David Rice
Founder
Tom Chisholm
President
Keith McKinney
People Development
Mary Lindeman
Corporate Operations
Nate Amidon
Sales Strategy
Jeff Menzel
Sales Leadership
David Rice
Founder
David Rice is the founder and architect of New Home Star. For more than 13 years, he has been a technology disruptor, home building industry expert, and sales and marketing authority.
In 2008, David recognized an opportunity to sell homes differently — he wanted to create a company for salespeople built by salespeople and powered by the most collaborative and comprehensive new home sales enablement platform. New Home Star is the modern home sales management firm that puts career growth first and uses data and technology to better sales performance. Its full-time team of developers constantly iterates on New Home Star’s proprietary in-house technology to create a platform that fosters close-knit teams, efficiency, friendly competition, and connection.
For nearly a decade before founding New Home Star, David led Pulte Homes as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for their DiVosta, Del Webb, and Pulte brands. During his time there, he led Pulte’s top-performing division to nearly $1 billion in single-year sales revenue, set the state record for the most new homes sold in Michigan in a single year, and was named the youngest vice president in a Fortune 150 home building company with more than 14,000 employees.
David has been recognized for his technology innovation in the new home sales space, his people-first focus that results in revolutionary ideas, and a team that now works with some of the biggest builders in the U.S. and Canada. He was named one of Glassdoor’s Top CEOs of 2018 and was named an Entrepreneur of the Year® 2021 Finalist.
David holds degrees from the University of Michigan and Harvard Business School. He is married to his junior high school sweetheart and has three children. In addition to leading the New Home Star team, he is the Founder and Chairman of the charitable organization Debbie’s Closet™.
Achievements
- Glassdoor Top CEOs 2018
- Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2021 Finalist
Tom Chisholm
President
Serving as President for New Home Star, Tom Chisholm is charged with overseeing builder operation consistency across all divisions. Given his extensive executive-level experience with very prominent home builders spanning over 20 years, Tom’s unmatched expertise and strategically-minded approach are extremely valuable to New Home Star’s operations. In nearly every position he has held, Tom has excelled up the corporate ladder, exceeding expectations and consistently showcasing his outstanding industry knowledge.
After serving as a Regional and National Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Pulte Homes, Tom operated as President for one of the most prominent home builders in Canada, Trico Homes. New Home Star promises consistent excellence in sales operations and value for all clients, and Tom oversees the entire sales management team to ensure this is true at all times.
Tom received a Bachelor’s degree in Building Construction Management from Michigan State University, and his knowledge and excellence within this industry has continued to grow ever since. He is one of the most strategic, forward-thinking, and knowledgeable leaders at our organization, and the value he provides to both New Home Star and all associated builder partners is unprecedented.
Keith McKinney
People Development
Keith McKinney is one of the most dynamic leaders in the new home sales industry. As the Vice President of Organizational Development, he is directly responsible for personnel development on all tiers of New Home Star, application of our national sales training programs, and maximizing the sales performance of all associates across each division. Keith's vast understanding of the new home sales process combined with his unique and commanding leadership style has propelled him to play a vital role in several other organizations, and our own.
Keith is an award-winning sales and management professional who has been operating in the new home industry for more than two decades and has been with our organization through its very inception. Throughout his career, he has been recognized as National Sales Leader of the Year, State Sales Manager of the Year, and Regional Sales Professional of the Year. Through these accolades, Keith has shown an expertise in expert-level sales training, organizational management, community marketing analysis, and people development. Keith’s strong belief that New Home Star offers individuals a unique place where they can find the resources needed to have an excellent career beyond their own vision of themselves is what motivates him in his position to be a leader in driving the award-winning culture at New Home Star.
He finds joy in watching people achieve their maximum potential while being an integral part of their career path along the way. To further develop his skills, Keith received an MBA from American Public University and is currently in the process of obtaining his Doctorate in Organizational Leadership. In addition to his studies, he also serves as a member of the University of South Florida’s Digital Marketing Advisory Board and the National Sales Network. Outside of his many responsibilities, Keith enjoys spending time with family, working on musical composition, and carries a love for theater arts.
Achievements
- 2018 Sales Leader of the Year
- Dallas/Fort Worth Sales Manager of the Year
Mary Lindeman
Corporate Operations
Mary Lindeman currently serves as the Vice President of Builder Operations for New Home Star. With almost a decade of experience at New Home Star, Mary was able to develop and foster her profession in one of the most volatile times in the industry.
Mary's tenacity to succeed while doing meaningful work helped her persevere through the entire Career Path at New Home Star. She has worked in our Chicago, Oregon, and northern Colorado divisions as Director of Sales and also oversaw sales operations in Texas and Florida as a Senior Sales Director. She now spearheads installing operations with new and expanding builder partners, implements national builder initiatives, and leads the national Online Sales division. Mary also provides support to the company through strategic marketing, management consulting, and business development, and she was named the 2018 & 2020 Leader of the Year.
Starting as a Sales Manager in Chicago and quickly moving into several Director roles, her unrelenting work ethic and involvement in the organization have brought unprecedented value. Born and raised in Michigan, Mary received her Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Central Michigan University. She currently lives in Chicago, IL but has provided her vast knowledge, commitment, expertise, and work ethic to this organization wherever she has been needed.
Achievements
- 2018 Corporate Leader of the Year
- 2020 Corporate Leader of the Year
Nate Amidon
Sales Strategy
Serving as Regional Vice President, Nate Amidon oversees all sales and operations for our builder partners in the southeast. As one of the longest-tenured team members at New Home Star, Nate has been an integral part of building New Home Star from the ground up. With more than a decade of experience in new home sales and sales management, he brings a unique perspective shaped from working with three of the largest private builders in the country, as well as mid-sized builders all located in various markets.
During his time with Pulte Homes, Nate was recognized as Top Sales Associate and awarded for achievements such as Best Performing Area in Chicago and Manager of the Community of the Year in 2010. In 2016, Nate received New Home Star’s Sales Leader of the Quarter award for his outstanding performance, and in 2017, he won the prestigious title of Sales Leader of the Year.
Nate strives to be the support individuals need in their life, whether that means being a coach, friend, critic, or voice of reason, and looks for any way that he can help others grow, just as people have done for him. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Philosophy from the University of Illinois and currently belongs to the National Association of Home Builders. Nate resides in central Florida with his wife and two young children, enjoying all that the Florida lifestyle has to offer — noting that trips to visit Mickey Mouse are plentiful these days.
Achievements
- Best Performing Area in Chicago
- 2010 Manager of the Community of the Year
- 2016 Sales Leader of the Quarter
- 2017 Sales Leader of the Year
Jeff Menzel
Sales Leadership
Regional Vice President Jeff Menzel lends over 25 years of new home sales experience to New Home Star’s executive team of seasoned industry experts. Partnering with our builders in Texas and the Central region, Jeff has acquired a proven track record of maximizing sales and expanding operations for the organization, and he works to increase New Home Star’s presence throughout the surrounding areas.
As one of New Home Star’s top instructors, Jeff specializes in new home sales operations, advanced marketing strategies, and business development. Jeff graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Building Construction Management and has held a number of executive positions within the home building industry.
Jeff is a true family man, noting that some of his biggest passions reside in his family life and four children. He is known for his leadership abilities and unique personality, and wants to be a mentor to others just like so many have been to him. He puts his full effort into being a part of the homeownership process and strives to provide the best possible customer experience for each and every individual who embarks on their homebuying journey.
Nick Czar
Midwest
Nick Czar, Vice President, oversees New Home Star’s sales operations in our Arizona, Wisconsin, Texas, and Illinois markets. Joining the organization in 2017, Nick brought forth over 16 years of experience and expertise in the home building industry after working for several large, public home builders. His vast knowledge and understanding of the industry led to him taking on a sales director role immediately, and he has been an extremely valuable asset to our leadership team and organization ever since.
Responsible for the upkeep of two high-performing divisions, Nick ensures consistency in sales, operational procedures, builder relations, and sales team engagement. From ensuring above-average sales performance, to proactively working with his builder partner to ensure optimal market positioning, he is an extremely tenured, valuable, and strategic leader that maintains the top-tier performance New Home Star promises to its clients.
After receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Central Michigan University, Nick went on to foster his marketing skills in combination with a successful career in sales for a wide variety of well-known home builders. He is currently in the process of obtaining his Master’s degree in Management from Harvard. Since joining New Home Star, Nick continues to climb the Career Path as a result of his stellar work, and he has won several awards including Sales Leader of the Quarter in 2017, SEVRAR Top 40 Under 40, and multiple sales volume and salesperson recognitions.
Achievements
- 2017 Sales Leader of the Quarter
- SEVRAR Top 40 Under 40
Jennifer Mencias
Midwest
As Senior Sales Director, Jennifer Mencias oversees the Toll Brothers account in Illinois, Michigan, and Florida. She is responsible for all sales operations, managing a team of sales agents across various communities, and ensuring goals and performance standards are met across all facets of the business. Prior to joining New Home Star, Jennifer worked on the marketing side of the real estate industry, and now works closely with her builder’s director of marketing to assist with professional development and growth of her builder partner.
Jennifer enjoys the relationships she has developed with her team members and strives to deliver top-notch service to her builder partner. She has a passion for coaching and mentoring her teammates, and hopes to help pave each individual’s path on their real estate journey. Jennifer is an award-winning sales and leadership professional and has received the 2020 Sales Leader of the Quarter award.
Jennifer has an Associate’s degree in Business Administration and is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree from DePaul University. She holds a managing broker license in Illinois, and has now worked in the industry for over 16 years. Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, horseback riding, and competitive dog showing, and is an advocate for child adoption.
Achievements
- 2020 Sales Leader of the Quarter
Austin Roff
Midwest
As Senior Sales Director, Austin Roff directly manages the Challenger Homes Colorado division and Empire Communities in Houston. He oversees the management of KPIs in each division along with ensuring that each division lives up to the organization’s mission and performs to its values. Working to influence and lead directors each day, Austin is directly responsible for assisting in leadership development and exceeding sales results for each builder partner.
Since starting with the company in 2013, Austin has excelled in his career path and has received several awards, including 2018 Sales Leader of the Quarter and 2019 Sales Leader of the Year. He is passionate about building high-functioning teams that provide each team member the opportunity to have a highly rewarding career and life.
Austin strives to be a motivating and influential force behind people’s growth and development in achieving their purpose. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University and is a member of the Colorado Association of Home Builders and the Colorado Springs Rotary Club. His family is the driving force behind everything he does, and he is an avid outdoorsman, enjoying everything that Colorado has to offer.
Achievements
- 2018 Sales Leader of the Quarter
- 2019 Sales Leader of the Year
Matt Esarey
Northwest
As Senior Sales Director, Matt Esarey’s primary responsibility is to provide support to sales leaders and their teams. This includes training, guidance, and collaboration in order to work towards set goals and objectives. He also assists in business development, execution, and developing sales professionals throughout the organization.
Matt began his journey with New Home Star in January of 2014, holding various management and director-level positions along the way. Through his various positions, Matt has gained expertise in New Home Star processes, systems, and training materials, and is well-equipped to lead his division to success. In 2018, he received the Sales Leader of the Quarter award.
Matt is passionate about coaching and mentoring, and strives to lead by example, helping to develop individuals along their personal and professional journey. He received a Bachelor's degree from Indiana University and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Bowling Green State University. Matt competes as a triathlete and ultramarathon runner, and enjoys fly fishing, backpacking, and spending time with his wife and two children.
Achievements
- 2018 Sales Leader of the Quarter
Susan Bolin
Northwest
As Sales Support Director, Susan Bolin provides strategic leadership and support to both local and national management teams. She participates in ongoing development, training, and mentorship with field sales leaders and team members alike for one of New Home Star’s largest clients, Hayden Homes.
Before joining New Home Star, Susan spent several years with two well-known builders throughout the country. Her sales and leadership experience in her previous positions have brought a unique combination of skills to her current role. Throughout the years, Susan has been recognized for top sales and revenue performance and received the 2016 Sales Leader of the Quarter award.
Susan is passionate about people and focuses her efforts on collaboration and development in order to create systems and processes that help sales professionals throughout the company. She has a background in graphic and interior design and belongs to the National Association of Realtors. In her free time, you’ll often find Susan cooking and baking, doing yoga, or gardening.
Achievements
- 2016 Sales Leader of the Quarter
Cliff Foster
Southeast
As a Senior Sales Director for our Maronda Homes Florida market, Cliff Foster’s primary responsibility is to give sales leaders and their individual sales teams the support they need to be successful. This includes training, guidance, and forecasting to work towards profitable and desirable outcomes.
In his previous position, Cliff worked his way up the corporate ladder, ultimately landing a position as Vice President of multiple divisions and markets for a Fortune 500 company for over 20 years. He is a people person and loves to communicate with others, using this passion in his current position every day. From daily interaction with directors and sales agents, Cliff enjoys seeing how his conversations with each individual can help build a strong team capable of immense sales success.
Since joining New Home Star in 2015, Cliff has made his presence known in the company and was named Sales Leader of the Quarter in 2019. He’s an avid fisherman and enjoys everything the outdoors can offer him.
Achievements
- 2019 Sales Leader of the Quarter
- 2021 Sales Leader of the Year
Gary San Soucie
Southeast
Gary San Soucie is the Sales Director of the Huntsville Division of Goodall Homes. He assists in the growth, development, and mentorship of sales professionals throughout the organization, while working closely with his builder partner to aid in business development. Gary enjoys being able to wake up each day and have the ability to try to make everyone he supervises better than himself. He is passionate about getting to know everyone on his team and assisting them in any way possible to achieve their goals.
Gary is a 20-year Veteran of the U.S. Air Force. In his last position, he was a Superintendent of Education and Training for Air Combat Command on Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma. He lived in Stuttgart, Germany for over five years and holds a Military Relocation Professional (MRP) certification.
Gary’s out-of-the-box thinking pushes him to bring value to everybody he comes across, whether personal or professional. He was named Sales Leader of the Quarter in 2019 and 2021 and holds many credentials, including a Bachelor’s degree in Operations from Southwestern College, Associate’s degrees in Education & Training and Information Management from the Community College of the Air Force, and a Six Sigma Green Belt certification. Gary and his wife, whom he’s known since he was eight years old, have four children, two English Bulldogs, a Golden Doodle, and a Miniature Poodle.
Achievements
- 2019 Sales Leader of the Quarter
- 2021 Sales Leader of the Quarter
Nicole Trazzera
Southeast
As Sales Director for our Maronda Homes Melbourne division, Nicole Trazzera oversees each community and works closely with her sales team to provide mentorship, training, and support. In tandem with her builder pattern, Nicole provides strategic recommendations to ensure sales success and execution across all levels of the organization.
Prior to joining New Home Star in 2019, Nicole held several management and director-level positions working for over 15 years marketing and selling properties in and around New York City, gaining valuable experiences she has now brought to her current position. Nicole’s ambition, drive, and leadership ability have helped her become one of the most successful leaders to date in the organization. In 2020, she received New Home Star’s Sales Leader of the Year award.
Nicole is passionate about being the best leader she can to the group of sales professionals that she influences daily. She strives to impact their lives for the better to help them achieve their personal ‘next level.’ Nicole enjoys spending time with her husband, two children, and rescue Boxer, and is a frequent beachgoer.
Achievements
- 2020 Sales Leader of the Year
Michael Scott
Southeast
As Sales Director for our client, Maronda Homes, Michael Scott runs the sales operations throughout the Orlando North area, including managing sales agents, overseeing each community, and creating strategies to increase sales throughout his division. He’s an award-winning sales professional who brings a vast range of experiences, first starting in Human Resources at the New Home Star Corporate office to later transitioning out into the field to represent our clients.
Michael enjoys the environment of the real estate industry with new challenges arising every day, and he takes pride in having the opportunity to provide the American Dream to customers. Once Michael transitioned to the selling floor, he received several top sales volume awards in his division and from the organization as a whole, including the 2017 Corporate Member of the Year award.
