Have you ever thought about why you like being a Realtor? I like many aspects of being a Realtor among those things I like is one very unusual feature.
I like people so that is an easy transition. In real estate we meet a cross section of people from all walks of life. We get to see all types of structure...good and bad, but interesting. We get to see decorating concepts...and some that are very special in a twisted way.
I once represented a guy who used brown beer bottles and cemented them into the front of the house as siding. Can I share it took a while to sell! But people have some fascinating hobbies. So I get to learn all these unique and sometimes varying interesting things. 
I have purchased a few of the items from clients that they didn't want to move or were parting with in yard sales. One such item was a 1939 Philco radio with short wave. I bought it for $25.00. It didn't work...but I looked it over and found a broken wire to the power cord (before I bought it). I replace the power cord...plugged it in and beautiful music came rolling out of the 12" speaker! It has worked fine for over 30 years now. It is one of those items that people always ask about w
hen they see it. Dog was not included!
I purchase a microphone...not what you think. It is a 1915-18? microphone used in a speak easy. You have seen them in the old movies...the one with a the center suspended with springs. It still works but I have never wired it other than to test it. That too was one of my yard sale finds during one of my clients trash and treasure sales. I have been offered $1500.00 for my $5.00 purchase. He didn't know what it was, guessed it to be some old microphone.
This is a similar design but not the stage design like mine. Mine is 12" chrome plated and looks like the day it was taken out of the box! Mine mounts on a stand-up stand.
I just listed a condo where the lady collected figurines...they were every where...over 1200...her count! It was fascinating...and I could have retired, gone blind or ordered a new lenses for my glasses if I had taken the time to look at them all. Every surface was covered with the little darlings...her words.
I have a chair that was made in Europe over 160 years ago. My great great grand father brought it to this country. It was one of the few possessions that is still surviving his legacy, beside me and a few other descendants of course.
You have to marvel at what people collect. Trains, toys, little cast army figures, dolls, fishing tackle, coins, combs, photos, cards, buttons you name it somebody has a stash. Where else would you have the opportunity to see and learn so much about so many different cultures and items?
I have enjoyed the opportunity to expand my knowledge base with the help of some very open and sharing clients. I have one problem...I am to busy to take advantage of all they are willing to share. I have learned from Arabic clients, Asian clients, European clients, Indian client..from India, American Indian clients, Hispanic clients, African and African American clients too. They are willing to share their cultures, foods, religious beliefs almost anything you are willing to inquire they will answe
r.
I am always respectful of their beliefs and demonstrate it by my actions. I have had food prepared from all walks of life and nearly every culture...for me to sample. It is a blessing to be a Realtor and have such great fun and exposure...I sometimes feel I should be paying them for the knowledge I learn from them.
We truly have a profession like non other. We are invited into peoples homes. We are entrusted with the keys to their lives. It makes me smile when I think of the people that have shared so openly with me. My gift back was meeting their goals of buying and selling.
What an occupation! What have you learned while practicing your craft?
Thanks for Stopping By and Leaving a comment.
Gary L. White, Associate Broker
CRS, GRI, ABR, ePRO, AHS, SFR
Phone: 616-784-2360
Email: GaryWhite@FlexitRealty.com
Website: www.FlexitRealtyGrandRapids.com
Videos: YouTube.com/FlexitRealty
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you're so right gary - its the constant change, the different people, conversations, walks of life, circumstances, paraphenalia..........that makes it so fascinating.! For a person who is easily bored it works! I too have bought some fascinating things from my clients.............one currently sitting in my livingroom is a 5' tall hand carved dragon! (it is looking for a new home) :-)
Really nice post and I can relate. You give me food for thought and blog maybe too. Best to you, Pat
Great post Gary, I thing you nailed it. I once told someone while having a beer on the porch of their new home "This is what its all about, making people happy!" A beer never tasted so good...
Gary, I got out of college with a Bachelors in social work and a Masters in Audiology and went OOPS, OOPS. For one thing I hate small tight places what was I thinking. Since that time I have sold everything from educational toys to metal stampings. The toys and real estate have been my favorite. I LOVE helping someone with what is probably their biggest investment and I LOVE the variety.
