Raleigh - Durham...A Real N.C. Girl's Perspective

 For so many reasons, ‘The Ultimate Gift' has become one of my favorite movies of all time. Early in the movie, there is a scene where Jason (the main character) plops down in the first class section of an airplane. The steward approaches Jason and asks to see his boarding pass. As Jason hands it to him, the steward says, "Ummm...sir...I believe you are in the wrong seat. Your seat is 32B." Jason replies, "Do you have any idea who I am?" The steward answers, "Yes sir, you are the passenger in 32B."

Earlier today, I read Andrew Trevino's post ‘Transparent doesn't mean being invisible...find your AR voice.' If you have read it also (it was featured), you will understand why it has inspired me to write this post. If you have not yet read it, I highly recommend that you read it at your earliest convenience. It is brilliantly written and tremendously insightful. I've read it several times, and I will certainly read it again.

In Andrew's post, he openly and honestly shares his struggle to find his ‘voice' on ActiveRain. What does he mean by that? Well...you will just have to read his post. He also reflects on the many, wildly different ‘voices' on ActiveRain and evaluates how his own ‘voice' compares to those. In conclusion, he reasons that...although each ‘voice' is completely different from the other...the ‘voices' that resonate most loudly above the crowd are those ‘voices' that ring the most true...that are transparent and sincere.

As I read, Andrew's words stirred something deep within me...my heart and mind raced with thoughts and questions. I thought back to Candace Robinson's post from a few weeks ago, ‘The "What Role Did I Play" Voice - Harmony in the Rain Choir - Tribute to Tom Plant'...in which she artfully and poetically compares ActiveRain to a choir...making beautiful music as all of the ‘voices' come together in perfect harmony.  Again, if you missed it...this is a must read.

Eventually...my thoughts shifted to my own ‘voice'. What role does my ‘voice' play in the choir? Is it soft...strong...on key...does it ring true...does it carry? Do my words honestly reflect who I am...are they ‘real'...do they make a difference? Do my words inspire confidence...challenge injustice...encourage faith? Do my words reflect the light of Christ in me...or do they conspire with darkness? Do they build up (give life) or tear down (destroy hope)? Do you know who I am?

Many years ago, I heard a Pastor ask this question..."When a person comes to the end of their life, what do they seek...what really matters? Do they seek possessions? Do they seek fame?" He then answered his own question. "No...they seek significance." That was the moment when I realized that we (ALL humans) are seeking significance...we just don't have any idea where or how to find it. For some, it takes a lifetime to discover. For others, a lifetime is not long enough.

Again I ask...do you know who I am? If you do not, the fault is mine alone. IF I wish to be known, I must strip away the many layers that hide my soul from your view. I must come before you barefaced and defenseless. IF I want you to see into my heart, I must first open the shades and wipe the glass clean. IF I want you to know me, I must sincerely desire to be known. Then, and only then, will you know me...only then will I become significant.

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR® -- The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Visit our website at http://www.elizabethnieves.com

In 2003, I met face-to-face with the owners and brokers-in-charge of five major (nationally branded) real estate companies in the Raleigh/Durham area of North Carolina. I had a single goal...to educate these company leaders to the tremendous need for a dedicated Latin Division to serve the real estate needs of the rapidly expanding Hispanic population of North Carolina. Four, of the five, flatly rejected my proposal...stating that ‘Hispanics cannot buy homes. The Hispanic segment of the population is NOT a viable market." The owner of the fifth company (Century 21) said this, "Elizabeth...I have no idea if what you are telling me is true or not; however, I've never met anyone with more passion than you...and I have to give you a chance." He did just that.

Within six months, La División Latina de Century 21 was generating 50% of the total company revenue. At that time, La División Latina de Century 21 consisted of three people:  one agent (me), a closing coordinator and a part-time marketing assistant...ALL fully bilingual. Needless to say, we successfully demonstrated, beyond any doubt, that the Hispanic population is a viable market. I achieved my objective.

Although as a whole, the increased awareness of the need to serve the Hispanic market has certainly been beneficial to the Hispanic Community, there are some disturbing trends and practices that are doing more harm than good. Let's take a look at my personal favorite...‘Workplace Spanish for REALTORS®'. Here is one course overview.

Students in this course will learn:

• Culture and Language Tips:
  At the completion of this hour student will have an understanding of the focus and format of this course. They will be introduced to the most significant cross cultural aspects of dealing with Hispanic customers. They will learn basic grammar rules.
• Pronunciation:
  Students will be able to demonstrate proper pronunciation of the Spanish language as it applies to speaking as well as comprehension. Encoding system helps them convert English to Spanish. Participants will then master meeting and greeting phrases.
• Language Expressions:
  The most common language expressions used in polite conversation will be defined. Numbers, dates and times will be drilled and modeled to enhance retention.

Imagine that I just completed my ‘Workplace Spanish for REALTORS®' class a week ago, and I have phone duty at my office. It is a beautiful Sunday afternoon, and the phone rings. As I answer, the voice on the other end of the phone says..."Do you espeakie spanish?"::OH YEAH! I CAN PRACTICE WHAT I LEARNED IN CLASS:: "O la...co mo EStas? Si...hAblo esPanYall. How can I...ummm...I mean...k tu ne...cesitas?" (You can imagine the accent!) The voice on the other end replies (fluidly)..."Mi nombre es Julia Santos, y estoy buscando una casa en Durham...pero no se en que area de Durham. Tengo familia y amigos aqui, y me dijeron que Durham es muy bonito. Quiero ver las casas mañana, pero primero quiero mas información. ¿Como puedo obtener un préstamo¿" There is silence...a long, uncomfortable silence...as I try to find a response. Then, I (not wanting to sound stupid) reply, "Si...señora...que es tu nombre y teléfono numero?" (Because that is the only thing I learned in class!) There is more silence...because she already told me her name, and I have not answered her questions. Do you see the problem with this scenario?

