Meet the Team!
We are your "everything real estate" educational place for real estate licensees. We are here to guide your learning through every stage of your career. We are here as you progress from being new licensed, through upgrading your license in the early years, to completing the continuing education that is required throughout your career. Our Maine-based subject matter experts and customer service team is unmatched and here to help you every step of the way!
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| The Partners |
| With four decades of experience in the real estate industry, Steve Hammond is a highly respected founding and managing partner. As the co-owner and president of Maine's largest real estate organization boasting more than 50 offices, Steve played a pivotal role in propelling a company to unparalleled success, achieving an astounding growth rate of over 350% in just 20 months, leading it to become the largest office in the state. Renowned for his calm and thoughtful approach to problem-solving and business development, Steve is sought after by both companies and agents as a trusted consultant, instructor, and coach. | |
| Geoff MacLean, a founding partner of TRELG, brings an impressive 40-year background in practical brokerage and company leadership to his extensive teaching and consulting endeavors. With a remarkable aptitude for mediating disputes within the REALTOR® organization, between licensees, and among consumers, Geoff's expertise is widely recognized. As a sought-after consultant for numerous real estate companies and an esteemed expert witness in real estate brokerage matters, Geoff's insights are highly valued. Since 1996, he has served as the chair of the Maine Association of REALTORS® Professional Standards Committee, and his exceptional contributions have led to him being named REALTOR® of the Year twice by his local Board of REALTORS®. Geoff's passion for education is evident as he imparts his knowledge through teaching various courses, including the Maine Designated Broker pre-license course, as well as a diverse array of continuing education courses, available in-person, via livestream, and online. | |
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| Ed Getty, a founding partner, is a revered instructor and consultant known for his vast knowledge, distinctive candor, and engaging sense of humor. With an impressive track record of 40 years in sales and management, Ed's total sales production has surpassed $100 million. As the president of his state's esteemed REALTOR® organization and a two-time recipient of the prestigious REALTOR® of the Year award from his local Board of REALTORS®, Ed's expertise is widely recognized and respected. Ed's passion for education shines through as he teaches a variety of courses, including the Maine Associate Broker pre-license course, and offers a diverse range of continuing education courses, both in the classroom and through engaging online video sessions. |
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| Jane Greer, a founding partner, brings a wealth of expertise and experience in designing and delivering dynamic learning experiences across various industries, including real estate, insurance, and financial services. With a Master's Degree in Education specializing in adult education and an undergraduate degree in engineering from Dartmouth College, Jane possesses a unique blend of knowledge and skills. Her experience includes serving for over a decade as adjunct faculty in the M.S. Ed program at St. Joseph's College and earning the esteemed Certified Distance Education Instructor (CDEI) designation. Jane's students attest to the engaging, thought-provoking, and enjoyable nature of her classes. Jane's expertise led her to present at the national convention of the Real Estate Educators Association and the Association for Talent Development (ATD), further establishing her as a respected authority in the field of adult learning. |
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Our Team |
| | Christy Arnett, the Operations Manager at The Real Estate Learning Group, brings a wealth of experience in office administration and customer support to her role. With a license as an Associate Broker in Maine and holding the esteemed designation of REALTOR®, Christy possesses the expertise and knowledge necessary to provide comprehensive support in the realm of Real Estate education. From scheduling Continuing Education (CE) classes at your office to guiding you through the enrollment process for our pre-license and continuing education courses, Christy is dedicated to delivering exceptional service tailored to meet your specific needs. With her professional acumen and commitment to excellence, Christy is your go-to resource for all your Real Estate education requirements. |
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| Kelli McGlinn, our Director of Education, brings an extensive educational background and a passion for continuous learning to her role. With a B.A. in Psychology, an M.S. in Special Education from the University of Southern Maine, and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Educational Leadership from the University of New England, Kelli is well-equipped to lead our education initiatives. With over 25 years of experience in education, ranging from teaching individuals at various stages of life to adult learners, Kelli's expertise is diverse and comprehensive. Further holding a Certified Distance Education Instructor (CDEI) designation and licenses as a Sales Agent/Salesperson in Maine and New Hampshire, she is committed to staying at the forefront of educational practices. Kelli's genuine enthusiasm for the real estate field drives her to support and guide newcomers and experienced learners alike on their lifelong journey of professional growth. With Kelli's guidance, The Real Estate Learning Group is dedicated to delivering a transformative and empowering educational experience. |
