Making your vision visible makes a great difference. It does not have to be shown to everyone, but it is necessary for you to easily view it so that it is a constant reminder of what you want your life to look like. This representation can be of your long term vision or things you want to accomplish within a few months. It can be very specific to one area of your life such as career or family. It can also be more general and include two or more life areas. There are many methods to making a presentation of your vision. Some of them include, making a list, creating a vision board manually or electronically, or using an app like Pinterest. My favorite is the vision board because it can be comprised of words and pictures, and it can be organized in life areas or just a general placement of all the elements of your vision. Whichever method you choose, be sure to keep it somewhere that is easily accessible so that you don’t lose sight of your vision.

Another step that drives a vision into reality is using it to set specific goals. Goals, that are properly defined, help to make the process of realization clearer, and sometimes easier. Many people use the acronym SMART to describe a well defined goal. This stands for Smart, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound. I go into more details about the characteristics of goals in another post. However, in its simplicity your goals should map out the things that need to be accomplished for you to make the elements of your vision tangible.

The next step to making your vision real is to act. It is important to create a list of action steps that are connected to the goals that you have made. This is the part when the small things really do matter. If one of your goals is to save $10,000 for a down-payment towards a home within the next ten months, then one of your action steps may be to place $1,000 of your income into a savings account for the next ten months. Some goals may only require a single action step. Others may require multiple action steps. Always remember to keep the actions relevant to the goal and do it with the intent of living your vision.

So we can think of our lives as the canvas, visions as the big picture, goals are the different colors and elements of the picture, and actions are the strokes of the brush we use to place those colors and elements onto the canvas to create the picture. I hope the creative in me merged those concepts well enough for you to understand. Always remember to check your vision and determine if your daily actions are helping to make it real.

Here are your Real Keys:

• Make your vision plain by creating a representation of it that is visible and easily accessible.
• Create well defined goals that will make your journey to the vision clear
• Take action steps that are relevant to your goals

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Our natural instincts, beliefs and feelings can mould our attitudes. One definition that the Oxford Dictionary gives for nature is “the basic or inherent features, character, or qualities of something”. Sometimes people will make statements to me like; “I feel more inclined to take risks by investing, although it goes against the safeguards that I was taught.  I find this to be a push from within that tells them they are more of a risk taker, and are going against what has been established to be the norm in their circle of influence. This is not a usual case however, because most times what comes natural to us can be drowned out by nurture and experience. We must always remember to take time to hear ourselves and question if we are just going along with what is ‘’normal” because it is what was taught.

Another thing that aids in development of our mindsets is the way we are nurtured. From the beginning of our lives, sometimes before we are born, there are set ways of doing things within our families and cultures. Sometimes these nurtured mindset builders can be taught intentionally or caught subconsciously. For example, I’ve had clients who have never thought about purchasing an investment residential property because all they’ve seen throughout life were family members purchasing single family homes. They were of the mindset that that was the easiest and best route to take. The way we are nurtured highly influences our views of and attitudes toward many areas of life because our morals and what we value are mostly attached to the belief of our parents and others who were responsible for us when we were younger. Embracing the way we have been nurtured can be positive, but we must be able to adjust if it is not.  

Finally, experience also plays a major role in the building of our mindsets. Our own experiences give us instant impressions. For example; I have had clients who have attempted to purchase real estate before and the process was either not an easy one, or did not produce positive results. They had developed an attitude towards real estate that was not the most positive. While our own experiences teach us a lot, we are also influenced by the experiences of others. I find that this is where the ideas of mentors, coaches and tribes fit in. In today’s society, we don’t even have to know a person for their experiences to influence our mindset. I personally am a part of many platforms and groups that have positively impacted my attitude towards and the way I think about various things. Shaping your mindset from experiences whether they are yours or others, must be done wisely. 

It is important for us to value our inherent thoughts, what we are taught, our experiences and those of others. A mixture of these influences will make up our overall mindset. It is vital that we also acknowledge whether their impact is negative or positive. Most importantly, we must stay open to be able to adjust our mindset and understand the differences between us.

When it comes to real estate your mindset can affect the way you engage the process and the choices you make. I am here to show you more about the process and talk to you about your options. Follow me on Facebook by clicking here.

Here are your Real Keys:

• Be mindful of the thoughts and behaviours that come natural to you
• Embrace the way you were nurtured but be open to adjust when necessary
• Use your experience and those of others to help shape your mindset, but do it wisely
• Remain adaptable

While I constantly attempt to grow in the way I think, this time of pause has ignited a shift in my mindset that I am very excited about. My belief in self has increased because of the need to still keep going during this time. The reasons to continue moving forward in life and business always existed, but it became increasingly important because no one is sure of when borders will open, when economies will fully recover, when everything will be “normal’. This shift has also allowed for a growth in confidence. A confidence that pushes me to continue to serve through education, and motivate others to grow through this era. With all that is going on, there have been down days where I have wondered “have I done enough before and during COVID-19 to keep going post lockdowns and curfews?”  This, almost forced elevation of thinking, has allowed me to come out of those moments, look forward to, and create better days.

