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The personal stories of one Realtor’s battles and triumphs in the highly-competitive Bay Area Real Estate Market, seeking to illuminate and humanize the very real ups-and-downs of homeownership.
Finding the right fit applies to all purchases — even those without heels.
Alas, today I put a fairly new pair of shoes into the donation bag. I’ve only worn them once, but every time I try them on, I’m reminded of how painful they actually are. Having had zero luck at “breaking them in,” OR making them more comfortable, OR turning my feet into triangles (what’s with pointed toes anyway?), I’m raising the white flag. The shoes have got to go, along with anything else in my closet that’s too small, too large, too old, too itchy, too threadbare, or simply, never worn.
There was a time, in the not too distant pass, when I would have suffered for a “memorable” moment. In fact, in my 20s, I waited tables, and danced the night away in heels much higher than these. (What compels us?) However, that time is long gone . . . now it’s all about the “fit.” The reality is that I prefer comfort over style — in shoes, in dress, and in my home. (Yes, I’m officially old.) While I haven’t given in to Birkenstocks, I’m definitely rockin’ the penny loafers.
What is the right fit?
Aside from the spouses we choose, it strikes me that “the fit” regarding our homes is one of the most critical choices we make. Whether your preference is for a sprawling property or a modest retreat, homes come in all shapes and sizes. They’re styles range from traditional to modern, from castles to cottages, from ornate showpieces to simple abodes. Here in Piedmont, where no two homes are alike, our architecture is as varied as the people who reside in them, and aren’t we lucky? (Very.)
Having spent the spring escorting would-be Buyers to numerous properties, and finding ourselves often on the losing end of high-stakes multiple bidding scenarios, it’s hard for Buyers to understand that they shouldn’t force the fit; that there will be other viable options in the near future. In a highly competitive marketplace, it’s hard not to lose heart, to grasp at straws, or to panic. It’s tough to believe that the right house is out there waiting just around the corner. (It is.)
This week, I put a darling couple into a lovely home, and while it wasn’t their first choice, or their first offer, they’re now thrilled the others didn’t come together. At the risk of sounding woo-woo, sometimes it works that way. The stars align, you step up, and the house is yours. Congratulations — you’re a new Homeowner.
And then: lean in
This isn’t to imply that their success came easily, landed in their laps from above, or showed up by accident. (It didn’t.) As with nearly all Buyers, there was a steep learning curve, which luckily, they quickly mastered. Even seasoned Buyers rarely get the first house on which they bid. Indeed, ALL Buyers must figure out how much they are really willing to spend, where they are willing to compromise, and how hard they are willing to fight for a particular property. They need to muster courage, tamp down anxiety, and believe.
If you didn’t pick up my subtle clues, “willingness” is the key, not only on the home front, but in all forward motion. Once we become “willing,” the rest often falls into place. Fight the process, and you’ll find yourself on the losing end more often than you’d like.
In truth, successful Buyers need to throw caution to the wind before they can claim victory. Which isn’t to suggest that they should be foolish, pay more than they can afford, or act recklessly, but that they SHOULD be daring. Tepid offers may work in other parts of the country, but will never win the day in the Bay Area.
Whatever your approach, we’re here to help, to inform, and to guide you along the journey, but I’ll be the Realtor in flats. (Sarah is still rocking outrageously high platforms, but then again, she’s younger and SHORTER than I am.)
How can we help you?
Julie Gardner & Sarah Abel | Compass Realty
Not just Realtors, but consultants in all things house and home, we’re here to educate, explore, examine and refer . . . In short, you may count on us to take care of your home as if it were our own and anyone who knows us, knows we take pretty darn good care of our homes.
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