Keeping it Real (Estate): Moments of Appreciation

Isn't it a nice feeling to be seen? The other week I experienced something that completely changed the way I look at everyday interactions.

I regularly patronize a local coffee shop. During the week, I set up my laptop, have a coffee and a bowl of their homemade soup, and take care of the emails, planning, and other preparation that I can do away from my office. Something about the hum of a busy coffee shop allows me greater focus. On Saturdays, before the farmer's market or kid sporting events, we stop in for hot cocoa, carbs, and coffee. It has become a lovely ritual we all look forward to. 

I love going there because the owners and the folks that work there are kind, charming, and engaging. It feels like home, and it's the type of place every town needs. It's really like the town square where business and life all happen side by side over coffee and treats.

On a typical weekday afternoon I wander in, order my usual, and set up at a table in the back. The owner came over and asked if I had a moment, and shared that he wanted to tell me before it was public that they were going to be retiring from the business. I was stunned. Why would I be one of a privileged few to know this news before the rest of the town? 

Before I could ask, the owner told me that they appreciate me being there, and that I bring a light and energy to the place that they see and love. They didn't want me to feel blind sighted as a regular. I was doubly stunned, again. Who says that? All I do every time is show up, deliver kindness, sometimes a little silly conversation, please, and thank you. 

At the end of the day, a little appreciation and being seen goes a LONG WAY! That interaction felt incredible, because I realize that it's so easy to feel like another person simply occupying space. And it altered how I view my day-to-day interactions with people who trust me with one of their most impactful transactions of their lives: buying or selling a HOME. 

All that to say, I would love to take this opportunity to say thank you for being here, reading my emails, visiting my site, and taking this real estate journey with me. Your couple of moments of attention each time this arrives to your email box really does make a difference to me. 

THANK YOU. 

I'm Jennifer Schurter, a Realtor in the Portland, Oregon Metro area. I help great people like you invest in and manage their real estate portfolios. If you own your personal home, then yes, you have an investment in real estate!