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| Andrea McGowan is a dedicated Administrative Assistant at The Real Estate Learning Group (TRELG). Andrea's journey with TRELG began during her time at Husson University, where she played a crucial role in managing our classroom space. With a background in higher education and a wealth of experience in providing exceptional customer support, Andrea's skills perfectly align with our mission. Her innate passion for learning and self-improvement further complements her role at TRELG. When she's not at work, Andrea can be found exploring the great outdoors with her family or embarking on invigorating runs through the streets and trails of Greater Portland alongside her friends and beloved family dog. Andrea's vibrant energy and commitment to excellence contribute to the smooth operations and positive atmosphere at TRELG. |
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| Prelicense and Continuing Education Instructors |
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| Julie Dawson Williams is the esteemed principal owner of ERA Dawson Bradford Co., a prominent real estate firm based in Bangor. Recognized as the 2017 REALTOR® of the Year by the Greater Bangor Association of REALTORS®, Julie's expertise spans various aspects of the industry. Her extensive experience encompasses listing and selling properties for her valued clients, as well as specializing in recruiting and training new licensees. With an educational background from Bowdoin College, Julie's knowledge and proficiency shine through as she shares her expertise as a pre-license course instructor for The Real Estate Learning Group. With Julie at the helm, ERA Dawson Bradford Co. thrives under her leadership, providing exceptional service and guidance to clients while shaping the next generation of real estate professionals through her teaching endeavors. |
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| Tyra Hatcher is a licensed Broker affiliated with EXP Realty. With a strong presence in the Maine Association of Realtors, Tyra has held various esteemed positions, including the role of President of the York County Council. Her dedication to the real estate industry is further evident through her service as a Board Member of the Maine Association of REALTORS® and Maine Association of REALTORS® Foundation. As a certified At Home with Diversity REALTOR®, Tyra is committed to fostering inclusivity within the real estate community. Beyond her professional pursuits, Tyra volunteers her time as a Master Gardener, educating students and communities about vegetable gardening and raising awareness about food insecurity in Maine. Although Tyra has had the opportunity to live in different parts of the world, including Thailand, Brazil, and Guyana, she has returned to her native state, Maine. With Tyra's expertise, compassion, and global perspective, you can trust her to guide you through the real estate landscape with unwavering dedication and a genuine commitment to making a difference in her community. |
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| Bill Trask is a seasoned real estate professional who embarked on his career in 1995 following a distinguished 6-year tour in the US Army. He began at Century 21 and subsequently opened a successful office under Mark Stimson, which saw transitions to DeWolfe, Coldwell Banker, and Better Homes & Gardens. In 2013, he established a thriving Maine Real Estate Network office, later acquired by Bean Group. Building on his expertise and experience, Bill founded his own company, Maine Real Estate Experts, in 2020. His contributions to the real estate community have been widely recognized, as he served as President of the Greater Portland Board of REALTORS® in 2005 and was honored with the prestigious "REALTOR® of the Year" award by the Greater Portland Board and Maine Association of REALTORS® in 2006. Bill's commitment to professional development is evident through his acquisition of the GRI designation, and he previously held the ABR, ABRM, CRB, and CRS designations. With a remarkable track record encompassing over 1300 sales and a total production exceeding $170 Million, Bill's expertise and dedication make him a trusted and accomplished professional in the real estate industry. |
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| Sue Meservier is an esteemed real estate professional who built her career from the ground up using simple tools and sheer determination. With years of hard work and extensive training, Sue established her own team, allowing her to prioritize the needs of her clients. By putting their interests first, Sue's business flourished, leading to the expansion of her team. Comprised of both licensed and unlicensed administrators, along with a team of skilled agents, the collective offered personalized support and training to each member. This cohesive environment fostered growth and success at unprecedented levels. Eventually, the team evolved into the renowned Meservier & Associates brand, and in 2020, it transformed into an independent real estate company. Despite this growth, the company still maintains a close-knit culture, connecting its agents like a unified team. Sue firmly believes in the power of teamwork and has dedicated over three decades to delivering exceptional real estate services in Maine. When not immersed in her professional pursuits, Sue enjoys the serene countryside, residing on a small horse farm in Turner alongside her husband. She cherishes the joys of having two adult daughters, two remarkable sons-in-law, and four incredible grandchildren. |
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| Bob Staab is a highly experienced mortgage lender with an impressive 39-year career in the industry. Throughout his journey, Bob has held ownership and Vice President positions in a prominent New England Mortgage Company and two local banks. With a remarkable track record, he has successfully originated and closed over 9,500 loans as a loan officer and managed multiple processing and underwriting centers. Bob's expertise extends to all types of loans, but he particularly enjoys working with government loans and various first-time homeowner programs offered through Northpoint Mortgage. His unique approach involves conducting "low-key" meetings with buyers before they embark on their house-hunting journey, resulting in a more satisfactory loan process for borrowers. Bob is equally skilled in structuring loans for first-time homebuyers with no down payment and self-employed borrowers with multiple corporations. What sets Bob apart is his commitment to making the loan process easier, smoother, and less stressful for his clients and brokers. Additionally, he offers educational courses that provide real estate agents and brokers with the necessary credits for license renewal. Going above and beyond, Bob strives to surpass expectations and be the premier choice in the industry. |