While it is critical to recognize and respond to the unique needs of the Hispanic Community...it is equally important that we serve that market with the same level of professionalism we offer every other segment of the population. Can you imagine taking a ‘Workplace Chinese for REALTORS®' class? Does eating Chinese food qualify you to understand the cultural perspective of a Chinese home buyer? Of course, not!

In the same manner, learning ‘meeting and greeting phrases' will not prepare you to adequately explain buyer agency versus dual agency...something many English-speaking agents struggle to do well. Real estate has a vocabulary all its own...not covered under the category of ‘polite conversation' that you will learn in ‘Workplace Spanish for REALTORS®'. Even if you learn every real estate-related word in the dictionary, it is not enough. Speaking is only half of the conversation...you must also be able to comprehend...and then respond...coherently.

As REALTORS®, we have a moral and legal obligation to serve our clients' best interests at all times...our fiduciary duty. How can you serve your client if you cannot communicate with your client? And please do not tell me...as others have told me, "I did not have any problem working with that Spanish family. Their daughter (8 years old) translated everything for me." I assure you that this excuse will not exonerate you, should you be sued for misrepresentation or something much worse.

When you find yourself in a situation, with a client, where you do not feel confident that you can adequately perform your responsibilities as a REALTOR®...please do the right thing and refer that client to someone you trust to give them the quality service they deserve. ActiveRain is the perfect forum for developing relationships with REALTORS® across the country and in your own backyard. There are hundreds of Spanish-speaking REALTORS® in our ActiveRain Community. Any one of them would love to assist you with your Spanish-speaking clients. The BEST part...you can keep your real estate license...stay out of jail...and make a referral fee...ALL at the same time. Everyone wins...especially the client.

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR® -- The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Visit our website at http://www.elizabethnieves.com

In my seven years of involvement in the real estate industry, I've encountered EVERY kind of unscrupulous behavior under the sun...or at least it seems that way. In fact, I've often asked myself..."How do people get away with 'stuff' like that?" I've been tempted, at times, to carry a giant 'integrity stick' and knock a little 'integrity' into some of the real estate professionals I've been unfortunate enough to meet. (YES...my 'integrity stick' is really just a baseball bat...but it is highly effective!)

Before you get nervous...I've NEVER actually used my 'integrity stick' on anyone. I have, however, used all (non-violent) means, at my disposal, to expose those who intentionally victimize innocent people (and damage the reputation of this industry in the process). I believe it is my (our) moral obligation to 'police' our own industry...holding one another accountable.

Being a person of integrity...I operate my real estate business in such a way that I do not have to look over my shoulder or wonder if I am too close to 'the line'. I have never had anyone question my integrity...much less accuse me of wrong doing. Until a few weeks ago, I honestly did not believe that this would or could ever happen to me...BUT IT DID.

In this country...we are aware of the rampant problem of identity theft...and warned to protect ourselves against it. However, do you realize that there is also a growing problem of 'GOOD NAME THEFT'? NO? You can call it 'character assassination' or 'slander'. I prefer to call it exactly what it is...a blatant and vicious attempt to destroy an innocent person's reputation...for personal gain. Are you protected?

A few months ago, I represented a client (I'll call her 'Tonya') in the purchase of her home. She was a first time home buyer...pre-approved for a special loan program (with grants) for first time home buyers. We found the home of her dreams and made a reasonable offer. It was accepted.

Of course, we did our inspections (and due diligence) and waited patiently for the lender to process the loan. I personally acted as the liason between all the parties involved in the transaction...making weekly calls to the lender and updating everyone. A week before closing, I requested the loan commitment letter. At that point, the loan officer informed me that it would be a few extra days before she could provide the loan commitment...but she insisted that there was nothing about which to be concerned. Naturally, I promptly relayed that information to the listing agent.

During the course of that week, I called the loan officer almost daily...asking for updates. I also made her aware that the seller had already vacated the property. She assured me that everything was fine...that we were experiencing 'normal' delays due to the grant monies that were being used. The day after our scheduled closing date, the loan officer left me a voicemail stating that the loan had been denied...without specifying a reason. I was stunned.

After speaking with Tonya, I emailed the listing agent and then called him to explain our situation. Since I had not been able to reach the loan officer for an explanation, I asked the listing agent to give me some time to investigate what had occurred. He agreed.

Later that day, I finally spoke with the loan officer...but she did not offer a clear explanation of why the loan had been denied. She told me that the underwriters just 'did not feel comfortable' with the loan. I pushed her for answers, but she insisted that there was nothing further she could do. After hanging up with her, I contacted another loan officer...who told me that he could not approve Tonya for the contract price of the home. We had no choice but to terminate the contract.

Still determined to make it work...I continued seeking options for Tonya. We were able to find a lender who did approve Tonya...but for $9500 less than the contract price of the home. When I checked the MLS, I discovered that the seller had reduced his list price significantly. That gave me the idea to present a second offer on the same home...for the amount of Tonya's approval. I reasoned that the seller had already moved out of the property...that he may be willing to accept a lower price instead of risking that his home would 'sit' on the market for an extended period of time. My instincts proved right...he quickly accepted our second offer.

