It is Thursday and once again – busy, busy – can’t seem to catch up – but loving every single minute of being a Realtor. I have a busy weekend coming up and I am looking forward to it! Especially since I will be meeting new clients.
Today, Ma and I took a trip to Brookfield, CT – to my brother’s house.
I love that this warmer weather is bringing more little critters out and about. At home, we always make sure to have our bird feeders filled – especially in the winter months. The pic above is one of my brothers bird houses.
This bird feeder is the most used of all of our birds – I wonder if it is the house shape – since our other feeders are round and boxy shaped – Hmm??
After a quick visit with my sister-n-law and the kids, Ma and I stopped at Walmart…
Then back home and back to work until it was time to drop off dinner again for Amanda…
Morning appointment in Brookfield, CT – one condo with a new client – a very sweet newlywed. Then, off to my second appointment. Also in Brookfield with a gentleman who viewed a listing sheet from my brochure box in front of my listing…
We’re having a seafood dinner tonight, but I’ll let you in on a little secret – I don’t care for seafood!
Then back into New Fairfield for a quick stop at Shaws for pellets and then back home to do some work before an evening appointment in Danbury to view a few townhouses again in the Rivington complex with first time home buyers. We were there until 8:45pm – and had a grand old-time!
We were all invited to go to my brother’s house in Brookfield, CT for our Christmas Eve dinner, opening some gifts and most especially, some family time together. My mom has been with my brother and his family for a few days now to help them get ready.
Work was quiet and that was alright since there was much to do. The girls and I baked cookies, Melissa made a French Apple Tart and Amanda and I made a quick stop at Shaw’s and the liquor store. We were finally ready to leave by 5:30 and arrived to wonderful Christmas Eve appetizers and a beautifully set table awaiting its guests.
Here are some moments of our Christmas Eve…
A Cozy Fire
A Beautiful Tree
Eating, eating… and more eating!
Fun Opening Gifts
Watching the Little Ones Playing with New Toys
and a special Thanks to our Hosts…
My Brother Louie & Sister-in-Law Leia
Then it was back home, where we left our lights on while we slept and waited for Santa…
After dropping off my clients, I made a trip to Wal-Mart to purchase some more Halloween items to complete our costumes – 4 wigs at $6 a piece – awesome price!
Joe and his wig – which he kept complaining that his hair was going in his mouth so I had to clip it back!
We were invited to my brother’s house in Brookfield, CT for his yearly Halloween party – my sister-in-law, Leia out did herself again with all the decorations! For our costumes… Melissa was a Pirate, David a Ninja, Amanda a Baseball Player, Sara a Gypsy, Jonathan was Britney Spears, Joe was Morticia and I was Octomom!
We had a blast! Which started with getting dressed – Joe and Jonathan both needed help getting into their dresses – Ha!
Then, we stopped at the New Fairfield Food Market to pick up a 3′ Wedge I had ordered. Since we were all dressed in our costumes, we debated who would be going into the store to pick up the wedge. Amanda graciously offered while the rest of us sat in the car getting stares from people coming out of the store – the photo of Joe above was taken while we were waiting and he kept getting the most stares – I was laughing so hard I could hardly drive!
Jonathan (Britney Spears) going into the “Haunted House” for our party
We arrived at my brother’s and had a great night – food, drinks, a “Best Costume” award – which was given to my brother, Louie, who was a Bagel and his wife, Leia, who was a box of Philadelphia Cream Cheese – very original and hand-made.
I will be adding photos to this post as soon as I get my camera back – I left it at Lou & Leia’s! The photos above were taken with my camera phone.
Halloween count down – candy, costume, Ticks & Treats for our yearly Halloween Party at my brother’s house in Brookfield, CT. Oh, I said costume – right? Well, I still don’t have one. Again, I just need to stop and think what costumes we already have. Melissa suggested I be a bunny – oh how original, but my brother does has 3 little one’s – so I need to keep it where I’m not scaring or shocking them!
Before the party, we will be going Trick-or-Treating – my younger 3 still like to go – and being a kid for as long as you possibly can isn’t a bad thing. And, even though all 3 of them are teenagers, Halloween safety is always important.
Along with some goodies and wine that I will be bringing, I’d like to bring a movie or two – Here is Halloween online Magazine – Top 13 Favorite Horror Movies – there are actually a few Halloween kids movies – again, we have a few young kiddies. And, I can’t forget the music…
Saturday – a very busy Saturday! Met with a client and his family, in Patterson, NY to view a home that he is interested in purchasing. Then flew home to get my things together for a Public Open House on my listing in Brookfield, CT ~ CLICK here to view listing sheet.