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| Bob Strong is a highly accomplished professional in the real estate industry, specializing as a Certified Appraiser in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. In 2006, he established PropertyVal, which rapidly grew to become the largest Appraisal Management Company in Maine. Demonstrating his exceptional leadership and expertise, PropertyVal was subsequently acquired by Class Valuation in 2022. Currently, Bob serves as the President of PropertyVal, a division of Class Valuation, LLC, where he continues to provide invaluable guidance and drive the company's success. With an extensive background in appraisals, Bob is renowned for his comprehensive knowledge and meticulous approach in assessing property values. |
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| Jeff Chute has been in the real estate business for 35+ years. Beginning in Massachusetts, he started out as a schoolteacher, eventually leaving that profession for real estate. Starting as an agent in 1984, he eventually started and owned and operated his real estate office for several decades. Along the way, Jeff expanded into real estate instruction, being awarded Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® Instructor of the Year in 2010. Moving to Maine, he is currently affiliated with Ocean Park Realty in Ocean Park. Jeff has participated in several interviews and authored articles for various trade publications. In addition, he has done consulting as well as expert witness work. He has taught the ABR and SRES courses for RBAC, NAR’s educational department. Jeff holds distance learning certification from IDECC. |
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| Bailey Pate is a dedicated real estate professional driven by a commitment to delivering exceptional service to her clients. In 2022, she was recognized as the #2 Maine Real Estate Agent on Social Media by Property Spark, and she eagerly educates others on leveraging social media for effective advertising. Bailey's entrepreneurial background began with owning and operating a natural residential cleaning business, which sparked her passion for real estate. Her experience in establishing and running a startup cultivated a strong business acumen that has been instrumental in her success. Since joining the industry in 2017, Bailey has consistently been among the top producing agents in her area. With her extensive community knowledge, dedication to her profession, and exceptional communication skills, Bailey provides superior service and unwavering follow-through. Bailey finds immense satisfaction in attentively listening to her clients and working tirelessly to achieve their goals. |
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| With over 35 years of experience in the finance and education sectors, Don Cohen brings a wealth of knowledge to the real estate industry. Holding a college degree in Secondary Education, with a focus on History and Political Science, Don has dedicated the majority of his career to working with real estate professionals as a seasoned mortgage lending expert. Since the 1990s, he has been actively involved in teaching continuing education credit courses and facilitating first-time home buyer classes. Having resided in Portland for nearly four decades, Don possesses a deep understanding of the local market and is committed to providing valuable insights to his clients and students. |
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| Shawn Casey is a distinguished educator with The Real Estate Learning Group®, where his nearly ten years of instructional expertise in the mortgage sector has profoundly benefited aspiring real estate professionals. His background as the owner of Cumberland County Mortgage and over two decades in the industry have given him an authoritative grasp on mortgage lending, financial services, and credit issues. Now a Senior Loan Officer at Guild Mortgage, Shawn melds practical experience with educational skill, delivering top-tier guidance in both his teaching and professional practice, aiding clients and students alike on their journey through the complexities of homeownership and refinancing. |
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| Sharron Eastman, the owner of Big Horizon Mortgage in Kennebunk, is a seasoned reverse mortgage specialist dedicated to assisting Mainers in leveraging their home equity for a fulfilling retirement. With over 28 years of experience in the mortgage and real estate sectors in Maine and Massachusetts, Sharron's expertise is widely recognized. She has played an integral role as a former board member of the Maine Association of Mortgage Brokers, contributing significantly to their ethics and education committees, and is an active member of the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA). Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sharron is a skilled educator, providing continuing education to Realtors, CPAs, and legal professionals. Her success as a an entrepreneur has been highlighted in Maine Women Magazine. She also contributes to her community through various leadership roles, including serving at a church and coaching Maine RSU 21's Odyssey of the Mind team. A graduate of Ohio University, Sharron is passionate about skiing, holding a Level 3 professional ski instructor certification. |
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| Tom Schoening is a real estate and title attorney who assists banks and private parties with all aspects of real estate transactions. In January 2022, Tom acquired Cumberland Title and Central Maine Title and shortly thereafter merged the two companies together. Prior to 2022, Tom practiced commercial real estate, title insurance defense, and corporate law with Drummond & Drummond in Portland. Tom’s experience with complicated title insurance claims and complex commercial real estate transactions and disputes allows him to facilitate smooth and efficient residential real estate transactions. Tom lives in Kennebunk with his wife Meghan and two daughters. |
