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!
Commercial real estate deal activity dipped in October for the first time since early 2024, signaling a widening disconnect between buyer and seller pricing expectations in a high‑rate environment. While overall sales remain strong—and even above 2024 levels—the sharp slowdown in momentum highlights rising caution across sectors. Multifamily saw a steep 27% drop in volume, hospitality was the lone sector to grow, and institutional buyers are increasingly targeting discounted office assets. With mortgage originations rebounding but lenders staying selective, 2026 will hinge on how quickly the market aligns on pricing and capital costs.
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Nearly half a million Florida homeowners are finally seeing relief as Citizens Insurance plans to reduce premiums by up to 11%. After years of rising costs and limited coverage options, the insurer’s shrinking policy load and reduced risk are allowing meaningful savings—averaging about $400 per year for most customers. With several private carriers also lowering rates, experts say this could mark the beginning of a long‑needed stabilization in Florida’s insurance and real estate markets.
Colorado heads into 2026 with steady economic strength despite slowing population growth. The latest forecast from the Leeds School of Business projects 17,500 new jobs, rising incomes, and GDP growth outpacing the national average. Most major industries will expand, even as migration slows and labor shortages persist.
Layoffs across tech, energy, retail, aviation, and education are redefining the 2025 workforce as companies cut costs and accelerate their adoption of AI. Major employers like Amazon, Meta, UPS, and Chevron are restructuring thousands of roles, signaling one of the most significant employment shifts in years. But while traditional positions shrink, demand is rising in fields tied to AI, data, cybersecurity, compliance, and licensed professions. For workers willing to reskill or pivot—especially into areas like real estate, insurance, finance, or other certification‑based careers—new opportunities continue to grow despite the turbulence.
