46th Annual Excellence Awards Honors 2023 Top Agents

With winners across six different categories, including individual, partnerships, teams, office, projects and special recognition, as well as 38 awards given out. Highlights of the event included the special awards given in the following categories: Lifetime Achievement Award, Broker Manager of the Year, Realtor® of the Year, Industry Partner of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Support Person of the Year, Top Project Awards, Top Individual Awards, Top Partnership Awards, Top Team Awards and Top Office Awards, as well as those dedicated to Community Service efforts.

DMAR hosted its 46th Denver Metro Association of Realtors® Excellence Awards event on March 7, 2024, selling out the event with over 600 real estate professionals in attendance.

The annual event, held in person this year at the Seawell Ballroom at the DCPA, is the summit of real estate achievement in metro Denver recognizing the highest-performing and most inspiring Realtors® and industry leaders from 2023. Chris Djorup, a former DMAR Director and Denver Metro Realtor®, served as the event Emcee. This year’s event theme is “Together We Achieve More,” which resonates with DMAR’s belief that success is not merely individual but collective, forged through collaboration and mutual support.

With winners across six different categories, including individual, partnerships, teams, office, projects and special recognition, as well as 38 awards given out. Highlights of the event included the special awards given in the following categories: Lifetime Achievement Award, Broker Manager of the Year, Realtor® of the Year, Industry Partner of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Support Person of the Year, Top Project Awards, Top Individual Awards, Top Partnership Awards, Top Team Awards and Top Office Awards, as well as those dedicated to Community Service efforts. This year, the Social Media Impact Award was also newly introduced, recognizing members who are committed to guiding and supporting clients through the lens of social media. Kelsea Imanuel from milehimodern was the first to win the award. 

"The Excellence Awards stands as a monumental occasion for Denver's residential real estate realm, offering a wonderful moment to commend Realtors® for their year-long dedication," remarked Jen Routon, President of the Board at DMAR. “2023 was another interesting year for real estate, with both its ups and downs, and those who raised the bar, invested unwavering effort, and redefined excellence in such a demanding market deserved more recognition than ever. It is through the combined efforts of Realtors®, clients, colleagues and partners that Realtors® are able to turn dreams into reality and propel the industry forward. Together, we rise above challenges, overcome obstacles and redefine the boundaries of success.”

“The Excellence Award winners speak to both agents and teams’ determination to give incredible client service no matter the obstacles that our industry faces in a year,” said Brendan Bailey, CEO of DMAR. “2023 again reminded us of the dedication that Denver real estate agents and teams had in order to help Denver citizens achieve their homeownership dreams. On behalf of the entire Association, we are proud of our Realtor® members for their success last year and look forward to what’s ahead for 2024.”

Award Winners

Oliver Frascona Lifetime Achievement Award: This year’s prestigious Oliver Frascona Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed to Larry Hotz from Kentwood Real Estate DTC. With his extensive and distinguished career in real estate, spanning over four decades, Larry held leadership roles in various boards, earned accolades, and demonstrated exceptional market knowledge. His commitment to ethical standards is evident through his mentorship, fostering a culture of fairness and integrity within his brokerage. Additionally, Larry's community involvement, advocacy for RPAC, and dedication to charitable causes showcase his broader impact beyond the real estate industry, making him a deserving candidate for this prestigious lifetime achievement award.

Broker Manager of the Year: This year’s award was presented to Bailey Dolian, RE/MAX of Cherry Creek. Bailey’s exceptional dedication to community service and charitable contributions. Not only did she serve as the annual auction co-chair for Isabella Bird Elementary School, raising an average of $90,000 annually, but she also actively volunteers at the Denver Dumb Friends League and participates in various community events. Her involvement in multiple committees, including the DMAR Board of Directors and the DMAR Policy and Procedures Task Force, showcases her commitment to staying informed and advocating for the real estate industry. Bailey's leadership at RE/MAX of Cherry Creek, demonstrated through her efforts to foster a positive culture, bring educational opportunities, and drive innovation, has significantly impacted the brokerage and the Denver real estate industry.

