thomas “tj” bepko
Thomas “TJ” Bepko is a Fairfield success story. As a Fairfield native, TJ has fond memories of Gould Manor Park, Coon’s Corner, and Stefano’s -- and his first job at Pizzaworks (a 90’s staple in Fairfield, which was in the current space of Pokemoto). After graduating from college and serving in the U.S. Army, he embarked on an entrepreneurial path that ultimately led him back to Fairfield.
TJ’s career began in the mortgage industry, where he learned the ups and downs of a volatile business over the course of nearly two decades. During this time, he returned to his hometown and joined Total Mortgage, where now he is an Executive Vice President. TJ simultaneously created YB Realty (short for Yellow Brick) helping customers to feel, “there’s no place like home.” The real estate brokerage grew into a thriving business today, boasting over 80 agents. Completing the trifecta, TJ added insurance to his professional world. The result? A user-friendly, one-stop-shop for home buyers.
Thomas “TJ” Bepko | Photo Cred: Nicole Sierra
TJ refers to his combination of specialties as an ecosystem. “I use a different approach to real estate that is tech-driven but also makes use of our team dynamic. We want the process of buying a home to be a fun experience and one that suits the fast-forward nature of life today.” Chris Leonard, a Fairfield native, and long-time client notes,
“Acquiring a mortgage or purchasing a home is a very personal interaction where feelings and anxieties are elevated. With that said, I have procured two brand new mortgages as well as a refinance through TJ. Why? It’s simple. I know he’s going to give 110% and I know it’s going to get done and get done right. TJ not only lives this but teaches it to his teams.”
In addition to a multi-faceted website, YB Realty boasts a substantial social media presence that dovetails with TJ’s own podcast, where he “brings on like-minded entrepreneurs to get their take on what it’s like to start, scale, and deal with the current challenges of the real estate market.” Clients benefit from a tremendous amount of work behind the scenes to ensure a smooth and enjoyable process. Each home purchase involves approximately 160 touchpoints and YB Realty has developed these steps into a customized and efficient system. Long before the Pandemic, the company had an in-house videographer who recorded a tour of each home. When Covid hit, the transition to remote transactions was seamless.
Matt Harrigan, another satisfied YB Realty customer, likes that the brokerage has everything under one roof. “The YB team gave me great advice on preparing my mother’s home to sell. They caught small items that I wouldn’t have thought to change, and we had an offer on the house before it even went to market.”
Juggling three businesses is challenging, but TJ refuses to work 24/7, as his wife and two children are his #1 priority. Spending time with his family, regular jujitsu sessions, and a carefully organized schedule all save him from professional burnout.
Another important aspect of TJ’s life is giving back to the community that gave him his start. His charity, Friends of Fairfield, is hosting its first annual fundraiser on the evening of July 13 at Penfield Pavilion featuring cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dancing to DJ Gruv, wine tastings, raffles, and a photo booth. Proceeds will go to Al’s Angels, a local organization that supports children and families battling serious illnesses, natural disasters, and financial hardship. To learn more, visit https://www.punchbowl,com/parties/39c7ff523ac90f5e2d0.
At a time when finding a new home is ultra-competitive, TJ’s modern take on traditional house hunting is especially helpful. His parting advice: “With such low inventory, it’s crucial to use the advice and expertise of a professional team… and if you’re looking for a town that offers something for everyone, Fairfield is the place!”
Looking to buy or sell a home -- check out TJ and his team at