Michael holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Elmhurst University. He is a sports enthusiast and a big Chicago sports fan — Chicago Cubs to ensure no confusion. He’s been a great example of the advancement that New Home Star allows, and the organization has enjoyed watching him grow since starting his journey with the company in 2013.
Achievements
- 2017 Corporate Leader of the Year
Mike Fujihira
Midwest
Mike Fujihira is a Sales Director responsible for the staffing and management of the William Ryan Homes Wisconsin and Illinois divisions. His primary responsibilities include training, mentoring, and supporting sales teams throughout his division, as well as working closely with his builder partner to ensure sales success across all communities.
Prior to joining New Home Star, Mike served in the U.S. Army as a Cavalry Scout Leader. After leaving the military, he was a Floor Leader, Trainer, and Manager in multiple retail sales positions before working in B2B magazine advertising as a National Sales Manager. He has received numerous awards including Salesperson of the Month, Quarter, and Year from his builder, Top Net Sales and Sales Volume, and New Home Star’s Rockstar of the Month.
He takes pride in having the ability to be part of the American Dream for many happy homeowners by getting to be an integral part of their home building process, and he enjoys helping sales associates realize their full potential and see more success than they ever thought possible. Mike received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Cardinal Stritch University. He is a member of the Japanese American Citizens League and a coach for the Miracle League of Dane County. His number one passion is his family — his wife and young son. You may also find him cheering on the Brewers and Packers or taking his coveted truck on a hunting expedition.
Achievements
- 2021 Sales Leader of the Quarter
Jodi Palin
Midwest
As Sales Director, Jodi Palin manages all sales and community marketing for our client, Inspired Homes. She coaches and mentors her sales team while aiming to reach maximum profitability for the company, bringing a wealth of experience from previously serving as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Kansas City’s largest home builder.
She is an award-winning sales professional and was the recipient of the 2018 NAHB Sales Manager of the Year award. In her current position, Jodi enjoys being able to influence salespeople and see them achieve things they may never have thought possible. Her leadership and mentorship abilities make her a valuable asset to the organization.
Jodi is passionate about health and wellness and is an avid reader. Born and raised in Canada, she moved to the States and now resides in Kansas City near her two sons. She enjoys spending time outdoors — playing pickleball, hiking, and gardening — and is a member of Midwest Hiking and Adventure. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Manitoba but went on to become a licensed Realtor in Kansas and Missouri, now a member of the Kansas City Realtor Association and Kansas City HBA.
Achievements
- 2018 NAHB Sales Manager of the Year
Kristin Sweezea
Northwest
As Sales Director, Kristin Sweezea trains, coaches, and develops our Hayden Homes South Washington team. She works closely with her division president and builder partner to strategize sales, manage construction and closings, and ensure homebuyer satisfaction throughout her division.
Since joining New Home Star in 2014, Kristin has advanced along the organization's Career Path, beginning as a Sales Associate to now being Sales Director. She finds passion in being out in the field, interacting with homebuyers, and supporting each of her team members in their long- and short-term goals as they travel along their journey in the real estate industry.
Through her 14 years with Hayden Homes and seven with New Home Star, Kristin’s experiences and knowledge have been instrumental in the growth of her division. She is the recipient of several awards, including Hayden Homes’ Community Manager of the Year and Highest Net Sales, and New Home Star’s 2018 Sales Leader of the Quarter. You’ll often find Kristin at the gym or spending time with her husband and three children.
Achievements
- 2018 Sales Leader of the Quarter
Elizabeth Blissett
Southeast
Elizabeth Blissett serves as the Director of Online Sales Operations. She is a purpose-led, dynamic executive leader who builds and develops high-performing sales teams. After over a decade of driving sales growth in the real estate industry, Elizabeth knows what truly drives exceptional results is how well you connect with the heart of the people you work for and beside.
Elizabeth leads by example, always doing her best and encouraging others to do the same. She is a co-founder of the New Home Star Wellness Committee and the 15 Minutes of Wellness podcast, for which she also serves as Co-Host.
Before joining New Home Star, Elizabeth held various positions ranging from sales and broker affairs to marketing and management. In addition to her extensive sales and marketing experience, she is a trained leadership coach. Elizabeth holds an MBA from Rollins College, a Bachelor’s degree from Bentley University, and certifications in Business Analytics and Full Stack Computer Development.
Elizabeth is also an active volunteer. She regularly collaborates with our in-house Giving Every Moment (GEM) program and is a member of Toastmaster International, a non-profit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills. Elizabeth enjoys traveling, cycling, reading, and kayaking when she is out of the office. She is a nature lover and draws inspiration from being outdoors.
Kyle Verbeek
Northwest
As Sales Director for our Hayden Homes’ Idaho division, Kyle Verbeek assists in training, mentorship, and support of his sales team. He provides strategic and tactical sales leadership and management, including recruiting, selecting, developing, and overseeing each community.
Prior to joining the organization in 2017, Kyle worked for multiple builders, gaining valuable experience to use in his current managerial role. He consistently leads by example and demonstrates success in many facets of his career, receiving several awards from his builder, including 2018 Top 10 Salesperson, 2018 Community of the Year, and 2018 Salesperson of the Year in Tampa North.
Kyle is passionate about leading and growing teams and enjoys working with different people from all different backgrounds and skill sets. Seeing his team work towards one common goal and reaching success is a rewarding and empowering sight to him. He received a Bachelor's degree in Finance from Sacred Heart University and was an NCAA Division I Hockey player for four years there. Kyle resides in Idaho with his wife, son, and yellow lab.
Achievements
- 2018 Top 10 Salesperson - Hayden Homes
- 2018 Community of the Year - Hayden Homes
- 2018 Salesperson of the Year Tampa North
Russ Dowell
Northwest
As Sales Director for our Hayden Homes Inland Northwest division, Russell Dowell is responsible for leading a sales team to success while providing a world-class customer experience. He works closely with his builder partner and Regional Director to execute pricing, marketing, and sales strategies to ensure an optimal approach to business operations.
Russell loves the relationships he gets to develop with his team, as well as the assistance he’s able to give them in working towards their goals. His consistent work ethic and commitment to the organization were noticed early on, and he has moved along the organization’s Career Path, first starting off as Selling Sales Manager and now transitioning into his Sales Director role.
Every day, he is driven to be an example of hard work, love, and faith so that one day he can look back and be proud of the work he’s done and the lives he’s touched along the way. Russell has been awarded New Home Star’s Rockstar of the Month award for his leadership and dedication to his position and company as a whole. In his free time, Russell spends as much time as he can with his three children, is a summer enthusiast, and has a special interest in mastering his barbecuing techniques.
Jeff Satterfield
Southeast
Jeff Satterfield is the Sales Director of our Maronda Homes Tampa North division. His wide range of responsibilities includes managing sales, assisting with marketing strategies, overseeing budgets, and providing support to his builder partner and all associates throughout his entire division. Jeff brings over 25 years of experience in the real estate industry, working with one of the nation’s top home builders and receiving many salesperson and sales performance awards throughout the years.
Jeff strives to provide the best life for his family and the highest quality experience to his customers. He is passionate about the real estate industry and enjoys the varying responsibilities of his position, along with the ability to influence and support his entire team daily.
He studied Civil Engineering in college and went on to receive his real estate license in Florida, now a member of the Tampa Realtors Association. Jeff is a big sports fan, playing football and basketball in high school and now taking on golf in his free time. He’s a resident of sunny Florida where he enjoys spending time with his two daughters.
Kyle Morford
Southeast
As Sales Manager of our Maronda Homes Columbus, OH division, Kyle Morford’s main role is to support his sales team in every way possible. He provides strategic and tactical sales leadership and management, including recruiting, selecting, developing, and overseeing his team while working closely with his builder partner to assist in business development and execution.
Kyle started with New Home Star as a Sales Trainee in 2016 and has quickly moved along the organization’s Career Path. His current position offers him the opportunity to truly be involved in the lives of his team members, which allows him to help each individual evolve both personally and professionally. Because of his successful leadership, Kyle earned New Home Star’s Rockstar of the Month award.
Kyle is passionate about helping others grow and develop into the best version of themselves, and his position allows him to use this passion every day. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Eastern Michigan University. Kyle is a big sports fan, frequently playing soccer, basketball, and baseball, and enjoys spending time with his wife and two labrador retrievers.
