Meet Jamie Smela, a dynamic Zieminski Real Estate team member and REALTOR®. Jamie’s journey in the industry blends education and diverse professional experiences.
Graduating from Humber College in 2016 with a paralegal license, Jamie established a solid legal foundation. She then spent four years at a renowned law firm in Timmins, gaining invaluable expertise. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Jamie embarked on a new adventure, obtaining her Ontario Real Estate License in January 2023.
Her previous professional experience also includes a position as an Administrative Assistant at a large Real Estate Brokerage in Guelph. There, Jamie played a vital role in daily operations, utilizing the leading Real Estate technology for seamless coordination. Her responsibilities included appointment scheduling, listing management, marketing support, and more.
Jamie’s unique perspectives arise from her family’s deep involvement in real estate development. Her multicultural upbringing, including experiences in the United States, Canada and Mexico, fosters a deep connection with people from diverse backgrounds.
Joining ZRE, Jamie found inspiration from Broker of Record Lauren Zieminski’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to success. She sees the company’s innovative approach as the key to her advancement.
Jamie enjoys an active lifestyle outside work, from golf and tennis in the summer to snowboarding in the winter. Her love for travel and exploration highlights her eagerness to connect with new cultures and experiences.
With roots in Timmins and a deep appreciation for Northern Ontario’s tranquillity, Jamie brings a unique understanding of the region. Her adaptability and friendly personality add a personal touch to her role.
Jamie Smela promises a fresh perspective and unwavering dedication to every real estate endeavour, making her a valuable asset to the Zieminski Real Estate team.
Cell: 705-274-0402
Office: 705-232-7733
Jamie Funk brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her role as the Accounts Manager at Zieminski Real Estate. With a background in business administration, Jamie embarked on her professional journey at a large construction company, where she played a pivotal role in administrative operations across multiple locations. Following a rewarding time spent raising her two exceptional boys, Jamie gradually returned to the workforce, initially part-time, before advancing to a full-time role as a Senior Accountant at one of the local municipalities that ZRE serves.
Jamie’s transition to Zieminski Real Estate was serendipitous, aligning perfectly with her career aspirations. She sees ZRE as more than just a Real Estate Brokerage; its business ethics and stellar performance in the industry make it a shining example. Jamie’s dedication to fostering meaningful relationships, credibility, and mental wellness complements ZRE’s values.
Outside of the office, Jamie is a devoted community member. She keeps her boys active in various recreational activities, exemplifying her commitment to the well-being of her family and community. Her love for hockey and golf further demonstrates her active lifestyle and passion for staying engaged with her surroundings.
Having known no other home but Northeastern Ontario, Jamie has a profound affection for the region. Its natural beauty, tight-knit community, and abundant recreational opportunities resonate sincerely with her. Jamie’s roots in the North run deep, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Her genuine connection to the area is a valuable asset in her role at Zieminski Real Estate, where she brings a personal touch to every interaction.
With Jamie Funk at the helm of accounts management, Zieminski Real Estate is fortified by her extensive professional background and authentic, community-oriented approach. Her dedication to her work and community make her an invaluable asset to the ZRE Team.
Office: 705-232-7733
The best REALTORS® are the ones who truly know the value of their market and Lauren knows the value of Northern Ontario through and through. Born and raised at Big Nellie Lake, just minutes outside of Iroquois Falls, the North has always provided her a sense of belonging. It’s a place Lauren is proud to call home.
In college, Lauren earned a diploma in Small and Medium Enterprise Management at Algonquin in Ottawa. Afterward, she spent some time working as a family relocation advisor for military members and in a management role at a large retailer. But Real Estate was something that had always been of great interest to her. So in 2011, Lauren moved to Mississauga to pursue that goal, which turned out to be her true passion. Lauren spent over two years working as an assistant for a highly experienced Realtor® in Southern Ontario while she earned her Ontario Real Estate License.
After six years in crowded Southern Ontario, Lauren realized how much she missed summers at the lake, and winters at her family’s camp on the Abitibi River. She knew it was time to come home to Iroquois Falls.
Lauren packed up her life in the city and made the 8-hour trek back up Highway 11. Since then she has become a top producing REALTOR® in the area and completed her Broker designation, launching Zieminski Real Estate Inc., Brokerage in September 2021.
