What led you to starting Arbor Move?
Midi: My path to real estate was paved with diverse experiences that shaped my unique approach to serving clients. After years as a tennis pro, I discovered that the same skills that helped players master their game – patience, clear communication, and the ability to adapt strategies for each individual – translated perfectly to guiding people through real estate decisions. My background in marketing gave me a keen eye for positioning properties effectively, while my passion for photography allows me to capture the true essence of each home, helping potential buyers envision their future within those walls. Twelve years ago, I realized that combining these skills could create something special in the Ann Arbor real estate market. I saw an opportunity to build more than just a business – I wanted to create an experience where every client feels understood, supported, and empowered throughout their real estate journey. My diverse background became my greatest asset, allowing me to see opportunities others might miss and present homes in ways that truly resonate with buyers.
What is something you wish you’d known when you were just starting your business?
Midi: Mentorship became a cornerstone of my business philosophy from day one. Reflecting on my early years in real estate, I recognized a critical gap – the need for experienced agents willing to share their knowledge and support newcomers to the industry. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to be the mentor I wished I had when I started. I extend an open door to every new agent I meet, regardless of their brokerage affiliation, offering guidance, support, and a listening ear whenever they need it. This commitment to nurturing the next generation of real estate professionals isn’t just about individual success; it’s about elevating the entire industry and ensuring every client receives the highest level of service, no matter which agent they choose to work with.
How to do you navigate your work-life balance?
Midi: Balance isn’t just a goal – it’s a necessity that fuels my success in real estate and enriches my contributions to the community. My dedication to competitive bike racing has taught me invaluable lessons about discipline, perseverance, and strategic thinking that directly translate to serving my real estate clients. By maintaining a consistent workout routine and pursuing my passion for cycling, I bring renewed energy and focus to every client interaction.
But my involvement in cycling extends far beyond personal achievement. Through sponsoring local bike races and actively working to make the sport more accessible, I’m helping build a more inclusive cycling community in Ann Arbor. My commitment to youth cycling programs reflects my belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the transformative power of sports. This harmonious blend of professional dedication, athletic pursuit, and community involvement creates a sustainable rhythm that allows me to show up fully present for my clients while making a meaningful impact in the cycling world.
Just as in real estate, where every transaction is unique, I’ve learned that work-life balance isn’t about perfect equality – it’s about creating a dynamic flow that allows each aspect of life to enhance the others. Whether I’m closing a deal, racing in a competition, or mentoring young cyclists, each activity energizes and informs the others, creating a fulfilling and sustainable approach to both business and life.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Midi: The most rewarding part of my job extends far beyond the traditional metrics of success in real estate. While handing over keys to first-time homebuyers or helping a family find their perfect home brings immense satisfaction, it’s the ripple effect of these moments that truly defines my purpose. When I can guide a nervous first-time buyer through the process and watch their confidence grow, or help a family make a transition that will shape their children’s futures, I’m not just facilitating a transaction – I’m participating in life-changing moments.
This sense of impact multiplies through my commitment to mentoring new agents. Seeing them grow from uncertain beginners to confident professionals, knowing they’ll go on to help countless families of their own, adds another layer of meaning to my work. Similarly, when I can leverage my success in real estate to support the cycling community, whether through race sponsorships or youth programs, it creates a beautiful synergy between my professional achievements and community impact.
Each day brings opportunities to blend my roles as a realtor, mentor, athlete, and community advocate in ways that create lasting positive change. It’s this combination – the personal victories of my clients, the growth of new agents, and the strengthening of our community – that makes every day in this profession deeply rewarding.
How has being a part of the Strive Ann Arbor community affected you and your business?
Midi: Being part of the Strive Ann Arbor community has been transformative for both my personal growth and business evolution. Ryan Jones‘s visionary leadership has opened doors I hadn’t even imagined, particularly in the educational space. His support and encouragement helped transform my aspirations of teaching and mentoring into tangible reality. The beautiful conference room has become more than just a space for closings – it’s where dreams are realized and milestones are celebrated. Even more significantly, the dedicated teaching room has empowered me to launch homebuyer education classes, allowing me to share knowledge and empower future homeowners in ways I’ve always envisioned.
The collaborative environment at Strive extends beyond just physical spaces. It’s a community that understands and supports my multifaceted approach to real estate, whether that’s my commitment to mentoring new agents, my involvement in the cycling community, or my passion for photography and marketing. Ryan‘s innovative ideas and willingness to think outside traditional real estate boundaries have helped me develop new ways to serve clients and contribute to the broader Ann Arbor community.
This supportive ecosystem has allowed me to build something bigger than just a real estate business – it’s become a platform for community building, education, and positive change. The Strive environment truly embodies the belief that success is not just about individual achievements but about lifting others as we rise.
If you had a friend in town and you could take them to one of your favorite restaurants or spots in your community, where would you take them?
Midi: If you’re visiting Ann Arbor, I’d have to take you to Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. While it might seem surprising to recommend a chain restaurant in a city filled with unique dining spots, their downtown Ann Arbor location offers something special – particularly their exceptional happy hour. The bar area transforms into this perfect blend of upscale comfort and welcoming energy, where you can enjoy premium offerings at surprisingly reasonable prices. They’ve mastered that sweet spot between elegant dining and comfortable socializing.
The happy hour menu is a standout, featuring their signature dishes in more accessible portions. You can savor their famous steaks and seafood while enjoying the sophisticated atmosphere without committing to a full fine-dining experience. It’s become my go-to spot for both casual meet-ups and special occasions. The staff has this way of making every visit feel personal, whether you’re stopping in for a quick happy hour bite or celebrating a successful closing with clients.
What makes it particularly special for me is how it bridges the gap between casual and upscale dining – much like how I approach real estate, it’s about making premium experiences accessible while maintaining the highest standards of quality and service.
We would like to thank Midi for her time, dedication, and enthusiasm in sharing her insight and experience with us. If you are interested in spotlighting your business with us, please don’t hesitate to contact your Community Manager; we are always eager to help elevate your business in any way we can!