Long & Foster’s Denise Ramey Named Realtor of the Year by Virginia Realtors

Long & Foster Real Estate is proud to announce that Denise Ramey, team leader with the Charlottesville West office, has received the Realtor of the Year award from Virginia Realtors.

The Realtor of the Year award is Virginia Realtors’ most prestigious honor given to real estate professionals who have made significant contributions to the industry. The award is selected by a committee of peers from the association’s more than 38,000 members. Ramey was chosen for this award for her service to the REALTOR organization and her commitment to community service.

“Long & Foster is proud that Virginia Realtors has recognized Denise’s many accomplishments and her commitment to the industry,’ said Tom Pace, manager of the Charlottesville West office. “Denise is a true professional and her dedication to buyers and sellers is a testament to her passion for the real estate industry.”

Ramey has been a real estate professional for nearly 20 years and joined Long & Foster in 2014. In 2015, Ramey formed the Denise Ramey Team which is ranked as the No. 1 team in the Charlottesville area and ranked as a top five team in Virginia. Year to date, the successful team has sold nearly 115 units with more than $65M in volume.

A member of the Virginia REALTORS Board of Directors since 2016, Ramey served as president of the board in 2022. Before her service on the board, she served on the board of directors for the Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS (CAAR), from 2008 to 2014 including serving as its president in 2013. Ramey was inducted into the Virginia REALTORS Honor Society in 2010 and has continuously been involved. In 2013, she was honored as CAAR’s Sales Associate of the Year and voted REALTOR of the YEAR in 2015 by CAAR.

Plus, in the community, Ramey supports local school parent-teacher organizations, the police and fire departments, and local soccer, lacrosse, football and baseball teams and clubs. She’s also a supporter of the Lions Club, several area food banks, UVA Children’s, the Boys and Girls Club, and many more charitable organizations.

A graduate of the University of Florida, Ramey has a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in criminal justice and a minor in speech communications. She and her husband Ricky live in Charlottesville, and they have four children. They enjoy spending time with family and their dogs Buster, Teddy and Ringo when they are not assisting clients.

“It’s the commitment of agents like Denise that has enabled her to earn an honor such as this one, and we’re proud to have her as part of the Long & Foster family,” said Dawn Bradley, senior vice president and regional manager of Long & Foster Real Estate’s Richmond and Charlottesville/Staunton regions. “Our company has a reputation of honesty, integrity and best-in-class customer service that spans more than 50 years, and the talent of professionals like Denise is why we remain the top real estate company in the Mid-Atlantic.”

Long & Foster Real Estate is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.

Long & Foster Announces Enhanced Chat Bot Features

New level of digital experience further enhance the home-buying experience

Long & Foster Real Estate, one of the nation’s top real estate companies, as part of HomeServices of America, has added enhanced cutting-edge technology to its ‘Holmes’ real estate bot, powered by Roof AI.

Roof AI builds a digital sales assistant that combines AI technology with human expertise to enhance customer satisfaction and success in real estate. The new upgrade is an integration of two very well-known large language models including OpenAI and Google BERT.

By integrating advanced AI, the enhanced features make online interactions smoother, more personal, and highly effective. ‘Holmes’ engages with Long & Foster’s customers, as their virtual real estate concierge, answering customer’s questions in real time, whether they are looking for homes within a specific budget or need information about the buying or selling process.

“Using cutting-edge AI technology, ‘Holmes’ will now provide 24/7 digital recommendations that assist in the buying experience, by accessing a vast database of real estate and financing knowledge,” said Patrick Bain, president and CEO of The Long & Foster Companies. “This technology upgrade will bring value to the user while delivering a great customer experience, which is very important to us at Long & Foster.”

The virtual bot will provide a conversational experience to personalize every customer interaction, providing immediate and responsive service in real-time. ‘Holmes’ will also offer customers a connected experience around the company’s core services.

Customers can search for homes just like they talk to friends, asking questions such as “find single-family homes with three bedrooms under $800,000 in Fairfax, Virginia,” and get instant results. Holmes will also now provide deeper insight into what makes each home special by highlighting unique selling points of each property.

“Our goal has always been to equip real estate professionals with best-in-class AI that boosts their revenue and automates routine tasks, ensuring an exceptional online customer experience,” said Pierre Sabbagh, CEO of Roof AI. “We’re excited to see the positive impact that this enhanced technology will have on the interactions and efficiencies of Long & Foster, a company that is committed to providing their customers with the best digital experience.”

Long & Foster Real Estate is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.

