We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Patty Zuzek. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Patty below.

Patty, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about the best advice you’ve ever given to a client?

I was working with an estate. There were several siblings, what they did not know is that I would have work with all of them and their spouses as MN is a marital asset state. They did not get along, nor did they trust one another. So they all had their own issues and strategies they were working on the estate. I made it very clear that they were all my clients and if they had confidential items, that I owe them ALL confidentiality.

We had an offer come in for the property we were selling and it came time to having everyone together. I had them all come to a training room which would give them all space. I went over the offer with them all together so there was no “he said, she said” issues. I was very frank with them as to the market, condition and pros and cons to the offer. I said I needed all parties to agree to the offer and to please take your personal issues out of the equation. I also said, “I believe your parents thought you could all work together on settling the estate, so please make them proud.” (these issues were such as, I grew up there, the others didn’t help with the parents and so on.) I did have compassion for all of them and their concern but what we were dealing with at that point was the price, terms and conditions of the offer.

They all agreed to the accept the offer. They all moved on and to this day I would be surprised if they every were in the same room again. It is very sad but sometimes things get tough in families in particular when some feel there was some type of mistreatment or mistrust. It is never worth destroying a family and it is always important to think about how your estate will be handled after you have been gone.

Patty, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Born and raised in Hastings, MN, Patty’s journey is rooted in family values and community connections. As one of seven children, she has a deep appreciation for the bonds of family, which is evident in her own blended family of six children and 12 grandchildren. Patty jokes, “If I’d known how wonderful grandchildren were, I might’ve skipped having kids!”

Graduating from St. Mary’s University with a degree in Marketing, Patty’s career in real estate spans an impressive 30 years. In 2016, she and her husband David forged a powerful duo with a mission to share knowledge, helping countless clients achieve their financial and personal goals.

Beyond her role as a realtor, Patty’s leadership positions are a testament to her dedication to the industry. She currently holds the esteemed position of 2023 Region 8 Regional Vice President for the National Association of Realtors. In 2017, she helmed the role of President of MN Realtors, receiving the prestigious accolade of MN REALTOR® of the Year in 2018. Patty’s commitment to collaboration, communication, and convention led her to revive the state convention after a two-decade hiatus.

As the Broker for Fieldstone Real Estate Specialists and the Vice President of Marketing for Fieldstone Family, she guides 40 agents, instilling in them the values of strategy, education, and compliance.

However, her dedication isn’t just limited to real estate. Patty is an integral part of her local community in Lakeville, MN, contributing her industry expertise as a member of the Planning Commission.

Respected by peers, clients, and industry professionals, Patty’s referral-based business growth speaks volumes about her reputation. When you engage with Patty, you’re not just working with a realtor; you’re partnering with an experienced business owner, a dedicated family figure, and a passionate community volunteer.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I believe that I have built my reputation within my market, with honesty, integrity, hard work and strong ethics!

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

It’s evident that many faced challenging times during the 2007-2008 economic downturn in the real estate market. my ability to recognize the impending crisis and pivot your business to help clients through foreclosures, short sales, and the transitions that followed speaks to your adaptability and knowledge of the industry.

The real estate crash not only affected individuals and families but had far-reaching consequences for various sectors of the economy, from builders and suppliers to everyone down the line involved in the housing industry. My efforts to build relationships with attorneys, counselors, and lenders to support my clients and their families during this difficult period show a commitment to providing holistic assistance beyond just the transactional aspects.

During such challenging times, people face questions about integrity, their roles in their households, where they will live, and how they will move forward. By understanding these concerns and offering guidance and support, I played a crucial role in helping your clients navigate through the uncertainty and hardships.

The real estate market crash was undoubtedly a difficult time for many, but my willingness to adapt, your deep knowledge of the industry, and my dedication to helping others through both the transactional and emotional aspects of their situations demonstrate a valuable and compassionate approach to my profession. Such qualities likely helped my clients and their families find hope and stability during a turbulent period.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.zphomeandland.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pzuzek
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pattyzuzekrealtor

Image Credits
P Zuzek