How do you go from this fixer to a waterfront townhouse?

This morning, I showed a major fixer upper to a couple looking for investment property. There was clearly a bit of disappointment that this fixer was more than they expected (although I had set expectations earlier).

I mentioned that there are a couple of fixers on the west side of town that they should also check out. Both said they weren't keen on seeing anything there (they're east enders, and there's a bit of west vs east mentality). I persuaded them to let me show those properties anyway, and told them that the west side of town is evolving and improving.

Minutes later, we're at the west-end fixer. They were really intrigued and liked this one better. They both thanked me for taking them to the west end. After having lived in Alameda for 12 years, they never bothered to explore this side of town because of preconceived notions.

So I upped the ante...I drove them around, pointed out a few things that have sold recently, and showed other areas that are vastly improved. Then I took them to Ballena Bay to show them the townhouses that have docks behind them for the owners' boats.

They were delighted to see these. And the wife said that's what she would like when they're ready to retire. So we made an appointment to see the two townhouses with docks next week.

They kept thanking me for opening their eyes to other possibilities, and were so happy to see this part of town.

So we've gone from seeing a fixer for $300K to waterfront townhouses for over $800K.

Vive le difference!

P.S. Turns out that the couple own 4 properties, and currently live in a duplex just a couple of streets from our office downtown. They have 4 sons. And are looking for buy a house for the oldest son. Opportunities!