Long & Foster Honors Julie Harding and Debbie Shobe with Wes Foster Award

Employees receive honor that recognizes commitment to exceptional service

The Long & Foster Companies has named Julie Harding and Debbie Shobe as its 2024 Wes Foster Award for Employee Excellence winners. Harding is an executive assistant to the company’s President and CEO and its Vice President & Finance Director at its home office in Fairfax, Virginia. Shobe is executive assistant to the Senior Vice President and Regional Manager of the Southern Virginia region in Richmond, Virginia. The Wes Foster Award, formerly known as the Foster Family Award, recognizes Long & Foster employees who achieve excellence in customer service.

“We are proud of Julie and Debbie and greatly appreciate the many contributions they make to our company,” said Patrick Bain, president & CEO of The Long & Foster Companies. “Both Julie and Debbie are true professionals who are dedicated to providing excellent service to everyone with whom they work—promoting the can-do attitude that Wes Foster encouraged within the company.”

Nominations for the awards are accepted for any employees who exemplify the organization’s Core Values (Respect, Listen, Take Ownership, Celebrate Success, Participate and Be Real), as well as its five keys to exceptional service—being accessible, listening, being responsive, having a can-do attitude and caring about their clients and colleagues. The company then presents two $5,000 awards—one to an employee in its field operations and another to an employee within its shared corporate teams—to those individuals who embody that commitment to exemplary service.

Harding, who joined Long & Foster in 2018, is known for her unwavering positivity, dedication, and kindness. She consistently goes above and beyond to support her team, whether through complex tasks or simple everyday needs, all with a smile and a can-do attitude. Her ability to juggle numerous responsibilities while remaining helpful, gracious, and patient makes her an invaluable asset to the team. Harding’s professionalism and attention to detail, even in the most challenging situations, is exceptional.

During her more than 20 years at Long & Foster, Shobe has become known for her unwavering dedication to customer service. Her continually positive attitude and her ability to maintain and demonstrate excellence sets an example for all of her peers. Shobe shows a selfless dedication to Long & Foster, handling whatever task is needed to help the Long & Foster Real Estate team in Richmond to achieve success.

Long & Foster is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit longandfoster.com.

Long & Foster Named Delaware’s No. 1 Top Workplace

Brokerage earned honors based on agent, employee feedback in survey with Energage and The News Journal

Long & Foster has been named the No. 1 Top Workplace in Delaware in the large companies category by The News Journal.

“It’s a high honor that our Delaware offices won first place for the Top Workplaces award,” said Ralph DiGuiseppe III, senior vice president and regional manager of Long & Foster’s Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware region. “This award is a true testament to our agents and employees who work hard every day to provide our clients with the best possible experience – just as Long & Foster has done for more than 50 years.”

This list is based solely on agent and employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures the agent and employee experience.

The News Journal recognized 49 companies in three categories, ranging by the organization’s size. Long & Foster earned honors in the Top Workplaces large companies’ category, which recognizes businesses with 400 or more employees.

“I’m so proud of our Long & Foster family in Delaware for earning this recognition,” said Jackie Thiel, president of Long & Foster Real Estate. “Receiving the top award helps validate our efforts and dedication to all our agents, employees and clients throughout Delaware.”

You can read more and view the complete list of 2024 Top Workplaces winners here. If you’re looking for a workplace to call home, visit Long & Foster’s Careers site here.

Long & Foster Real Estate, an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties, is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.

For more information, visit longandfoster.com.

Long & Foster’s Amber Thomas Accepted into Richmond Association of Realtors Leadership Development Academy Class of 2024

Long & Foster Real Estate is proud to announce that Amber Thomas an agent with the Village of Midlothian office, has been accepted into the Richmond Association of Realtors (RAR) Leadership Development Academy.

The Leadership Development Academy is designed to develop visionary, service-oriented REALTOR members for professional, civic and community leadership roles. The program, which runs from September to December of 2024, exposes a diverse cohort to a variety of topics through seminars, events and experiential learning sessions.

Working with professional leadership coaches, participants identify critical leadership skills and how to tap into their strengths as a leader – in their career and their community. The program also offers an overview of the significance of community involvement and insight into the leadership roles within a REALTOR organization.

“Long & Foster is proud that the RAR has recognized Amber’s many accomplishments and her commitment to the industry and her community,” said Dawn Bradley, senior vice president and regional manager of the Richmond and Charlottesville regions. “Amber is already an accomplished agent and being chosen to participate in this program will elevate her skills even further.”