The benefits of living in Northern Ontario have never been more clear. And given the chance, she can show you the unique advantages to making the North your home as well.
Cell: 705-465-8484
Office: 705-232-7733
Born and raised in Timmins, Mike Bilodeau knows the value of a Northern community and what it takes to be of service to one.
Mike has worked with the public for many years as both a sales representative for a major nutrition company as well as in the food and hospitality industry. Ultimately, he made the switch to real estate when he realized the limitless potential of the field and the meaningful work it provides.
Mike was thrilled to get in on the ground floor of Zieminski Real Estate, eager to work alongside Lauren, while helping the brokerage expand throughout Northern Ontario. He knows that passion, ambition and hard work are what drive Zieminski Real Estate, and jumped at the chance to align himself with the company.
He recognizes that buying a home is likely the single biggest purchase of his clients’ lives, and takes great pride in doing everything he can to make the experience as straight-forward and enjoyable as possible.
When he isn’t showing, selling or listing a home, Mike can be found on the golf course in the summer, on the rink in the winter, or out walking his two dogs–Mr. Aldo and Benelli–along with his partner Karli.
Cell: 705-221-6019
Office: 705-232-7733
Jessica Fortin is a driven and customer-focused individual passionate about real estate. As the Office Manager at Zieminski Real Estate (ZRE) headquarters, she draws on her marketing and customer relations background to keep ZRE on track for exponential growth. Jessica’s commitment to exceptional service is unwavering, and she always looks for ways to improve her skills and expertise.
Originally from Espanola, Jessica ran her own business, Jessified Cleaning, in Cold Lake, Alberta, for several years. Later, she worked as a Client Relationship Manager for a social media engagement, and marketing firm called What Tool’s Inside, where she learned the importance of building solid relationships and providing top-notch service. Jessica completed her certificate as a Real Estate Professional Assistant with REBI in 2021, further solidifying her desire to pursue her career. She is currently pursuing her Ontario real estate license at Humber College.
Committed to helping clients achieve their real estate goals, Jessica’s meticulous attention to detail and willingness to learn how to navigate complex transactions make her an invaluable team member. She understands that building trust is critical and always goes the extra mile to ensure client satisfaction.
When Jessica isn’t working hard at ZRE, she enjoys spending time with her husband on the ATV trails or at home with her two cats and rambunctious husky mix, Mia. Her love for the community and dedication to exceptional service make her a valuable asset to the ZRE team.
Cell: 705-465-8282
Office: 705-232-7733
Tyler Fortin is no stranger to the North. Originally from Iroquois Falls, but having spent time in Timmins, Cochrane and as far as Cold Lake, Alberta, Tyler and his wife Jessica have now returned to Iroquois Falls, a place that has always felt most like home.
Since 2019, Tyler has been working in the mining industry, but recognized that line of work wasn’t for him. He prefers work where he is able to interact directly with people, and was thrilled when he learned of the chance to join the Zieminski Real Estate team. Tyler knows that being a part of ZRE will mean that he can provide quality work for his clients while watching this community-centred business continue to grow and better serve the surrounding area.
Previously, Tyler worked in a number of fields before deciding on Real Estate as his career path. He recognizes that his work managing for a major oilfield company will lend itself nicely to his role as a REALTOR ® . Through his previous experience, he’s had a chance to hone his organizational, planning and detailed record-keeping skills and client care, so all his current and future clients can rest easy knowing the sale or purchase of their home is in capable hands.
Tyler and Jessica purchased their own home from Lauren Zieminski, Broker of Record for ZRE, and it was that experience that solidified Tyler’s desire to join the team in the future. He aims to handle the sale or purchase of his own clients’ homes with the same kindness, patience and dedication that was offered to him.
In the summer, when Tyler isn’t listing or selling homes, he can be found dirt biking on local trails with his family. In the winter, you’ll usually catch him stopping pucks while playing hockey for a number of different teams.
Cell: 705-951-1410
Office: 705-232-7733
Meet Ben Joron, a dedicated REALTOR® with a passion for helping people achieve their dreams. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Timmins, Ontario, Ben has always been drawn to the beauty of the great outdoors. Growing up surrounded by serene woodland trails and picturesque lakes, he developed a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of the Northeast.
