The “Contractor” Hat

I never know where my next client will come from.  A friend of mine knew a family who needed to sell the family home.  The parents passed away and the children, now adults, were scattered across the U.S.  They needed someone locally to oversee the process.  That’s when my friend put the sellers in touch with me.  I was happy to help!

The house was in a great area near a park with green space across the road.  It had served the family well for 50 years.  As is often the case in these situations, the house was tired.  Don’t get me wrong, it was sound with good bones and a great layout but it did need some updating.  Since the kids were not in the area to orchestrate the updates, I put on my “contractor” hat and got to work.  I lined up drywallers, painters and hardwood floor refinishers.  I called in carpet layers, landscapers and chimney repair contractors.  In short order the house was coming alive again!  We had professional photographs taken, and we listed the house on all the major Real Estate websites.  We had a sign in the yard and we held open houses.  And the people came.  The sell sheets flew out of the door!

We had lots of showings during the updating process, but it was really when the cosmetic changes had been completed that things really began to happen.  Within a few weeks we had an offer that the sellers accepted.  Interestingly, we had lots of activity even after the accepted offer.  We probably could have sold that house 3 times, but only one lucky buyer got the opportunity!

The sellers were excited, but it was a bittersweet happiness.  It was time to let go of the family home in hopes that the new owners would love it, care for it and create as many happy memories as they had.  After the closing, the sellers expressed their sincere appreciation for all that I had done for them.  “You were our legs on the ground,” they said.  “For our family, you were a great fit.  We appreciate all your help.”  Not only was I happy to hear such satisfied clients, I was happy that they got what they wanted.  The new owners are a young family, happy to be settling in to their new home.  A win for all!

Perhaps you know someone looking to buy or sell a home that needs someone who can be their “legs on the ground” and put on a “contractor” hat to get the job done.  Do me a favor and have them give me a call at (608) 333-4406.  I’d be happy to help!