Well now...it's been awhile. My working full-time and raising three girls has not afforded me much time to dance in the rain this year. However, as I take a moment to reflect on my aspirations and commitment to new goals, I couldn't help but take some time to acknowledge my friends here in the rain. For all of you, I offer words of encouragement for 2008 !
We are all seeing so many changes in the real estate market, it has become far too easy to contemplate the longevity of this down turn in our marketplace. My encouragement in this is to realize that it is a great time to buy and that for the diligent and dedicated broker, deals can be abundant. Start looking in new places. This is a chance to stretch beyond your comfort zone and become familiar with foreclosures, short sales, owner terms and creative financing. 2008 is a year for opportunity, for making things happen.Get out there and check out new lender programs, the newest bank or credit union in town, the developer sitting on 12 vacants, maybe even a new office. It is a time to embrace change and to pull out all the stops. While everyone else is whining about how bad it is, do something positive to give yourself the advantage.
Get involved in your community and give back! While Active Rain is a great venue for networking, there are many organizations within each of your communities. Outside of the obvious Realtor Associations, try volunteering or becoming a member with your local Rotary, United Way, film festival, high school alumni, libraries, museums, parks, sports programs, and city or county volunteer positions. Ronald McDonald House, Boys and Girls Club and Big Brother/Big Sisters are just some of the many programs that will appreciate your efforts. Having something to share that's personal and positive about where you live is unbelievably appealing to buyers and sellers and is a great way to stir up some new business.
Speak positively, you reap what you sow. When talking with buyers and sellers, be honest about the challenges you see and your plan to capitalize on this changing market. Present everything on a positive and use your creativity to make deals come together. The glass is half full or half empty. Decide now what it is for you and sell it.
Experience gratitude daily. Be grateful for all that you have and stop worrying about that which you don't. Your family, health, friends, your home, car and clients.....simple things like a roof over your head and food to eat. Whatever it is, choose love in your heart and a grateful spirit. Anything less is a waste of energy and only holds you back from all that you are destined to experience.
May 2008 be a year of prosperity, healing and many blessings. For whatever is in store for you, I wish all of you the very best.
Much Love to all my friends in the "Rain"-
Kelli
;)
;)