Many platforms and institutions now make it easier and less expensive to learn, and I have used this to grow through this time of adjustment. The access to and availability of education has been one of the many positive things that has arrived at our doorsteps with this pandemic. Even though we seemingly gained more free time, it has be essential to manage this pursuit of knowledge carefully due to the various options that are available. Training offers that were too expensive or couldn’t be done online were revamped to fit this current situation. I have successfully been able to grow in my professional education. This strengthens my ability to serve clients and creates more opportunities to share information. There are always blessings near a storm and this availability of educational options has been my blessing.

Finally, my biggest change as a real estate agent during this time is the fact that I have changed brokerages. It simply means that I have joined a new real estate agency from which I will be continuing to serve and educate. I say simply, but in actuality it was a major move for me. One that was initiated after COVID-19 showed up. It was a process of getting to know more about the unknown and embracing it. There are many reasons why I made this move, and I will share them with you soon. However, I’ve mentioned this to show that positive and intentional changes are possible even in a time like this.

We have all had to deal with the changes that have occurred over the past few months. The difference will be seen in how we deal with them. Some persons may just need a break which may mean resting and not taking on anything new, some people may have too many challenges and just need to reach out or be checked on. For me, it has been a time of intentional and necessary growth. If you didn’t expect some of the changes that have taken place, remember that you can still embrace, deal with and/or grow from it.

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Expecting Change

Change is a part of life. We often do not know the exact details such as; what it will be, when it will happen or how it will happen. However, we should expect that things will occur in life contrary to what we are used to. This fact is all too evident during this time. The pandemic that we are currently facing has changed our way of living; possibly forever. Another reason why change should be anticipated is because it is supposed to, at some periods in life, also be planned. Deliberate change can include things such as having a child, moving to another city or changing jobs. While every change cannot be planned or predicted we can all have a reasonable expectation of it occurring.

Dealing with Change

Addressing changes in life, directly, can determine the end result. We can sometimes allow changes to overwhelm us, or permit it to be debilitating. It leads to life’s situations taking control instead of us being in control. There are moments where we must take breaks, or adjust in order to deal with change; especially if that change is unexpected or negative. However, it is important to not let those moments last longer than necessary. Dwelling on what cannot be done takes us further from what can be done. Tap into your inner strength and cheerleader, and handle the situation. Do not let change govern you!

Growing from Change

Change should ignite growth. Whether good or bad, planned or not, there should be a transformation. While this transformation may not start off positively all the time, we can turn it into something worthwhile. Some positive effects of change are; getting better at a skill, learning something completely new, or becoming an inspiration to others. I am always amazed by the stories of homeless persons who become multi-millionaires through hard work. I am also inspired by the person who has suffered great loss, but turns it into motivation for themselves and others. Every time there is a change in life we can each take a second to think on how we can grow from it. It may be easier said than done but like the saying goes “nothing beats a failure but a try’.

These points can be used by everyone in different situations. I would like to especially encourage those who started or prepared to start their real estate journeys before this pandemic. Many of you are wondering if you should still pursue your dreams of ownership at his time. Keep going because this pandemic is the first wave of change and post-pandemic will be another wave. Your ability to stay active in the market will play a major part in you achieving your real estate goals this year. This may be as simple as viewing properties online or having discussions about your options. Always remember that I am here to assist, so schedule a free consultation and let’s chat.  

Here are your Real Keys

Expect Change: Planned or Unplanned

Deal with Change: Positive or Negative

Grow from Change: Advance or Motivate

TALK ABOUT IT

        Time, many divorcees, and numerous happily married couples have proven that communication is vital in maintaining a healthy relationship, and real estate is an important part of that communication. As a general rule it is good to share your individual dreams and plans with your partner. This allows both of you to see what fits, and where compromises may have to be made. It is possible for real estate to come up as a direct topic and also be a branch of other conversations.  The subject may come up when the two of you speak about the amount of kids you have or want to have, when she talks about the island or part of town she wants to live in, or when he speaks about his dream job and how close to home he wants it to be. Whenever you do speak about this topic, be sure to be clear about your present wants, needs and ability to compromise. While it is an important conversation it can also be a fun conversation. Play a game of I Would Like/What If where the two of you express your greatest desires and then see the where you both agree, disagree or find a way to negotiate. Another fun activity is creating a vision board together. It can be real estate specific or a general marriage goals board. Whether you decide to take the fun route or the more serious conversation route, be sure to have the conversation because your real estate decisions are attached to finances and trust which are also important to the success of your relationship.