Two weeks later, Tonya and I were sitting at the closing table...happily waiting for the listing agent and seller to join us. After some time, the attorney entered the conference room and informed us (to our absolute shock) that the seller had demanded to have his closing in a separate room...that he did not want to see us face-to-face. ::WHAT?:: We agreed, but I felt compelled to explain to the attorney that we were previously unaware of any animosity. Closing commenced with the attorney moving from one room to the other.

Upon completion, the attorney presented with a request from the seller...to have the opportunity to 'confront' Tonya. I asked the attorney to explain what the seller meant by 'confront', and the attorney left to go speak with the seller. A few minutes later, he returned and explained that he had asked the seller to leave...that he did not want a 'scene' in his office. He further commented that the seller was furious that Tonya had been in his home, unaccompanied, the night before...according to a neighbor who 'saw a black woman sneaking around'. As I turned to look at Tonya...her mouth dropped open, and she blurted "WHAT? I was not in his home!" The attorney assured us that the seller was just 'looking to stir up trouble'...that we did not need to worry.

Three weeks later, I received a letter from The Better Business Bureau. The cover letter indicated that a complaint had been filed against me, but that the BBB had already deemed the complaint invalid. Turning to the second page, I learned that the seller of Tonya's home was the author of the complaint. The letter also contained a copy of his actual accusation...that I was responsible for Tonya's first loan being denied (without any evidence as to how/why, of course)...that I had intentionally set him up and placed him in a desperate situation...forcing him to accept a lower offer. ::ARE YOU KIDDING ME?:: Furthermore, he stated that I had given Tonya illegal access to his home. He acknowledged that he had made similar complaints to The N.C. Real Estate Commission, The Durham Association of Realtors and The Triangle Multiple Listing Service.

Sitting at my desk, my first thought was "WHY ME?" His complaint made no mention of the loan officer(s), HIS REALTOR® or any other professional involved in the transaction...ONLY ME. I knew I had done nothing wrong...The Better Business Bureau had already cleared me...STILL I felt vulnerable. My second thought was "I have to take action to defend myself against this assault!"

Taking the first step, I called The Durham Association of Realtors. "YES"...they confirmed they had received a verbal complaint...but they would not take any action until they received the formal, written complaint. ::OKAY...WHAT NEXT?:: As I was dialing the number to The Triangle MLS, I received a fax from them. "This memorandum is to inform you that we have been notified that you are in violation of the.....that you illegally gave your client the combination to the lockbox located at .....that we have fined you $500 for your first infraction.....please pay immediately or we will be forced to suspend your account." ::OOOOMYYYYGOOSHHHH::

Without hesitation, I redialed the number to the Triangle MLS and asked for the woman who had sent the memorandum. As calmly as possible, I left her a voicemail expressing my utter disbelief that she had presumed me guilty of the violation and penalized me without even asking for my side of the story. I assured her that I had never given ANY client a combination to a property...that I had no intentions of paying a fine for something I had not done. I followed up my message with an email stating the same...in greater detail.

Later that day, I contacted Tonya and the attorney who handled Tonya's closing and asked them to write statements detailing what they witnessed at the closing. I also contacted the seller's agent by phone and email...asking if he was aware of the seller's false accusations. He responded by email that he had no knowledge of the seller's discontent. I gathered my 'evidence' and forwarded everything to the investigator at The Triangle MLS.

After two days without a response from the investigator at The TMLS, I contacted her again. She finally responded by email, "Dear Elizabeth, I have received your calls and emails...and the statements from your client and the attorney. Please understand that there are two sides to every story. I am asking for some time to gather all of the facts. I'll be in touch." Two and a half weeks later, I received another email stating that she had found no evidence to warrant further investigation.

Perhaps, I should be thankful that everything worked out in the end. And, I am. Is it wrong that I am also frustrated...that I feel vulnerable and exposed? I did everything correctly...represented my client well...and got the deal closed. I kept fighting when everyone else was ready to give up. I worked hard...spent many, many hours investigating alternative financing. I pushed and pushed and pushed...even when it appeared that the deal was dead. Instead of receiving recognition for my accomplishment, I was punished. WHY?

And finally, after working so hard to get to the finishline...instead of rejoicing in my victory, I had to fight to defend my honor and my good name. Does that seem fair to you? Is this 'just the way it is' in our world today? Should I not resent the full day I lost gathering the proof of my innocence? What about the three weeks I waited for The TMLS to render their verdict? WHAT IF I had not possessed evidence to support my innocence? Does my spotless history of handling hundreds of transactions well NOT weigh in my favor? And most importantly...what could I have done to prevent this from occurring? What can I do to ensure that it NEVER happens again. Nothing...ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.

Please understand that I am not just ranting or complaining...I'm sincerely evaluating my position...sizing up the 'enemy'. Sound dramatic? Maybe. I'm also asking for your input. You have always given me good advice in the past. Thanks, in advance, for the wisdom you will share with me now.  

***Walk softly and carry a big 'integrity stick'!***

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR® -- The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Visit our website at http://www.elizabethnieves.com

The collective voice of North Carolina voters rang out loud, clear and in perfect harmony..."Don't tax the American Dream!" The proposed increase in The Property Transfer Tax was overwhelmingly rejected in 16 counties across North Carolina...including Wake, Durham, Orange, Chatham and Johnston.

According to Tim Kent, Executive Vice President of The North Carolina Association of Realtors..."People sent a message that they absolutely, positively do not want to have a targeted tax on home ownership." The defeat of the proposed tax is largely due to the tremendous support from The North Carolina Association of Realtors and Home Builders...whose combined contribution totalled over $500,000.