Thomas is a dedicated Realtor with a strong commitment to both her clients and community. She is known for her exceptional professionalism and client-focused approach. Beyond her real estate career, Thomas actively engages in community service, working with organizations such as Lettuce Reduce Food Waste, Habitat for Humanity, and serving on the board of Furbish, a nonprofit focused on animal welfare. Her passion for making a positive impact drives her both professionally and personally, reflecting her deep commitment to enhancing the lives of those around her.

Long & Foster is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.

Long & Foster’s Mari Kotze Accepted into Richmond Association of Realtors Leadership Development Academy Class of 2024

Long & Foster Real Estate is proud to announce that Mari Kotze, associate broker and sales manager for the Cabell Childress Group, affiliated with the Midtown Richmond office, has been accepted into the Richmond Association of Realtors (RAR) Leadership Development Academy.

“We are so happy Mari was chosen for the Leadership Development Academy, “said Dawn Bradley, senior vice president and regional manager of the Richmond and Charlottesville regions. “She is extremely detail-oriented as well as patient, professional, and cares so much about her clients and the agents in her office – she’s well deserving to be selected for this prestigious program.

Kotze has been in the real estate business for 10 years and holds an associate broker license. As sales manager of the Cabell Childress Group, she leads a successful team of 23 agents. The elite team has been with Long & Foster since 2008, consistently outperforming their previous year. In 2023, their sales increased 13%, having sold 300+ homes and $142M in sales volume. So far in 2024, they have $87M under contract.

Active in her community, Kotze has volunteered, fundraised, or sponsored several organizations, including Evergreen PTA (2023-2024), Huguenot Little League (2023-2024), Big Brothers Big Sisters (2023-2024), M4K (2022-2034), St. Baldrick’s Foundation (2020-2024), Toys for Tots (2020-2024), Central VA Food Bank and Meals on Wheels (2018-2020), Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (2013-2014), Autism Speaks (2011-2013), Virginia Commonwealth University’s Domestic Violence Awareness Group (2008-2009).

Long & Foster is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America. For more information, visit LongandFoster.com.

Long & Foster Named a Top Workplace in Hampton Roads

Long & Foster has been named one of the Top Workplaces in the Hampton Roads area by Inside Business, The Hampton Roads Business Journal.

“We’re thrilled to be named as a top place to work in the Hampton Roads region,” said Tina Holt, senior vice president and regional manager of Long & Foster’s Hampton Roads region. “This award highlights the hard work and dedication of our team, who consistently go above and beyond to exceed our customers’ expectations.”

Long & Foster’s Tina Holt & Amber Garwood at the celebration event on Aug. 8

“I’m so proud of our Long & Foster family in the Hampton Roads region for earning this recognition,” said Jackie Thiel, president of Long & Foster Real Estate. “This award is a true testament to our agents and employees who work diligently to provide our clients with the best possible experience, while making Long & Foster the successful company that it is and maintaining our culture of excellence.”

Winners were celebrated at an event held at The Westin Virginia Beach Town Center on Aug. 8.

You can read more and view the complete list of 2024 Top Workplaces winners in a special edition of Inside Business here. If you’re looking for a workplace to call home, visit LongandFoster.com and click on Careers.

Long & Foster Real Estate, an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties, is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.

For more information, visit longandfoster.com.

Get to Know Cristina Dougherty

Long & Foster Agent Featured in Northern Virginia Real Producers

Cristina Dougherty, a Realtor with Long & Foster Real Estate’s Fairfax Centre office, approaches her profession with passion and a commitment to excellence. For Cristina, real estate is more than just transactions; it’s about building lasting relationships with her clients. This philosophy shapes her approach, ensuring that every client receives personalized attention and unwavering support throughout their real estate journey. Cristina was recently featured in an article in the Northern Virginia (NOVA) Real Producers magazine.

From Educator to Real Estate Expert

Cristina’s path to real estate was anything but conventional. Born in West Africa and having lived in Canada and Spain, she eventually settled in Fairfax, Virginia, where her future began to take shape. With a background in psychology and special education, Cristina spent 12 years as a Board-Certified Special Education Teacher in Fairfax County Public Schools.

However, an unsatisfactory experience while buying and selling her own home led Cristina to real estate. Determined to make a difference, she obtained her real estate license and quickly found that she was captivated by the industry. Over two decades later, she has become a standout agent, achieving impressive sales and earning multiple accolades, including being named a Long & Foster Top 100 Agent and receiving recognition from Washingtonian and Northern Virginia Magazine.

