Ok, I'm back and talking politics and real estate. I've been gone for awhile. For those following, I sold the assets of my business and I'm now an agent in the office I used to own, doing what I love...listing and selling real estate. If you haven't been paying attention, you can read about all of that in some of my past blog posts. If you don't care, that's ok too.
While I was away from Active Rain, I completed the sale and moved to a home office which was a challenge since I had so much crap* to move. My truck still doesn't fit in the garage but I promise it will before the snow flies. I am thrilled with the transition. I mean, how lucky was I to be able to pull this off in this market, huh? And the first Friday I didn't have to put out the garbage was so rewarding.
I wasn't sure what to write as my first post having been away from Active Rain for so long. Wow! The place has changed and looks very different. It will take me awhile to get back into the swing of things and come up with a worthy Carnac post. Since I'm a political junkie, I thought I might write about a favorite subject of mine...mixing politics and real estate. I'll fess up and tell you this is a semi-reblog since I wrote about the subject here 18 months ago.
This is really quite the election. Everyone has an opinion and sometimes it's hard not to get into the debate. Most bloggers that follow me here know I'm a bit conservative. Ok, I'm a lot conservative and a member of the Vast Right Wing Conspiracy. Ledyard is a small town with 15,000 people. I'm a past Chairman of the Ledyard Board of Education and now serve as an elected official on the the Ledyard Town Council. When I am in the local grocery store and someone stops me with a question, it can be to ask about the price of their neighbors home... or whether their street will be repaved soon.
I've managed to juggle politics and real estate for a number of years. It was probably the hardest juggling act when I served as Chairman of the Board of Education. In that position, you can easily make as many friends as enemies. Since then I moved on to the Ledyard Town Council where I serve as Chairman of the Land Use and Planning Committee.
Most people in town know my politics but I have listed the homes of the most liberal among us. It is easy to make enemies in politics, but I find that disagreeing with someone shouldn't necessarily harbor bad feelings. There are very few people I wouldn't want to join for a morning cup of coffee.
There is, of course, the ugly side of politics. It can be hard to make progress in a small town where egos are large and personal agendas can get in the way. In addition, our meetings are televised and there can be a certain amount of grandstanding for the camera. I hate being on camera and at times need to remind myself not to get caught picking my nose or reading the email on my Blackberry. I also prefer only to speak only when I have something to say which is rare for a politician. The best part of speaking only when you have something to say is that people actually listen.
The biggest benefit of being involved in public office is gaining current local knowledge that would be hard to obtain in other ways. Serving in public office is also my way of giving back to the community that has been so supportive of my business.
P.S. I hope to catch up with all of you again by reading your blogs and making comments. Keep in mind, Carnac is now watching so be on your best behavior. Ok?
welcome back to AR
Linda,
Great blog and happy to have you back and blogging. I posted one that had a little do w/ politics today. You might enjoy it!
Brooke
So, how long do we have to wait for a Carnac post? People wanna know...
And welcome back.
I'm glad your transition went smoothly and looking oh so forward to your next edition....of Carnac :)
Kelly - Thank you!
Livia - I will go check it out.
Lane - I need to catch up. I've missed a lot.
Sally - Feel free to email me any Carnac worthy posts!
I'm curious what was the most frustrating part of running your own office. Sounds like you're pretty happy life has simplified a bit!
Stephanie - The most frustrating part for me was the managing of agents and staff. My expectations are pretty high and I was disappointed a lot of the time. I couldn't understand why people wouldn't want to do things just like me! LOL Unrealistic, I know.
YAY!! Nice to see you, Blog Mom - and I care! I care! So we're all ok :) (That was funny)
So happy for you and your changes in your life!!!!
Love this:
"I also prefer only to speak only when I have something to say which is rare for a politician. The best part of speaking only when you have something to say is that people actually listen."
My stepdad is like that - and when he speaks..... people listen!