Michelle Storms
Southeast
As Sales Director for our Maronda Homes’ Tampa South division, Michelle Storms coaches and mentors sales associates, works closely with her builder partner, and assists in negotiations, planning, and training throughout her entire division. She is the main player in strategizing the day-to-day operations between her sales team and builder partner, helping to drive sales and foster relationships in the field.
Michelle comes to New Home Star with over 12 years of experience in the real estate industry, including working as a Sales Manager for the nationally recognized builder, DR Horton. She is driven by watching her team members reach their goals and see first-hand how this industry changes their lives for the better.
The ever-changing nature of her position and the ability to impact people on a daily basis are rewarding to Michelle. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Retail Management from the University of Arizona, and holds a real estate license in multiple states. When not managing her division, Michelle enjoys all that Florida has to offer, especially spending time at the beach with her family.
Katie Brown
Southeast
Katie Brown is the Sales Director for our Maronda Homes Jacksonville division. Her responsibilities include developing a divisional sales strategy, managing all sales plans, developing and coaching team members, proactively monitoring the competition to gather market data and intelligence, and working closely with her builder partner on all levels.
Katie realized her passion for real estate and, since then, has consistently shown her dedication and talent in the field. One of her greatest joys is watching her team succeed, and she is constantly working to assess opportunities to assist in developing her team members while helping the organization maximize profitability along the way.
Katie earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electronic Media and Marketing from the University of Miami, FL. From there, she joined the new home sales industry while also working in the marketing field. She has been a member of the Forbes Real Estate Council since 2017 and, on the side, enjoys traveling, yoga, and spending time with her daughter and two rescue dogs.
Achievements
- 2021 Sales Leader of the Quarter
Victoria Ringhausen
Midwest
As Sales Manager for Special Projects, Victoria Ringhausen’s major roles include managing projects across Texas as well as national operations for our Toll Brothers client. She also helps to onboard and train new associates for Toll Brothers across the country and provides management support to our Davidson Homes’ sales team. Victoria’s talent for mentorship and support is channeled in her additional responsibility of visiting struggling communities to reframe marketing strategies and adjust best practices in order to strategize and rebuild community operations.
Prior to joining New Home Star, Victoria worked in a retail sales role, eventually working her way up to a General Manager. There she learned effective sales and leadership techniques, which she has successfully put to use in her current role. Watching the light bulb go off when sales techniques click with associates for the first time is one of the most rewarding aspects about her current position.
Victoria realized her passion for the real estate industry and fell in love with the New Home Star culture. Since joining the organization in 2016, she has worked her way up from a Sales Trainee role and has been named New Home Star’s Rockstar of the Month in addition to receiving several sales volume awards, including 2018 Top Sales Performer. You can catch her at any opera or musical that she has the opportunity to see, or spending time with her golden retriever.
Achievements
- 2018 Top Sales Performer
Preston Hoke
Southwest
As Sales Manager, Preston Hoke manages Davidson Homes in Houston and Casina Creek Homes in San Antonio. His primary responsibilities reside in strategic planning, customer service, mentoring, and community development. He leads his sales teams, directly assisting in the training and coaching of each individual in order to guide them in becoming successful sales professionals. His leadership qualities along with extensive knowledge of business development, helps him assist in the management of builder operations throughout his divisions.
Throughout his education, Preston decided to follow a career in construction and, from there, obtained his real estate license in Colorado. He began his career as a Site Superintendent for Challenger Homes as he had a goal to learn how to build a home before he sold it. There, he got recruited by New Home Star and joined the organization in 2015, ultimately realizing sales was his true passion. Preston was named a 2017 Top Sales Performer, and he received the 2020 Sales Leader of the Quarter award.
Preston strives to help people achieve their goals both personally and professionally. When he was younger, he quickly realized that a home is where dreams and memories are made, and, since then, he’s had a desire to help people obtain that. He is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hunting, skiing, and riding his motorcycle or dirt bikes, and spends as much time as he can playing or watching sports alongside his two dogs.
Achievements
- 2017 Top Sales Performer
- 2020 Sales Leader of the Quarter
Lindsay Klaassen
Northwest
As Sales Director for our Hayden Homes division in Central Oregon, Lindsay Klaassen manages day-to-day operations throughout her division, oversees local communities, and assists her team members in management and selling tasks. She provides support, mentorship, and guidance to her sales team and works closely with her builder partner throughout each community.
Since joining New Home Star in 2015 as a Sales Trainee, Lindsay has seen significant success at each stage of the Career Path and has been acknowledged for her sales and leadership performance along the way. She enjoys the collaboration and teamwork she does daily and thrives in a fast-paced position that requires adaptability, noting it makes each day have a sense of excitement and surprise.
Lindsay received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Oregon State University. She is passionate about being involved in others’ successes, and enjoys watching and helping her team members achieve their goals. Lindsay is an outdoor enthusiast who loves hiking, kayaking, and snowboarding, also enjoying traveling abroad and exploring new places.
Madeline Schoppert
Southeast
Madeline Schoppert serves as Sales Manager for our Gallery Homes of DeLand sales team in Florida. Her main responsibilities include bridging the communication between her sales team and builder to ensure processes and policies are being followed, assisting her builder partner in business development, and leading her sales team to success.
Since joining the organization as a Sales Associate in 2015, Madeline has progressed and developed in each position, showcasing excellence at every level. Her leadership and dedication to her team help her continually develop top-performing sales professionals. She has a passion for coaching and strives to help each of her team members learn and grow both personally and professionally.
Working to provide the best life possible for her family is what drives Madeline each and every day. She previously served as President of the DeLand Women’s Organization and is also a committee member for her local Volusia Builder Industry Association. Madeline was Miss America Teen in 2009, and you’ll often find her relaxing with her family at the beach, fishing with her dad, and being her sons’ cheerleader at their baseball games.
Kristine Golden
Southeast
Kristine Golden is a Sales Director for our Maronda Homes client in Orlando, Florida. She is responsible for providing leadership and guidance for the day-to-day operations of her sales team, which includes ensuring client and customer goals and expectations are met, fostering the builder relationship and developing business, as well as actively networking and promoting New Home Star throughout the market.
Kristine comes to us with over 18 years of experience in real estate, 12 of which is new home construction. Kristine served as a consistent top performer, ultimately earning the 2018 Salesperson of the Year award by K Hovnanian Homes and qualifying for the President's Club with various builders over the years. Since joining New Home Star in 2019, Kristine was named one of the winners in our first-ever Top Gun contest and a graduate from our Leadership Development Program.
She is passionate about health and wellness — she has a black belt in Taekwondo and is a licensed massage therapist and certified personal trainer. She loves spending time at the beach enjoying the Florida sunshine, has a heart for helping others, and is a total foodie. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida and is a licensed Florida Real Estate Salesperson and a Florida Real Estate Broker.
Achievements
- 2018 Salesperson of the Year
Greg Spohn
Northeast
As Sales Manager of our Maronda Homes’ Pittsburgh division, Greg Spohn provides leadership and development, manages builder partner relationships, builds and improves efficiencies and profitability, and works to provide excellent careers for our people. He strives to maximize the potential of each individual on his team, helping them to succeed and grow every day.
Prior to joining New Home Star in 2021, Greg held several managerial and director-level positions in various industries, ranging from IT to real estate. In his current role, he most enjoys building a more efficient and effective division, while selling more homes more profitably.
Greg holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management from Northern Arizona University. He’s the recipient of many sales and leadership awards. Over the years, Greg has lived in five different states and has passions for travel, family, and mental and physical fitness.
David Martin
Midwest
As Sales Manager of our Challenger Homes’ Colorado Springs division, David Martin’s primary responsibilities reside in strategic planning, customer service, mentoring, and community development. He leads his sales team, directly assisting in the training and coaching of each individual in order to guide them in becoming successful sales professionals.
Since joining the organization in 2017, David has worked his way up the career path to his current managerial role. He has completed the Mentoring and Educating New Sales Associates (MENSA) Program and Leadership Development Program (LDP), along with earning the Rockstar of the Month title. He most enjoys being able to engage and inspire his team to strive in being the best at what they do and leading them in the right direction.