Was our voice heard? I think so! Tony Gurley, Chairman of Wake County Commissioners, publicly stated that he had considered pushing to put a transfer tax referendum on the ballot in 2008, but now he is skeptical. If passed, the transfer tax would generate an estimated $43 million a year in Wake County alone. "If it goes down everywhere, obviously, that is a pretty clear message," Gurley said.

Although the real estate market in North Carolina remains strong and stable, if passed, this Property Transfer Tax would have pushed many homeowners completely out of the market...which in turn would have pushed many REALTORS® out of the business. The defeat of this proposed tax increase was a victory for North Carolina's homeowners and all real estate professionals!

"There is simply not an appetite for a new tax on home ownership," said Dallas Woodhouse, State Director of Americans for Prosperity. "County commissioners across North Carolina should immediately abandon all attempts to tax people on the American dream."

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR® -- The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Visit our website at http://www.elizabethnieves.com

In elementary school, we all learned the three R's...Reading, wRiting and aRithmatic. Anyone having flashbacks to storytime on the reading carpet? ::OH...THAT'S JUST ME!?:: What about the giant abacus with huge red and yellow beads...anyone have one of those in your class? MAN...I loved that thing!

Well...apparently...there are some listing agents (in my neck of the woods) who skipped elementary school. (OR...they fell asleep on the reading carpet.) I know this must be true...because all too often, I show their listings.

Not too long ago, I was working with a single mom (I'll call her Barbara)...a referral from another satisfied client. Barbara was on a pretty strict budget, but she wanted a nice four bedroom home for her children...in a specific school district. In her price range, there were few four bedroom homes. However, I was hopeful.

Every morning, I checked to see if there were any new four bedroom listings in Barbara's price range. After several weeks, the perfect home came on the market. I called Barbara immediately, and we rushed to see the home. Barbara was so excited that she took a few hours off from work. The home appeared to be a great bargain, and she did not want to miss the opportunity.

As usual, I arrived a few minutes before Barbara to the appointment. I opened the front door and quickly realized that the home needed more work than the listing sheet had indicated. Still...it was in a great neighborhood...had four bedrooms...AND was within Barbara's price range. "This is perfect"...I thought.

As I was exploring the first floor, Barbara arrived also...a bit early. Convinced it was 'the home' for her family, she anxiously moved from room to room. I followed her to the second floor and into the master bedroom. From there, we made our way through the two secondary bedrooms. Stepping back into the hallway, she asked me where the fourth bedroom was located. ::OH MY!:: "Hmmm...let's get our bearings. Maybe we missed it in the excitement."

A quick trip back through the home confirmed that there were, in fact, three bedrooms...NOT four. Now, you are probably thinking that there was some 'other' room that the listing agent was calling a 'bedroom'. NOPE! No sunroom...no study...no bonus room...no office...nothing...nada...zip!!! The home had a living room, dining room, kitchen, three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. THAT WAS IT!

Frustrated that Barbara had taken time from work to see the home (because the listing agent advertised it as a four bedroom)...I called the listing agent during the appointment. He answered, and I calmly explained that I was at the showing but that I was having some difficulty finding the fourth bedroom. (I will admit that I wanted to chew him out...but I didn't!) Without hesitation he said, "Well...it's got to be there somewhere. You must have overlooked it." Before I could respond, he hung up.

On the drive back home, I called him again and left a message expressing my client's disappointment that he had misrepresented the number of bedrooms. I suggested that he might want to correct the information in the MLS in order to avoid the same thing happening to another agent. Several weeks later, I stumbled across the listing again...STILL stating that the home had four bedrooms. It was apparent to me that the listing agent had no intentions of correcting the information...that he may have even misrepresented the number of bedrooms purposefully...to create more interest in the home. Either way...he was clearly wrong.

In my next telephone message to him, I said "Mr. Listing Agent...this is Elizabeth Nieves...and I just happened upon your listing at 123 Happy Trail again this morning. It appears that reporting information accurately and truthfully is not on your list of priorities...as I made you aware of this misinformation weeks ago, and you have yet to make the correction in the MLS. Perhaps, you don't care that you caused my client to lose valuable time and money at work...or that I drove an hour to show her a home that she would never have looked at had you done your job properly. Maybe not...but I think I know someone who will. Have a nice day!" Before the end of the day, the listing was corrected.

REALTORS are human beings (contrary to public opinion), and we will inevitably make mistakes. However, we have a great responsibility to our clients, and our fellow agents, to use due care and diligence in all aspects of the real estate transaction. Like my mom always told me, "If you do it right the first time, you won't have to waste time doing it again."

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR® -- The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Visit our website at http://www.elizabethnieves.com

Words are powerful. According to Proverbs 18:21..."the tongue has the power of life and death." For those of you who regularly read my blog, you know that I write straight from my heart...that I choose my words thoughtfully...that I am passionate and authentic...that I care deeply. You also know that I am not afraid to confront the difficult issues...that I am committed to seeking and speaking truth...that I will NOT hide behind ‘political correctness'. I seek neither recognition nor affirmation...I just want to be 'REAL'.

In my lifetime, I've had three seemingly unrelated careers...I've been a comedy club manager/emcee, an interior designer/mural artist and a REALTOR®. Although it appears that these three careers have absolutely nothing in common, there is a single thread that interconnects one to the other...I followed my heart and passionately pursued my dreams.

