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Corcoran Icon Properties’ Tom Hunt Receives Rising Star Award from California Association of REALTORS®
Corcoran Icon Properties was recently notified that Thomas Hunt has been selected to receive the prestigious Rising Star Award from the California Association of REALTORS®. Across the state, up to 10 agents receive this award, which was presented at the C.A.R. REimagine! Conference at the Anaheim Convention Center.
The Rising Star Awards program is a C.A.R. initiative designed to work in partnership with the brokerage community to recognize up-and-coming agents. The Rising Star Awards highlight elite, new talent entering the industry and help boost their growing careers while promoting both the REALTOR® and their firm.
“We were absolutely blown away by the accomplishments of our nominees, the stories that were shared, and your glowing recommendation,” according to the notification received by Corcoran Icon Properties from C.A.R. “I am pleased to inform you that your agent, Thomas, has been selected to receive this award – one of a handful of recipients statewide. Congratulations!”
Requirements for nominees for the Rising Star award include: 1) be an active C.A.R. member who joined the association in 2021 or later; 2) closed at least twelve transactions or $5.0 million in transaction volume between January 1 and December 31, 2022; 3) nominated by the broker or principal of the brokerage; and 4) no restrictions on DRE license and no Code of Ethics violations.
“We are delighted and quite proud of Tom’s achievements in the real estate industry. His enthusiasm, dedication, and positivity are the perfect blend for a successful career,” remarked Joshua Cook, manager of the Eureka office. “We know this is only one of many awards and accolades he will receive.”
Hunt, an agent at Corcoran’s Eureka office, is a long-time resident of Humboldt County and a passionate advocate for the area. “It is truly an honor to be acknowledged and rewarded by the California Board,” commented Hunt. “In the words of Mark Twain, ‘Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.’”
Hunt is the second recipient of this award from the Humboldt office. Ruthie Jones, a Broker Associate in Eureka, earned it in 2018 when she was just launching her career.
Hunt may be reached in the Eureka office at 527 Third Street, by phone at 707.599.4190, or at tom.hunt@corcoranicon.com.
Michael Barnacle Elected to San Francisco Association of REALTOR® Board of Directors
Michael Barnacle, Managing Broker and Partner at Corcoran Icon Properties has been elected to the San Francisco Association of REALTORS® Board of Directors for the term commencing January 1, 2024, along with three other REALTOR® members. Directors’ elections are held annually to replace outgoing directors completing their terms of office.
Barnacle has a strong background in residential and commercial real estate markets, working for brokerages in Boston and Rhode Island before relocating to San Francisco in 2012. In San Francisco, he quickly became a top producer and Top Agent Network member, subsequently taking on his current leadership role at the company in 2015. His expertise in the business has made him a valuable mentor to agents at all experience levels, with many satisfied clients and successful agent teams to his credit.
He is and has been actively involved in the real estate community, serving on the Board of the California Association of REALTORS®, the Board, Executive Committee, and Budget & Finance Committees of the San Francisco Association of REALTORS®, and as a Board Member of the San Francisco Women’s Council of REALTORS®. Michael has been involved in many community organizations outside of work, including serving as the Past President of the United Irish Cultural Center of San Francisco.
“We congratulate Michael on this latest of his many achievements as he continues to excel at all his endeavors,” remarked Randall Kostick, Chief Executive Officer of Corcoran Icon Properties. “His leadership skills, knowledge of the industry, the community, our clients, and our staff are all part of what makes Michael continually successful.”
San Francisco Board of REALTORS® represents more than 4,000 REALTORS® who are committed to fairness, honesty, integrity, and promoting the rights of homeowners. It provides wide-ranging educational opportunities and industry-leading technology, including SFARMLS, to members; advocacy at the local, state, and national levels for legislation supporting members and their business; and actively gives back to the San Francisco community through the SFAR Foundation and the Welcome Home Project.
Michael Barnacle may be reached at michael.barnacle@corcoranicon.com or 415.552.9500
Change Makers: Spotlight on Social Good – Josh Marquina and the Sentimental Concert by Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club
Welcome to another installment of our blog series, “Change Makers: Spotlight on Social Good.” Today, we are excited to feature Josh Marquina, an agent from our Upper Market – San Francisco office, and his involvement with the Sentimental Concert by Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club. Let’s explore how this event, dedicated to spreading joy through music, is making a positive impact on communities in need.
