a look at... REAL ESTATE
Terry and Tanner Tillung
Terry Tillung has become one of the most well-known names
in real estate in the Tampa Bay area and the Gulf Coast by
building the foundation of her success on a commitment to
quality service and professional integrity. Terry and her son,
Tanner, work together representing two generations with a
common goal of helping to make real estate dreams become a
reality. Their partnership is a collaboration of their strengths
that creates an unmatched and fully personalized real estate
experience for their clients.
After having worked with American Airlines for years,
Terry decided to take the plunge and pursue a career in real
estate. Terry’s energy and passion are positively contagious.
When she is not with a client, she’s likely practicing yoga,
or with her husband, Todd, spending time with friends and
family.
Tanner’s passion for real estate comes from his extensive
travels both domestic and abroad. His long-term goal is
to develop master-planned communities that co-exist
with nature. He has the natural gift of making people feel
comfortable and a true love for Tampa Bay, where he was
born and raised.
What’s it like to work with family?
Terry: In one sense, it’s easy. You already know the other
person’s values, strengths, and weaknesses. It makes
working together more seamless because you can use each
other’s expertise. The tricky part is separating work time
from family time.
Tanner: It’s rewarding. My mom has been in the real estate
industry for 23-plus years, so I’ve been fortunate to learn
from her experience, while still having the opportunity to
bring my own experiences to the table.
What do you think is your secret to success?
Terry: If I told you, it wouldn’t be a secret anymore. I can say,
however, that we sell properties that others cannot. Our system
and plan is proven to work, as our success can demonstrate.
Tanner: I don’t think it’s a big secret. We listen to our clients.
What projects or activities are you currently involved
in that excite you?
Terry: I believe strongly in giving back to the community.
I’ve recently joined a foundation called Hammers and
Heels. It’s an exceptional group of women who support
the mission of Habitat for Humanity and the Homeless
Empowerment Program.
Tanner: I’m involved with the Urban Land Institute
as well as the Tampa Chapter of the U.S. Green Building
Council. I believe both serve an awesome role in working
toward bringing clean energy and sustainability to our
community.
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Who is your role model?
Terry: The first person that comes to mind is my managing
broker at Coldwell Banker, Debra McMillen. She has taught
me a fresh approach to working with my clients.
Tanner: I have two – Warren Buffett and Tony Robbins.
Best advice anyone has ever given you?
Terry: The only person I can control is myself.
Tanner: Follow your dreams. Invest in real estate.
How do you relax?
Terry: Yoga.
Tanner: Meditation, exercise and travel.
What does a day in your life look like?
Terry: Showings, listing appointments, photographers,
staging, paperwork, meeting with clients, appraisers,
14-day reviews, returning phone calls. Volunteering.
Tanner: That’s the great thing about this business – every
day is different. I do have some consistencies day-to-day, like
studying the market, calling clients, showing properties and
taking a sunset run on the beach to relax. Ultimately, we are
here to help our clients. That might mean staging a vacant
property, keeping a deal together during negotiations,
offering advice on preparing a property for sale, or trailering
a boat over to a waterfront home for an open house event.
We’re always on our toes.
Why do you do what you do?
Terry: I’ve always been driven, but through these 23 years,
my journey in real estate has shifted. Now, I do what I do to
help my clients and give back to my community.
Tanner: Real estate is a passion of mine. I love waking up
every morning to see the changes within our local market.
It is so amazing to see how much Clearwater, Tampa and
St. Pete have grown within the past 10 years with more than
1,000 people moving to this state every day. Our Tampa Bay
area has reaped one of the fastest real estate appreciations
in the United States. All in all, selling real estate is fulfilling
for me. It allows me to help people find a place they can call
“home.”
What sets you apart in your industry?
Terry: We have a consultative approach that is unique.
Being able to collaborate and play off of each other’s
strengths gives us the real estate edge.
Tanner: Aside from the benefit of working as a team,
I would say that my drive, dedication to my clients and
my investment background set me apart.
What is your motto?
Terry: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
Tanner: Live life to the fullest.
How would you describe yourself?
Terry: Determined and thankful.
Tanner: Outgoing, self-motivated, always up for a
challenge. 9
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