Creating Community Through Real Estate & Relationships

Why connection, creativity, and contribution fuel my passion for real estate

I asked AI and he responded.

I typed a few words into Google’s search bar and AI answered. It’s incredible how fast AI can gather information. But that’s only part of the story. What really matters is the heart behind the work.

AI got it right when it said:

Debbi DiMaggio loves real estate because it allows her to connect with and help diverse people, leverage her design and marketing skills to prepare and sell homes, and contribute to her community by mentoring and coaching others within the industry.

That description was spot on.

Here are the top three reasons she loves real estate:

1. Connecting with and helping people:

DiMaggio enjoys meeting new people from various backgrounds and building authentic relationships by hearing their stories and working to achieve their goals. She finds satisfaction in guiding clients through potentially complex transactions and making a positive impact on their lives. 

2. Leveraging her design and marketing acumen:

A significant aspect of her enjoyment comes from the creative process of transforming a home from "lived in" to "staged to sell". She uses her design and style sense, managing various aspects of the preparation process from coordinating contractors to photographers, to help sellers maximize their investment. 

3. Mentoring and community contribution:

DiMaggio is passionate about helping other agents and aspiring real estate professionals achieve success. Through coaching and mentoring, she emphasizes collaboration and giving back to the community, which solidifies her reputation and expands her business. 

The Story Behind It

I love to write. I enjoy sharing stories that inspire, motivate, and spark new ideas. My hope is that a reader walks away with a spark of inspiration or insight they can apply to their own life.

For years, I’ve contributed to Piedmont Living Magazine. Piedmont is more than where I grew up—it’s where we raised our children, built our business, and continue to serve. My parents still live here, which makes the community even more meaningful.

Making Connections & Building Friendships

A gentleman named Bill emailed me recently asking for a “time of death” letter—just one of the many complimentary services we provide.

In my weekly BNI meeting, I always let colleagues know: introduce me to anyone—whether they’re ready to buy or sell in one month, two years, or even five. It’s never too early to start a conversation.

I don’t farm for sales; I cultivate relationships. I lead with guidance, care, and connection. And when Bill reached out, I was thrilled.

In just one week, I visited with Bill three times. Each visit was a gift: hearing his life’s story, learning about his long marriage, sharing his love of wine and hosting, and even talking about coins.

By Friday, we found ourselves together at Cato’s with Velma, my 89-year-old friend, checking on those coins and sharing laughs. What began as a professional request became a beautiful new friendship.

Beyond Real Estate

The coins weren’t worth more than face value—but the connection was priceless.

Relationships like these remind me that community is wealth. True success isn’t measured by transactions, but by the friendships, trust, and joy we build along the way.

I’ll continue to follow Bill’s journey. And I wouldn’t be surprised if one day you find Bill, Velma, his pal, and me enjoying lunch together at Cato’s patio. In fact, when we left the other day, the waitress cheerfully called out:

“Bye Bill, see you next week, same time!”

Now that’s community.

Thank you for reading. I hope it ignited a spark within you. And if so, let me know how it did. I’d be honored to hear your story.

XOXO! Debbi

Created by Debbi DiMaggio — Realtor, Author, Coach, and Podcast Host. Inspiring connection, creativity, and collaboration in real estate and beyond.

Debbi writes on community, collaboration, care, consistency and creativity, her 5 C’s of Real Estate, Relationships and Entrepreneurship.

Listen to her Podcast @DebbiPodcast.com

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