In 2000, my neatly woven life unraveled. After fifteen years of marriage to my junior high school sweetheart, I was single...something I NEVER imagined would happen to me. I was devastated and lost... trying desperately to find my way through the storm that threatened to destroy me. At times, I was tempted to give in and give up...as I felt powerless to fight. In those moments, I did the only thing I knew...I reached out to God for strength and courage...for peace in the midst of my storm. He was always there...always faithful...even when I was not.

Resolute that I would not allow the unfortunate circumstances of my life to determine the outcome of my life, I volunteered to teach an adult education class at a local church. Within a few weeks, I was in love again...with life and with my wonderful students. The fire of my spirit was reignited...the clouds had drifted away...the sun was shining again.

After several months, I developed many close and special relationships with my students. Often, I received invitations to attend birthday parties and other family celebrations...an honor I cherished. I loved visiting their homes and having the opportunity to get to know them personally. They were always so gracious and kind to me...going to great lengths to express their gratitude for my volunteering to teach their class.

One beautiful Sunday afternoon, I drove out to the country to attend a student's cookout. Following the directions, I pulled my car into a driveway...situated between two dilapidated mobile homes. The numbers above the crooked door on the left indicated that I was indeed at the right home, but I could not exit my car. My eyes were locked on the scene taking place at the other mobile home...two small children laughing and playing in the front yard...kicking a ball back and forth to one another. That is what children do, right? I'm not finished with the story. The stench was unmistakable...the children were splashing around in raw sewage. The yard was flooded.

Sitting in my car, I considered my options. I could get out of my car and enjoy the party...OR...I could attempt to help that family and THOSE precious children. As I walked toward their front door, avoiding the deepest puddles, I tried to find the ‘right words' to tell the parents that their front yard was not a safe place for their children to play...that the law requires landlords to maintain the home in a safe and habitable condition...and that I (a stranger) wanted to help them.

Before I made it across the yard, a man appeared on the front porch. His questioning look beckoned me to explain my presence...but I still had not found those words I sought. I said, "Hi sir, my name is Elizabeth. I noticed that you have a problem with some flooding in your front yard, and I want to help you." His expression did not change, and he did not speak. "You see, sir, if you rent...your landlord is required by law to fix this problem. Do you mind me asking...do you rent this home?" Shame washed across his face, and he said, "Yes...we have been renting this trailer for three years. We've always had a problem with the septic tank. The landlord tried to fix it a few times, but it did not work. We can't do anything about it."

Feeling fire rising up inside of me, I said "YES...you can do something about it! I will call your landlord right now and remind him of his legal obligation. He does not have any choice. Legally, he must repair the problem if he wants to continue collecting rent from you. You have rights. You don't have to take this anymore. There are people who will help you." I'll never forget his response..."Elizabeth, thank you for wanting to help me and my family. I appreciate it. But, you don't understand. I can't take that chance. What if he gets mad and kicks us out? Where will we go? I know this isn't much, but this is the only home we have. Please don't call him." He then explained to me that he paid $750 for that broken-down trailer...$150 per head. Having no choice but to honor his request, I shook his hand...and looking one last time at the children who were holding tightly onto his legs, I turned to go...a deep sadness following close behind me.

The next morning, arriving at the gorgeous home owned by my design client (a famous, professional athlete), I thought once again of those children. To myself, I asked the question "Why do some have so much and others so little?" As I painted the giant mural on the ceiling of his home theater, I saw their faces in my mind's eye...and it always led me back to the image of them playing in that cesspool of human waste. At one point, I thought..."This guy does not need me. He can buy anybody or anything he wants. Those children...they need me. Who do they have on their side?"

For days...weeks...I could not escape the images of those children. I thought of them during the day, and I dreamed of them at night. I questioned why God had allowed me to see them that Sunday afternoon...to know of their suffering...if I could not help them. So...I reasoned...I just had to find a way...I had to do SOMETHING.

On the following Monday morning, I began calling every organization of which I was aware to find assistance for that family. Every person with whom I spoke suggested that I call someone else...and I did. By the end of the day, I had called everyone...to no avail. Sitting at my desk...holding my face in my hands...feeling defeated and overwhelmed...I prayed...asking God for direction and answers. Somewhere in the depths of my soul...I heard my answer...in the form of a question..."what are YOU going to do?" "WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?" "WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?"

After a long, restless night...I finally made a decision to end my design career and become a real estate agent. I told my crew and my clients that same day. EVERYONE insisted that I was just ‘going through something'...that I should not make a rash decision. Too late...I had already made my decision. I finished the home in which I was working, immediately went to work in a small real estate office for $12/hour (to learn the business from the inside) and enrolled in real estate school. I had a dream...a vision...a goal...and I had the image of those children fueling my internal fire. Most of you know the end of the story.

But wait! In my title...I stated that my story would make some people angry.

IF you have read this far...I hope you are angry that a greedy landlord would take advantage of that family...and place those innocent children in danger. I hope that I successfully transferred the intensity of their suffering to you...and I hope you understand why I made the decision I made. I hope you feel the ugliness of the scene I witnessed...that it turns your stomach inside out. I hope you are asking yourself this question..."What would I have done?" I hope you feel what I felt...what I feel everyday!

As I shared my story, I intentionally left out a few details. I did that because I did not wish for these details to influence your reaction to the story. Even now...I hope that it will not change how you feel...although I respect your right to have and express your opinion.

•·         The adult education class I taught...was ‘English as a Second Language'. I had 25 adult students from 12 different Spanish-speaking countries. When I first volunteered to teach that class, I only knew five words of Spanish. The ‘teacher' became the ‘student'.

