Every once in a while, a real estate experience comes along that reminds you exactly why you do what you do.
This year, I received a call from a wonderful couple originally from France who purchased one of my listings back in 2015. They were ready to retire and move back to the French Riviera, truly living the dream! Over the last five years, they reached out periodically as they weighed timing and logistics, so when they called this time, I knew the moment had arrived.
They were doing their due diligence and interviewing several agents (I never shy away from competition!). We had a lovely meeting, and as they walked me to the door, I mentioned how the previous seller and I have since become friends, we meet monthly to catch up with each other, laugh and enjoy time together.
They smiled politely, thanked me, and shared they had another agent appointment the next morning.
Fifteen minutes later… my phone rang.
They cancelled the other appointment and asked if I could come right back to list the home. I was still in the neighborhood, so I turned the car around, walked through the door again, and we signed together right then and there.
Later, the wife, who works in tech sales, told me why they called me back.
She said:
“We knew you were already the top listing agent in Canyon Creek. But when you shared that you didn’t just sell homes, you build relationships that turn into friendships, that sealed our decision. That’s exactly how I work too.”
That moment warmed my heart. Knowledge and performance matter… but genuine connection? That’s the foundation of my business and hearing her recognize that meant everything.
They were the dream clients, gracious, thoughtful, and easygoing. They even pulled off a nearly two-month stay in France during the selling process (and yes, they cut it close for closing, but we made it!).
And then, after a long wait for their flat in Cannes, France to finally close (two years!), I received this message, from across the ocean:
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“We were extremely lucky and grateful that we had the opportunity to sell our home through Dorie Dillard. She is an expert on the subject and worked with us through the whole process with dedication and professionalism. She is a great listener, extremely responsive, trustworthy and genuinely cares about her customers, both sellers and buyers. We met with different agents, and we ended up selecting Dorie for her experience, knowledge, her communication skills and her ability to close a sale. I highly recommend Dorie as she is a rockstar!” |
Why This Meant So Much 💙
This experience was more than a listing. It was a full-circle moment, a reminder that real estate isn't just about transactions. It's about trust. Relationships. Being part of someone’s life journey, whether they're moving around the corner or across the world.
Their words reminded me that showing up consistently, caring deeply, and keeping connection at the heart of my work, truly matters.



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