Josh Marquina and the Sentimental Concert
Josh Marquina is not only a talented agent but also an active member of the Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club (BAGO). During a recent fundraiser event, the Sentimental Concert, Josh had the honor of being a guest performer. This concert was a remarkable opportunity to combine his passion for music with his commitment to serving the community. As a dedicated member of BAGO, Josh has been actively involved since its inception, contributing to the club’s mission of making a difference in the lives of underserved individuals.
Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club’s Mission and Impact
The Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club (BAGO) was established during the pandemic; since then, they have accomplished over 300 projects, positively impacting more than 300,000 underserved individuals in the USA, Philippines, India, Ireland, and Ukraine. BAGO collaborates with various organizations such as Ruby’s Place, New Creation, Macy’s Village Harvest, Rise Against Hunger, SF Marin Foodbank, and more. Their projects range from feeding programs and tree planting activities to infrastructure improvements and providing essential supplies to those in need.
Sentimental Concert and Giving Back
The Sentimental Concert, organized by BAGO, was an exceptional event brimming with music, happiness, and a deep sense of community. Held on June 25th, 2023, the concert successfully raised funds for BAGO’s outreach projects. It’s worth noting that all ticket proceeds from the concert went directly towards supporting BAGO’s initiatives, guaranteeing that the funds were dedicated to impactful causes both within the local community and abroad.
Join Josh and Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club
By supporting the Sentimental Concert and the Bay Area Global Outreach Lions Club, you have the opportunity to partner with Josh and other dedicated individuals in giving back to communities in need. For sponsorships and donations, please visit the BAGO Lions Club Facebook page at facebook.com/BAGOlionsclub.
Let’s come together to create a brighter future and make a difference in the lives of underserved individuals around the world.
Stay tuned for updates and future events by connecting with Josh Marquina on social media: @joshmarquinax.
Spotlight on Social Good – Andria Brugioni and Level’s Support for San Mateo Pride Center
In our series, “Change Makers: Spotlight on Social Good,” we celebrate the remarkable efforts of our team members who are making a positive impact in their communities. Today, we meet Andria Brugioni, an agent from our San Mateo office, and we shine a light on her meaningful work with Level, a children’s shoe company that champions universal equality. We’ll explore how Level’s shoe, the Grace Loving, is making a difference by supporting the San Mateo Pride Center.
Andria Brugioni and Level’s Commitment to Equality
Andria Brugioni is the proud owner of Level, a children’s shoe company that embraces the concept of equality. Inspired by the vision of creating a more inclusive world, Andria chose the name “Level” to amplify the importance of equal opportunities for all. With a strong commitment to giving back, Level actively supports vital charitable causes.
The Grace Loving Shoe and San Mateo Pride Center
As part of Level’s dedication to promoting equality, they designed a shoe called Grace Loving. For every pair of Grace Loving shoes sold, a portion of the proceeds are donated to the San Mateo Pride Center. This helps raise awareness and provides tangible support to an organization that serves a vital role in the LGBTQ+ community.
San Mateo Pride Center and its Impact
The San Mateo Pride Center is a local organization that fosters inclusivity, support, and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community in the San Mateo area. Through various programs, events, and resources, the center provides a safe and welcoming space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Their work contributes to the overall well-being and empowerment of the LGBTQ+ community and creates a more accepting society.
Join Andria in Supporting San Mateo Pride Center
At Corcoran Icon, we applaud Andria Brugioni’s dedication to lifting our community through Level’s support for the San Mateo Pride Center. We invite you to follow Andria’s journey and Level’s initiatives on her social media handles @hellosmartgirl and @thebrandlevel Stay updated on the latest news and events from the San Mateo Pride Center by visiting their website SanMateoPride.org or connect with them on Instagram @sanmateopride.
Let’s celebrate diversity, equality, and the importance of supporting organizations like the San Mateo Pride Center. Together, we can create a more inclusive world, one step at a time.
To learn more about Level and to support their mission, visit the website thebrandlevel.com
Corcoran Icon Properties Names Christine Lopatowski As Manager of Noe Valley Office
Corcoran Icon Properties announced that Christine Lopatowski has been appointed the Sales Manager at the firm’s Noe Valley office in San Francisco, succeeding Samantha Huang as she transitions to a key role as a mentor in the company’s new mentorship program. These two dynamic, experienced leaders will bring their knowledge, leadership, and expertise to the benefit of agents and clients alike.
With 18 years of experience in real estate, Christine Lopatowski has built a solid reputation as a leader and mentor, in addition to her success as a top producer. Her strong background in executive sales management includes successful stints as the manager of the Upper Market office in San Francisco and as assistant manager at Zephyr Real Estate’s Potrero Hill location. Her expertise, connections, and mastery of the real estate business, particularly in the Bay Area, make her a natural fit for this new position.