•·         Those children who I saw playing in the flooded front yard of the broken-down mobile home were Hispanic. Their father refused my help because he was not a legal US citizen...fearful and believing that EVEN THOUGH he paid his $750 rent...he had NO RIGHT to demand a safe home for his family. And what about those children? Those children were born in Raleigh, North Carolina. They are 100% legal US citizens...just like you and me.

•·         The decision I made...My Goal...My Purpose:  To dedicate my life to ‘even the playing field' for those whose rights have been abused. To assist families to obtain safe, affordable housing...a home in which to raise their children...fertile soil in which to plant their roots and grow into something beautiful. To be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves because they don't speak English or don't know their legal rights. To invest in the lives of children today...to build their confidence and self esteem...so that they will become strong, independent adults tomorrow. To recognize and respect the sanctity and dignity of every life...to treat every person equally regardless of their social or legal status. To make a difference in this world...one life at a time.

At what point did the GREAT United States of America...the 'melting pot' of the world...become a place where we have to know someone's legal status before we will come to their aid? What about this?

Matthew 25: 31-45

"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.

Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'

They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'

He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'"

God bless YOU!

To read this post in Spanish:

La VERDADERA razón por la que me convertí en REALTOR® (Agente de Bienes Raíces)

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR® -- The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Visit our website at http://www.elizabethnieves.com

EVERYONE loves Thanksgiving Day! It is THE DAY that has been designated to 'count our blessings'. It is THE DAY that we give thanks for the many gifts that God has given to us...our homes, jobs, friends and family. It is THE DAY that we should remember that there are many who are less fortunate than we...and share our blessings. It is THE DAY that most of us sit before at a beautiful and bountiful table and eat...eat until we are stuffed like a Thanksgiving turkey!

On this glorious Thanksgiving Day...and in honor of my Native American heritage...I wish to share with you a few recipes that may have been served at the first Thanksgiving Day feast. ENJOY!!!

Smoked Turkey

11⁄4 cups sugar
11⁄4 cups kosher salt (use only half this amount if you are on a salt-reduced diet)
1 gallon water
1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
2 tablespoons granulated garlic
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
2 tablespoons red chili powder
1 bunch fresh thyme, chopped
1 bunch fresh sage, chopped
1 bunch fresh oregano, chopped
1 turkey, 12-14 pounds, gizards removed, washed with cold water and patted dry
Wood chips for smoking, mesquite or any fruitwood

1. Mix all ingredients, except turkey and wood chips, in a large bowl. Stir to combine. Add turkey.

2. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours) in the refrigerator, turning turkey a couple of times to ensure all areas have been submerged. Remove bird from marinade and allow to drain for 30 minutes.

3. Prepare smoker on the lowest temperature possible. If you are using a gas barbecue: Turn it on low and place wet wood chips in the bottom. When the smoke starts, turn the barbecue off or on very low. Place turkey on grill and cover for 30 minutes. You may have to turn the barbecue on a couple of times during the process to create more smoke. If you are using a kettle-style barbecue that isn't equipped with gas: Don't get it very hot; only use 2 cups of charcoal. Once the charcoal heats and has had a chance to burn down a little, put wet wood chips in aluminum foil (or foil pie tin) on top of coals. You may need to remove some of the charcoal with a shovel, if the barbecue gets hot. What you are trying to do is create smoke, without making the barbecue hot. Cover and smoke for 30 minutes.

4. After using either of the above smoking methods, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place turkey on a rack in a large roasting pan. Roast 3-4 hours or until thermometer inserted in thickest part of thigh (without touching bone) registers 180 degrees. Allow turkey to rest 15 minutes before carving.

NOTES:  To get a head start on your Thanksgiving feast, you can marinate the turkey in the refrigerator two days before Thanksgiving, then smoke it the next day and refrigerate, then roast it in the oven on Thanksgiving Day. This style of turkey is best if it is cooked unstuffed.

CHICKEN, CORN, AND POTATO STEW:

1 (3 1/2- to 4-lb) chicken, cut into 8 serving pieces
1 3/4 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large white onion, finely chopped
2 teaspoons dried oregano, crumbled
1 1/2 lb russet (baking) potatoes
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup water
2 lb potatoes, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch cubes, and
covered with water in a bowl
3 ears corn, cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces
Accompaniments:
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons drained capers
3 avocados, quartered, pitted, peeled, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

Pat chicken dry and season with 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Heat butter in a wide heavy 7- to 8-quart pot over moderately high heat until foam subsides, then brown chicken in 2 batches, skin side down first, turning occasionally, about 10 minutes. Transfer chicken as
browned to a plate.
Add onion to pot along with oregano and remaining teaspoon each salt and pepper and sauté, stirring, until light golden, about 5 minutes. Peel and coarsely grate russet potatoes and add to pot with chicken, broth, and water. Simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through, about 25 minutes. Transfer chicken with tongs to a cutting board to cool. Drain cubed yellow potatoes and add to pot.
Simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until cubed potatoes are almost tender, about 10 minutes. Add corn
and simmer, covered, until tender, 5 to 10 minutes more. While corn is cooking, remove skin and bones from chicken and coarsely shred meat. Add meat to pot and heat through.

