From Outbid To Off Market

The most meaningful part of my work isn’t just helping people buy homes—it’s walking beside them through the highs, heartbreaks, and little miracles that happen along the way. If you’ve ever faced setbacks or needed hope in your own season of change, this story will lift you up.

Kacie and I first met at an open house, instantly recognizing each other through many mutual friends and she was ready to find a fresh start for herself and her four-year-old daughter.

Finding the perfect home was a journey. After being outbid on one property, I shared my broker’s wisdom: when heartbreak happens in real estate, a better property is usually waiting. I soon found an off-market gem that offered everything she needed—including "she-sheds" and room for her animals. By highlighting the convenience of an off-market sale, I negotiated a price below asking.

The escrow process, however, was a test of resilience. While the sellers were navigating health challenges, Kacie was grieving the loss of her sweet dog and mother. When the HOA became a "hot mess" of delays, I stepped in as her daily advocate, shielding her from the drama so she could focus on her family. I managed the inspections personally, even catching an electrical "fix" that hadn't actually been completed and ensuring it was rectified before closing.

Beyond the contract, I wanted Kacie to feel truly at home. When she received exorbitant quotes for painting, I tapped into my network at Main Street Realtors to find her a craftsman who did the job for a fraction of the cost and finished before her move-in day.

The most moving moments, however, were the "God-winks." When Kacie lost her dog during the process, I brought her a bouquet of tulips. She pulled up her pant leg to reveal a tattoo of the exact same flower—I had no idea tulips were her favorite.

Kacie and her brother both got lioness tattoos in honor of their mother after she passed. She said the lioness represented her mom’s power. I reached out to her brother – the owner of Freedom Tattoo and an old school friend of mine too – and asked him who did their tattoos. Reyna Elena was the artist, so I commissioned her to draw a lioness like their tattoos as a housewarming gift.

When I handed Kacie the keys, she and her daughter placed a glass heart on the mantle—a symbol of the dream they had carried since day one. Seeing her tears as she opened the lioness drawing was a reminder of why I do this: it’s never just about a house; it’s about protecting and honoring the people inside it.

Kacie’s father recently asked me to help him sell his home, saying I took such good care of his daughter that he would like to work with me. That is the highest compliment I could ever receive.

Kacie is a compassionate and accomplished veterinarian. I’d be happy to connect you with her for large and small animal needs, as well as in-home euthanasia. Welcome home, Kacie.

By Kim Clary

Realtor at Main Street Realtors