I’ve witnessed many life transitions in my years as a Pasadena real estate professional, but Jennifer’s story feels especially relevant right now. When COVID-19 reshaped how, and where, we work, it also expanded what is possible when choosing where to live. After decades in Pasadena, Jennifer found herself considering a move she never would have imagined before.
“I’m an East Coast transplant who came to California 30 years ago with my employer,” Jennifer began. “Our agreement was that I was going to stay for six months. I can’t help but laugh at that now because six months turned into three decades, with 28 of those years right here in Pasadena. I’ve been fortunate to stay with the same company for 35 years now.
“I wanted a different pace than the hustle Los Angeles provided.”
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“Then COVID changed everything. We shifted to full-time remote work almost overnight. Honestly, I’m a fairly introverted and private person, so I enjoyed working remotely but I soon found myself supporting all of the company’s US operations from my home office. Despite living on the west coast, I would have to start work at 6 AM every morning to accommodate East Coast time zones. And even though I lived close to our office in Los Angeles, I was no longer working with anyone there. Additionally, my son had grown up and I felt like my priorities had shifted. I wanted a different pace than the hustle Los Angeles provided, something simpler.
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“I started considering other places to live and how a significant move would affect my life after living in Southern California for the last 30 years. Then, at a professional event, I happened to be seated next to the gentleman who ran our Charlotte office. When I mentioned that I loved Charlotte and had been toying with the idea of moving to North Carolina, he confidently declared, ‘if you’re going to move here you should move to Raleigh.’ I’d never been but started researching. It has all four seasons, less traffic, genuine Southern hospitality, and Carolina barbecue. And if that’s not enough, the roads are immaculate and they don’t allow billboards, it’s just aesthetically beautiful everywhere you look.
“I immediately felt a strong connection to the town and decided it was worth a try. So I approached my company about making the remote work arrangement permanent and they were incredibly accommodating. I was supporting Chicago and the Midwest primarily, and being closer to the East Coast would actually be less wear and tear on me.
“It could have derailed the whole sale…”
“So I decided it was time to find an agent and sell my home. Choosing Eva was the easiest part of the entire process. She exceeded every expectation. Her local market knowledge is incredible. When we walked through my property and I mentioned things I was planning to change, she told me, ‘There is no need, it won’t provide a return.’ She saved me quite a bit of money with that advice.
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“The real test came about a week before the close of escrow, when a question arose about the permitting of my garage. I had to meet with the City of Pasadena code compliance supervisor in person. Having this called into question so late in the process was nerve-wracking. It could have derailed the whole sale and move. I asked Eva if she’d go with me and she said absolutely. Having her there was incredibly reassuring. We got everything settled, the city acknowledged they had made a mistake, and escrow closed on time. The outcome was beyond my wildest expectations. The final price went 38% over asking, which was particularly gratifying given the economic uncertainty at the time.
“I’m so excited I can barely contain myself!”
“Right now, I’m focused on packing for my cross-country adventure. People keep asking how I’m feeling and whether I have any trepidation. My answer is no, not at all. In my heart of hearts, this is the right move for me, and the timing is right. I’m sure the bugs will take some getting used to. But I like rain, and I’m excited about experiencing real seasons again. The plan is to rent, explore, and see if Raleigh feels like home. I’m so excited I can barely contain myself.”
Jennifer’s story represents something I’m seeing more and more with my clients. Remote work has given people the freedom to reimagine where they want to live, and it’s exciting to help them take that leap. Jennifer’s courage to start fresh after 28 years in Pasadena is inspiring and I have no doubt she’ll find her perfect home in North Carolina. Though I do hope she remembers to pack some good bug spray!
Jennifer’s 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom home at 1103 N Catalina Avenue sold for $1,928,000 in just 8 days. At $528,000 over the asking price and $1,382 per sqft, the outcome was spectacular. If you are interested in learning more about my approach, our Concierge Services, or want to speak with me directly, please visit linrealtygroup.com or contact me at 626-807-6581.
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