Afterwards, picked up my Open House signs and flew to the office to pick up listing sheets and to update my electronic key for appointments tomorrow.
Then, met with a very sweet couple to view a home in Brewster, NY.
After my appointment – made a few phone calls while making my way to A & P – picked up a few things for a wine & cheese night with my sister Lisa and brother-in-law Richie. We decided to watch the Yankee game instead of a movie. The Yankees won after 13 innings – a very exciting game! Although, the pouring rain and frigid temperatures made me uncomfortable for the fans in the stands. One other person that was at the game – working as security – was my client from this morning. He was stationed behind 3rd base – Lucky him, except for the freezing part!
Did some work – errands – and home to make dinner and tend to the kids – pets and house – and, very, very grateful that Jonathan’s soccer practice was canceled! That’s one less thing on my “To Do” list.
Worked… cleaned… and rearranged our kitchen now that Joe is finished with painting the cabinets and walls – looks so clean, bright and refreshing! It’s not totally completed, but will be soon… I hope!
I have a new client that I will be taking out tomorrow – a New York Police Officer and first time home buyer – so I made all the necessary calls and appointments.
Then, Jonathan and I were off to New Milford, CT for his away soccer game…
Jonathan’s New Fairfield Soccer Club Uniform
Jonathan and his team won – he scored the last goal – Yeah! So far, they’ve won their first 2 games and a treat was well deserved – Mc Donald’s – his favorite!
Mc D’s in New Milford, CT
Since I was just a few miles away, we stopped at Costco in Brookfield, CT for some bulk shopping.
Grilled Chicken for dinner – taking advantage of being able to barbecue before the cold sets in. Then, back to work until very, very late…
What a wonderful day today… I could breathe! Thanks to the steroids that were administered yesterday at Danbury Hospital, my lungs were clear and my asthma is 99% gone!
bbjee – Flickr.com
I also heard from a client who I haven’t heard from in about a year. I’ve been sending listings and time to time she’d e-mail back. Being a Realtor® and having patients and understanding helps tremendously since purchasing a home can take time helps tremendously.
I set up appointments – 3 homes in Brookfield, Newtown and Bethel – picked up my clients and had some great conversation in the car.
Then Jonathan and I went to Shaw’s for some grocery shopping, bought some wine at Fairwood Wines & Liquors in New Fairfield which is conveniently located near Shaw’s and Starbucks. Back home to whip up dinner and get back to work – made appointments for tomorrow – phone calls – e-mails – searching listings – reading…
Another rainy day – so since we’re limited to doing indoor activities, it was back to finish up our school shopping. We did good yesterday, but we still needed sneakers and backpacks and a few other items to purchase. So it was off to Bob’s in Danbury – I had a great coupon to use, so deciding where to go was easy!
Afterwards, we passed by my brother’s home in Brookfield, CT. They have been renovating just about every room and I am amazed every time I go since there is always something new to see. My sister-in-law, Leia, has a knack for interior decorating and I am inspired and look forward to every visit.
Rain, rain, rain… It came down as a heavy downpour and for quite awhile – flooding was everywhere, road blocks were up and even torn up roadways – it was crazy! And where was I in this mess – ?? Putting up a new sign in front of my Brookfield listing.
Before going to Brookfield – I went to our bank – HSBC in Brewster. Then off to show a condo in Danbury – here’s the pretty water view in the complex – where it had just started to rain.
After the sign was up, I went home – which took about 45 minutes instead of 15 due to the storm. I picked up my youngest, Jonathan, and took him to the local barber – Roberts Barber Shop near the New FairfieldPost Office. They always take their time and do a great job – better yet, with my crazy schedule, walk-ins are welcome. Then off to Shaw’s and… I couldn’t resist – since Joe is in Portugal – we had Chinese for dinner – Yum!
It’s Sunday, Joe put up our new fan in the kitchen and the new shower head in the hall bath. I had a late morning appointment – starting in New Fairfield, then made our way into Brookfield, Newtown and ended in Bethel.
Newtown, CT – Cell Phone Pic
After dropping my clients off, I went home to start dinner – which David took over so that I could meet with the Virtual Tour photographer from Circle Pix. He took photos and video of my new listing in New Fairfield…
Appointment in Brookfield, CT. Met with the photographer – Jackie from CirclePix – she took some professional still photos and the virtual tour for my listing.