NATIVE SWEET CORN STUFFING:

1 cup room-temperature egg whites
3 cups ground fresh corn (frozen may be substituted); see cook's note
1⁄2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup yellow cornmeal
(1⁄2 cup sugar may be added if corn isn't sweet)
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1 cup diced green squash, such as zucchini or summer squash
1 cup diced yellow crookneck squash
1 cup diced (cored and seeded) red bell peppers
1 cup diced (cored and seeded) fresh pasilla or poblano chilies (See note, below)

1. Grease a 3-quart baking dish with butter; choose a dish that will fit into a steamer or double boiler. Set aside.

2. Either by hand or in an electric mixer, beat egg whites until stiff and glossy.

3. Place corn kernels in a food processor fitted with the metal blade until coarsely ground.

4. Place remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Gently fold in egg whites. Place in prepared dish. Cover and steam for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and turn over the mixture by stirring. Cover and steam 15 minutes.

5. Heat in a 350-degree oven until heated through. If desired, lightly brown top by placing 6-8 inches below broiler element. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

NOTES:  This stuffing can be prepared a day in advance and stored, covered, in the refrigerator.  If you can't find pasilla chilies (glossy, dark green chilies about the size of bell peppers), you can substitute Anaheim chilies. If serving children, you can even use green bell peppers.

FRIED GREEN TOMATOES:

Yield: 6 servings

2 lb GREEN tomatoes

4 Eggs

1 1/4 cups cornmeal

3/4 cup water

1/4 cup minced chives

1 tbsp Salt

1/4 tsp fresh ground pepper

1/4 cup butter or margarine

Slice the tomatoes 1/2 inch thick, but do not peel or core.  Drain well between several thicknesses of paper toweling until most of the moisture of the tomatoes is absorbed.  While the tomatoes are draining, make a batter by beating the eggs until light, then mixing in the cornmeal, water, minced chives, salt and pepper.  In a large, heavy iron skillet, heat the butter or margarine until bubbly.  Dip the tomato slices into batter, and brown quickly on both sides. Serve at once.

NAVAJO PEACH CRISP:

6 large ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (5-6 cups)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optiional)
3/4 cup unbleached flour
3/4 cup light brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter
2 tablespoons pinon nuts

Directions:Preheat oven to 375 F. In a 1 1/2- to 2-quart baking dish, toss the peaches with granulated sugar and cinnamon. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the misture resembles coarse meal. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the peaches. Sprinkle the top with nuts. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until golden brown on top.

Written and Posted by:

Do you remember when a 'neighborhood' was a neighborly place?

If you are over 30 and have children, you have probably thought back to your carefree, childhood years...riding your bike (unaccompanied) through your neighborhood...going to friends' homes for sleepovers...playing until dark and realizing that you better rush home for dinner...and wondered what happened to the good old days. Even as you think back now...I imagine that you have a sense of loss...that something special is gone forever.

Let's face it. There is NO WAY that you would allow your children to have the kind of freedom that you had as a child. Not because you don't want them to have fun...because you don't want them to be harmed...or worse. We live in a different world now than when you and I were kids. Or do we?

What is the difference? Has human nature changed? I don't think so. Who/What is responsible for the difference?

Since becoming a mother in 1987, I have pondered this question many, many times. A few years ago, I finally came up with a possible answer. (YES...it took me a while!)

When you and I were kids, people worked hard to purchase a home and then actually lived there...sometimes for twenty or thirty years...or more. I have friends whose parents still live in the home where they grew up. My own mother lives in the home she has owned since I was thirteen years old. When you live in a home...in a neighborhood...for years, you become part of that community. You get to know your neighbors...and 'neighbors' become 'friends'.

Nowadays, people live in their homes for an average of 3-5 years. While that may be great for the real estate market, it is detrimental to the family and the community. How can you build a community of 'friends and neighbors' if you move in and move out within a few years? How can our children build true and lasting friendships if we move them from neighborhood-to-neighborhood and school-to-school?

Let's take a look at our little (58,613) member community called ActiveRain. I 'moved into' ActiveRain on September 22, 2007. When I moved into the 'neighborhood', I did not know anyone. Instead of keeping to myself, I got out and met my 'neighbors'. I read their blogs...commented when I felt a connection...and opened my 'home' by sharing myself through my daily posts. In a few short weeks, I was making friends. In fact, I have met some of the most amazing and special people...people who have touched my life in ways they may never know. I have made friends that will be a part of my life forever...if I maintain my relationships with them.

However, what would happen to those relationships if I suddenly decided to 'move away'? I'd like to think that I would be missed...and I know from past experience that some of you would come looking for me. However, if I 'move away'...eventually my precious relationships and 'connections' would dissolve. Someone else would move into my 'place', and the cycle would start over.

In the same manner, IF we want to create neighborhoods that are neighborly...we have to invest ourselves in our communities. We have to get outside of our homes and build relationships. Then, we have to maintain those relationships. We have to be good neighbors!

During this holiday season, we have the perfect opportunity to make new friends...in our own neighborhoods. Be creative...or look to the past. What did people do 'in the good old days'? Christmas caroling...block parties...making cookies for your neighbor...whatever you do, have fun with it. Get your children involved, and teach them how to foster a sense of community. The 'good old days' might be gone forever, but we can make the 'new days' even better!

Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas to EVERYONE!!!

In this season of giving and sharing...I want to remind all of us of some simple and inexpensive ways we can 'give back' for all the blessings we have been given.