Linda, you put a big smile on my face when I saw you come up on my screen. I have also sat on the Common Council here in Middletown so I understand what you are saying. Oh wait was that one of the times that you had something to say ........ LOL
Linda..I am glad you are back on ActiveRain. Being that you are local, I enjoyed reading your blogs and getting your perspective on things. Welcome Back. Maybe some day we will work together.
Hi Linda
Regarding the topic of taking politics, no matter who you speak to about fifty percent of the people will not agree with you.
Good luck and success
Lou Ludwig
Kim - Sounds like your step dad is someone I'd get along with just fine.
George - I really missed my friends on Active rain.
Valerie - I look forward to crossing paths some day!
Lou - Very true.
It's about time. It's a good to seeread you again, Linda. And as far as Carnac, I will say there is no shortage of inventory here in AR. In fact, it seems like it gets better and better as the membership grows. Welcome back, Linda!
Carnac -- It is great to hear what you have been up to -- congratulations on the sale of your business. It is going to be an exciting time for you coming back to Active Rain. There have been lots of changes -- and many new members. Welcome back and I look forward to reading your posts.
Hi Linda - I've been away awhile, too, and came in tonight to look around and there you were on my screen. Glad to see you and so glad to hear how things have been going for you. Congrats on the transition!
Things do look a lot different around here for sure! Welcome back
Ann
Linda- Oh so nice to see you back. And I'll bet that new Home Office is feeling better every day :) As some of the others have said ....we sure aren't without material for Carnac......have fun searching.
So Good to see you back!
Off-topic: I'm going to go back and re-read all your posts about becoming a "single agent" again. I suddenly find myself in that same situation -- except on the other side of the fence!!! A successful, high-profile broker-owner in the neighborhbor approached Bob and me last week and said "I want to get back to selling real estate. I want to close my office and join you guys. And I'll bring some of my agents". OMG. At least I like unjamming copy machines. :-)
Welcome back and congratulations on the 'big change.' Stop by and see me some time. AR is getting better every day!
Linda, Congratulations on your sale. It's nice to see your post. I think McCain should have been looking in Ledyard CT. instead of Wasilla AK for a running mate. :-)
Hi, Linda - Alright, I've heard about the great Carnac... can't wait to see an update. From one member of the vast right wing conspiracy to another... welcome back!
Welcome back, Linda. We've missed you.
Tony
Linda, Congratulations on your sale. I'm glad to see you back here. You've certainly been missed all this time.
My primary criteria for selection of politicians is, "do they have common sense and a sense of humor?"
IMO, Senator McCain probably selected the second most qualified woman to be his vice presidential choice.
Of course you'll find that, on ActiveRain, the more things change, the more they stay the same. I'm still chasing copyright violators, two ActiveRain members at this writing. My gosh, do they live in a cave?
Since you've been busy, I've kept up with AR for you.
Missy is still the Queen of real estate listings and widgets.
Katerina is still the Queen of short sale listings.
I still don't understand Jason Sardi
Pat Kennedy learned to review her blog last week.
TLWs life threatening illness was not caused by chocolate brownies.
Matt Heaton actually understands the financial mess on Wall Street.
New members of AR still write about how to get points quickly.
Older members of AR still complain that they don't get points quickly enough.
The more things change, the more they stay the same.
Welcome back.
Hi Linda, Welcome back and congrats. Good post. Keep posting best. Good luck.
Best - Sash
Congratulations and best wishes on your new life and move. Sounds like what we all need a fresh start!
Thanks Jason. I'm going to go back and read a few of your most recent posts to see if I can understand you better now. :-)
And thank you Joan! Yes, I see there are lots and lots of new members.
Ann - Welcome back to you too! I guess we both found our way back. I hope you are doing well.
Kathy - Finding Carnac material is going to be my pleasure!
Cheryl - Feel free to call me anytime. I'm always willing to talk about my experiences.
Susie - First glance, it does look better. I must take some time to explore.
