first joined the team, there were five people. With the advancement of technology over those years, our department was streamlined and here I am!

I have seen Patterson-Schwartz go through many changes and I am happy that I have been here to see the company grow and thrive — even through the hard times. There is a great foundation here and it continues to hold up this real estate institution!

What keeps you here?

Since I am a shy person, I appreciate the familiarity and the people here. I can be my authentic self without fear of repercussions. I like being treated with respect and trust by my co-workers and management. Here at PSA, we all know each other on a first-name basis from the president on down. I like that a lot — it makes for a comfortable working environment.

Growth and education, while challenging at times, is something else I like about working here.

Do you have a motto that guides you?

“Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not get bent out of shape.”

Learning how to be flexible is one of the most important things any of us can learn. The younger you learn it, the better your life will be. Change is hard, but sometimes we cannot escape it. The ability to be flexible improves your health and mental focus.

I feel I am very flexible as my workspace has been relocated four times during my time here! LOL!

By being adaptable to change, accommodating to requests, and open-minded to new ideas, we enjoy a more positive, productive work environment and people feel valued when the work feels more meaningful.

What are your greatest strengths?

I believe that my patience and ability to listen well help me in my job. I like to see people succeed and I do my best to help them on that path when they come to me. I try to encourage and help agents along on their self-marketing journey. The Business Mail Center offers a more personal touch to agents that want to reach out to potential/past clients via tangible advertising, like holding a postcard and seeing a face.

I am the happiest at work when an agent stops by to tell me they have gotten business from a mailing!

What is your favorite room in your home?

Go ask Geri Parisi how important the kitchen is! She was my agent when I bought my home, and the kitchen was the selling point!

The kitchen has always been an important part of my life. The kitchen is the best place to gather with family and friends. It is where I learned how to cook. It is where some of the best family stories are told. Also, some of the most interesting family secrets as well.

Our kitchen is where we start every day getting coffee and waking up. On the weekends, it is the best place for all kinds of good breakfasts and wonderful smells. We chat in the kitchen every evening and talk about the days we had. The best light is in the kitchen and we enjoy working on our Kindness Rocks on the kitchen table.

Holidays are the BEST, especially Thanksgiving! There is nothing quite like the family pulling in chairs to sit and laugh and help with the food preparations. Our kitchen gets full to bursting with all the love and happiness during that week in November.

How do you like to spend a relaxing day?

I enjoy taking walks with my pup, Blu, and my wife, Deb. We also spend time working on Kindness Rocks and then hiding them around the Riverfront. I like to sit down with a good book or get my hands dirty in the garden. We enjoy working around our home and have had some fun times doing tie dye and other projects. We are sports fans at our home and get loud watching WNBA and Eagles games! I do my best to enjoy every minute and make memories whenever I can.

Ready to grow with us?

Sheri Kohl, a cornerstone of the Business Mail Center at Patterson-Schwartz for two decades, provides not only essential support but also serves as a beacon of adaptability and resilience amidst the company’s evolution. Her belief in the power of flexibility, both professionally and personally, underscores her approach to navigating inevitable change with grace. Inspired by Sheri’s journey and the inclusive culture she thrives in? Explore career opportunities with Patterson-Schwartz and be part of a team that values growth, camaraderie, and individual contributions.

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