By Jess Wellar 

In a career marked by nonstop learning, profound client relationships, and a dynamic partnership with her daughter,  Jan Lazzara exemplifies what it means to thrive in real estate through genuine empathy, expertise, and a balanced approach to life.

With 23 years under her belt, Jan's passion for the industry and her clients continues to set the bar higher, brilliantly supported by her daughter and licensed assistant, Angela Jimenez, at RE/MAX 100 in Indiana and RE/MAX by the Lake in Michigan.

 

Long before her real estate days, Jan always felt a deep desire to help others. Her initial dream of becoming a doctor transitioned into becoming successful in her father's water-softening business, excelling in the realm of sales. 

"I learned how to be a good listener, negotiate, and get along with people," Jan reflects. “That experience laid the groundwork for me as a Realtor.” 

The pivot to real estate came somewhat out of the blue one day after one of her father’s business clients planted the seed. 

"I had somebody just ask me, ‘Why aren’t you a real estate agent?’" Jan recalls with a laugh. “I went home and started to reflect on that …  I had a deep knowledge of the community and a natural inclination to assist others who had just moved to the area. I loved helping our water system clients who were new to the area find a doctor, a dentist, a grocery store, or a gym. 

“My mom was also a Realtor after she retired from the South Bend community school system. I asked her about the idea and she encouraged me to do it with all of my local knowledge and sales experience.” 

 

After taking the client's suggestion to heart, Jan obtained her real estate license in 2000 and never looked back. In the years that followed, she has enjoyed a truly remarkable, consistent career as a top producer in the Michiana region, achieving the Diamond Level Award from her brokerage, as well as being ranked a number one agent in St. Joe County from 2008 through the present. 

Jan’s daughter, Angela, began helping her in the business eight years ago and enjoyed it so much that she obtained her real estate license in 2019. 

Jan notes teaming up with her daughter has truly been a game-changer for her business, with Jan closing over $45 million in sales on 79 transactions in Indiana and Michigan last year. 

"Angela does the work of two or three assistants while also being an amazing mom to my grandchildren," Jan asserts. “She grew up in the real estate world and she is as committed to my clients as I am. She also understands the long hours involved in helping clients understand the real estate process. 

“My daughter is so good with people on the phone and puts people at ease and treats people with respect,” she continues. “I’m proud to work with her and what the two of us accomplished last year was the work of an entire team; I also appreciate the help of RE/MAX, they're always there for me.” 

 

For Jan, real estate is all about relationships, understanding, and genuine care. A lifelong learner, Jan continues to immerse herself in constant study while maintaining a profound devotion to her clients. 

“I have always believed you can never stop learning, so I enjoy taking classes to stay on top of the real estate industry. I continue striving for excellence and my passion for the business is what truly sets me apart,” Jan notes. 

“I stay updated with market trends, taking classes, and reading up on regulations,” she adds. “I also serve on a few real estate committees, including the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, the Outreach Committee on our board of Realtors, and on the Professional Standards Committee of the Indiana Association of REALTORSⓇ.”

 

Outside of the office, Jan's family takes center stage, with her children, Brian and Angela, and especially her three grandchildren, providing endless delight. 

“Brian is starting to get involved and helping me in real estate,” Jan smiles. “And of course, I love working with Angela. But my biggest passion in life is my three grandchildren! Gianna (7) and Rocco (6) both attend St. Pius School in Granger, and Locklynn (12) attends Discovery School in Granger.”

Jan's furry companion, Laker the Portuguese water dog, adds another layer of fun to her life. In her spare time, she loves a good early-morning workout at Knollwood Country Club and hopes to carve out more time to start playing golf again. She also serves as a greeter and eucharistic minister at St. Pius Church and loves attending her grandchildren’s sporting events.  

Beyond work and family, Jan is deeply ingrained in charitable activities that touch many lives. Her involvement has raised substantial funds for the Homeless Center through Dancing with Our Stars, as well as significant contributions donated to Riley's Hospital for Children from every one of her transactions. 

"I have raised over $70,000 for the Homeless Center, not by my dancing skills, but through the generous donations of our community," Jan notes humbly. 

Looking ahead, Jan is thrilled to continue assisting buyers and sellers in fulfilling their real estate needs while simultaneously maintaining her passion for what she does and the close-knit family ties that fuel her spirit. 

"I am deeply passionate to continue to assist my clients," she concludes. “Someday though, I envision myself obtaining my Florida real estate license, allowing me to explore new opportunities and experiences. particularly in the winter months! This would provide a wonderful balance between my professional endeavors and cherished time spent with my grandchildren, family, and friends.”