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| Tasha Massey is the Broker/Owner of On Point Realty, a real estate brokerage servicing all of Maine that champions investment in multi-family homes and distressed properties from its home base in Arundel. Tasha's real estate ethos is built around empowering her clients to build wealth, with a particular knack for guiding them through the intricacies of the short sale process. Her dedication has already led the path to 30 successful financial transactions despite the choppy waters of complex real estate transactions. Tasha's journey in the industry is a testament to her adaptability and unwavering commitment to not just succeed, but to make a substantial impact on the communities she serves. Beyond her professional achievements, Tasha is a devoted mother to two daughters who inspire her daily and remind her of the true value of home. |
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| Joe Daly loves what he does, and it shows! Joe is the National Renovation Sales Leader at Guaranteed Rate Affinity. He has over 40 years of real estate and renovation loan experience. You will be hard-pressed to find anyone more qualified than Joe to help Realtors® better understand the ins and outs of renovation lending and definitely nobody is more passionate about it! Joe is committed to spreading the gospel of renovation lending by conducting educational seminars and continuing education (CE) to Realtors®. His classes are fun-filled, one-to-three-hour courses, designed to teach agents the fundamentals of renovation lending. Joe loves teaching because he has personally witnessed the immediate impact this knowledge has on their business. Agents are able to utilize it to help their clients create their dream homes, grow their own businesses, and ultimately make more money! |
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| Raised on a small farm, Michelle Leclerc developed a strong work ethic, a love for animals, and a deep respect for her elders. She later channeled these values into raising her seven children, from whom she learned compassion, perseverance, creativity, and spontaneity, ultimately finding her true joy. Michelle lives by the motto "Have a happy heart," whether she's enjoying the outdoors with her family, laughing with her five grandchildren, or playing pool with her husband and friends. With over 28 years of experience in the mortgage and real estate industry, Michelle's passion lies in helping clients and industry professionals navigate the complexities of the market. Her creative and dedicated approach allows her to see solutions that others might miss, helping thousands secure home financing. Michelle remains a vital resource by staying updated on the latest mortgage programs and real estate marketing techniques, striving to simplify the mortgage process and ensure her clients make informed decisions during and after their home-buying experience. |
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James A. Hopkinson | Jim Hopkinson is one of the founding partners of Hopkinson & Abbondanza, a distinguished law firm. Jim's educational background includes a B.A. from Bates College in Lewiston and a J.D. from the University of Maine School of Law in Portland. He is a valued member of the Maine State and Cumberland Bar Associations and holds admission to practice in all Maine Courts, including the U.S. District Court. With a wealth of knowledge in real estate law, Jim has co-authored a treatise on the subject, establishing himself as an authority in the field. Additionally, he lends his expertise as an expert witness, providing invaluable testimony in real estate matters. Jim's passion for sharing knowledge extends to his role as a lecturer, where he has contributed his insights to esteemed institutions such as the University of Southern Maine, the Institute for Real Estate Education, the American Institute of Banking, and the National Business Institute. With his extensive legal background, commitment to excellence, and reputation as a respected lecturer and author, Jim Hopkinson is a trusted legal professional who consistently delivers outstanding results for his clients. |
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Richard J. Abbondanza | Richard Abbondanza is a founding partner at the esteemed law firm of Hopkinson & Abbondanza in Portland. With an impressive educational background, Richard obtained his undergraduate degree cum laude from Amherst College and his law degree from Catholic University of America. He is an esteemed member of various professional organizations, including the Maine Estate Planning Council and WealthCounsel, a national association of estate planning attorneys and advisors. Richard's commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by his completion of the two-year Laureate Program at the Southern California Institute. Admitted to practice in all Maine courts, Richard is highly regarded for his expertise in estate planning, retirement planning, and real estate and business succession planning. A sought-after speaker, he frequently presents on these subjects, sharing his insights and knowledge with audiences. With Richard Abbondanza's extensive experience, dedication to his clients, and expertise in estate planning and related areas, he is a trusted legal professional who consistently provides top-quality service. |
| Jeff Kilburn | Jeff Kilburn is a highly skilled professional with a diverse background in education and work experience. He graduated from Westbrook High School and went on to achieve an Associates Degree in Maine Tool Technology from Southern Maine Community College. Jeff's career began at SD Warren, where he excelled as a Millwright Machinist. In 1998, he founded Riverside Home Inspections, Inc. and currently serves as the Owner/Inspector. Jeff holds numerous licenses and certifications, including being a licensed and certified Air and Water Radon Tester, a State of Maine Certified Shoreline Septic Inspector, and a State of Maine Licensed Pest Inspector for FHA/VA inspections. Additionally, he possesses certifications in OSHA Residential Compliance Laws and Regulations, as well as Pool and Spa Operation. With extensive expertise in heating, plumbing, and air conditioning systems, along with a deep understanding of repair procedures and costs, Jeff brings over 20 years of invaluable knowledge and proficiency as a Maine Inspection Specialist. |
