You never know how your words can change someone’s life

About six months ago a young married couple, I would say no more than 20 or 21, came in to an open house of mine with their one year old baby. They were just looking since they had been across the street filling out a rental application for some apartments.

They were amazed when I told them that they could own one real easy and it wouldn't take long to fill out an application and at least find out. They said that they had credit problems. They had a charge off and a repossession on their credit in the last couple of years.

I explained that I work with the credit challenged and ask some details about their situation. Then I asked if they minded if I came over and sat down with them to help them figure out what they could do to improve their credit situation.

They said, "No, we aren't really ready" So, I didn't push it and didn't even ask for their phone number or e-mail address. (I didn't want to push them over the edge and scare them off.) But, I did ask them a few questions, gave them some pointers about the repossession and the charge offs and told them that if they worked at it, maybe in six months to a year, the dream of home ownership could be possible and not to give up and let them go on their way.

Well, yesterday out of the blue, I got a call from the place that I just left doing an open house at. They said they saw my sign and wanted to stop by. I was already gone, going to pick up my signs, but I returned and they both had big smiles on their faces. They said, "You did get through to us and we want you to know that! We listened, did what you said and we have been watching this places for weeks. We worked, we called a mortgage broker and we have now been pre-approved and we want to put an offer on this place!"

Wow, that was six months ago and I really thought I would never hear from that young couple again. But, I guess I got through to them and changed their life and gave them hope, something they hadn't had. So, with my encouragement, they are hopefully soon going to be home owners!

So, even if you feel you aren't helping, be encouraging and you maybe surprised whose life you might change.   

Todd Clark - broker
Kastings & Associates
Phone: (503)524-9494
Fax: (503)622-8739