Gary-I have to agree that you have t like people and like helping others to enjoy what we do. Other things fall into place when that component is there- the respect, the desire to acquire knowledge, etc. I like your post.
Gary, It's true! We get to learn and experience the diversity of the people we serve and it is really cool! People think I'm kidding when I say I want to try their style of food or when I show interest in their belongings, not because I want them but I am interested in the appearance or history or whatever.
Gary,
Variety certainly is plentiful in this real estate business. For us mortgage consultants, no two borrowers are alike and that's what makes is so fascinating.
Send me a photo of that Dragon....you never know...it might like me! Thanks for the comments.
Hi Pat, that is what these blogs do for me too. Sometimes it is a response and sometimes it is just reading others posts...either way I learn something along the way. Thanks for the comments Pat.
Hi Paul, it is one of those great moments when people have gotten the keys to the front door. Thanks for the comments Paul.
Hi Marchel, I have to agree...it makes me smile when it all comes together for people. Thanks for the comments Marchel. Hope all is well. When is the next update on your son?
Gary, Our house is decorated with stuff that Sellers have given me. I've been telling my sellers for years that I would like something from their house to remember them by. Some have taken this very serious and have spent many hours thinking of the perfect gift for me. I have been given beautiful figurines, antique chairs, TVs, paintings, many plants and other good stuff. I tag it all and have it through out our home.
And I, like you, love talking with folks and learning about their life experiences and cultures. We have a great job!!!
Hi Eloise, thanks for your comments. We can only learn and expand our lives by being open and willing to share our space. Thanks again for the comments.
Hi Sara, I have had the privilege of seeing some very interesting things. I was shown a map from the gold rush days that has been in the same family since it was first made. They have it in a frame. It is fascinating...they described the claim with trees and rocks as land marks and number of paces from a water hole. I was amazed. It was the first and only one I have ever seen. It should be in a museum. Thanks for the comments Sara.
Hi Bryant, my wife won't let me keep some things...I have a bottle of wine....$300.00 bottle...she won't let me open it! I have never tasted $300.00 wine didn't care one way or the other but since it's there why not. Hope it doesn't turn to vinegar before to pop it! This is a great job to have.
Thanks for the comments Bryant.
Hi Esko, we live in the same world...no two buyers or sellers are alike either. Thanks for the comments Esko.
Aloha Gary,
Loved yur blog and I LOVE being a Realtor. It's the wonderful wacky world of real estate and the wonderful, crazy, gifted and fun people that we meet and interact with in this buisness. I love the young couple buying their first home and I could go on and on. Live is good and being a realtor is great.
Aloha nui loa
Bill
Gary, what a great post. We love to collect a variety of items too so I appreciate that sellers have their passions.
Having a staging realtor designation, I get to say what a fascinating collection, why don't we start packing it up now, you'll be moving soon!
Personally I love that a) no day is the same and b) you are always meeting new people and hearing new stories.
Gary,
YOu like to be Realtor, because you are good at it :) that's why :) keep the good work my friend, We always love your blogs :)
Ray SAenz
You are so very, very right!! I love this profession. I can't imagine doing anything else. It is not an easy profession, but it is never boring. GBU!
I like that we get to see how other people really live. People's lives are never what they seem from the outside looking in. We get the opportunity to actually become a part of their lives, for better or worse, and that is a priviledge.
First of all, thank you Gary for this post. I think it is wonderful that you've gained so much from each of your clients. I am so glad that you enjoy your craft. I used to go to school in Bangor, MI and I too have seen the "glass bottles" cemented into the walls of homes...I wonder if it's a northern thing, as I have not seen this done anywhere else...
One of the things that I've learned while practicing my craft (Mortgage Loans) is that some mortgages can be like labor pains to some clients (usually the ones w/ very low credit scores, very little in reserves, who want you to perform a MIRACLE!)...they complain the whole time they are in "labor" the pain can be mild to SEVERE...they think there's no end in sight...huffing and puffing the whole time...and then?
