Personal Reflections

 

Personal Reflections

Although I’ve been in some area of real estate all of my life, I want to reflect a bit today.  In 1989 when I decided to become a fee appraiser, the biggest problem adjustment I had make was to the prices that had skyrocketed beyond comprehension since 1972 when I first began my real estate sales career in Spokane, Washington.  In the 70’s, the average price of a home was still under $30,000.  But I was appraising properties far beyond that.  Some even exceeding a million dollars.  But for me, it was a huge adjustment.  An adjustment I believe still find myself contemplating.    

Similarly, in 2001 when I reactivated my real estate broker’s license, I had other adjustments to overcome.  Yes, they were mental and I did overcome them.  Please understand though, I had been a fee appraiser for over 10 years.  The first adjustment was the paperwork.  In the 70’s a purchase agreement was a single 8½” by 14” page.  In 2001, the average contract sometimes exceeded 20 pages.  Another adjustment was the sense I got from those who knew I had been a fee appraiser, it seemed they really didn’t want to know what my opinion of value was.  As such I began using a range of values.  One more was giving directions.  When I appraised a property, it was always based on the grid of a map.  But when I was asked to give directions, I froze.  I realized I was totally in the dark. 

Although the business of real estate is changing nearly every month, I’ve worked to overcome those problems and now feel comfortable.  Nonetheless, it’s still interesting for me to imagine selling million dollar properties.  Back in the 70’s such sales were so far beyond my comprehension, I just couldn’t imagine them.  Today, well they are almost commonplace. 

Hopefully my reflections give you a better idea as to who I am and how I might be able to assist you and your family or friends.  Until then, I do hope you have a very Blessed day.