Realtor Lisa Durant of Lamacchia Realty had a remarkable year in terms of her sales. But in her mind, it’s about much more than just the numbers. “I often find clients mention that they always felt I was focused on them and their needs,” she notes, “that really listening to the clients’ wants and needs and subsequently being able to educate, act and guide them to their goal of home ownership or perhaps selling a property is not a task I take lightly.” These qualities — along with a huge zest for life and love for the New England area — have led Durant over her 17 years in the industry to her position today. She’s a repeat top producer with the North Central Massachusetts Association of Realtor and a member of the Lamacchia Realty President’s Club.

Even with more than $12 million in sales over the past year and the successful closing of 35 transactions, Durant believes heartily in a work-life balance — not just for herself, but also for her clients. As she describes it, “For me, a horseback riding lesson with my daughter or a soccer game with my son are the things that fulfill me outside of work. Having clients that refer me to their friends and family and work with me repeatedly — and the ability to see my kids succeed, grow and develop — are both hugely rewarding.”

A former schoolteacher, Durant believes her strengths in that position dovetailed into her strengths as a Realtor today. Her passion for helping and educating people colors her career, or, as she puts it, “The vast majority of my clients become lifelong friends, and that starts from the first meeting to discuss their real estate needs.”