1.  YOU CAN sponsor a desperately poor child.  We've all seen the commercials on tv and turned our heads...not wanting to look into their eyes. It is so easy to make a difference. For less than the cost of an average restaurant meal, you can care for a child for one MONTH! (YOUR COST:  $35)

Three of my favorite child sponsorship organizations are Compassion International, World Vision and Christian Childrens Fund. Please click one of the links below and choose a child that NEEDS YOUR LOVE AND YOUR HELP TODAY.

http://www.compassion.com/default.htm

http://www.worldvision.org/

http://www.christianchildrensfund.org/

2.  YOU CAN give a needy child the Gift of Christmas. For JUST $7, you can give a precious child a christmas present this year...probably the only one they will receive. All it takes is five minutes of your time and the cost of a meal at McDonalds. (YOUR COST:  $7)

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/OCC_EZGive.asp

3. YOU CAN buy an extra turkey and give it to a family who is struggling to make ends meet. (YOUR COST:  $15-$20)

4.  YOU CAN give one of the estimated 2.3 million children, who have a parent in prison, a gift this Christmas. (YOUR COST:  $25)

To read AN UNBELIEVABLE STORY of how this ministry is touching lives, please click this link: http://www.angeltree.org/article.asp?ID=379

To learn more or to make a donation: http://www.angeltree.org/contentindex.asp?ID=64

5.  YOU CAN volunteer to serve a meal at a local homeless shelter. There are Rescue Missions all over the country. (YOUR COST:  FREE!)

6.  YOU CAN donate your gently used coats and sweaters to someone who does not have one. Many churches and organizations sponsor coat drives during this time of year. IF you cannot find one, you can collect them and donate them to the local homeless shelter. (YOUR COST:  FREE!)

7.  YOU CAN invite someone to share your Thankgiving or Christmas meal with your family. Imagine the joy that it would bring to an elderly person...who is alone on the holidays...to share a meal with your family. (YOUR COST:  AN EXTRA PLATE OF FOOD)

8.  YOU CAN volunteer to deliver meals to elderly shut-ins. The Meals on Wheels Organization has a great need, as they have lost many volunteers due to rising gas prices. Imagine the difference you can make to someone who is hungry and lonely. (YOUR COST:  A FEW DOLLARS FOR GAS)

Click here to find the Meals on Wheels nearest you:

http://www.mowaa.org/

9.  YOU CAN buy a Christmas Tree for a family with children that you know is struggling to pay their bills. What a wonderful way to spread the Christmas spirit. (YOUR COST:  $25-$35)

10.  You can SMILE at someone...ANYONE. So many people are wearing masks that hide the depths of their suffering. On the outside, they look 'fine', but they are carrying burdens we cannot see. A simple smile can make a world of difference to that person. For many, the holiday season is especially difficult. (Cost:  FREE!)

Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas to ALL!!!

Written and Posted by:

Many of you who are reading this post are parents. You LOVE your children more than life itself...and you would give your own life to prevent them from suffering...if necessary. I KNOW...because I have four daughters...and I feel the same way about them. Their happiness and comfort and protection are my priorities in life...above my own needs.

Imagine if your children were hungry...and you could not give them food. Imagine if your children were cold...and you could not provide them shelter. Imagine if your children were sad...and you could not give them hope. I know you do not wish to imagine these things...but imagine IF you could not even give your children the basic needs of life...much less a gift on their birthdays or Christmas. Imagine.

Samaritan's Purse is an emergency relief organization that provides physical and spiritual aid to victims of war, poverty, natural disasters, disease, and famine...all over the world. Every year, at Christmas, they provide gift boxes to children through their 'Operation Christmas Child' Project. For a desperately poor child, living in these disasterous conditions, this shoebox gift may be the ONLY gift they will receive in their lifetime.

PLEASE...WILL YOU GIVE THESEPRECIOUS CHILDREN THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR???

Maybe you have never seen the face of poverty firsthand. I have. I have been to Central and South America and held children in my arms...watched their joy when I gave them a handful of trail mix and a piece of colorful ribbon for their hair. I've watched 100 little boys line up and wait patiently JUST to have their picture taken while holding a soccer ball. They did not line up to play with it...just to touch it.

JUST LIKE YOUR CHILDREN...these children need to know that they are special...that they matter to the world. YOUR SMALL GIFT...a shoebox full of hygiene items, a stuffed animal, a book, hard candy, a yo-yo or ball cap, perhaps...is ALL IT TAKES.

AGAIN...I ASK YOU...WILL YOU GIVE THESE PRECIOUS CHILDREN THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS?

Right now...today...there are 58,177 members of ActiveRain. IF each person gave only one shoe box...we could give 58,177 children the gift of Christmas. IS THAT TOO MUCH TO ASK?

There are two ways to give...

My dear friend, Grace Safrin, recently wrote a post about Operation Shoebox. In her post, there is a short video that you definitely should watch. If you do, you will see, with your own eyes, some of the children this project has impacted. You will hear their stories and see their smiles. YOU WILL BE MOVED TO TEARS...I PROMISE. HOWEVER...I WANT YOU TO BE MOVED TO ACTION!

Your Old Shoe Boxes can Bring a Smile to a Child this Holiday-Operation Christmas Child National Collection week November 12-19, 2007

IF you are too busy to assemble a shoebox by the drop-off deadline of November 19th, you can also give a $7 donation per shoebox gift you wish to give. IT IS JUST THAT EASY TO MAKE THIS CHRISTMAS SPECIAL FOR A CHILD...CAN THEY COUNT ON YOU??

I truly believe that we can reach this goal! As you read this post...and make a decision to give...will you leave me a comment letting me know how many shoebox gifts you will give. We are going to tally the numbers and announce how many shoebox gifts were donated to Samaritan's Purse on behalf of the ActiveRain members. PLEASE...DO YOUR PART...FOR THE CHILDREN!

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