Realtor® of the Year: Libby Levinson-Katz, current Chair of the DMAR Market Trends Committee and broker at Kentwood Real Estate DTC is this year’s recipient of the Realtor® of the Year. Libby is a highly valued broker associate at Kentwood Real Estate, bringing extensive knowledge and expertise to the team. Her exceptional ability to analyze market statistics and trends, along with her dedication to staying informed about the ever-changing real estate landscape, empowers her colleagues to make informed decisions. Libby's collaborative approach, willingness to share insights and outstanding contributions extend beyond her professional achievements, showcasing her integrity, honesty, and strong ethical compass. Her impressive track record as a top-producing real estate agent in Denver reflects her exceptional skills, work ethic, and client-centric focus, making her a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition. She has also served on the boards of DMAR, CAR and NAR as well as several committees.

Industry Partner of the Year: Brenna Harper of Chicago Title of Colorado received the Industry Partner of the Year award. Brenna Harper deserves the Industry Partner of the Year award for her unwavering support and kindness within the real estate industry, as acknowledged by even a competitor of hers! Her stellar reputation, willingness to assist, and active involvement in various committees, including the Industry Partner Leadership Committee, DMAR Board of Directors, and DMAR Excellence Awards Task Force, demonstrate her dedication and contributions to the community. Brenna's initiative in spearheading the successful Friday Marketing Meeting further underscores her leadership and commitment to enhancing industry collaboration and success.

Rookie of the Year: This year, Shelby Richardson, LIV Sotheby's International Realty, Cherry Creek was presented with the Rookie of the Year award. Shelby is a dynamic real estate professional with a passion for building strong relationships. She honed her skills working alongside one of Denver's premier agents. This hands-on experience equipped her with unparalleled market insights and a commitment to going above and beyond to ensure her clients’ complete satisfaction.

Support Person of the Year: Grettel Barrios of 8z Real Estate Denver Central was presented as the Support Person of the Year. Grettel deserved to win due to her instrumental role in facilitating 406 transactions for 35 agents in 2023, showcasing her efficiency and expertise in navigating complex real estate deals. Her commitment to continuous learning, demonstrated by attending regular CE courses and additional training, reflects her dedication to staying updated in a fast-paced industry. Grettel's unwavering professionalism, warm demeanor, and genuine care for agents and co-op collaborators make her a cornerstone of the team, contributing not only to the success of the brokerage but also positively influencing the lives of those around her. 

Community Service Award: The team at Live.Laugh.Denver. Real Estate Group was the recipient of this year’s Community Service Award. Live.Laugh.Denver. Real Estate Group deserves to win the Community Service Award for its commitment to transforming Denver communities beyond providing exceptional real estate experiences. Their investment in making a difference is demonstrated through active participation in causes that matter to their clients, staff, family, and friends. The team's consistent support for local nonprofit organizations, with weekly donations and promotions, empowers these entities to continue their worthy missions, showcasing a sustained dedication to community service. Live.Laugh.Denver.'s holistic approach to community engagement sets them apart, making them deserving recipients.

Pathways Award​​​: Fumnanya Camara of Camara Real Estate, and Olivia Kunevicius, milehimodern, both took home the coveted Pathways Award this year. 

Fumnanya Camara deserved to win the Pathways Award this year for her exceptional dedication and transformative efforts in supporting first-time homebuyers, particularly refugees and immigrants. In 2023, she facilitated over $900,000 in home sales to first-time homebuyers, showcasing her remarkable achievements and commitment to her clients. As a former educator, Fumnanya seamlessly integrates her passion for teaching into her real estate career through the innovative Camara Concierge Service, offering translation and interpretation services crucial for clients from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Her personalized approach includes meeting clients in their homes, providing assistance with document collection, and guiding them through the initial steps of homeownership, demonstrating a comprehensive commitment to inclusivity and addressing the specific needs of traditionally underserved communities.

