Meet Elevate
Hardworking - dedicated - powerful - innovative
simon vassalo
Co-Founder & Broker/manager of elevate
Raised in Northern New Jersey for most of his life, Simon Vassalo is one of the most hardworking, top performing, and highly respected real estate agent of his time. A staple in the real estate industry and accredited with numerous recognized sales awards and featured in multiple top publications.
Simon was raised by immigrant parents who came to the United States in search of a better life for their children. Growing up in a household where English was not their first language, he learned responsibility at an early age and developed a deep appreciation for perseverance, sacrifice, and opportunity. Later in his childhood, his mother became a single parent after surviving domestic abuse — a defining chapter that shaped Simon’s character and outlook on life. What left the greatest impact on him was not the hardship itself, but the strength his mother displayed in choosing to leave, protect her children, and rebuild their lives from the ground up. She worked tirelessly, often holding multiple jobs, doing whatever was necessary to provide for her family. Through her quiet determination and unwavering resilience, Simon learned the true meaning of courage, accountability, and never giving up — values that remain at the core of who he is today.
In 2018, upon completion of his real estate course, Simon joined Coldwell Banker Realty and also soon becoming one of the youngest top selling real estate agents in his county. Through hard work and dedication, he was honored with receiving the Coldwell Banker Rookie of the Year Award his first year in the business along with the New Jersey REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Sales Award – Bronze Level, making him one of the youngest recipients in his age group statewide.
As his business expanded, Simon recognized a greater purpose beyond personal production. Alongside his business partner Chris, he co-founded what was originally known as The SC Group, with the vision of creating an environment built on support, mentorship, and long-term growth — a foundation that would later evolve into what is now known as Elevate.
His hard work, charisma, and true passion for his business didn’t end there. He continues to guide clients day in and day out and is ranked as one of the top real estate agents in New Jersey & Pennsylvania, ranking in the top 5% of all agents in both states. Simon continues to dominate the market and consistently breaks home sale records, differentiating him from other agents. It is through his dedication and preserverence that he continues to uphold his truly remarkable reputation as not only a good realtor but as one of the greatest real estate agents in the Tri-State Area.
Christopher Ohab
co-founder of elevate & head of agent relations
Chris grew up in the Morris county region and grew up with first hand experience at a young age due to his father’s own contracting business. Growing up he was exposed to anything from new construction to renovation, giving him vast knowledge that extends past just real estate and the market. This knowledge giving him the tools to become an award winning agent in just his first year in the industry to a internationally awarded agent in just 5 short years. Chris also has repeatedly produced the highest sales in multiple towns and neighbors.
Chris’ strong points are investment properties, commercial buildings, marketing properties using state of the art photography/ technology, and knowledge of many of north Jersey’s towns.
With technology constantly changing it is important to hire someone that is technologically savvy and up on the new marketing trends as 98% of buyers come from either the internet or social media. It is also important to hire someone experienced with a proven track record with these methods of marketing.
Chris treats each client with respect and always sells like he would want to be sold to, the same person you should have representing you in one of the most important purchases or investment of your life.
New Jersey Division
Pennsylvania Division
New Jersey Division
Gretchen Torres
Christopher Derosa
Caitlin S. Parenteau
Pennsylvania Division