David is an honorably discharged combat Veteran. His family is his deepest passion and commitment, and he is an Assistant State Director for the Veterans Golf Association. When not working, David enjoys golfing, snowboarding, and archery.
Taylor Holop
Corporate
As the Senior Director of Corporate Operations, Taylor Holop oversees the entire Chicago-based Corporate office and helps manage each support team member to ensure that they are happy and adequately assisting the field daily. Bringing a combination of experience and education to his role, Taylor has been a key member of New Home Star’s operations since joining the organization in 2013, and he received the 2017 Corporate Leader of the Year award.
During his tenure at New Home Star thus far, Taylor has assisted Founder, David Rice, with business development, introduction to and the onboarding of new clients and teams, and all legal operations. Recently, he has spearheaded the entire expansion process of New Home Star’s Corporate office in Elmhurst.
Taylor holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and Economics from Millsaps College as well as a Juris Doctor of Law Degree from the Mississippi College School of Law. The former NCAA collegiate athlete currently resides and is very involved in the Elmhurst community. Taylor enjoys hunting, sports, and spending time with his wife and four children.
Achievements
- 2017 Corporate Leader of the Year
Oren Jacobson
Market Strategy
Oren Jacobson serves as the Lead Market Analyst for New Home Star. Oren brings a combination of experience, education, and exposure to his role that is among the most unique in the industry. Over more than 15 years, Oren has had the opportunity to sell, market, and manage projects for every buyer profile, product type, and price point in the market across multiple regions. In this role, Oren focuses on driving systemic-level changes to improve organizational results.
In addition to this practical experience, Oren earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Strategic Management, a Master’s in Economics and Policy Analysis, and a Master's in International Relations from the University of Chicago. This blend of frontline, managerial, and educational insight has turned Oren into one of the most trusted analysts for New Home Star’s partners across the country.
Oren leverages deep empirical research and insight on consumer segmentation, microanalysis of local market trends, macroeconomic forecasting, and asset positioning comparisons to help builder partners identify how to best position their brand for success. He has also been a major contributor to New Home Star’s proprietary sales training processes, leveraging insights from the more than 20 markets he visits each year to identify trends and provide advanced proactive content to frontline employees. Oren is heavily engaged in civic work, serving on several non-profit boards and running his own non-profit organization.
Aaron Wagner
Training
Aaron Wagner operates as Senior Director of Organizational Development for New Home Star. In tandem with our Organizational Development team, Aaron oversees our Leadership Development Program (LDP), creates a wide host of training content and processes for sales associates and managers, and travels to New Home Star’s 30+ markets nationwide to assist with sales training and recruitment.
As one of the organization’s most successful leaders, Aaron has been recognized as the 2014 Salesperson of the Year (Colorado South Division), 2016 Sales Leader of the Quarter, 2018 Corporate Leader of the Year, and Pro Builder Top 40 Under 40. He finds it rewarding to watch individuals develop and grow both as leaders and as people, and, in his current position, he’s able to play a significant role in seeing and contributing to this growth on both the Corporate and Leadership levels.
He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communication from the University of Colorado - Colorado Springs and holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership with a Change Management specialization. Aaron currently resides in Florida but frequently makes his presence known in our markets across the nation. He plays a pivotal role in the continual development of our organization and continues to improve our processes and effectiveness year-round.
Achievements
- 2014 Salesperson of the Year - Colorado South Division
- 2016 Sales Leader of the Quarter
- 2018 Corporate Leader of the Year
- Pro Builder Top 40 Under 40
Heather Haner
Training
As a National Trainer, Heather Haner travels around the country training and offering support to sales agents and sales directors in any way that she can. She is responsible for recruiting new agents, assisting with marketing efforts, executing one-on-one sales training, and building culture within each division.
Heather brings many years of experience in management and director-level positions in the real estate industry, including a ten-year period as a Sales Counselor at Pulte Homes. Her leadership abilities and mentorship qualities make her someone who team members throughout the nation look to for guidance.
On a daily basis, Heather’s main goal is to lead others to success. She most enjoys brainstorming to find solutions that help create change on both a community and nationwide level. Heather received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology specializing in Behavior Modification from Oakland University, and she was named New Home Star’s 2018 Sales Leader of the Quarter. She is a mom to a teenage daughter and a foster parent to three children, and is also a Florida Department of Children and Families Foster Guardian.
Achievements
- 2018 Sales Leader of the Quarter
Jamie Pugh
Training
As the Director of Field Training, Jamie Pugh develops, implements, monitors, and maintains both initial and ongoing training programs across the company. He spearheads New Home Star’s Mentoring and Educating New Sales Associates (MENSA) program aimed at developing future mentors and leaders. As one of New Home Star’s longest-tenured sales professionals, Jamie spends much of his time traveling around the country training sales professionals as well as assisting in the further development of the organization's training platform.
Jamie has been with New Home Star since 2010 and has consistently made his presence known throughout the company. He has been referred to as the quiet heartbeat of New Home Star for his unique, patient, and personalized teaching style for each individual. He strives to help others become the best version of themselves, which truly shows through his daily interactions.
Jamie believes that everybody is unique, everyone will learn differently, and it is important to meet each person where they are and work with them to get them where they need to go. He truly pours his heart into his work throughout all facets of the organization. In 2019, Jamie received the Corporate Leader of the Year award for his outstanding performance both on the Corporate and leadership level, and he continues to make large strides in improving the organization in many areas nationwide.
Achievements
- 2019 Corporate Leader of the Year
Corey McPherson
Training
As Field Development Manager, Corey McPherson’s main responsibility is to identify and generate promotable individuals within New Home Star. He works closely with our Vice Presidents to develop training curriculum for sales leaders around the nation as well as mentoring and developing current employees.
Prior to joining New Home Star in 2014, Corey worked as a Licensed Insurance Representative and Assistant Branch Manager for two well-known companies. In his current position, he most enjoys the ability to connect and work alongside many people with similar goals. Helping and mentoring others as they work through challenges and guiding them along the way is a rewarding experience for him. In 2017, he received New Home Star’s Sales Leader of the Quarter award.
Corey earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Fairmont State University. He is passionate about helping others and having the ability to change people’s lives for the better. Connecting with others, building relationships with them, and influencing them in a positive way is what he strives for every day. While not searching for top talent, Corey enjoys traveling, experiencing new places and cultures, and trying any new cuisine he can.
Achievements
- 2017 Sales Leader of the Quarter
Erin Clark
Training
As Organizational Development Coordinator, Erin Clark develops training content for sales associates nationwide and spearheads development and project efforts throughout the organization. Erin has been a main component in the creation of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, and serves as the producer of New Home Star's Real Estate Rockstars podcast. Additionally, she serves as the co-creator, co-host, and producer of the organization’s 15 Minutes of Wellness podcast.
Erin brings a wide range of experiences to her current position, receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from Concordia College and a Master’s degree in Islamic Studies from the University of Chicago, with backgrounds in German and mathematics. She joined New Home Star as a Sales Associate in 2015 coming from her career in disability services, and worked her way up to Sales Manager, now having transitioned into a Corporate leadership role.
She most enjoys the opportunity to work across all departments to find common ground, enhance interpersonal experiences, and develop strategic solutions within the company. Being an initiator of change is a strength of Erin’s as she leads the charge in many organizational development initiatives. She is a certified dog trainer, can speak German and Arabic, and strives to immerse her and her team in learning in order to leave one another better than they found each other.
Carol Douis
Market Analysis
Carol Douis shares her experience and strengths on a broad range of special projects as well as supporting New Home Star’s builder and developer clients. Douis brings over 30 years of sales leadership experience to serve home builders and developers in the areas of new home operations, sales strategy, coaching, training, and organizational development.
Douis has a strong history of successfully maximizing sales effectiveness for both large regional and smaller division teams. In her current role, she enjoys consulting with her builders, developer, and other New Home Star leaders to structure data-driven sales strategies. Douis’ focus is on adding value to support all company efforts to become the best new home sales company in the world.