Balancing Career and Family

Despite her busy real estate career, Cristina places great importance on her family. She and her husband, Dan, have been married for over 20 years and have three children: Kylie, Mason, and Skylar. The family enjoys spending time together, whether it’s traveling to the beach or cheering on their children at sports events. Their household also includes Nugget, a mini-golden doodle who serves as the “Chief Canine Officer” in Cristina’s real estate world, and Scarlet, a gentle horse that Cristina rides for exercise and relaxation.

Looking Ahead

For Cristina, success is about more than just achievements; it’s about being true to oneself and making a positive impact. She lives by the principle of being of value rather than just seeking success, a philosophy she plans to carry into the future.

As Cristina looks ahead, she envisions remaining a prominent figure in Northern Virginia real estate for another decade before retiring to South Carolina. Her goals include guiding her children through their college years and continuing to inspire those around her with integrity, authenticity, and kindness. For Cristina, success is a journey marked by personal growth and the lasting relationships she builds along the way.

Maribeth Dunlap to Lead Long & Foster’s Chesapeake and Kempsville Offices

Long & Foster Real Estate has announced Maribeth Dunlap has been named as the new leader of its Chesapeake and Kempsville sales offices. Licensed in Virginia and Florida, Dunlap has been an agent for nearly 10 years and joins Long & Foster from a competing broker in Virginia Beach.

“Maribeth has a track record of leadership – from being an entrepreneur and an operations manager for a real estate team to a successful sales agent with a strong client base and market share,” said Tina Holt, Long & Foster’s senior vice president and regional manager for the Hampton Roads and Northeast North Carolina regions. “Her skillset equips her well to help the agents in the Chesapeake and Kempsville offices navigate the ever-changing real estate landscape.”

Dunlap has been in sales and operations for nearly three decades in both the real estate and automotive industries. Her diverse background includes nonprofit and event management. She also operated her own successful business for many years—an experience that lends itself well to supporting agents in growing their businesses and even better assisting their clients.

“I’m excited to be joining Long & Foster,” said Dunlap. “I look forward to training and developing the talented agents at the Chesapeake and Kempsville offices to exceed their sales goals and provide exceptional customer service.”

Long & Foster Real Estate, an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties, is one of the nation’s top real estate companies as part of HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate.

For more information, visit longandfoster.com.

Loretta Gray Joins Leadership Team in Long & Foster’s Alexandria Offices

Long & Foster Real Estate has appointed Loretta Gray as the sales manager for its Alexandria Old Town, Kingstowne and Kingstowne Centre offices in Alexandria, Virginia. In her new role, Gray will work closely with Dianna Campagna, the managing broker in those locations, to provide support and guidance to the company’s agents as they develop and grow their real estate careers.

“Loretta’s been an invaluable resource since joining our team – supporting our agents in learning about all aspects of the business, from the foundations to complex real estate investing,” said Karen Kidwell, senior vice president and regional manager of Long & Foster in Northern Virginia. I’m excited to welcome her to our leadership team and am confident that with her and Dianna leading our offices in Alexandria, we’ll continue to deliver consumers with the best service and support.”

With nearly a decade of experience in the real estate industry, Gray brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new position. She is licensed in Virginia, Maryland, DC, and Florida, allowing her to serve clients across multiple markets. Gray has established herself as a top-performing agent, consistently achieving an impressive average of $9 million in annual sales.

In addition to her success as a real estate professional, Gray is a state-certified Real Estate Principles & Practices instructor. She frequently shares her knowledge by teaching courses on various topics, including real estate investing and fair housing. Gray’s commitment to education and professional development will be invaluable in helping Long & Foster’s agents stay ahead in a competitive market.

Before entering the real estate industry, Gray gained valuable experience in restaurant and hospitality management and operations. This background instilled in her the importance of delivering exceptional service to clients. Gray’s dedication to providing outstanding customer service will undoubtedly benefit both the company’s agents and their clients.

“We are thrilled to have Loretta join our leadership team in Northern Virginia,” said Jackie Thiel, president of Long & Foster Real Estate. “Her extensive experience, industry knowledge, and passion for teaching will be instrumental in supporting our agents as they grow their businesses. Loretta’s commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with our company’s values, and we are confident that she will make a significant impact in her new role.”

Long & Foster is one of the leading real estate companies in the United States, as part of Berkshire Hathaway affiliate HomeServices of America. With a strong focus on agent support and professional development, the company is committed to helping its agents achieve their goals and provide exceptional service to their clients, arming them with their competitive All-Inclusive Real Estate Experience. This model brings together everything and everyone needed in a real estate transaction, making the process simpler and easier for consumers.

For more information about Long & Foster and its services, please visit LongandFoster.com.