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Pay It Forward - Friendly Advice

By
Real Estate Agent with Real Property, Inc.

A former client's dad who is an old friend called me two days ago for some advice.  It was great to hear from him after too much time had passed since we last communicated.  Many years ago he and his wife loved to entertain on their deck overlooking the harbor and I was very fortunate to be one of their guests on a number of festive occasions.  Needless to say our lives, work, health issues and the like slowed our social connections down to exchanging holiday cards and an occasional pleasant reunion at the local grocery store.

The winter has been ferocious in our neck of the woods and my old friend needed advice about what to do regarding the winter's beating to the deck we all enjoyed so much.  The deck projects out over a steep drop off and the footings under the deck have eroded away to where the deck is potentially dangerous.  He wanted to know whether he should repair the deck or just have it removed since he and his wife don't use the deck much anymore and they probably will be selling the house in a few years. 

We had a heavy deep and real conversation about the pluses and minuses of repairing vs tearing down the deck as well as what contractors may be suitable for the job.  It was great helping my old friend out and it was flattering that he held my judgment in regard to these real estate matters in such high esteem.  Plus, It looks like we'll be having a few more gatherings together on the deck.

John R. Crosby, Realtor & Appraiser
Real Property, Inc.
19 Linden St.
, Marblehead, MA  01945
781-479-4177  phone & fax
John@MoveWithCrosby.com

 

Comments (4)

Richard Ruggaber
Metro Life Homes - Los Angeles, CA
California Real Estate - (818) 422-5035

John:  Great story and thanks for sharing.  I hope your friend repairs the deck and they have a few last great get togethers over the next couple of years.

Feb 13, 2011 03:51 PM
Andrea Swiedler
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties - New Milford, CT
Realtor, Southern Litchfield County CT

John, wasn't that smart of him to contact you for advice! And even better that the deck is being repaired!

Feb 13, 2011 10:36 PM
John Crosby
Real Property, Inc. - Marblehead, MA

Richard, I'm sure the repaired deck will see a few more terrific gatherings of old friends.  Thanks! 

Feb 14, 2011 03:19 AM
John Crosby
Real Property, Inc. - Marblehead, MA

Hi Andrea!  We can't forget that we can be the "source of the source" for clients as well as for friends.  Thanks!

Feb 14, 2011 03:21 AM