Carol is known to be the connector — fostering relationships and connecting people both personally and professionally. She is happiest when out in the field learning about the industry, walking homes, and watching developments take form. She is an inspirational leader who works to add value each day in an environment where she, herself, feels valued as well.
Dan White
Market Analysis
Dan White serves as Sales Director in our Hayden Homes Idaho market. While managing and leading his entire division, Dan specializes in new home sales and single-family new construction and provides his expertise to help his sales team grow and reach success. His purpose is to create an unparalleled building experience for his customers while helping builders sell more homes more profitably. His experience resides in sales management, team building, developing and building business relationships, and implementing and improving sales operations.
Dan finds enjoyment in unifying builder operations and field team members to create results greater than the sum of their parts, as well as positioning new land acquisitions strategically in order to maximize sales success. His efforts to support and empower those around him so they may realize their full potential and live their best life does not go unnoticed by his team members, and he received the 2017 Sales Leader of the Quarter award.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a focus on Positive Psychology, Organizational and Industrial Psychology, and Outdoor Leadership. While he’s not selling homes and leading his team, you may find Dan competing in Ultimate Frisbee tournaments internationally and throughout the country.
Achievements
- 2017 Sales Leader of the Quarter
Tiffany Smith
Business Development
As Business Development Manager, Tiffany Smith focuses on fostering new relationships with home builders while sharing New Home Star’s mission, vision, and capabilities. Her main goal is to nurture successful partnerships throughout the industry.
Prior to joining New Home Star, Tiffany worked in the real estate industry for a number of years with a focus on new home sales for some of the country’s most reputable builders among the Fortune 500, ranging from starter homes to fully customized luxury homes. She attended Drury University where she studied Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Human Services with an emphasis in Leadership. Tiffany has been the recipient of several awards, including the New Home Sales Exceptional Customer Experience award with 100% Enthusiasm and 100% Willingness to Refer, and New Home Consultant of the Quarter.
Tiffany is passionate about developing relationships with others and serving as a resource to help people live their most fulfilling, enriching, and purposeful lives possible. She strives to live her life with intentionality at the forefront of everything she does and works diligently to deliver exceptional service to everyone she encounters. Tiffany is a very involved member of her community for organizations such as Special Olympics, Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Miss America, VFW, and other local food banks and animal shelters. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and pups while experiencing all the joys that Texas has to offer!
Michael Coppers
Business Development
As Special Projects Manager, Michael Coppers works to promote and expand the New Home Star offering with new and existing clients. His primary responsibilities include showcasing the organization, developing tactics to continually grow the client base, and managing relationships across many levels.
Michael brings 15 years of experience working in educational leadership and nearly ten years in the real estate industry to his current position. He has a passion for working with education and compassion efforts worldwide along with teaching and mentoring others personally and professionally. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership.
Since starting his journey in the real estate industry, specifically new home sales, it has allowed Michael to create a life for his family that he’s always dreamed of. He received the Division Salesperson of the Year award in 2016, his first year on the selling floor with New Home Star, as well as being named a 2019 Top Sales Performer. Michael is an avid baseball fan who enjoys camping and traveling the world with his wife and two children.
Achievements
- 2016 Division Salesperson of the Year
- 2019 Top Sales Performer
Jessica Whiteman
Business Development
As Sales and Business Development Manager, Jessica Whiteman conducts research to identify new markets and customer needs and fosters relationships with home builders to nurture successful partnerships throughout the industry. In addition, she hires, trains, and deploys sales teams for all Midwest opportunities and provides onboarding, training, and management support for our Toll Brothers client.
Jessica joined New Home Star in 2017 as a Sales Assistant and has worked her way up to her management position — throughout this time, she has relocated with New Home Star across three different states. As a recipient of several awards, including the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Southeastern Michigan 2021 Sales Professional of the Year, New Home Star’s Rockstar of the Month, and numerous regional top sales volume and top net sales awards, Jessica’s dedication and success in the industry is apparent.
Jessica holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Communication from Arizona State University and completed New Home Star’s Leadership Development Program. Along with her extensive involvement with New Home Star, she is also a member of the Professional Women in Building Councils for both the HBA of Southeastern Michigan and the HBA of Greater Grand Rapids. Jessica is passionate about her family and strives to provide the best life for her children. She enjoys reading, traveling, and snowboarding, and she even lived in Western Canada for a period of time.
Achievements
- 2021 Sales Professional of the Year - HBA of Southeastern Michigan
Chris Laskowski
Marketing
As the Director of Marketing for New Home Star, Chris Laskowski oversees a diverse range of projects and manages our marketing team at the Corporate Support Office. He works to ensure that overall marketing efforts are at the highest level possible for company operations, including recruitment and business development marketing as well as internal initiatives such as contests and events. Chris is also tasked with overseeing our in-house marketing agency that offers design services for team members and clients nationwide.
Since joining the organization in 2012, Chris has been an integral part in the development and growth of the marketing department and the company as a whole. He takes pride in leading the marketing team and enjoys the opportunity to create, develop, and collaborate on so many unique and challenging initiatives. His main goal is to help individuals realize their full potential each day, and because of his leadership and support, he was awarded the 2017 Corporate Leader of the Year award.
Chris received a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Illinois at Chicago, is currently pursuing his Master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Northwestern University, and has received a certification in Digital Marketing from the University of South Florida. He loves the outdoors and views it as his second home, and he also likes to say he has the best and sweetest dog of all the Corporate office members, but that notion is still up for debate.
Achievements
- 2017 Corporate Leader of the Year
Erin Henderson
Marketing
As Assistant Marketing Manager, Erin Henderson leads the Experience team at the Corporate office. She works directly on all experience-based marketing and oversees the internal and external messaging for New Home Star. Erin also spearheads the planning and organization of company-wide initiatives each year and is a key player in the success and execution of each of these events.
Erin’s outstanding leadership and communication skills were realized early on, and she has quickly moved along the organization’s Career Path after starting as a Marketing and Communications Intern in 2016. In 2018, Erin received the Corporate Leader of the Year award for her exceptional performance supporting the Corporate team and field staff nationwide. Erin’s true passions reside in helping others and making a difference. With a natural knack for people, Erin is able to do that in her day-to-day responsibilities through our experience-based projects in the organization such as contests, events, gifting, and the charitable giving and volunteer programs.
She received a Bachelor’s degree in Communication from Saint Xavier University. Erin enjoys spending time with her loved ones, taking weekend trips to the lake, and indulging in a great meal out — breakfast is her favorite type of food and brunch is her go-to.
Achievements
- 2018 Corporate Leader of the Year
Adan Chance
Marketing
As Assistant Marketing Manager, Adan Chance leads the Sales Associate Marketing Initiative (SAMI) team at the Corporate office. His primary responsibilities include improving SAMI processes, developing brand identities, and further developing all brand assets while supporting his team and builder partners nationwide. Adan started with New Home Star as a Junior Graphic Designer and worked his way through the organization’s Career Path up to his current managerial role.
In his current position, Adan most enjoys collaborating with his team of marketing professionals who are committed to consistent innovation and professional development. By being tasked with bringing agents’ creative marketing ideas to life, he noted that “the agents’ success is our success,” and he strives to assist his team and field members through marketing support and design initiatives each day.
Adan believes there’s always room for improvement and is always looking to push forward into new spaces and solutions. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design from Bradley University. He is passionate about art and design, and prior to working at New Home Star, his previous job involved designing Harry Potter merchandise.
Jessica Cuevas
Marketing
As Lead Graphic Designer, Jessica plays an integral role in designing the branding and collateral for all of the organization’s employee engagement initiatives. Her responsibilities include helping to brainstorm creative initiative concepts, creating a brand identity for each initiative, and designing or delegating all visual aspects of the project.
Prior to joining New Home Star, Jessica worked as a Designer for a major publishing company and also worked as a Professional Graphic Design Intern at Walt Disney World. In her current position, she enjoys being able to bring the team’s ideas to life through visuals and physical collateral displayed company-wide.
Jessica has a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design from the University of St. Francis. She is passionate about food and music and loves to try new restaurants throughout Chicago. She could spend hours in the Art Institute of Chicago and enjoys watching any kind of art history documentaries. Her Chihuahua, Cholo, is a frequent visitor and favorite in the office.