Olivia Kunevicius was also a deserving candidate for the Pathways Award due to her extraordinary commitment to supporting medical professionals on their path to homeownership, stemming from her personal tragedy of losing her sister, Jessica. In the face of devastating loss, Olivia found solace in the compassionate care provided by medical professionals during her sister's challenges. Combining her gratitude and profession in real estate, Olivia established the MedicalPRO Home program in collaboration with the Barrett Mortgage Team, specifically tailored for medical professionals in Denver. This innovative program not only offers unique benefits such as zero down payment mortgages and closing cost credits but also provides five hours of free childcare during property showings, showcasing Olivia's dedication to easing the path to homeownership for those who dedicate themselves to caring for others in the healthcare field.

Social Media Impact Award: Kelsea Imanuel at milehimodern took home this newly cemented award. Her posts are an equal balance of humor, info, and lifting up her peers with their amazing efforts, achievements, and awesome listings. She focuses her attention on things that actually impact homeowners, buyers, sellers, and agents in the current marketplace. Kelsea is quick to give of her time and knowledge, especially around the world of social media.  She would rather help her fellow agents be successful than keep her skills and expertise to herself.

TOP INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

Individual | $ Sales Production

  1. Anne Dresser Kocur, LIV Sotheby's International Realty, DTC 
  2. Jeff Plous, Hatch Realty
  3. Lori Abbey, Compass - Cherry Creek
  4. Kristin Harris, milehimodern
  5. Shannon Tiger, LIV Sotheby's International Realty, Cherry Creek

Individual | Number of Transactions

  1. Anne Dresser Kocur, LIV Sotheby's International Realty, DTC
  2. Timothy Wade, Keller Williams Advantage Realty, LLC
  3. Leo Rowen, RE/MAX of Cherry Creek
  4. Jeff Plous, Hatch Realty
  5. (tied) Jennifer Briseno, Success Realty Experts, LLC and Maria Gallucci, Compass - Cherry Creek

TOP PARTNERSHIP AWARDS

Partnership | $ Sales Production

  1. Ian Wolfe & Chris Bouc, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, Cherry Creek
  2. Gina Lorenzen & Kara Couzens, Kentwood Real Estate DTC
  3. Liz Richards & Deviree Vallejo, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, Cherry Creek
  4. Stuart Crowell & Delroy Gill, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, DTC
  5. Jared Blank & Kacey Bingham, The Agency Denver

Partnership | Number of Transactions

  1. Liz Richards & Deviree Vallejo, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, Cherry Creek
  2. Ian Wolfe & Chris Bouc, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, Cherry Creek
  3. Ronald Buss & Susan Todd, Coldwell Banker Realty - Denver Central
  4. Jared Blank & Kacey Bingham, The Agency Denver
  5. Debra Guy & Chris Harvey, RE/MAX of Cherry Creek

TOP TEAM AWARDS

3-5 Members | $ Sales Production

  1. The Behr Team, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, DTC
  2. Helm Weaver Helm, Compass - Cherry Creek
  3. The Jason Cummings Group, Compass - Cherry Creek
  4. DiVito Dream Makers, RE/MAX Alliance - Arvada Office
  5. Stoddard, Dana and Murphy Team, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury

3-5 Members | Number of Transactions

  1. DiVito Dream Makers, RE/MAX Alliance - Arvada Office
  2. The Behr Team, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, DTC
  3. The Dream Weavers, RE/MAX Professionals - Thornton
  4. The Jason Cummings Group, Compass - Cherry Creek
  5. The Kissel Group, Compass - Highland 

6-15 Members | $ Sales Production & Number of Transactions

  1. Team Front Range, Keller Williams Southeast
  2. EmpowerHome Team Colorado, Keller Williams Realty DTC
  3. Flourish Real Estate Network, Real Broker, LLC
  4. Colorado Urban Living, RE/MAX Alliance Olde Town Arvada
  5. Savvy Group, Kentwood Real Estate Cherry Creek

