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Women's Journal

Kathryn Springsteen: A Realtor Rooted in Community and Construction

By: Cloud Realty

Real estate is often seen as a business of transactions, but for Kathryn Springsteen, it’s a profession built on trust, insight, and a genuine desire to support others in their homeownership journey. Her path to becoming a Realtor wasn’t a conventional one, but in many ways, it felt like a natural progression.

For 15 years, Kathryn worked as an educator, guiding students and shaping young minds. But her foundation in construction runs even deeper. Her father was a building contractor, her husband an engineering contractor, and together, they run a construction business. She has even taught construction programs, merging practical knowledge with a passion for teaching. In 2015, she made the transition into real estate—a move that reflected her diverse skill set and long-standing interest in homes and communities.

Navigating the ever-changing real estate market requires both resilience and adaptability. Interest rates fluctuate, buyer demand shifts, and in rural areas, fire insurance costs can present added challenges. These shifts can be daunting, but Kathryn approaches them with the same thoughtful mindset that made her a successful educator. She strives to stay well-informed, find creative solutions, and importantly, ensure her clients feel supported throughout the process. To her, buying or selling a home isn’t just a transaction—it’s a meaningful milestone, and she approaches each situation with care and responsibility.

Looking ahead, Kathryn believes home values may continue to appreciate as demand for suburban and rural living increases. More people are seeking space beyond city limits, drawn to quieter settings and a change of pace. With remote work becoming more accessible through services like Starlink, the appeal of private retreats and countryside homes appears to be growing. Developers are expanding suburban neighborhoods, creating potential opportunities for future homebuyers. As the industry evolves, Kathryn works to stay current, aiming to help her clients adapt and prepare for what’s next.

If she could change one thing about the industry, it would be the complex regulatory layers that sometimes make transactions more challenging than necessary. While important for protecting consumers, excessive red tape can delay timelines and create stress. Her approach is to break down complex processes into manageable steps, offering guidance so clients feel informed rather than overwhelmed.

What many say sets Kathryn apart is her ability to connect with people. She doesn’t just facilitate deals—she focuses on building long-term relationships. Many of her clients remain in touch well after their transactions conclude, and that’s one of the aspects she values most about her work. Assisting someone in buying their first home or selling a family property with decades of memories is something she treats with care and sincerity.

Balancing a demanding career with personal life isn’t always easy, but Kathryn has found a rhythm that supports both. She values weekends with her family and recognizes that rest is vital to remaining focused and energized. When work becomes especially busy, she relies on assistants and co-lists with partner agents to ensure every client gets the attention they need. Organization is essential—lists, schedules, and systems help keep everything on track. Beyond real estate, she’s active in business consulting, co-manages a family-owned olive oil company, and enjoys designing marketing materials in her free time. She’s a firm believer in lifelong learning—whether through reading, gardening, or exploring new interests.

For those considering buying or selling a home in Marysville, California, Kathryn Springsteen offers a combination of industry knowledge, dedication, and a personal approach. With experience in both construction and real estate, she brings a well-rounded perspective to each interaction. She’s not just there to manage transactions; she’s there to help individuals and families shape their next chapter—one thoughtful step at a time.

 

Published by Drake M.

How Mercy J. Alpert Built Her Mobile Notary Business and Embraced Fitness

By: One World Publishing

Mercy J. Alpert’s journey is one of steady dedication, strong determination, and a deep passion for serving others. As the owner of Have Mercy Mobile Notary, she has spent over two decades making an impact in the notary industry, while also establishing herself as an advocate for fitness, empowerment, and community. Today, her story continues to resonate with many, as her success is rooted not only in the services she provides but in her genuine desire to support and uplift those around her.

A Journey Fueled by Service

Born in Yokosuka, Japan, to a Filipino Navy Yeoman and a Filipina-Malaysian volunteer nurse, Mercy’s life has been shaped by an ethos of service. Raised in San Diego, California, she grew up with leadership roles that included being a gymnast, cheerleader, and earning the title of Freshman Princess at Poway High School. These formative years were just the beginning of a lifelong commitment to community-building and volunteerism. Her active participation in cultural organizations, such as the Asian Clubs, not only helped fuel her personal growth but also laid the foundation for the powerful impact she would later have on her community.

In 2000, Mercy joined the Woodland Hills Tarzana Chamber, now known as the West Valley Warner Center Chamber, where her expertise in event planning, sponsorships, and media outreach began to stand out. This passion for connecting people was further expanded in 2011 when she met Samira Kazemeni during the Ms. Exoti Lady Pageant, where Mercy represented Ms. Malaysia. The connection was immediate, and over the years, it led Mercy to become an important part of Samira’s Network, including a key role in planning and promoting the Luxury Gala—a prestigious event that celebrates excellence in philanthropy and creativity. Mercy’s ongoing dedication to helping others was acknowledged when she received the Dedication and Commitment Angel Award at the 2025 Luxury Gala, which highlights her behind-the-scenes work. This recognition reflects her commitment to making a difference not for accolades but because it brings her joy to uplift others.