CLEAR TO CLOSE! The closing goes w/out a hitch, they are extremely happy...their bundle of joy is finally here! And labor pains? WHAT LABOR PAINS?! And you get a beautiful Thank You note telling you what a wonderful job you did on their loan, and that they are so happy in their new home!
Not when you are a manager!
One of my favorite things by far is getting the ideas from other people's decorations! Its fun to see what different looks actually look like!
I just sold a house to a client who still manages to FLIP houses in this market! We lifted the carpet only to reveal MARBLE floors..... not what you think, the previous owners actually cemented marbles (toy glass ones) to the entire surface!! So when you say people have different decorating styles, you hit the nail on the head!
Hey, Gary. I agree with you 100%. The people you meet and their stories make this career worth every second. Take Care, Jim Great Post!!!!!!
We live in a diverse and cultural state and this is the most exciting to learn from others about their country, state etc. I have a shelf dedicated to little things clients have given me from other states and countries....even Russia and Colombia! Expanding the mind through our business is a great gift.
My experiences have been much the same as you have described. It is a lot of fun -- and once an a while a bit trying. However, every day is different and there is a lot of room for creativity.
There is never a dull moment in this biz. We all have countless stories that keep us going everyday! That is why I love real estate.
Great post. I have learned alot from my clients as well andm yes, they are always willing to share and let you into their lives. Thanks for sharing.
I love being in charge of my time and my income. Could never go back to the 9 to 5!
Hi Gary. I also have many items in my house that I've gotten from sellers. A table here, a plant stand there, a great old iron dutch oven I use every time I make pot roast. But the best part of our job is the people we meet every day. Thanks for a great blog.
For years I was a Retail Manager and sold things: computers, tvs, vcrs, even reams of paper. People are generally appreciative of the help you give them when selling these items, but it doesn't even compair to selling them a home! I truely love to help people find their home! Thats what I love about being a Realtor.
What I love about being a Realtor is giving my clients a comfortable & pleasant home-buying experience - especially those who are afraid to even give you their phone number & name at first!
Gary, you really gave us something to think about--the "side benefits" of a job which often can seem like a thankless job
BeBlessed
John March
Thanks for your post - it brought a smile to my face indeed! There are always the interesting and unusual.
Many highly functioning business people are ADD. I think many agents are and variety factors into that becasuse it enables them to focus, accomplish and then move onto the next thing!
Hi Bill I could not agree more. We have to be thankful we have such a profession that allows us so much freedom to serve clients while embracing their differences. Thanks for the comments Bill.
Hi Debbie, I loved the line I might have to steal it...."love that collection, we should pack it...you'll be moving soon!" As much as I enjoy seeing new and interesting collections we do have stage to sell. Thanks for the comments Debbie.
Hi Billie, I like the variety too and the stories are as varied as the wind directions. Thanks for the comments Billie.
Hi Ray, I like being a Realtor for much more than the accomplishments or the enjoyment of seeing a young couple thrilled to open the door of their first home. I view it as changing America one house at a time! Thanks for the comments Ray.
Hi Kelly, truer words were never spoken. We do get to see the real lives of people. Thanks for the comments Kelly.
Hi Elizabeth, I could use you this week....I need a language class. I have met such a nice family but only the children speak English....we are helping each other and laughing all the way. I would say this is not an easy business and if we were to ask the average client they may not agree. The fundamentals look so easy. It is the application that is hard. Thanks for your comment Elizabeth. Nice to hear from you again.
Gary - You're so right about the variety but the best is helping a family find a real home not just a house!
Hi Rebecca, I can relate but from a different perspective! I can understand the anguish and concerns that come with the process of buying a home. Many times buyers are simply not prepared properly to know what the process actually requires.
I am not sure about the bottle thing being a Northern thing. But, I have to admit this is the only state I have seen it in....do you think they just drink more beer and don't know what to do with the bottles? Thanks for the comments Rebecca.
Hi Douglas, manager? Isn't that the person that everybody dumps on to finalize the paperwork? NO that's not it...manager? They are the ones that wonder what the hell they were thinking! I resemble that remark Douglas...manager/owner. Thanks for the comments. :-)
Variety is the spice of life! You are so correct that each and every one of our clients is highly unique - not to mention how much all of our transactions vary!