PREPARE FOR IT

                After the conversation, there are other things that can be done to prepare for your real estate journey as a couple. If you haven’t already, it is good to do a financial checkup. List all of your debt, assets, and budgets. This will form a picture of your financial standings. You can begin to; figure out how you will get rid of debt, reset your budgets to include individual and couple goals and expenses, and decide to join assets or keep them separate. This can be a very revealing process, I know because I have done it with my husband, so attempt to keep the conversation real but light and take a short break from the process if necessary. Another thing that can be marked off of your preparation list is getting pre-qualified by a mortgage specialist. The mortgage officer will ask you both for all the relevant information, and then let you know what amount you are able to borrow towards your real estate investment.  This creates clarity, and tells you whether you can move forward toward your real estate vision or if you need to work on some things in order to get into a ready state.  Preparation is important when it comes to marriage and real estate so be open and embrace any fears you may have.

Get To It

                Even if you start out with a small step, taking action is essential. Firstly, you can create an account dedicated to funding your real estate endeavours. This ensures that whenever you are ready to move forward you have some financial foundation specifically for your joint real estate investments. Secondly, you can reach out to a real estate agent, like myself, to discuss the groundwork you have done and explore your options. Thirdly, you can requests that your agent sets up viewings for you to see properties that fit what you are able and willing to invest in. Finally, if you feel as if you have already found the property that you both are excited to own, allow your agent to get your purchase process started by putting in an offer. I did not put a rating of significance to either of these steps, as that measure would depend on each couple and how emotionally and financially ready they are. Without action it will all remain a real estate dream.

                The real estate journey, whether it involves buying, selling or renting can prove to be challenging in a marriage. Real estate is among the important conversations and jubilant achievements in a relationship. It is important to talk about before the wedding day in order to make the journey a little easier. So as you plan your fairy tale day and happily ever after don’t forget to talk about real estate together, prepare for your real estate journey together, and take actions to make your real estate dreams real together.

Here Are Your Real Estate Keys:

Talk About It

•   Play a fun game to convey your desire
•   Express your wants and needs
•   Let your partner know what you can compromise on

Prepare For It

•  Complete Financial Checkup
•  Get Pre-qualified by a Mortgage Officer

Get To It

•  Create a joint bank account dedicated to real estate
•  Contact a Real Estate Agent
•  Ask your agent to set up viewing appointments

Safety should be the first concern for everyone at this time. It is vital to follow all instructions from health professionals. While this involves personal hygiene measures such as washing hands correctly, it also requires keeping dwellings sanitized, and practicing social distancing. Ensure that, even in your limited interactions at banks or other professional offices, you consider all of these practices and act accordingly.  Adhering to government policies is also critical.  Persons may find this a bit distressing because some rules may hinder their ability to complete the purchase or sale of a property. Here is where we must think long term. If you or anyone involved in your transaction becomes ill due to exposure to COVID-19, it can delay or completely cancel everything. Taking precaution and following the rules minimizes the risk of contracting the virus, and allows you to continue on in your real estate pursuits.

Also, it is important to remain informed on all real estate matters which may affect you. Whether you are just starting your real estate journey or have already completed some of the necessary steps, find out what is happening and what is next. There may be documents outstanding, or you may have missed a correspondence from your agent. Do not allow tasks that can still be done to remain undone. Another important step to take is to find out how all of your vendors’ procedures have changed due to the current regulations. It is likely; financial institutions have reduced working hours, real estate agents are no longer able to take you on physical property tours, and lawyers still need documents signed and sent to them. Many of these things can be done digitally. Find out how everyone has adjusted their way of doing business so you are not left out in the cold. At this time, knowledge is truly power and you have the power to keep your real estate dream alive.

Finally, after finding out what you can do and how you can do it, proceed with caution and calm. Many lives have been altered due to temporary unemployment. Reassess your finances, for at least the next six months before spending money to start a process you cannot successfully complete. Being financially healthy is important during and after this pandemic. You will also find it necessary to relax by embracing the positive aspects of this time. Panic and anxiety may be the emotions that you reach for when you are unable to go out and view a property, or you have no word on whether your mortgage has been approved or not. Find the positive in this situation, enjoy family time or time alone, or take this opportunity to plan the things you always wanted to.  It is wise to put negative feelings aside and live like tomorrow will be brighter than today.

COVID-19 is new territory for the world, but through every crisis we find ways to keep going. I’ll be here, during and after, to help you with your real estate needs.  

HERE ARE YOUR ACTIONABLE STEPS:

Stay Safe

• Follow health and safety instructions
• Adhere to government policies

Be in The Know

• Find out what your current and next steps are
• Ask your vendors about their current procedures

Proceed with Caution & Calm

• Reassess your financial situation
• Embrace the positive