Success Stories: Helping Homeowners Find Their Way
In real estate, every transaction is a story—sometimes full of excitement, sometimes filled with emotion, and always personal. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping homeowners navigate all kinds of big life transitions. Whether they’re upsizing to welcome a new baby, downsizing after decades in the same home, or finally finding “the one” after years of searching, each story sticks with me.
A recent interview helped jog my memory of a few standout moments from recent years—snapshots that show the many ways I’ve helped people buy and sell across Ottawa, Kanata, Stittsville, and beyond. Enjoy!
1. Recount a memorable family or individual you recently helped buy or sell a home. What made their story stand out?
“Oftentimes as a real estate agent, we’re tasked with helping individuals and families make their next move—and sometimes, we’re privileged to hear exciting news before even their family does. I’ve had it happen a few times where I’m out looking at properties with couples who are expecting their first or second child and now need more space to accommodate their growing family. I’ve been told the big news, we get the job done, and a few weeks later they make it public. It’s an extremely rewarding part of the job—helping growing families find their next home for the chapter ahead.”
2. What’s one of the most unique or interesting homes or lots you’ve helped a client buy or sell?
“The most unique would have to be a waterfront property on Upper Rideau Lake. The waterfront was a beautiful rock ledge that dropped off more than 20 feet—perfect for anyone with a boat or someone who just wanted to dive in off the dock. The house had been redone with the master bedroom in the walkout basement, which made the main floor feel expansive and open-concept with views of the water. Don’t get me wrong—it needed some work—but the views were to die for!”
3. Have you ever helped someone win a home in a competitive multiple-offer situation? Walk us through what you did to give them an edge.
“It happens often. These days, I usually ask my clients to make a short ‘intro’ video of themselves and explain why they love the home. It helps personalize the offer and can make a real difference.”
4. What’s the most unexpected thing you or a client discovered during a showing? Anything funny, surprising, or completely out of left field?
“There was a house in a rural community—a small wartime home with very limited space. We opened a door to the attic, which I assume was used for storage. It was completely unfinished, no lights… and at the top of the stairs was a tiny recliner and an old tube TV in the corner. Like someone would go up into the attic to watch TV alone in the dark. It was a bit creepy!”
5. Do you have a story about helping someone relocate to—or from—Kanata/Stittsville? How did you help make the transition smoother for them?
“I’ve helped a few military families, and others relocating from different provinces. One story that stands out is helping my godparents move from Montreal to Carleton Place. Helping them navigate a completely different market and process was special. We started looking at rural properties with 5+ acres but ended up settling on an end-unit townhouse. It was great to see how their needs and wants evolved as they explored the options.”
6. Can you share a time when a home sale was emotional—for better or worse? What did you do to help the sellers navigate the moment?
“A number of years ago in Amberwood Village (Stittsville), I helped a woman sell her longtime home to move into a retirement residence. She came to me through a referral, and it was an emotional sale. We helped with every step—from sorting belongings into “keep or donate,” to staging, and even addressing a mold issue that popped up. I brought in friends to help with some tricky work in the crawlspace that would’ve taken the family hours. It was rewarding to see her not only happy with the process, but excited for her next chapter.”
7. Have you helped any first-time sellers prepare for listing their home? What surprised them about the process, and how did you guide them?
“Lots! My main recommendation is to reach out early. I’m currently helping clients prepare for a spring listing next year. The prep work is immense and often takes more time and effort than people expect. Call me—we’ll start early so it’s not rushed or chaotic.”
8. Is there a success story that really showcases your local knowledge paying off? For example, helping someone buy in a neighbourhood that hadn’t hit the radar yet.
“I’ve had several clients purchase investment properties on the same street. At one point, I was explaining to a new client the returns others were seeing, and they said, “If you can buy it for X and rent it for Y, I’ll do it.” A month later, they bought on that same street. I basically had that whole street on lockdown at one point—two signs for sale, two for rent.”
9. What’s the fastest turnaround you’ve ever seen—from listing to closing? How did it happen, and what made it possible?
“I once helped a buyer purchase a home that was on the verge of becoming bank-owned under power of sale. We had to coordinate quickly with the bank, buyer, seller, and all the lawyers involved. We got it conditionally sold, and my client had the keys within 10 business days. That was fast!”
10. Have you ever worked with a client who had a long wish list or unusual needs—and found the perfect fit anyway? Tell us about the search and how you helped them land a great match.
“I’ve had a few clients where the search took longer than usual. One couple in particular took about five years and saw 37 properties before finding the right fit. With patience and perseverance, we made it happen.”
Your Story Starts Here
Every move is different. Whether you’re relocating, retiring, growing your family, or buying your first home, I’m here to help you navigate the journey with care, strategy, and a little bit of heart. If you’re starting to think about a real estate change—now or down the road—let’s talk. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
Feel free to reach out anytime.