150 Pocono Road ~ Brookfield, CT ~
Oh, but before this appointment, my husband, who had been working the night shift, called at about 6:40 am with news that I’ve always feared – he’d had an accident on I-684 and probably totaled his car.
Thankfully, he has not a scratch on him. When I picked him up, he was shaken, but kept saying he wasn’t going to think about it, since it could have been so much worse.
Since Joe had worked through the night, he slept as I went to my appointment in Brookfield – then went on a few errands… dropped off the Citizen News newspaper and Pennysaver to my clients that just purchased a home in my hometown – New Fairfield, CT. Went to the bank – first to Savings Bank of Danbury in New Fairfield –
Took Amanda and Sara to the library – I swear they could read a book a day – and a treat at Sprinkles Ice Cream in New Fairfield. Went to Shaw’s… Yes, I went food shopping…. again. Made dinner –beef stew with carrots, squash, broccoli, beans, rice and salad – a real easy dinner for all 7 of us. Made us realize how very lucky we are.
Late morning appointment in New Fairfield, CT with past clients that are looking into selling their home. I was their selling agent almost 2 years ago. What a pleasure it was to see them again, and to see the improvements they’ve done to their home.
Clients views of Ball Pond
Drove up to my listing in Brookfield, CT – went to put up my yard sign and lockbox. My brother lives just a few minutes away, so I stopped and visited with my sister-in-law, Leia, and the kids. I was also their selling agent. It’s always a pleasure to visit with them since they’re always making improvements and Leia has such awesome ideas that she inspires me. Currently, she motivating me to paint my kitchen cabinets. I’m almost there…. just need one more push – well, one more BIG push!
My kitchen cabinets – yes, that’s Moe – in his new hiding spot from the pups!
While I was visiting with the kids and meeting Taffy, their new kitty, the wind started to kick up and it got so dark within such a short amount of time. As I was talking with Leia in the kitchen, I heard a loud sound and could see the trees move and shake along with what seemed like a dark gray cloud move across the yard – Bam! The rain and wind hit the house. I flew to my car – since I realized I had left both windows open, and had to drive home, drenched and barely able to see anything! Very scary!
Afterwards, Matt, our most fantastic computer guy, delivered my daughter, Sara’s, new mini-Dell computer and took my Melissa’s computer to have a look since it’ s been over heating. Then, I unfortunately had to deliver bad news to clients that the offer they submitted on a foreclosure was not happening since the bank accepted another offer. That is the part I do not like about my job, being the bearer of bad news.
Dell – Mini
I also spoke with clients that just closed on their house 2 weeks ago. The sellers rented out until the end of the month and my clients are excited about moving in this weekend. I’m happy that they’ll be New Fairfield neighbors of mine.
Kids are enjoying their summer vacation – Melissa is busy working 2 jobs and taking summer classes at West Conn, David is having a blast with friends, today he called from North Carolina, Amanda loves reading her books, Sara is feverishly excising – I swear she does enough for her and me! And Jonathan is a night owl like me – up late on the computer, except I’m working and he’s playing.
Did a few errands, phone calls, e-mails and made a yummy dinner– Chicken with red peppers, zucchini and fresh green beans from my mother-in-laws garden – added some potatoes and salad…. and a glass of red wine – as Julia Child would say, “Bon Appetit!” – I am so looking forward to seeing the movie – “Julie & Julia”
Home for Sale in Brookfield Connecticut – Spacious Colonial with 4 to 5 Bedrooms ~ 2-1/2 Baths ~ over 2,904 Square Feet ~ 2 Car Garage ~ 2.25 acres – Asking Price $435,000
Huge Walk-Up Attic with Sky Lights just waiting to be finished!
Deck over looking private – level Yard
Back Yard
This home also has a partial finished basement – a Breezeway leading from the 2 car garage – is convenient to all and just minutes to I-84 for an easy commute!
It’s Wednesday – Hump Day – Yahoo! Allstate Insurance adjuster came over to view some smoke damage in our home. Before he arrived, I make sure all the rooms were as neat as a pin – I have a bit of OCD – always have, always will.
Worked on a CMA for past clients that may be interested in selling their home.
Dealing with an offer on a foreclosure and another on a short sale.
I’ve decided to embark on a journey of writing everyday for a year about my Life as a Realtor. Some days will be of appointments will clients looking to either sell their home, or looking to purchase one. Other days will be filled with lots of hours on mylaptop in the office or at home – Sending listings to clients, Researching the market in and around our area as well as the country – Searching the Multiple Listing Service in both New York and Connecticut to see what listings are new or reduced – Updating my networking sites on Twitter and FaceBook – Posting on my Blog – Previewing homes during Realtor Open House days – and – Lots of phone calls! This will all happen in-between my home life with my hubby, 5 children and all our pets!
