Yesterday was one of my most memorable days in years. I've been selling real estate for over 14 years, but yesterday really reminded me of exactly why I am a Realtor.  Taking the watch "On Floor" early Saturday morning, I received a call from a man who explained that he and his family were here in Boca living in a long term hotel.  Working for the foreign service, he was just transferred from Thailand and virtually just stepped off the plane only a few days ago and needed to find a home for himself and his young family.  He was very honest and stated that he wasn't exactly sure where he wanted to live, but was considering Boca Raton. Obviously that's not the perfect situation a realtor wants to hear, but I listened intently and took meticulous notes as we all do.  I quickly performed an intense search utilizing his criteria, recognizing that his needs were very specific. I scrambled trying to set up at least 8 appointments, in order for my clients to get the flavor of several different areas within Boca.  As it was 1:30 in the afternoon, I soon discovered that I simply couldn't reach anyone to arrange an appointment so late in the day.  Either everyone was out showing homes or playing hookey in the gorgeous Florida sun.  Either way, I didn't want to disappoint my new clients. 

I arranged to meet them at their hotel which was on the other side of town in a commercial area thinking that it would be much easier for them since they didn't know the area. With two young children in tow, a lovely young mother and an anxious husband, we all piled into their car.  I explained that although I couldn't confirm any appointments due to the lateness of the day, I was about to perform something that I had never had done in my entire career.  I was about to become a tour guide.  

Prior to our meeting I had arranged to gain access to the finest communities within Boca so that I could explain the benefits of each different area.  We talked and drove for over 2 1/2 hours.  By the time we finished, my new friends were so grateful and surprisingly I was so proud of myself.  Together we had explored numerous communities, drove past several properties I had wanted to gain access to and shared everything I knew about the benefits of living in Boca Raton. 

What an amazing day.  Sharing my knowledge and expertise just reinforced why I became a Realtor. Selling real estate is about your heart and your genuine interest in other people.  That's a great feeling, one in which I hope to hold onto for a very long time.  As it turned out, my new friends will be spending Monday with me and I can't wait to find them the perfect new home.  Perhaps I'm being selfish, but it will be wonderful having new friends in my community.