Janice Allen

Buying a home is exciting, but it can feel overwhelming without the right plan. My biggest advice is to get prepared early. Start by talking to a trusted lender so you understand your budget and get pre-approved — this not only helps you know what you can afford but also makes your offer stronger when you find the right home. Next, work with an experienced local agent who understands the market and your needs. The right agent will guide you through every step, from finding the right home to negotiating the best terms and keeping the process on track. I also encourage buyers to make a “must-have” and “nice-to-have” list. It helps you stay focused when emotions kick in during showings. And don’t skip the home inspection — it’s your opportunity to understand the property fully before moving forward. Finally, be patient and flexible. The market changes quickly, and the perfect home may take time to find. Stay prepared, stay informed, and don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way — that’s what your agent is there for.

Selling your home is a big step, and the right preparation makes all the difference. My first piece of advice is to price it right from the start. A home that’s priced correctly will attract more buyers and can often lead to stronger offers — sometimes even multiple offers. Next, focus on presentation. A clean, decluttered, and well-staged home shows buyers its full potential. Curb appeal matters too — small updates like fresh mulch, power washing, or a pop of color on the front door can make a huge impact. Professional photography and marketing are also key. Most buyers start their search online, so high-quality photos, video tours, and strong online exposure ensure your home makes the best first impression. Finally, be flexible and responsive. Make your home easy to show and keep communication open with your agent. The more accessible your property is, the quicker you’re likely to find the right buyer. And remember — your agent is your partner. Lean on their expertise for pricing strategies, market updates, and negotiation advice to help your sale go as smoothly as possible.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide variety of clients. Many are first-time homebuyers who appreciate having someone walk them through each step of the process, while others are move-up buyers ready for a larger home or a different neighborhood. I also work with empty nesters and downsizers who are looking for something that better fits their current lifestyle, as well as relocating clients — both those moving into the Kalamazoo/Portage area and those moving out. In addition, I help first-time sellers who are navigating the selling process for the very first time. My goal is always to make the experience as smooth as possible by providing clear guidance, thorough communication, and strong support every step of the way. No matter the situation, my approach is the same: to listen closely, understand my client’s goals, and guide them through the process with as little stress as possible.

One recent transaction that really stands out to me involved a family selling their parents’ home of more than 60 years. The house was full of memories — and a lot of belongings — so it was an emotional process for them. I guided them through every step, from connecting them with trusted vendors to help clean and prepare the home, to staging and marketing it so it would shine online and in person. We priced it strategically, and the response was incredible. The home sold quickly, and what made it extra special was that the buyers were a young family with children — and their grandparents live just a few doors down. Knowing the house would be filled with new laughter and memories made the entire experience so rewarding. For me, it’s moments like that — when I can help clients through a challenging transition and see their relief and happiness at the closing table — that remind me why I love what I do.

After a successful career in the corporate world in New York City, I realized I was ready for a change. I was tired of the grind and working for someone else, and I wanted a career that would give me a better quality of life with the flexibility to manage my own schedule. I’d always dreamed of running my own business, so in 2001, I earned my real estate license — and I’ve never looked back. Having moved several times myself, I understand firsthand how stressful and overwhelming buying or selling a home can be. I’ve always been a people person, and real estate felt like the perfect fit. It allows me to combine my background in business administration with my passion for building relationships and making a real difference for my clients. Over the years, I’ve focused on helping first-time buyers, first-time sellers, move-up buyers, downsizers, and those relocating — always with the goal of making the process as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

I have a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree in Theological Studies from Drew University, which together have helped me build strong skills in business, communication, and problem-solving — all of which directly benefit my clients. I also earned my Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, which was especially valuable during the 2007–2009 market crash. That training allowed me to help several families successfully navigate the challenges of short sales and foreclosures during that time. Today, I use that same combination of education, experience, and specialized training to provide my clients with clear guidance, strong advocacy, and the confidence to make well-informed decisions throughout their real estate journey.