Prior to his career in real estate, Ben honed his skills as a fitness expert, working as a yoga instructor and personal trainer. His commitment to empowering and motivating others has been a defining trait throughout his life, and he brings this same level of dedication to his work as a REALTOR®.
When he’s not busy helping clients navigate the real estate market, Ben loves nothing more than exploring the great outdoors with his beloved lab mix, Balto. Whether hiking, camping, or simply taking in the region’s natural beauty, Ben is always up for an adventure.
Don’t hesitate to say hello if you run into Ben and Balto on one of their many outdoor excursions! With his friendly demeanor and unwavering commitment to his clients, Ben is always happy to chat and share his love of the great outdoors.
Cell: 705-262-8952
Office: 705-232-7733
Meet Olivia Thomas, a dynamic REALTOR® with a unique background and a desire to help others. Born and raised in Ghana, Africa, Olivia got her start in the world of real estate, working as a salesperson in her family’s store, where she oversaw apartment rentals and bought and sold household supplies. This early experience sparked her love for real estate and set her on a path to becoming a successful REALTOR®.
In 2014, Olivia met her husband Jeremy and moved to Northeastern Ontario, where they live with their four children. As a former midwife and personal support worker, Olivia has a deep understanding of the importance of supporting others and helping them achieve their goals. She brings this same dedication and compassion to her work as a REALTOR®, committed to providing her clients with the highest service and support.
In her free time, Olivia and her family love to explore the great outdoors, whether it’s four-wheeling, snowmobiling, camping, or ice fishing. With her adventurous spirit and love of nature, Olivia is always up for an adventure, and she brings this same energy and enthusiasm to her work as a REALTOR®.
Whether buying or selling a home, Olivia is here to guide you every step of the way. With her extensive knowledge of the local real estate market, commitment to excellence, and warm and friendly personality, she is the ideal partner for all your real estate needs.
Cell: 705-622-7056
Office: 705-232-7733
Thom Smalley is originally from Nottinghamshire in England. He came to Toronto in 2007 to study film at the Toronto Film School. Soon after graduating he took a chance on an editing job (which Tess may have had something to do with.) Since then, his career has continued to grow, earning him multiple awards and nominations for his work. From CBC to CNN, Thom has consistently built a thriving career and an extensive reel. He is currently editing all of Lauren’s video content, working quickly to keep up with the high demand for homes in the area. He is happy to be spending the winter in Northern Ontario, and is looking forward to the window in time when the snow will be good for making snowpeople.
Office: 705-232-7733
Emma Côté studied print and broadcast journalism, followed by English literature and creative writing at the University of Western Ontario. She now provides editorial content for Lauren, making sure the essence of her community-centered business shines through.
Emma spent 5 years abroad in both Costa Rica and Cambodia, where she worked as a freelance writer and English teacher. She also held a returning role at The Enterprise newspaper in Iroquois Falls for over a decade.
Now, she works for eBOUND Canada, a non-profit organization that helps Canadian publishers create and sell their eBooks. Emma is also an author with her debut novel, Unrest, set to be published by Anvil Press in March 2022.
Office: 705-232-7733
Tess Marie is a well rounded content creator from Iroquois Falls. After receiving her degree in film making from York University, she shot & directed projects in England, South Korea, Turkey, USA and around Canada. She worked for Nickelodeon, Amazon, PBS, TVO and was the senior multimedia specialist for TD Bank. She is currently the writer/director of a television docu-series about Canadian game shows, set to air in March 2021. She can usually be found working on her multitude of freelance projects, or on site at any of Lauren’s properties, taking extensive footage and creating Covid-safe home video tours. She has been consulting with content marketing and branding as Lauren’s business continues to grow. If you see Tess and Thom out with their dog, Banjo, they want you to know he’s really friendly, he just has a lot to say.
Office: 705-232-7733
Black River-Matheson is a township in the Cochrane District of the Canadian province of Ontario. The municipality is astride the Black River, for which it is partly named. The Matheson railway station was serviced by the Northlander until 2012.
Matheson was first known as McDougall’s Chute after an early trapper. Renamed for Arthur J. Matheson (1842-1913), provincial Treasurer and M.P.P. for South Lanark. Became part of Timmins on January 1, 1973.