Day 1:
Spoke with another agent regarding a referral – although nothing much came up in the desired price range. Posted on my Blog and set up an appointment with a friend to list her home in Brookfield, CTthis evening.
Viewed homes during Realtor Open House Day with Carolyn and Eva – agents in my office, Century 21 VJF – Carolyn was kind enough to drive, again.
Flew to do errands after open houses, including the supermarket to pick up burgers for a quick dinner – called the kids and designated each to do a job to get dinner done quickly since I had, oh… 15 minutes to drop off the groceries and high tail it to Brookfield. I get home and of course, the kids have everything under control – one great thing about having lots of children! Remi, our new pup, greeted me by jumping and leaving 2 paw prints on my white shirt – flew to get changed and off to my friends to list her home!
My American Towns are New Fairfield, CT – where my husband and I live and are raising our 5 children – and – Brewster, NY – where I happily work as a REALTOR for Century 21 V.J.F. Realty. I am licensed in both states and show homes in 5 counties throughout those states. For information in and around these areas, AmericanTowns.com has some great info:
Candlewood Lake – New Fairfield, Danbury, Brookfield, Sherman & New Milford, CT
It’s almost Thanksgiving – and I’ll have about 30 somewhat family and friends over. So it’s not 1, but 2Turkeys that I will be roasting and many potatoes to be peeled, boiled and mashed along with preparing some treats to be served when my hungry guests arrive – some of which will be traveling up I-684 from Mt. Vernon, NY. Others will be coming from Brookfield, CT and my sis lives here in New Fairfield, CT – just minutes away from my home.
I am looking forward to Thanksgiving Day – I have been very fortunate this past year and my family and I have many Thanks to be given AND I can’t wait for a slice of PUMPKIN PIE!
Boy is it COLD outside! Yesterday, I showed a home in Brookfield, CT – nice, cozy – warm cape. My clients took their time and checked everything out – the way viewing homes should be. Then we made our way into Danbury, CT– Brrrr!!! We viewed two Foreclosures – with no HEAT!! Both had been winterized so that the pipes wouldn’t freeze – too bad I did! By the second home, my toes and hands were numb and my nose was running – but I couldn’t feel it! I DON’T know how people work outdoors – like my husband.
Jonas B – Flickr.com
My state of mind says it’s only November and technically we are still in the Fall season – but – Mother Nature seems to want winter here – NOW! So, lesson learned for me – time to wear a winter coat – scarf – warm boots AND bring something warm to drink for me and my clients!
The HEAT continues to rise in Connecticut and New York. Once again, many schools through out have early dismissal.
In New Fairfield, CT, we received an “Alert Now” message saying that the Senior Rec Center would be open all day for anyone needing shelter from this severe heat and humidity – and that CANDLEWOOD LAKE would be open – a GREAT place to cool off!
CANDLEWOOD LAKE is a man made lake with over 60 miles of shoreline. In 1928, Connecticut Light & Power began the process of making Connecticut’s largest lake with water from the HOUSATONIC RIVER.
As a full time REALTOR in Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties in NEW YORK – and Fairfield and parts of Litchfield counties in CONNECTICUT , I am very pleased to have the opportunity to share my passions on REAL ESTATE, FAMILY, PETS, anything and everything in and around a HOME – including COOKING, MOVIES, MUSIC and more!
I have been married for 25+ years to my wonderfulhusband Joe. We have 5 children – Melissa, David, Amanda, Sara and Jonathan. After waiting anxiously – for almost 17 years, being home with my kids for 10 and a Nursery school teacher for 7 years – I FINALLY became a Licensed Realtor – first in Connecticut – where my family and I live – and then in New York – where my office, Century 21 V.J.F. Realty is located.
I was born and raised in Mt. Vernon, New York. My parents, who came to the US from Portugal, were extremely hardworking – with even stronger ethics on being goodtoeveryone – everywhere – period! “Faz bem, nao olhes a quem.” This has been instilled in me all my life, which has made me the mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend and the REALTOR I am today. Thank You Ma and Papa.
"Just don't give up on trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong."
- Ella Fitzgerald
Consider before you ignore or outright refuse a very low purchase offer for your home. A counteroffer and negotiation could turn that low purchase offer into a sale. Read