Jocelyn Park
Marketing
As Business Analyst, Jocelyn Park analyzes and oversees operations to ensure the delivery of efficient, streamlined, and cost-saving processes to reach desired outcomes. She gathers intelligence from internal teams and the organization’s clients to determine and develop business standards for new and existing projects.
Jocelyn has a passion for organization and strives to help people organize and simplify their work through the innovative ideas she puts in place. She brings many valuable assets to the organization, holding an MBA from Benedictine University, a Project Management Professional certification (PMP) from the Project Management Institute, is a certified Scrum Master, and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt in training.
Jocelyn is a member of the Professional Associate for Design (AIGA), the Project Management Institute, and the Scrum Alliance. She enjoys spending time outdoors, loves musicals and orchestra concerts, and is an avid museumgoer.
Madison Stephens
Marketing
Allyson Lederman
Marketing
As Junior Content Coordinator, Allyson Lederman’s primary responsibilities include managing the company’s social media platforms, creating the Corporate monthly newsletter, and writing and editing content for initiatives, company-wide messaging, and other projects for various teams throughout the organization.
Ally most enjoys being involved in the editing process of any project sent her way as well as being a part of the creative planning behind various marketing and communication initiatives. She strives to be a source of help or support when others need it most and enjoys collaborating with other teams at the Corporate office.
She started as a Marketing Intern in 2020, later moving into her current role after graduating from Elmhurst University with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. You’ll most likely find Ally shopping trying to find the best deals she can, or taking way too many pictures of her two golden retrievers.
Becca Lam
Marketing
As a Graphic Designer, Becca Lam’s primary responsibility is designing print and digital collateral to support agents in the field. Additionally, she provides design support wherever needed, whether it's ideating new logos, creating icons, or beautifying case studies.
For Becca, the best part of her job is bringing to life the fun and incredible ideas from the sales agents. Seeing the response to the final deliverables always provides a boost of happiness. Her ultimate driving factor has always been to design for good, and she strives to use her design abilities to uplift and support others. Becca is a member of the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA).
She received a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication Design and French from the University of Notre Dame. Prior to joining New Home Star, Becca worked as a Graphic Designer for Notre Dame's Gender Relations Center, interned as a Graphic and Web Designer for a California start-up, and freelanced for various other clients. She is an avid painter and dancer, dancing semi-professionally throughout college as well as having her work displayed throughout campus.
Megan O'Russa
Marketing
Megan O’Russa is a Graphic Designer who assists in designing marketing collateral for Sales Associate Marketing Initiatives (SAMIS). She also helps greatly in creating logos, t-shirt designs, and other requests throughout the organization.
Prior to joining New Home Star, Megan worked as a Graphic Design Intern for a non-profit organization and was also a student Graphic Designer for the University of Missouri Graduate School. Megan is a member of the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA), and she received a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design and Mediated Communication Studies from the University of Missouri. She most enjoys getting to be creative while also helping others through the use of her designs, and she loves seeing the collateral she creates being put to use on New Home Connect™ or in photos.
Whether in her personal or professional work, Megan strives to do something meaningful every day as she strongly believes this can aid in a fulfilling life. She’s passionate about music and is obsessed with all things plants, coffee, cats, and books.
Aleksandar Medenica
Marketing
As Junior Graphic Designer, Alek Medenica designs print and digital collateral that accompanies sales associate marketing initiatives (SAMIs). He also assists with designing New Home Star’s Corporate branding materials and other digital resources.
He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design from the University of Montevallo and was a full scholarship collegiate athlete. Alek most enjoys being able to collaborate with his fellow graphic designers while being part of a tight-knit marketing team. He strives to create designs that have a positive lasting impact on anyone who sees them.
Alek was born in Belgrade, Serbia, and lived there for 16 years before moving to the US. He’s bilingual and even played on the U15 and U16 national basketball teams for Serbia. His interests lie in space, general sciences, and gaming, and he’s a huge Marvel fan.
Christian Gomez
Technology
Christian Gomez serves as Technical Lead for New Home Star. His main responsibility resides in leading his team in the development and implementation of new features on the company’s sales enablement platform, New Home Connect™. He works closely with developers to ensure the proper direction and architecture of the code to create a user-friendly and innovative platform for team members nationwide.
Prior to joining New Home Star in 2012, Christian worked as a Junior PHP Developer and a freelance Web Developer. He has a passion for technology and programming, and enjoys building PCs and keeping up-to-date with the latest tech trends in the industry. Christian learned to program at a young age and, since then, has been interested in technology, automation, and building tools that make a difference and improve efficiency.
Christian most enjoys working alongside his talented team. Whether implementing a feed update or custom chat interface on the company’s platform, the variety and creativity that he’s allowed are two of his favorite parts about his position. In 2018, Christian received the Corporate Leader of the Year award. He loves experimenting with technology and learning how things work, and you can often find him playing guitar or video games in his spare time.
Achievements
- 2018 Corporate Leader of the Year
Matt Jacobson
Technology
As lead of Product Design at New Home Star, Matthew Jacobson oversees the research, design, and usability of our technology solutions. With his understanding of UX, balanced with creative ability, and hands-on approach, he ensures our organization is getting the necessary tools to succeed in todays competitive marketplace.
His main responsibility is to ensure the company’s sales enablement platform, New Home Connect™ remains and continues to be a valuable tool for our operations here at New Home Star. He also enjoys leading the technology team and collaborating with other departments within the organization.
Prior to Joining New Home Star in 2014, Matt worked as an ambitious freelancer, striving to help small business’s succeed in todays competitive online space. You can often find him with his girlfriend, either spending time outdoors or at one of their local favorite restaurants.
Achievements
- 2020 Corporate Leader of the Year
Kiana Greene
Technology
As a Front End Developer, Kiana Greene works to make the company’s sale enablement platform, New Home Connect™, the most interactive, unique, and user friendly as possible. She works closely with designers to recreate their designs in code on the web and is a Tech Coordinator for Corporate support and field leadership.
In her current position, she enjoys being able to do something different each day. She’s able to interact and help so many people while also doing one of her favorite hobbies — coding! She’s a people person and is passionate about making everyone she encounters feel loved, valued, and appreciated for who they are.
Kiana holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Mathematics with a minor in Web Design. She loves dogs, good food, and all things nerdy, and if you give her a puppy, a bowl of pasta, and some wine, she’ll be happy forever.
Xuhui Jiang
Technology
Xuhui Jiang is a Full Stack Developer who develops and maintains the company’s sales enablement platform, New Home Connect™. He works on both the front end and back end of New Home Connect™ products and services, working to make them the most effective and collaborative for team members throughout the country.
Xuhui has an interest in developing large-scale product software and is passionate about learning new technology. To go along with this passion, he received a Master’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Illinois Institute of Technology.
He enjoys seeing the positive impact the New Home Connect™ products and services have and how each offering helps individuals in the field. When not developing awesome new features for the company’s platform, Xuhui is a huge sports fan, and you may find him watching basketball nearly every day.
Amaan Khan
Technology
As Business Analyst, Amaan Khan works directly on the company’s sales enablement platform, New Home Connect™. He is responsible for working with team members to identify and resolve any technical issues with the platform, assisting with project management, and serving as New Home Connect™ tech support for individuals throughout the entire organization.
Amaan is a certified Scrum Master and is passionate about learning about new technology. He is an individual anybody can depend upon and is always willing to go the extra mile to help others. Amaan and his team work every day to ensure a smooth and one-of-a-kind user experience on the company’s platform.
He enjoys getting to work with technology in his position each day, and he loves collaborating with other teams in the organization. In the Corporate office, Amaan is the certified “candy man” and ensures that his candy jar on his desk is always filled for anyone who needs a sweet treat throughout the day.
Brett Scheller
Technology
As a Full Stack Developer, Brett Scheller focuses on improving the organization’s sales enablement platform, New Home Connect™. Some days she is writing SQL queries to manage the database, and other days she’s perfecting the front-end user experience in the browser. Most times, she works with the frameworks that live between the database and the browser.