“Christine brings an impressive skill set to any endeavor she encounters. Her focus on client service, problem-solving, and negotiating is outstanding, and she enjoys the respect of her colleagues,” commented Randall Kostick, CEO of Corcoran Icon Properties. He further added, “Samantha’s contributions as the previous manager have been invaluable to our team, and we are thrilled that she will continue to play a significant role as a mentor in our new mentorship program.”
Along with her proven leadership record, Lopatowski is a top producer with keen abilities and a gift for clear and constant communication. She excels in single-family homes, condos, TICs, lofts, and multi-unit buildings throughout San Francisco.
“I am excited to lead the dedicated and professional agents at the Noe Valley office,” Lopatowski remarked. “We share the same passion for the industry, for the Bay Area, and for the culture at Corcoran Icon.”
Christine Lopatowski may be reached at 415.426.3301 or christinel@corcoranicon.com. And Samantha Huang can be reached at 415.640.7602 or samantha.huang@corcoranicon.com.
Corcoran Icon Properties Lists Historic Heritage Home in Petaluma
Victorian Specialist Bonnie Spindler has just listed the architecturally-significant residence, designed by Julia Morgan, located at 707 D Street in historic downtown Petaluma. This is one of only four Julia Morgan homes in Petaluma, and it is one of her earlier commissions. Built-in 1911, the home is over 3,000 square feet of gracious living and reflects Morgan’s distinctive architectural flair.
The home last sold in 1973, and the agent has the original architectural plans. The four-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence includes a den, family room, and formal dining room. The kitchen was modernized a few years ago, but many of the home’s original features have been preserved. The low-slung windows present an abundance of natural light as well as street views of the vintage neighborhood.
Julia Morgan, a trailblazer in many aspects, was the first woman to achieve an architectural license/engineering degree. She was the first woman to earn the American Institute of Architects highest award, the AIA Gold Medal (posthumously). She designed over 700 buildings in California during her illustrious career but is best known for her work on Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Noted for her expertise with the turn-of-the-century First Bay Area Tradition, she embraced an aesthetic blend of classical, craftsman, formal, and whimsy in her work.
“This home is a blend of Prairie and Tudor styles, and sits on a sizeable lot of 8,400 square feet,” commented Spindler. “The D Street neighborhood is well recognized for its delightful variety of historic architecture and beautifully preserved homes.”
Bonnie Spindler, listing agent and noted Victorian Specialist, shares her time between Petaluma and San Francisco, and specializes, though is not restricted to pre-1926 architecture. Both her residences embody her love of all things historic. She bought her first home at the age of 23 and has invested in a multitude of homes ever since. With 30 years in the business, she still enjoys the ever-changing facets of real estate, the challenges to overcome, and the clients who become friends as well as life-long clients. She is tenacious in her pursuit of excellence and is committed to giving back to her communities. She has served as a board member position on the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art, which presents the Julia Morgan Design Awards for Excellence to architects, designers, artisans, students, builders, and patrons; the Petaluma Woman’s Club where she serves as House and Grounds Chair. The PWC is 150 years old and is housed in a Heritage Club House designed by Brainard Jones (a native son who designed 80 percent of the historic homes in Petaluma). She serves on the San Francisco Zen Center’s development committee and has served on the Alamo Square and Victorian Alliance.
Petaluma is a charming riverfront town on Highway 101 just 40 miles north of San Francisco and a bit south of Santa Rosa. Sunset magazine described Petaluma’s downtown area as a “well-watered, well-fertilized, mature Main Street USA.” With 65 sites on the National Register of Historic Places, Petaluma is also home to the Butter & Egg Festival. The SMART (Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit) train stops in the downtown center.
The D Street home is listed for $1.15 million. Bonnie Spindler may be reached at 415.706.6660 or properties@bonniespindler.com.
Out with the Old, In with the New: Spring Cleaning Tips to Refresh Your Home!
Spring is a time for new beginnings, and what better way to welcome the season than with a thorough spring cleaning? We know the importance of a clean and organized home, and we want to help you achieve just that. Whether you’re a seasoned spring cleaner or new to the game, our comprehensive spring cleaning tips will help you tackle every nook and cranny of your home, making it a welcoming and comfortable space for the season ahead.