Mitchell - LOL Now THAT made me laugh first thing this morning. Always good to start the day off with a smile. Thanks.
Congratulations on the featured post Linda. Sounds like you like to talk about the same things that I do... Nothing better than politics and real estate... Love the lipstick on the pig...
Good morning Linda! It is good to have Carnac back in business. I have never been a big fan of politics and don't think it mixes well with Real Estate but that is just my 2 cent opinion:)
Welcome back, and LOL at Lenn's comments. There has been tons of Political posts of late, I expect more. Some can get down right nasty attacking the persons not the issues. I have a few interesting things set aside for Carnac I'll send to you.
What a great day to start my morning seeing you on the featured dashboard!!
Linda, I will continue to follow your blog to see what great stuff you uncover for us:) As to the politics, imagine a family where husband and wife will vote for different candidates. "You are right and I am right" just doesn't work - I know he is wrong:)Trying to maintain cool becomes a real challenge:)
Linda,
we haven't met you yet but i'm sure we've seen some of your older posts. We look forward to conversing with you in the near future.
Linda, the comment without the name is me -didn't noticed I wasn't logged -in.
Congratualtions of your efforts. Staying involved will clearly help you in the long run.
One of the keys to being successful in real estate, and in most professions, is having the ability to communicate effectively with those who don't share your opinions. The best thing about people who disagree with me is that I often learn something from them. The best thing about people who agree with me is that they make me feel good. ;^)
I think this is my first read of your blog - I was looking for some opinion - didn't hear it - but am enticed to keep watching what you write - Glad you're back...
Linda, when I lived in CA I was on the Calif. Assoc. of Realtors political action committee and was the key contact for our member of Congress as well as our state senate and assemby and held some appointments in our City of Pasadena. I tried hard not to let me personal politics bleed into these roles since the truly required me to be neutral. Now that I live in NC I have also decided to keep my personal politics to my self for the most part unless I know someone very well. There are many ways to help our community without getting involved in the political termoil.
Welcome back, Linda -- great lipstick on a pig visual. I am pretty new here but looked back at some of your old posts and like what I see.
HI Linda, I am reading your blog for the first time but I will be checking out your previous post. I am new to Active Rain so there is a lot of good stuff to catch up on. Welcome back!
HI Linda, I am reading your blog for the first time but I will be checking out your previous post. I am new to Active Rain so there is a lot of good stuff to catch up on. Welcome back!
In your blog, I see someone who loves their life and lives it to the fullest. Great writing, too. I often skim through the blogs. This one, I slowed down and enjoyed it. Thank you.
Wow, another Conservative in Real Estate, that might make ten of us!
I can appreciate the move from management back to selling as I've done the same in a previous business with great results for my well being. I LOVE to sell, cleaning up messes (Management) is far less appealing to me.
Sheeeees Back and not to soon I bet. You have had at the least some interesting blogs though. Glad to see everything went well with the sale. I was thinking you were going on a long vacation.
Hi Linda, It's really good to see ya. I'm sure you are thrilled with your new move. I work in my jammies every day and I just know you love being able to do that. There's a lot to be said for keeping things simple.
Talking politics is something I don't do. I don't have a problem with it it's just that it's not my area of expertise.
Carnac will be overwhelmed with material in no time at all.
Linda-This is my first reading of your blog, Welcome back to the rain. I will look forward to reading your other blogs.
Joe
Welcome home, Linda! Sounds like you have been a busy lady --- but with positive results.
It can be very difficult to balance politics and real estate, but with a little care it can be done. The problem arises from those that think they need to be the start in every arena they enter. Makes it hard for the rest of us.
Glad you're back!
Linda - LOVE that lipstick on a pig! It's so nice to see you back! You are the "great communicator" of AR.
I have to agree with you that talking politics is alot about respect others positions and agreeing to disagree, at times. I have some very strong views, but I would never disrespect someone for their opposing view - as long as they did it in a respectful way.
Welcome back Linda! It seemed here lately tht you would have to be onhere daily to keep up with the changes!