16-25 Members | $ Sales Production & Number of Transactions

  1. Jordan Terrell Group, Real Broker, LLC
  2. The Griffith Home Team, RE/MAX Professionals - Thornton
  3. Nostalgic Homes Group, Compass - Cherry Creek

26+ Members | $ Sales Production 

  1. The Impact Group, Your Castle Real Estate, Central Office
  2. Elite Home Partners, Keller Williams Integrity Real Estate
  3. New Era Group, Your Castle Real Estate, Jefferson Park

26+ Members | Number of Transactions

  1. Elite Home Partners, Keller Williams Integrity Real Estate
  2. The Impact Group, Your Castle Real Estate, Central Office
  3. New Era Group, Your Castle Real Estate, Jefferson Park

TOP PROJECT AWARDS

Project | $ Sales Production & Number of Transactions

  1. Lance Chayet, Hanover Realty
  2. Bryon Horvath, Wild & Mild Homes

TOP OFFICE AWARDS

1-5 Agents | $ Sales Production & Number of Transactions

  1. Metro Brokers Team Lassen
  2. Hatch Realty
  3. RealGroup
  4. 4 Walls That Fit Real Estate
  5. Larson Home Realty

6-10 Agents | $ Sales Production

  1. Corcoran Perry & Co. - Cherry Creek North 
  2. Grant Real Estate Company
  3. Aspen Grove Real Estate Group
  4. CENTURY 21 Trenka Real Estate

6-10 Agents | Number of Transactions

  1. Grant Real Estate Company
  2. Corcoran Perry & Co. - Cherry Creek North 
  3. CENTURY 21 Trenka Real Estate
  4. Aspen Grove Real Estate Group

11-30 Agents | $ Sales Production 

  1. The Agency Denver
  2. Megastar Realty
  3. RE/MAX Alliance Olde Town Arvada
  4. PorchLight Real Estate Group, DTC
  5. LIV Sotheby's International Realty, Evergreen

11-30 Agents | Number of Transactions

  1. The Agency Denver
  2. Megastar Realty
  3. PorchLight Real Estate Group, DTC
  4. RE/MAX Alliance Olde Town Arvada
  5. Corcoran Perry & Co. - West Highland

31-50 Agents | $ Sales Production

  1. RE/MAX Professionals - Thornton
  2. Kentwood Real Estate City Properties
  3. Compass - North Denver
  4. RE/MAX Alliance - Arvada Office
  5. PorchLight Real Estate Group, Highlands 

31-50 Agents | Number of Transactions

  1. RE/MAX Professionals - Thornton
  2. RE/MAX Alliance - Arvada Office
  3. Compass - North Denver
  4. Kentwood Real Estate City Properties
  5. PorchLight Real Estate Group, Highlands 

51-75 Agents | $ Sales Production & Number of Transactions

  1. LIV Sotheby's International Realty, DTC
  2. Kentwood Real Estate Cherry Creek
  3. RE/MAX of Cherry Creek
  4. Madison & Company Properties, Greenwood Village

76-100 Agents | $ Sales Production & Number of Transactions

  1. Kentwood Real Estate DTC
  2. Compass - Highland 

101-200 Agents | $ Sales Production & Number of Transactions

  1. milehimodern
  2. LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, Cherry Creek
  3. Compass - DTC

201+ Agents | $ Sales Production & Number of Transactions

  1. Compass - Cherry Creek
  2. Your Castle Real Estate, Central Office 
  3. Keller Williams Integrity Real Estate
  4. Keller Williams Denver Southeast

To see event highlights, use the hashtag #EA24. For more information, please visit dmarealtors.com and to stay up-to-date with the latest happenings at the Denver Metro Association of Realtors® follow on Facebook and Instagram (@DMARealtors).

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