Mining, forestry and farming are some of the principal industries in the area, augmented by outdoor tourism in the summer, such as fishing and hunting. There are three elementary schools within the municipality.
Prospecting started in 1909. The Croesus Mine (1914-1918) became “one of the richest mines in Canada,” according to Barnes. Gold was like “plums in pudding” and “one gold nugget was egg shaped, two inches long and one and a quarter across.” A total of 16 companies operated in the Harker Holloway area from 1917 to 1925, including Harker Gold Mines. P.A. McDermott found a gold-bearing zone in 1922, which became American Barrick’s Holt-McDermott Mine in 1988. Located in the Abitibi greenstone belt, the mine produced 60,000 ounces of gold in 1994.
Cochrane is a town in northeastern Ontario, Canada. It is located east of Kapuskasing, northeast of Timmins, south of Moosonee, and north of Iroquois Falls. It is about a one-hour drive from Timmins, the major city of the region. It is the seat of Cochrane District. The town’s population is made up of about half anglophone and half francophone residents.
Before Cochrane was founded, it was used as a summer camping ground by indigenous people, and a stopping place for fur traders travelling to Moose Factory.
In the early 20th century, the National Transcontinental Railway was built through the area, and in 1907, the place was selected as the junction point with the Temiskaming and Northern Ontario Railway. In November 1908, the lots were sold by auction and a railway town formed.
It was incorporated on January 1, 1910, and named for politician and merchant Frank Cochrane, a former mayor of Sudbury and the Minister of Lands, Forests and Mines in the provincial government from 1905 to 1911, then Minister of Railways from 1911 to 1919.
The settlement was devastated by fire in 1910, 1911, and 1916, but rebuilt each time and became a transportation hub for northern Ontario.
Iroquois Falls is a town in Northern Ontario, Canada, with a population of 4,537 at the 2016 census.
The town centre lies 11 km east of Hwy 11 on the banks of the Abitibi River, west of Lake Abitibi. Timmins, one of the largest cities in northern Ontario, is approximately 70 kilometres (43 mi) to the southwest. The following communities are also within the municipal boundaries: Monteith, Nellie Lake, and Porquis Junction.
Iroquois Falls’ primary industry was a large mill producing newsprint and commercial printing papers. In December 2014, the owner, Resolute Forest Products, announced its permanent closure. There are also three hydro-electric dams nearby. The Monteith Correctional Complex, a provincial prison serving a regional catchment area, is located in the community of Monteith (named for Samuel Nelson Monteith).
Iroquois Falls was built as a company town by Frank Harris Anson, owner of the Abitibi Power and Paper Company. Anson had been influenced by the garden city movement of urban planning, and was committed to building an elaborate town. A Chicago architectural firm was hired to design the landscaping and houses, and work crews began clearing land in 1913. The town’s park and commercial developments were clearly separated from the paper mill, and the residential streets curved with a focus on the centre of the town. A large church was built, the first English Catholic Parish in Northern Ontario, and today remains a historic landmark. Anson’s company town had a hospital, a school, and a company hotel. Employee homes were designed with gambrel roofs to resemble New England farmhouses, and their design and location reflected the employee’s rank at the mill. Papermakers lived in double-adjoined homes, while senior managers lived on separate streets in single-family homes.
Timmins is a city in northeastern Ontario, Canada, located on the Mattagami River. The city is the fourth-largest city in the Northeastern Ontario region with a population of 41,788 (2016). The city’s economy is based on natural resource extraction and is supported by industries related to lumbering and to the mining of gold, zinc, copper, nickel and silver. Timmins serves as a regional service and distribution centre. The city has a large Francophone community, with more than 50% bilingual in French and English.
Research performed by archaeologists indicate that human settlement in the area is at least 6,000 years old; it’s believed the oldest traces found are from a nomadic people of the Shield Archaic culture.
Up until contact with settlers, the land belonged to the Mattagami First Nation peoples. Treaty Number Nine of 1906 pushed this tribe to the north side of the Mattagami Lake, the site of a Hudson’s Bay trading post first established in 1794. In the 1950s, the reserve was relocated to the south side of the lake, to its present-day location.