Declutter Your Home
Before you start deep cleaning, it’s important to declutter your home. Get rid of any items you no longer need or use, and organize your belongings into designated areas. This will make cleaning much easier and help you feel more organized and refreshed.
Deep Clean All Surfaces
Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to deep clean all surfaces in your home. This includes your windows, carpets, bathrooms, and kitchen. Use eco-friendly cleaning products and microfiber cloths to reduce waste and avoid harmful chemicals.
Organize Your Belongings
After cleaning, take some time to organize your belongings. Use storage bins, shelves, and baskets to keep everything in its place. This will make it easier to find what you need and keep your home tidy.
Tackle Outdoor Cleaning Tasks
Don’t forget about the outside of your home! Sweep your patio or deck, clean your grill, and wash your windows to let in more natural light. This will make your home feel more inviting and refreshed.
Prepare for Pollen
Springtime in California means blooming flowers and trees, which also means lots of pollen. To combat allergies and keep your home clean, consider using a HEPA filter in your vacuum and air purifier. You may also want to invest in a good quality doormat to keep dirt and pollen from being tracked into your home.
Protect Against Pests
The warm California weather can also attract pests such as ants, termites, and rodents. Take steps to pest-proof your home by sealing up any cracks or openings in your walls, floors, and foundation. Clean up any food spills or crumbs immediately and store food in airtight containers.
Deep Clean Your Air Ducts
With the warm California weather comes the increased use of air conditioning. Make sure your air ducts are clean and free of debris by having them professionally cleaned. This can help improve the air quality in your home and reduce the risk of respiratory issues.
Clean Your Pool
If you have a pool, spring is the perfect time to get it ready for the swimming season. Make sure your pool is properly cleaned and balanced with the right chemicals. Consider hiring a professional pool cleaning service to take care of this for you.
Get Your Garden Ready
California is known for its beautiful gardens and landscaping. Spring is the perfect time to prepare your garden for the growing season. Consider planting drought-resistant plants that can withstand the hot California summers. Use organic fertilizers to avoid harmful chemicals in your garden.
Spring cleaning can be a daunting task, but it’s a necessary one to ensure your home is a healthy and comfortable environment. By following our comprehensive tips, you can tackle every cleaning task with ease and make your home a clean, organized, and inviting space. So, put on some music, grab your cleaning supplies, and let’s get to work! Your home (and allergies) will thank you.
Northern California Dominates List of Happiest Cities in America for 2023
Recent data from WalletHub suggests that Northern California may be a great place to relocate for a higher quality of life and happiness. According to the study, three cities in the region ranked in the top five happiest cities in the US. Fremont claimed the top spot for the second consecutive year, followed by San Jose and San Francisco. Factors such as emotional and physical well-being, community and environment, and income and employment were evaluated to determine the rankings. The study draws on psychological research, which shows that locations with more resources tend to have happier people. Additionally, a city’s economy, particularly the amount of economic equality among residents, can contribute to their happiness. As Northern California residents, we can attest to the region’s natural beauty, innovative spirit, and diverse communities, making it an ideal place to call home.
So, without further ado, here are the happiest cities in the U.S. for 2023, according to WalletHub:
Fremont, California
For the second year in a row, Fremont takes the top spot as the happiest city in America. Located in Northern California, Fremont boasts the top emotional and physical well-being rank and community and environment rank. While its income and employment rank is not as high as some other cities on the list, Fremont’s overall quality of life and resources make it a top destination for those seeking happiness.
San Jose, California
Also located in Northern California, San Jose comes in at number two on the list. It has the second-highest emotional and physical well-being rank, and a strong income and employment rank, which helps contribute to the city’s overall happiness. While its community and environment rank isn’t as high as Fremont’s, San Jose still has plenty of cultural and natural resources to offer residents.
San Francisco, California
Coming in at number five on the list is San Francisco, a city known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, steep hills, and bustling tech industry. While its income and employment rank is higher than most other cities on the list, its community and environment rank is lower. Despite this, San Francisco still offers residents plenty of resources and opportunities for a happy and fulfilling life.
Rounding out the top 5 are Madison, Wisconsin, and Overland Park, Kansas.
So if you’re looking for a change of scenery and a happier quality of life, consider making a move to one of these Northern California cities. As a real estate company based in this region, Corcoran Icon Properties is proud to serve these communities with a footprint of 25 offices spanning all over Northern California, including San Jose and San Francisco. Our team of knowledgeable and experienced agents can help you find the perfect home to suit your needs in these vibrant and thriving communities. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information and let us assist you in adding a little more joy to your life.