Hi Allen, it is interesting to be sure. I have seen some very pleasant surprises. Thanks for the comments Allen.
Hi Anna, now that would be hard to top! I would have taken a photo of that one. I suppose it would be like wearing those sandals with the little nubs to massage your feet when you walk! Thanks for the comments Anna.
Hi Jim, you have to love variety or this would drive you nuts! One thing we can count on in this business is change. Thanks for the comments Jim.
Hi Sally, it truly is one of the gifts and pleasures we have in our business. I seen one of those snow flake bulb collections...over a 1000 from all over the world. You could never believe how much room they take up either! Thanks for the comments Sally. I wouldn't classify them as "opala". I had the fortune of learning a new word not to long ago. :-)
Hi Joan, I forgot! I left out the trying part. Yup that is certainly there too. But seems to come with any profession...keeping it to a minimum is the trick. Thanks for the comments Joan.
Hi Tracy, what are you going to smile about without the stories? Thanks for the comments Tracy.
Hi Christine, people do tend to share and sometimes a bit more than we need to know. Thanks for the comments Christine.
Hi Tamara, flexibility of our time and schedule is just one of the perks. Thanks for your comments Tamara.
Hi Eve, I have to agree...without them what would we have? Thanks for your comments Eve.
Hi Mike, you have seen the zany world of retail and jumped into the fire with real estate. You are still filling needs and wants based on emotion. Thanks for the comments Mike.
Hi Lynn, I spent many years in Big Rapids. It is a challenge sometimes to build the trust but once established it is where relationships begin. Thanks for the comments Lynn.
Hi John, you are looking at it from a broker perspective...I do that every now and then....and then bang my head and start over. Thanks for the nice comments John.
Hi Garren, I am a blend of ADD and compulsive schizophrenic, any way my mouth is the schizophrenic part. Thanks for the comments Garren.
Hi Yvette, that smile was a knowing smile....just because you have been there. Thanks for the comments Yvette.
It seems like I've always worked with people in some way from waitressing in college to retail to real estate. It's fun to make new friendships. Great Blog!
I like meeting new people every day and all have different challenges. No day is the same, no house is the same and no client is the same. You learn something new every day and you can really impace peoples lives.
Gary, I have to say, I've never been bored in this business. No two clients or situations are the same. I enjoy the challenge of solving issues that arise. Now if the market would just get better, so I could sell some houses, this career would be perfect!
My mom was a Realtor for 40 years and she used to say that one of the things she liked best (along with variety) was the freedom of having herself for a boss. "I can do what I want and no one asks me where I'm going or how I spend my time", she'd say with a smile. I think that "being your own boss" is a great thing too....
Gary - well you have certainly expressed so much of what is enjoyable about this business, despite the issues that arise that must be overcome. That, too, can be fun. The opportunity to help people meet their real estate goals is what is it all about.
Jeff
thanks for reminding us the many good reasons we have such a great profession. These days it can be hard to remember :) - hope business is great
How true and thank you bringing this up. When you are deaing with people you have variety, when you are dealing with their homes... the combinations are endless.
Hi Sharon, the people I meet and represent in Real Estate usually create a lasting friendship. I have clients giving me referral from 10 years ago and they are in the same house. I wonder if it is my calendar with my photo? :-) Thanks for the comments Sharon.
Hi Jeff, we are in the people business even though our product is homes and businesses. It does make it interesting. Thanks for the comments Jeff.
Hi Gail, we are in a unique business and I wouldn't have it any other way...? Thanks for the comments Gail.
Gary, I love being a realtor too, for many of the same reasons you do. I love the variety, I love meeting people and I love learning new things and sharing in people's lives and cultures. Great post!!
Hi Gary - I've heard it said "Variety is the spice of life!" Thank you for sharing your spicy clients with me!
Hi June, we have many parallels in life. This is just one. Thanks for the comments June.
Hi Mary, I like having a little spice in my life and this fills that void.....if it existed. Thanks for the comments Mary.