The late (and great) comedian George Carlin once quipped about stepping out of status quo; “I put a dollar in one of those change machines. Nothing Changed.” Dry humor yes, but a bit profound too…People seem to want change to happen to them without doing much of anything. But real positive change takes time and hard work. And, once the wheels are set into motion, the rewards are endless.
Just after Thanksgiving, I decided that I wanted to change my business in 2009. I spent over five wonderful years working as an agent under the Keller Williams Premier umbrella but sometimes a change will energize an individual and provide a more dynamic future. So without any decisions being made, I started interviewing brokers to see if there was a better fit out there for me and most importantly one that would provide additional benefits to my client base. I began researching smaller brokerages as I felt they would better fit needs. I contacted several but nothing felt right.
Fate played a role. In a Listingbook class, I was seated next to a fellow REALTOR® who I knew in the White Bear Lake area. She told me of changes that were taking place at the White Bear Lake RE/MAX office that she was affiliated with. A day later, I heard similar news from another trusted mortgage colleague. Intrigued, I contacted the owner/broker Mike Vanderheyden and listened to what RE/MAX Specialists had to offer. Small firm with innovative ideas. Redesigning itself to be poised for the future. Putting the needs of the clients first. Hmmmm….Sounds a lot like me.
So I took a risk and made the change. As of January 1, 2009 I am now proud part of the RE/MAX Specialists family.
Funny thing happened, when I made that leap off the bridge of change. A day after I called Mike and informed him of my decision, I received a call from Bob Stewart, Active Rain guru in Bellvue, WA asking if I was interested in being part of the Growth Leadership Marketing Program. I had read his post on the project months ago but Minneapolis/St Paul was not on the list of cities so I didn’t respond. Bob called me anyway. What an amazing opportunity that just sort of fell into my lap. The start up was put on hold until after the broker change but soon my readers will see weekly posts on this fantastic program.
And the positive energy didn’t stop there…After I decided to make my change, my phone started to ring like crazy. Things just started to happen!
- A referral from a long time friend.
- A “I need a house NOW” buyer from the internet.
- Showings on several of my listings during the usually slow Christmas week.
Sometimes change may not seem necessary but life’s forces are dynamic! One change can lead to others and create a field of positive energy. So take up the challenge: Make a change and reap the rewards in 2009!
If you are buying, selling or relocating to Minnesota and need help from a professional REALTOR®, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet or Homebuyers Success Packet. I specialize in acreage and lakeshore properties in the north and east Twin Cities metro area including Ham Lake, Lino Lakes and all communities in the Forest Lake School District! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.
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