Corcoran Icon Properties Makes Impression on North Bay Association of REALTORS®
Corcoran Icon Properties is proud to congratulate Mike Lagoyda and Mikki Cardoza on their appointments as new Directors of the North Bay Association of REALTORS® (NorBAR) for 2023. We are also thrilled to congratulate David Kerr on his appointment as the Chair of the NorBAR charity. Their appointments are a testament to their commitment and dedication to the real estate industry and the communities they serve.
Lagoyda has been an esteemed member of the NorBAR Association for several years. With over a decade of experience in real estate, Mike earned the position of Sonoma County Sales Manager three years ago. He has also been actively involved in NorBAR for several years, serving as a member of the Education Committee and contributing to the organization’s mission to promote the highest standards of professionalism and ethics among its members. Mike is committed to giving back to the community through charitable endeavors and is a true asset to the real estate industry. He is available at 707.888.9921 or mike.lagoyda@corcoranicon.com.
Cardoza has been a leading real estate professional in Humboldt and Sonoma Counties, with a proven track record of success in sales, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Mikki has been recognized for her outstanding leadership skills and has been a valuable asset to the Corcoran Icon Properties team. She has also been actively involved in NorBAR, serving as a board member for several years, in addition to serving on different committees including Education, Grievance, and Chapter Committees, advocating for homeowners and property owners in the North Bay region. Mikki is passionate about supporting local businesses and improving the quality of life for residents in the North Bay and Humboldt regions. She may be reached at 707.407.8925 or mikki.cardoza@corcoranicon.com.
Kerr is a long-standing member of NorBAR and has served on the Charity Board of Directors for several years. He is a dedicated philanthropist and has been actively involved in supporting local charities and non-profit organizations throughout his career. As the 2023 Chair of the NorBAR charity, David will continue to lead the organization’s efforts to make a positive impact on the community. Contact him at 707.933.7020 or david.kerr@corcoranicon.com.
The North Bay Association of REALTORS® provides services to members in Lake, Mendocino, Napa and Sonoma Counties in northern California. Representing nearly 3,600 real estate professionals and affiliates, the Association provides professional development, advocacy, resources and support to help real estate professionals succeed and surpass the expectations of their clients.
“We are thrilled to congratulate Mike Lagoyda and Mikki Cardoza on their appointments as new Directors of the North Bay Association of Realtors and David Kerr on his appointment as the Chair of the NorBAR charity,” remarked Betsy Serafini, Vice President of Sales for North Bay and North Coast. “Their appointments are a testament to their outstanding leadership skills and dedication to the industry and the community. We are proud to have them as part of our team at Corcoran Icon Properties.”
Corcoran Icon Properties congratulates Mike, Mikki, and David on their appointments and wishes them all the best in their new roles.
Corcoran Icon Properties’ Carra Young Receives Rookie of the Year Award
Carra Young from Corcoran Icon Properties’ Eureka office was recently named Rookie of the Year by the Humboldt Association of REALTORS® at their annual awards and installation of officers celebration. Young launched her real estate career with great energy, enthusiasm, and initiative, and her efforts were rewarded when she was presented with this year’s Rookie award.
“Real estate is an ever-changing landscape, and it’s a testament to Carra’s hard work and tenacity that she was able to win Rookie of the Year in such a competitive environment,” commented Joshua Cook, Sales Manager at CIP’s Eureka office. “This award shows her dedication to providing outstanding service to her clients.”
The Rookie of the Year award (as well as those for Realtor and Affiliate of the Year) are based on four essential criteria:
- Successful – must be a successful Realtor ®, Rookie or Affiliate, a true professional who has attained a measure of respect from their peers.
- Contribution –must have made a contribution to the field of real estate.
- Communication –must be active in the community – they must have made some non-real estate related contribution(s) to the community.
- Volunteer –must be involved with the Association, attending Association events, volunteering time to fundraisers organized by the Association, and actively participating on committees.
Young’s qualifications clearly stood out this year, and she is delighted to be so acknowledged. “It is an honor to receive this award among so many skilled professionals,” Young remarked. “Being rewarded for doing something you love is an awesome experience, and I look forward to discovering more opportunities to serve my clients, my community, and the real estate industry.”
She is a Humboldt County native and is dedicated to serving her diverse community and all its real estate needs. As stated by one happy customer, “I can’t recommend Carra enough, especially in this competitive market” (H.P.)
Carra Young may be reached at 707.362.1008 or carra.young@corcoranicon.com.
