VanEd has been a beacon of excellence in real estate education since 1997, nurturing some of the industry’s most successful figures. The institution takes pride in the strong relationships it builds with its students, offering continuous education and a platform for success stories. The VanEd Student Success Stories program is a testament to this commitment, highlighting graduates who have made significant strides in their real estate careers.
Spotlight on Success
The program places a spotlight on several outstanding students:
Kate Kelley is passionate about real estate as an opportunity to lead and serve the community. She emphasizes the importance of engagement and leadership, believing that with great opportunity comes great responsibility. Her story inspires others to actively participate and give back to their communities.
Jennifer Bergman, a newer agent, gained recognition for her successful YouTube channel about real estate study materials. Her channel, started while preparing for her licensing exams, has significantly contributed to her early career rewards. Her story is a testament to the power of leveraging digital platforms for professional growth. You can explore more about her journey on her Facebook page.
Brenda Case has evolved her goals over her 25-year career, striving for financial stability and aiming to pass her business onto the next generation of energetic professionals. Her story reflects the dynamic nature of success and the importance of long-term vision.
Marty Vyn Boennighausen, an experienced broker in Westcliffe since 2001, is renowned for her deep knowledge of the local market and her professional approach. Her journey includes managing a significant property investment, demonstrating her expertise and commitment to delivering results for clients.
Inspiring Future Professionals
The Student Success Stories program not only celebrates individual achievements but also aims to inspire future real estate professionals. It enhances the professional community’s online presence by featuring students in VanEd’s monthly newsletter and dedicating full-page articles to their success and achievements.
Join the Spotlight
VanEd encourages graduates and others to get involved by sharing their stories through the Student Spotlight program. If you or someone you know is a VanEd student with a story to share, consider filling out the interest form to be featured in the next edition.
More Articles
Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!
Artificial intelligence has shifted from futuristic idea to everyday assistant for real estate professionals. Instead of replacing agents, AI now enhances their workflows—automating repetitive tasks, improving communication, strengthening branding, and turning complex market data into clear insights. From smarter CRMs to AI-powered marketing tools, today’s agents can focus more on relationships and client service while technology handles the busywork behind the scenes.
A Florida House committee is advancing a bill that would crack down on insurers shifting profits to affiliated companies — a practice highlighted by recent investigative reporting. With premiums soaring and options shrinking, the proposed oversight could reshape the state’s insurance landscape and create ripple effects across the real estate market, impacting buyers, agents, and investors statewide.
Proptech podcast *Tangent* marks its 100th episode with an inside look at Airbnb’s evolving role in multifamily housing. Featuring Airbnb Real Estate Marketing Leader Eliza Lochner, the episode explores the rapid growth of Airbnb‑friendly apartments, the rise of flexible‑living models, and why renters and property owners are increasingly embracing hosting as a way to balance affordability, transparency, and control. For today’s real estate professionals—especially in fast‑changing markets like Florida—the conversation highlights major shifts in tenant expectations, property management strategies, and the intersection of technology, hospitality, and residential development.
A Tampa Heights homeowner has joined the growing wave of Floridians dropping property insurance altogether after his 2026 renewal skyrocketed to $14,523. With up to 20% of residents now going bare, experts warn that soaring rates, shrinking coverage options, and post‑storm losses are pushing many to take risky measures — even as alternatives like liability‑only plans, dropped wind coverage, or home‑hardening upgrades may offer relief.
A major ERAS overhaul is coming in 2027, replacing the familiar “publications” field with a more rigorous category called “scholarly works.” Only peer‑reviewed submissions—such as manuscripts, abstracts, book chapters, and presentations—will qualify, shifting greater emphasis toward high‑quality research. While the change aims to give residency directors clearer insight into applicants’ academic contributions, many students worry that advocacy and policy work may lose visibility. As programs lean more heavily on research output in a post–Step 1 pass/fail era, future applicants will need to showcase not just what they’ve produced, but the depth and meaning behind it.
Mortgage rates have ticked back up to 6.25% after a brief dip, signaling a return to stability in the housing market. With rising inventory, moderating prices, and forecasts calling for steady rates through 2026, real estate and finance professionals can expect a more predictable environment ahead. This shift opens the door to smoother transactions, improved buyer confidence, and stronger opportunities for career growth across mortgage, real estate, insurance, and related fields.
