Background & Philosophy

Professional Background

I began working as a full-time Realtor in January of 1988 after leaving the corporate world of mergers and acquisitions. What attracted me to real estate was the potential to make a direct, positive impact on people's lives. I knew I could use my research background in business development to find out what I needed to know about the housing market and stay informed. The flexibility that a real estate career offered and demanded suited me well.
My first client was my former secretary. She obviously knew that I was just beginning, but she also knew that she could trust me to be straightforward and hardworking. I helped her and her husband sell the ranch they were living in and buy a colonial. They referred me to others. Five years later I again helped them by selling their colonial when they moved out of town.
That has been the pattern of my success. I work closely with my clients. They are pleased with my service and refer me to others. When they are ready to buy or sell again, they call me back.

Personal Background
Spencer Ann Arbor has been my home since 1983. Unlike many who come to Ann Arbor for school and stay, I moved to Ann Arbor from Pennsylvania just after college graduation. Ann Arbor offered the promise of the cross-cultural diversity of a larger city with the feel of a smaller community. It has lived up to its promise. It is very easy for me to tell people about how wonderful it is to live in Washtenaw County. I truly love living here.
I currently live on the west side of Ann Arbor with my husband and son (the boy on the left). Both my husband and I are very involved in the community. In fact, we initially got to know each other through our volunteer work at Food Gatherers. When we are not working, playing with Spencer, or volunteering, we enjoy the outdoors. We love to hike, kayak, and cross-country ski.

Philosophy
My overall philosophy is truly BIG PICTURE driven. I ensure that my clients' long term housing needs are met, rather than focusing on an immediate sale. Sometimes, after reviewing all of my clients' options in detail, I've suggested that it may not be the best time for them to make a move. On occasion, I have also suggested a different agent because I think that agent would be better able to meet their needs. This surprises people since it means a potential loss of business for me. However, my thought has always been of the "what goes around comes around" school. If I provide you with quality service and take care of your housing needs, you will keep my business thriving.
My reputation is excellent with my colleagues, as well as my clients. Having an agent with a good reputation within the real estate world also benefits you because my fairness and efficiency are well known. In a multiple offer situation, which is frequent in this area, there may not be much to distinguish the offers. Working with an agent who has good performance record for completing transactions can help you. I am known for being straightforward and easy to work with, as well as committed to keeping to the terms of an agreement.

       I am also known for my extensive volunteer work. In addition to giving back to the real estate community (see my resume for that), my favorite volunteer causes are