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Agent of Change

For Kevin Klemens, Community Values Go Beyond Home Values

Article by Don Seaman

Photography by Phillip Barone

Originally published in Wayne Lifestyle

Facing an uncertain market in real estate is always troubling for a person making his living as a real estate agent. Right now, there’s a troubling lack of inventory, and rising mortgage rates (despite the recent Federal interest rate cut). The hustle required to have success in this line of work is at an apex.

This has not deterred Kevin Klemens. It has not made his daytimes any easier, but what he does outside the grind of the real estate business allows him to focus on some greater ideals.

Kevin’s sense of community in Wayne is a lifelong passion. He’s spent most of his life here - DePaul High School, so for those looking to see which side of the Hills/Valley spectrum he’s on, he’s neutral. It’s one Wayne for him.

Yet there’s not just one cause that tugs at his heart. Kids? Check. First responders and community heroes? Check. Seniors? Check. Small businesses? Well, you get the idea.

It might not be unusual for a real estate agent to be active in their community. It is, after all, a great way to network and meet people. What’s special about Kevin is the depth of his commitment to causes that resonate and make a difference in people’s lives.

“There are plenty of organizations in every town that are great for making business connections. But let’s face it - everybody knows a real estate agent. That can’t be your motivation,” Kevin explains.

That’s why being involved with groups like the Boys and Girls Club of Wayne and the Passaic County 200 Club mean so much to him. A grandfather of three, sitting on the board of the Boys and Girls Club was an opportunity he just couldn’t pass up. Membership in the 200 Club, which supports local police, fire, and EMS workers, was a no-brainer. “You just can’t say ‘no’ to that,” he admits.

“Look, finding a home in a community that you love is everyone’s dream. To that end, I tell people to find an agent they’re comfortable with and stick with them. But when I think of the world that I want Landon, Layla, and Noah to grow up in, I know that I must do what I can to ensure it’s a place that they deserve.”

Kevin Klemens is a realtor with Century 21 Gemini LLC at 87 Berdan Avenue in Wayne. He can be reached at 973-696-1111.

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