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They drove up to our Open House in a convertible and came inside being very scrutinous of the house we had for sale. It was obvious right from the start that Miki and John knew exactly what they wanted and this house wasn’t it.
John asked us lots of questions and we talked for almost an hour. When they left we had set up a time to meet at their house and discuss some real estate plans. They had lost some money in the stock market and wanted to build equity to offset the losses. In just a few days we created a marketing plan for their current home and shortly thereafter we had it in escrow. We went house hunting almost daily and nothing seemed to fit. We mentioned to them that we saw a house near the beach that needed some fixing up, something they hadn’t considered. It did have a big yard with a huge pool and was minutes to the beach so they reluctantly looked at property. John’s reaction was unenthusiastic but we spent time imagining what could be done. We returned several times each time with some new ideas. Russ and I offered to help them with the remodel. We gave them the names of contractors, painters, etc. and before long John and Miki were sold on the idea of fixing up the house. What a job they did! When they were done the house looked like a model home. They did such a good job that we sold the house within a year from their purchase. They offset the capital gain with some losses from the stock market. They had made a nice profit. The next property was lovely and only needed a few touches that John and Miki were very comfortable doing. However, the house backed to a major street and the noise began to bother them. We suggested that they sell that house immediately while the market was strong. We agreed on a sales price but when it came time to sign the listing agreement we suggested we raise the price. John and Miki were elated. In just a few days of our marketing blitz we had multiple offers and sold the property for more than asking price. Another cash windfall and more offset capital gains. It was a sellers market and finding another house was going to be tough. We began searching and found a home that was not yet on the market. We got the sellers to let John and Miki into the house before anyone could see it. They now live in this home and have remodeled the kitchen and baths. John’s added crown molding and installed new windows and doors. Miki and John have found an interest in remodeling and they have developed a keen eye and excellent taste. We think they’re going to stay here for a while, they like the neighborhood and the quiet cul-d-sac. |