Once again, our colleague Debbie Reynolds, the "real" Debbie Reynolds, real estate agent in Clarksville,Tennesee, is challenging us to think about what we consider a Big Deal or Not a Big Deal. Check out her post, and then share your story with us.
For me, my Not A Big Deal/Big Deal, is one of the most memorable sales I've had, and began early in 2010.
One day as I was in our local Trader Joe's (where I always run into someone I know) a neighbor who receives my monthly newsletters was shopping; we stopped to chat briefly and she said, "I've been meaning to call you......"
We set a time to meet and I learned what was weighing on her mind. She and her husband are getting up in years, and were concerned about where one of their sons would live when the time came for his parents to leave their family home. Their son is in his forties, is employed, but has challenges in life that would never allow him to advance to a point where he could have secure housing - our area is simply too expensive.
When I learned what their top dollar was I had that sinking feeling that perhaps I wouldn't be able to find a place where the son would feel comfortable since it had to be near his job and near family and friends. Rarely do condos hit the market at a price anywhere close to what they could afford.
Lo and behold, that summer a studio condo came on the market for $175,000, above their means. I presented their best offer for $150,000, but it was turned down. We brainstormed how to raise additional money--perhaps siblings could each chip in a bit? No, everyone was feeling the financial strain and couldn't take on anything additional. That wasn't an option.
We waited; nothing else came on the market. It seems like John (not his name) would be out of luck. But our condo market was slow, and the condo sat.
One day, early in January 2011, the list price dropped to $170,000; the parents were able to increase their offer to $155,000. I presented it, reminding the agent and seller that we were the earlier offer, that it was perfect for this buyer, that it likely was his only opportunity, that they would have their money in a matter of weeks if they accepted the offer and that they would have the good feeling of knowing they made a huge difference in the life of both parents and son.
It worked! Offer accepted! Transaction closed! Son excited! Parents' worry was lightened. John had secure housing for the future.
Except for a vacation cabin on leased land, this remains the smallest transaction, price-wise, that I've handled. Emotionally, it is one of the biggest, and brings a smile to my face to this day. There's no better feeling than knowing that you helped great people in a challenging situation.
Big Deal or No Big Deal -- you decide.
--- Come for a visit; Stay for a lifetime!
Lottie Kendall, Realtor®
Today | Sotheby's International Realty
San Carlos, California, 94070
CA BRE#01215160; 650-465-4547
It was a big deal to your clients! The amount of commission would be secondary to me.
Great story Lottie. Of course it was a big deal to your clients. Good job!
Absolutely, Carla and Jim. Can I call it a big little deal?? One of my favorites!
Lottie, I consider this a very big deal and appreciate you for sharing! It's wonderful when a plan comes together.
Rebecca, I could consider this not a big deal--why wouldn't I help my neighbor? But I can also consider it a big deal since it was looking so bleak, and we were able to bring about a wonderful purchase. Real estate isn't about the commission--this was every bit as worthwhile as my larger sales.
Good morning Lottie. Yes, depending upon who is viewing the situation, this could be a big deal! Thank you for sharing.
Nice job sharing this success story with all of us. The bottom line is you got the job done for your client.
Any time you can help your clients achieve something within their means, it's a big deal. Great story Lottie.
Hi Michael, Joe, Roger -- I'm glad my Active Rain friends think this is a Big Deal; I rather thought you wouild see it that way This 'little deal' really is a 'big deal.'
Lottie-They had to wait a while to get the right situation. Sounds like a big deal to me, regardless the price.
Lottie - Your little deal, was a big deal when it comes to the peace of mind of your aging clients, and that is priceless when it comes to our jobs!
Wayne, you're right. The price isn't what's important.
Laura, peace of mind was a wonderful gift to be able to help bring about.
Lottie Price doesn't matter but the heart does. This one touched their hearts. Congratulations!
You've got it, John. This is exactly why we do what we do.
Lottie, that's a beautiful story AND a very big deal. I can't believe your prices are so high. That price is higher than the average Single Family home in Nashville!
Hi Connie - yes, our prices are super high, so it creates a huge challenge for buyers in situations like this one. I was SO happy this one came together--it put huge smiles on all of our faces.
Lottie, It was a very big deal in the lives of those you served. We know it is not about money. If it were ... it would be no big deal. Great job! I am not at all surprised you pulled a rabbit out of a hat and created magic in their lives.
Kathleen, you've got it! This 'little deal' is one of my 'big deals' and one of my happiest.
Lottie, Perserverance wins out and he got his condo. Good Job. Thanks for your entry in the contest.
Debbie, my thanks to you for putting this together. I've enjoyed participating, but reading so many stories even more.