In this episode of Real People, Real Estate, Lindsay sits down with Tom Crossman, a true Amherst original whose real estate journey started with a $90,000 first home—and a whole lot of sweat equity. From saving up dollar by dollar (and crate by crate) to becoming a seasoned property manager, landlord, and community leader, Tom proves that success in real estate isn’t handed to you—it’s built through hard work, persistence, and heart.
Tom shares the insider secrets, tips, and tricks he’s learned from over a decade in property management—covering everything from smart home maintenance moves to landlord lessons you won’t find in a textbook. Beyond the business, he’s the voice of Amherst High School football, a youth coach, and a proud board member for Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity, always giving back to the community that helped shape him.
Tune in for a conversation packed with real-world advice, small-town heart, and a reminder that whether you’re buying, maintaining, or mentoring—it’s all about putting in the work and paying it forward.
What is Real People, Real Estate?
Welcome to Real People, Real Estate! Our goal is to highlight real people whether they’re real estate industry professionals, economists, investors, or homeowners who will share their real stories providing key insights to success and challenges in this real estate market. Their stories will help others gain education and feel empowered to make their own decisions around real estate. We hope to be informative, have a little fun, and encourage people to plan their roots right here in Western Mass. Tune in with our host Lindsay Barron LaBonte to learn more!