The Journey of Selling a Family Home: A Realtor’s Story of Patience and Perseverance
The Beginning: Writing the Letter
In May of 2022, I found myself sitting at my desk, drafting a letter that I hoped would resonate with a particular group of homeowners. The property I was interested in had been in the family since 1967, and I knew it held more than just financial value. My goal was to connect, not just to pitch a sale. I shared with them what I’d been doing in the neighborhood and let them know I had a potential buyer interested in their property. The owners lived out of state in Georgia, and the house was being rented out. The process wasn’t going to be quick or easy, but I was committed to seeing it through.
Building Trust Through Consistent Follow-Up
Over the next several months, I made it a priority to stay in touch with the owners. I knew they were bombarded with calls and letters from other realtors and investors, but I wanted to be different. I sent postcards after every closing, detailing my activity in the area, and made sure to follow up with emails and phone calls regularly. It wasn’t just about making a sale; it was about building trust. The property had been occupied by a tenant for over 20 years, and there was a bit of a hoarding issue. This situation required sensitivity and patience, and I was ready to provide both.
Overcoming Challenges: The Tenant and Inspections
By the time 2024 rolled around, the owners were finally ready to get serious about selling. We had numerous conference calls, many lasting over an hour, just to explain the process. Trust was a major issue, but I took the time to answer every question they had about the paperwork, marketing, and the contract. At one point the niece pulled me aside and said, “I’m still impressed that you were able to get through to my aunt and uncle.”
We decided to list the property above market value at $1.1 million, even though I had advised them to consider $900,000. They wanted to aim high, and I respected their decision. The higher price made it difficult to attract some buyers, but I secured an offer for $900,000 and $950,000. We were eventually able to negotiate up to $975,000.
The tenant, bless her heart, was reluctant to leave. She had lived there for over two decades, and the thought of moving was overwhelming. It was a stressful time, and I was there to help facilitate the transition. We also dealt with soil tests, surveys, and tree inspections. Every step of the way, I constantly communicated with the owners, ensuring they were comfortable and informed.
The Day of Moving Out: A Difficult Goodbye
The day finally came when the tenant had to move out. It was a Saturday, and I met with the owner, the tenant, and her son. The tenant struggled to decide what to take with her and what to leave behind. The buyer wasn’t interested in inheriting 21 years of accumulated belongings, so we had to act quickly. Within 15 minutes, I arranged for two trucks to arrive with workers to remove as much as they could. The sellers even scheduled a special pickup for a huge pile of junk. It was a tough day, filled with mixed emotions, but we managed to get through it.
The Closing: A Celebratory Finish
After 2.5 years of persistence, patience, and countless phone calls, we finally reached the closing table. The owners made another trip back from Georgia, and we celebrated the sale together. It was a moment of triumph, not just for the financial gain, but for the relationships we had built along the way. This wasn’t just another transaction; it was a story of trust, perseverance, and the importance of human connection in real estate.
As I handed over the keys to the new owner, I knew I had made a lasting impact. Another happy client, another story that proves why I love what I do.
If you’re considering selling your home or just want to explore your options, let’s start a conversation. Whether your property needs a little extra care or you’re ready to make a move, I’m here to help every step of the way. Contact me today to discuss how we can achieve your real estate goals together.
Contact Information:
Email: KevinFreel@c21be.com
Phone: (727) 410-8599
Office: Century 21 Beggins, 3628 Henderson Blvd Tampa, FL 33609
Kevin Freel, your partner in making pivotal life moments happen.