Brett started her career in full stack development by working with a software team based out of Athens, Greece before joining New Home Star. She earned a degree in Mathematics from DePaul University, and she’s a member of MENSA and LearnedLeague, a trivia competition.
Brett views the world as her puzzle, and it’s her job to solve it. She loves riddles, poker, and trivia, and is always looking for any kind of friendly competition. When not working, you’ll often find Brett spending time with her cat, Dexter, and taking daily walks around her neighborhood.
Kellie Winans
Human Resources
As the Human Resources Wellness & Engagement Specialist, Kellie Winans ensures New Home Star is living up to its first core value by creating excellent careers for its people. Her primary responsibilities include carrying out monthly proactive reach-outs to team members, conducting exit interviews for all voluntary separations, organizing 30, 60, and 90-day interview check-ins with newly hired team members, and overseeing the Wellness Committee, wellness ambassadors, and overall wellness philosophy. Helping people has always come naturally to her, and she takes pride in being able to do just that as a career every day.
Kellie enjoys being the first official point of contact for every new hire and loves to take part in helping individuals have a meaningful and exciting first impression of New Home Star. Being an amicable and unbiased outlet for employees is her goal, and she works to provide as much support as possible for team members nationwide.
Kellie holds a Bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University. She is passionate about mental health and is a powerful advocate for the entire company. She is also a tattoo enthusiast and an animal lover, with two cats and a Miniature Poodle, and her life goal is to open a no-kill animal shelter.
Michelle Smith
Human Resources
As Lead Talent Acquisition Specialist, Michelle Smith’s primary responsibilities include sourcing candidates, reviewing resumes, advertising open positions, creating and maintaining active communication channels with candidates and new hires, and building and maintaining relationships with hiring managers. Michelle works with the Human Resources department to communicate with team members throughout the country and collaborates on projects to implement procedures that continually improve the organization.
Michelle truly enjoys helping people find that same connection with New Home Star that she is grateful for each day and looks forward to being part of what could be a candidate's last interview ever. Seeing someone start and develop in the New Home Star Career Path and an equally pleased hiring manager who just landed a top performer is not only satisfying but truly amazing to her.
She is a member of the Northwestern Human Resource Council and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Illinois State University. Michelle is passionate about circus arts, dogs, and working out, and she even built a tiny home.
Jeanna Arjes
Human Resources
As Talent Acquisition Specialist, Jeanna Arjes’s major responsibilities include sourcing and interviewing candidates for open positions in the Colorado, Florida, and Midwest regions. She actively searches for high-quality talent to help teams in the field build the strongest collaborations possible.
Jeanna enjoys getting to speak with people and match them to their dream jobs. She believes that if you love where you work, you'll never work a day in your life — and with great coworkers by her side, New Home Star makes that happen for her.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management from Illinois State University and is a member of the Northwest Human Resources Council. She loves to travel and spend time with her cat, Potsie, and she’d eat Buffalo Wild Wings every day if she could.
Natalie Janik
Human Resources
As Recruitment Coordinator, Natalie Janik creates job posts, screens resumes, conducts interviews, proactively reaches out to potential candidates via online job platforms, and connects with local hiring teams to determine staffing needs and recruitment efforts. Natalie also works to roll out HR initiatives and collaborates with other departments throughout the organization.
During her time at Elmhurst University, where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management with a focus in Human Resource Management, Natalie worked as an HR Intern and a Resident Advisor in the residence halls on campus. She has cited these experiences as giving her optimism for her future professional pursuits.
Natalie enjoys connecting with applicants and strives to give them the best first impression of New Home Star. She is passionate about being a resource to others and providing assistance whenever possible, which plays directly into her daily responsibilities. While not recruiting for the team, Natalie channels her creative personality through embroidering, drawing, painting, and crocheting.
Ron Bell
Operations
As Director of Brokerage Operations, Ron Bell is responsible for ensuring each brokerage is in compliance with its state commissions. He oversees the managing brokers in each state and helps develop and implement policies and procedures that allow each brokerage to operate legally along set standards.
Ron is one of the longest-tenured team members in the organization and has been utilizing his over 20 years of real estate experience for New Home Star since 2009. He enjoys traveling around the country to visit sales associates in each area the organization operates.
Ron holds a certification in Strategic Leadership from Michigan State University. He is a member of the Housing and Building Administration of Colorado Springs and has been very involved with the HBA for many years. Ron has a significant interest in all things nature and astronomy–related, and he is passionate about providing as big of a contribution as possible to the success of New Home Star.
Keith Hall
Operations
Keith Hall works as the Controller/Finance Manager at New Home Star. He is responsible for overseeing all finance and accounting functions throughout the firm. Keith brings past experience in a Controller position to his role each day as he manages his responsibilities and assists team members throughout the country.
Keith received a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from Governors State University as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Alabama. He also holds a CPA license in Illinois and Indiana. In his current position, he enjoys ensuring the organization’s financials are complete and as accurate as possible.
Keith is an avid sports fan and enjoys playing various sports, including baseball, football, volleyball, and basketball. He is a member of the Indiana CPA Society and brings a vast range of knowledge to the organization each and every day.
Victoria Heinz
Operations
As Assistant Finance Manager, Victoria Heinz works closely with sales directors and leadership team members around the country to ensure key financial metrics are communicated effectively and payroll is accurate and timely. Vikki and her department strive to implement sustainable and efficient solutions that are scalable and promote profitability, helping to build the best new home sales company in the world.
Vikki loves that she gets to interact with different people across the country and create meaningful relationships with them, all while working towards a common goal in each separate location. She double majored in Accounting and Finance at Elmhurst University, local to our Corporate office.
Vikki has two sons that are her motivation each day, while also driving her crazy on a daily basis. She has been deemed Ms. Elmhurst and is passionate about sustainability, helping those in need, and spending time with her family. She’s a big sports fan and enjoys watching football — actively participating in the office fantasy league each year.
Olivia Glasder
Operations
As Finance Coordinator, Olivia Glasder assists with bi-monthly payroll for sales agents, provides financial reporting to agents and managers, processes incoming commission checks, and collaborates with various departments in the Corporate office.
In her previous positions, Olivia worked as a Project Manager and Accounts Payable Coordinator for companies in the Chicagoland area. In her current role, she enjoys being able to work with such a wonderful team who are so knowledgeable and also great teachers.
Olivia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development from Illinois State University. She’s passionate about learning something new every day and continuing to expand her knowledge and comfort zone. When not making sure all finances are in order, she loves to cook and create fun experiences for her young daughter.
Becky Demas
Operations
Becky Demas serves as Builder Operations Coordinator for New Home Star. She works on various builder responsibilities including new client onboarding, online sales concierge, organizational charts, and new business development, as well as assisting in the implementation of processes to ease fluidity and promote operational success throughout the organization.
Prior to joining New Home Star, Becky worked as a Sales Associate for a major home builder and spent over 12 years working in the marketing industry as a Media Consultant and Director of Marketing. She enjoys that her current position allows her to be part of many different aspects of the organization on a national level. Her responsibilities not only correlate to her areas of expertise, but they have also allowed her to learn and grow every day.
Becky received a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a secondary focus in Political Science from the University of Notre Dame. She loves to cook and experiment with different recipes, read, play soccer, and frequent the beach, although the Illinois weather doesn’t allow for that as much as she’d like. She’s passionate about her family and spends as much time as she can with her three children.
Mykala Bethune
Operations
As Financial Analyst, Mykala Bethune is responsible for creating and maintaining various reports and dashboards that give insight into the company’s financials. In addition, she actively looks for processes and procedures that will increase efficiency and improve the company’s financial position, thus helping to make her coworkers’ jobs easier and more effective.
Mykala enjoys that by increasing the financial performance of the company, she is directly increasing the job stability of herself and her colleagues to allow for everyone to continue working in an environment as rewarding as New Home Star. She enjoys trying to help the organization grow as much as possible based on the analyses she performs every day.
Mykala started as a Sales Associate in the Florida market, and, in 2019, she moved to Chicago and transitioned into a Corporate support position. She double majored in Economics and Mathematics at Florida Atlantic University. She is a talented soccer player who also plays volleyball, softball, and golf. In addition, she enjoys hiking and photography, and is the proud cat mom of two adorable fur babies.