How Mercy J. Alpert Built Her Mobile Notary Business and Embraced Fitness

Photo Courtesy: Mercy J. Alpert

From Corporate World to Notary Entrepreneur

Mercy’s path to becoming a successful notary entrepreneur began in the 1980s, when she worked for a securities firm in Beverly Hills. Initially, it was just another aspect of her job—until the 1990s, when she began to recognize the potential in the notary business. With her experience in the corporate world and the realization of a growing need for mobile notary services, she saw an opportunity. Professionals, individuals with mobility challenges, and those too busy to visit a traditional notary office were all seeking convenient, reliable services.

In response, Mercy launched Have Mercy Mobile Notary—a business that has steadily grown thanks to her commitment to excellence and customer service. By becoming a member of the National Notary Association, Mercy gained the confidence and resources needed to thrive, offering fast, reliable services to clients on their terms. Her approach has been about more than just signing documents—it’s about making people’s lives easier by helping them navigate important legal matters without the stress of lengthy office visits. This customer-first mentality has helped her build meaningful relationships, one signature at a time.

Overcoming Challenges with Grace and Resilience

Like many entrepreneurs, Mercy has faced her share of challenges. Among these was the competition in a crowded industry and the challenge of building brand awareness. However, her approach was straightforward: build her network. By joining several Chambers of Commerce and advertising in local magazines, she was able to establish a reputation and attract clients who valued the professional, efficient, and friendly service she provided. Mercy’s philosophy has always centered around being considerate, quick, and efficient, while ensuring each client feels heard and valued.

But it’s not just about professional milestones—it’s about personal resilience. In her late 40s, Mercy was diagnosed with a rare lung condition called catamenial pneumothorax. Despite the difficult prognosis, Mercy chose not to be defined by her health struggles. Instead, she turned adversity into strength, becoming an elite stair climber. For over a decade, Mercy has participated in the American Lung Association’s SoCal Fight For Air Climb, conquering as many as 63 flights of stairs and achieving 1st place in her age category for three consecutive years. This personal triumph was not only a physical challenge but also a symbol of her resolve to overcome obstacles.

Her fitness journey is not just about awards—it’s about inspiring others, particularly women, to stay active and embrace wellness at every stage of life. Mercy is passionate about motivating others to move, whether through Zumba, hiking, or simply engaging in daily activities that keep the body strong and the mind clear. “A strong body leads to a strong mind,” she says. Her message to women, especially those in their senior years, is clear: it’s never too late to begin.

How Mercy J. Alpert Built Her Mobile Notary Business and Embraced Fitness

Photo Courtesy: Mercy J. Alpert

A Legacy of Empowerment

Looking to the future, Mercy envisions Have Mercy Mobile Notary growing into a leading notary service throughout Southern and Northern California. Her goal is to expand her brand into a trusted name across the state, especially as an Asian American woman-owned business breaking barriers and setting new standards in the notary industry. But it’s not just about business growth for Mercy—it’s about empowering others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. She hopes to mentor and support aspiring notaries, especially women and minority entrepreneurs, to demonstrate that with dedication and resilience, they too can reach the top of their field.

As a mother of three and a proud grandmother, Mercy’s family is at the heart of her motivation. Their success and steadfast support drive her to continue striving and pushing the limits of what she can achieve. With the love and encouragement of her family—and a supportive partner who encourages her to chase her dreams without hesitation—Mercy’s passion for growth goes beyond her own journey. It’s about leaving a legacy of empowerment, not just for her, but for those who will follow in her footsteps.

A Message to Dreamers

To those who dare to dream, Mercy’s message is simple: “Believe in your vision, work tirelessly, and never let doubt hold you back. The path to success is built with dedication and commitment.” Mercy’s journey serves as evidence that with the right mindset and determination, extraordinary things are possible. She continues to embrace new challenges and is ready to inspire even more people along the way.

For those seeking reliable, fast, and professional mobile notary services, Mercy J. Alpert stands as a shining example of what it means to break barriers and make a lasting impact.

For more information on Have Mercy Mobile Notary or to schedule an appointment, visit www.notarymobile4u.com.
Connect with Mercy on social media:

Contact: (818)388-6961
Email: mercy@notarymobile4u.com

Website: notarymobile4u.com
Website: https://luxurygala.com/mercyalpert/

Published by Anne C.