Welcome back... I am fairly new to Active Rain, but I look forward to reading your blogs...
Yes, Welcome back to AR! It's different for the better! :)
Linda, glad to have you back here in the RAIN. I love Carnac and have missed the read...get busy, and start those juices flowing!
Congrats on the sale of the business. I remember the blog well and to sell in this economy was quite the coo. I applaud you...enjoy the benefits.
How in the world you have had time to do all you've done is a bloody miracle. I find it difficult these days to just get my own personal stuff done while working 7 days a week sometimes 14 hour days. You are a miracle even if you are a far righty!
Linda, I wish you the very best.
Linda,
Congratulations on your sale! I did the same thing 7 years ago and found it cathartic to say the least.
Hi Linda - Nice to see you and Carnac back! There was a great session yesterday at BlogWorld Expo about hyperlocal content, and much of it focused on political news and city council business. As soon as I go through my notes I'll send you a couple of links to sites that they mentioned.
Welcome back; you didn't miss much. ;->
Great idea as long as most of the people agree with you!!!
I think everyone should get somewhat involved in politics. This would keep things a little more in line.
Welcome back and good luck with you real estate work.
Linda, kudos, it takes a lot of courage to declare as a conservative in CT! Welcome back to AR.
Welcome back. I've been scarce as well lately and like you I hardly recognize the place.
Politics is a subject I usually avoid mainly because so many people are just plain nasty.
Real estate and politics do mix and are must debate. The future of real estate and our incomes depends on politics. We have seen over the past couple of years what a corrupt government has done to us. Whomever is elected needs to have the guts and put these corrupt Congressmen and women on the block for all to see. Our lovely congress saw this years ago and McCain spoke of an impending disaster in '05 that would occur if the changes initially designed for the low income were to change. All of the changes years ago were initially designed for the low income.....and the next thing you know most people could get 100% financing with fair credit scores. B paper was floating up to A.....etc... and Congress new about it....our President knew about it. It is time for CHANGE, but the question is what change? A corrupt government out of control can lead to socialism...... What happened to Venezuela.....Russia.
This is very very serious as the implications are massive. I actually had a meeting with our partners of what would we do in a socialized society......pure government control with commission rates set by a governement....extra taxation put on those working harder. At this point we are at a 50:50 chance of moving in that direction. So get involved
Real estate and politics do mix and are must debate. The future of real estate and our incomes depends on politics. We have seen over the past couple of years what a corrupt government has done to us. Whomever is elected needs to have the guts and put these corrupt Congressmen and women on the block for all to see. Our lovely congress saw this years ago and McCain spoke of an impending disaster in '05 that would occur if the changes initially designed for the low income were to change. All of the changes years ago were initially designed for the low income.....and the next thing you know most people could get 100% financing with fair credit scores. B paper was floating up to A.....etc... and Congress new about it....our President knew about it. It is time for CHANGE, but the question is what change? A corrupt government out of control can lead to socialism...... What happened to Venezuela.....Russia.
This is very very serious as the implications are massive. I actually had a meeting with our partners of what would we do in a socialized society......pure government control with commission rates set by a governement....extra taxation put on those working harder. At this point we are at a 50:50 chance of moving in that direction. So get involved
Glad you're back and congratulations on the sale of your business.
Linda, welcome back! I can't wait for the monthly Carnac posts.
On the political side - I think the most wonderful thing about our current presidential election is that it will probably bring out many people who have never voted before. It's so important for people to care.
Well, bummer, I can't keep up with all the comments. Just want to thank everyone for their warm wishes. Thanks Lenn for the update! And yes, Bryant...the working in jammies is great!
Ok, Linda... if you are having trouble keeping up with the commetns, how are you going to read the 58,923 posts since you've been gone... it's a big job. Better get Bob to help you.
And more welcome backs...
Linda- I just had to say that I loved Lenn's review...but will we ever really understand Jason.....:)
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