I'm not a stalker but technology can make me appear a little creepy.
I got a voice mail message from someone interested in getting an estimate for a new deck at their home. I recognized the number as a local residential number, and since I was in the office, I did a reverse search to see if the number had an address available publicly. Usually, if the number is in the phone book with an address, it is available for a reverse search. There was an address, so I Googled it, while returning the call.
When I called back, I got their recorder, so I left a message. Since I was already on Google I checked for directions because it was in a wooded area and signage is scarce in some of these places. Although it was a mountainous area, the home was on a two lane highway and Google had a Street View of that road.
Since Street View was available I dragged the little Google Guy to the street in front of the home. BAM, there I was looking at the home even before talking to the resident. Then the phone rang, it was the home owner returning my call.
So in the time it took for me to call the home owner and them to call me back (seriously not more than 2 minutes) I was able to get the address, find a route to the home, and see what the home looked like from the street. I find that a little creepy.
But to be honest, this isn't the first time I've used this type of thing. Google has done an incredible job of getting to many streets in many cities. Using this technology helps me to see things that may not be explained on the phone - like we have a steep driveway, the back of the house is 30 feet above the ground, or there is a gate at the street.
Part of my job is to be prepared for the project. Being ready for the first visit may be the difference between getting or missing the opportunity to do that job. I am willing to do these sorts of things even though they may seem a little creepy at first.
Please do not let my behavior stop you from calling me. Call from a blocked number, or a cell number if you find this too creepy.
Enjoy this day!
By the way...
When looking on Google, if the streets are yellow, there is a street view.
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