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A cozy, sunlit kitchen with a banner that reads "BACK TO SCHOOL" hanging across a window. On the countertop below, there’s a steaming cup of coffee, a leather bag, a teapot, and some kitchenware. Warm light filters through the windows, giving the scene a nostalgic, peaceful feel—suggesting a grown-up's quiet moment before starting a new chapter.

Back-to-School Isn’t Just for the Kids

Back-to-school season isn’t just for the kids. If you’ve been feeling the nudge to start something new, now’s the time. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start, a second career, or simply the chance to believe in yourself again, there’s a seat waiting for you. At Jan Secor, we teach with heart, experience, and the kind of care that sticks with you long after class ends.

Jul 283 min read

Watercolor-style illustration of video-game-style house with smiling blocky characters waving outside on a sunny day.

Level Up Your Life (Without a Game Controller)

In this inspiring letter-style blog, Jan Secor uses National Video Game Day as a playful backdrop to encourage readers to stop playing small and take real steps toward a better future through real estate. Drawing parallels between video games and real life, Jan reminds us that while you may start small and face obstacles, you can level up with commitment and courage. The blog ends with a heartfelt invitation to press start on a new career.

Jul 72 min read

Watercolor-style illustration with the bold text “mid-market CHECK IN” in large lettering. The background features a cheerful suburban house surrounded by lush green trees and a bright blue sky, evoking a sense of summertime and reflection. The word "CHECK IN" is especially large and decorative, drawing focus as the central theme.

Mid-Year Market Check-In: Reflecting and Planning Ahead

July is a mirror—six months behind us, six ahead. It’s not a finish line; it’s a reset. If your confidence is worn thin or your goals feel out of reach, let this be your moment to return to what matters. Not just the numbers—but the heart behind the work. Reconnect, refocus, and remember: you’re not behind. You’re right on time.

Jun 303 min read

Watercolor-style painting of a community summer solstice event in a Southern town park. The evening sun casts a long, golden glow over neighbors gathered under string lights, with acoustic music playing near a gazebo. Children play on the grass, people sit on picnic blankets, and soft light filters through leafy trees. The mood is peaceful and vibrant—evoking a sense of presence, joy, and community during the longest day of the year.

Summer Solstice and the Art of Showing What Shines

Summer solstice is your chance to slow down and step back into the light of your purpose. Real estate isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. Show up with sincerity, reconnect with your people, and remember why you started. This season isn’t about scrambling—it’s about shining.

Jun 233 min read

Watercolor-style painting of a Juneteenth parade in a Southern town. A diverse group of people march joyfully down a tree-lined street, wearing vibrant red, green, and yellow clothing. Drummers, dancers, and families walk together, surrounded by handmade signs celebrating freedom and unity. The atmosphere is warm, uplifting, and rooted in community pride and cultural heritage.

What Juneteenth Teaches Us About the Dignity of Belonging

Juneteenth is more than a date—it’s a story of delayed justice and hard-won freedom. As real estate professionals, we don’t just work with houses—we help people find home. And that means honoring the history behind who has been excluded from that promise. This Juneteenth, let’s lead with heart, humility, and a renewed commitment to equity in our work and our communities.

Jun 163 min read

Watercolor-style illustration of a front porch in North Carolina with an American flag waving gently, potted flowers on the steps, soft morning light, and a white wooden rocking chair. A subtle breeze rustles the trees, evoking warmth, tradition, and quiet pride.

The Quiet Power of a Flag on the Porch

Flag Day doesn’t ask for fanfare—it asks for reflection. That flag on your neighbor’s porch means something. As real estate professionals, we don’t just work with homes—we carry stories. This June 14th, take time to honor the lives behind the flag, and the freedom that lets us help others find home.

Jun 92 min read

A smiling woman with coily hair and a blue UNCG shirt sits in front of a glass bakery case filled with assorted donuts. The display includes pink, chocolate, powdered, and glazed varieties arranged neatly on multiple shelves. The warm wooden interior creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere, evoking the charm of a local Carolina donut shop.

Glazed & Grateful: A Realtor’s Recipe for Genuine Connection

This National Donut Day, sweeten your real estate connections with small, sincere gestures that leave a lasting impact. From delivering donuts to past clients to hosting a cheerful pop-in event, showing up with heart (and sprinkles) helps keep you top-of-mind—without a hard sell. Because in this business, it’s the sweet touches that turn clients into lifelong referrals.

Jun 23 min read

A patriotic floral illustration featuring red, white, and blue flowers framing the phrase “Honor the Brave” in elegant script. At the bottom, an American flag and a blue star service flag are tucked among the flowers, symbolizing Memorial Day remembrance and military tribute.

The True Cost of Home: Remembering What We’re Built On

There’s nothing like the crack of a bat, a bag of peanuts, and the small-town pride of Opening Day with the HiToms. Just like baseball, real estate is built on hustle, heart, and showing up for your community. Hosting a night at the ballpark is a perfect way to reconnect with past clients and build new relationships—one inning at a time.

May 262 min read

A vibrant watercolor illustration of a sunny day at a baseball stadium. Fans fill the stands and cheer from the foreground, including children in jerseys and baseball caps. Players are on the field mid-game, with one preparing to bat and another pitching. The scene is full of energy, bright colors, and a joyful small-town atmosphere.

From Dugouts to Driveways: Real Estate Wisdom from Opening Day

May 192 min read

Happy Mother's Day message in elegant script, surrounded by watercolor-style pink roses and blue wildflowers on a soft cream background

Mother’s Day: A Few Things I’ve Learned About Building a Home

Mother’s Day isn’t just about flowers and cards — it’s about honoring the quiet strength and steady love that build our homes and shape our lives. In this post, I’m sharing a reflection from my years in real estate, a heartfelt thank-you, and one simple idea you can use to connect meaningfully with the people who make it all possible.

May 132 min read

A bright and cheerful Cinco de Mayo celebration graphic with bold, festive colors. A sombrero, maracas, and papel picado banners surround the big bold text that reads “Feliz Cinco de Mayo” in red, white, and green—like the Mexican flag. It’s a joyful nod to Mexican culture and heritage

Cinco de Mayo and the Spirit of Resilience in Real Estate

Cinco de Mayo reminds us that resilience, courage, and community can carry us through—even in real estate. From navigating market shifts to chasing that next big win, this holiday is a perfect time to reflect, reconnect, and celebrate progress. Host a simple client appreciation event, share your story, and remember: real estate is about relationships, not just closings. ¡Salud to perseverance and purpose in our work!

May 53 min read