Despite the daunting challenges ahead, I refused to let the market crash define us. With unwavering resolve, I embarked on a journey of reinvention, determined to carve out a new path in the wake of devastation. Through rebuilding, I have a newfound resolve for the important work I do.

 

As a real estate professional since 2000, the market crash of 2008 hit like a freight train, upending the life I had built and casting me into the depths of uncertainty. The career I loved so much, helping people buy and sell homes, was suddenly not what it used to be. My husband, a skilled general contractor, and I had invested heavily in rental properties, confident in the stability of the market. We watched helplessly as our rental properties sat vacant, unable to attract tenants in the midst of widespread foreclosures and economic turmoil. The spec homes my husband built sat on the market, their value plummeting with each passing day because no one could afford them anymore. 

 

We found ourselves overwhelmed with debt, struggling to keep our heads above water amidst the mounting financial pressures. The losses were staggering, both financially and emotionally. Everything we had worked so hard to build seemed to crumble before our eyes, leaving us reeling in disbelief. But amidst the wreckage, a flicker of resilience burned bright within us. Determined not to be defined by our losses, we were committed to rising from the ashes to rebuild our lives, one brick at a time.

 

We decided to pivot and adapt to survive. Drawing upon my background as a dental hygienist, I transitioned into dental sales. With a stable paycheck, I could support us through the tumultuous aftermath of the crash and start the process of rebuilding.

 

Bringing my A game, I was committed to doing my very best in sales, developing my skills and knowledge. In sales, rejection is commonplace, but I focused on the opportunity for growth. Secondly, I honed my communication skills, recognizing the importance of active listening and empathy in building meaningful relationships with clients. Additionally, I discovered the power of adaptability, realizing that the ability to pivot and adjust strategies in response to changing circumstances is crucial in life.

 

Throughout the years, I couldn't shake the feeling that real estate was where I belonged. Despite the stability and predictability of my career in dental sales, I knew deep down I one day wanted to return to real estate. 

 

Then, during the onset of COVID-19, I was laid off. Choosing to embrace it as an opportunity, I knew this was the perfect time to return to my career in real estate. Throughout the years, I kept my eye on the market, going to showings and viewing new homes online. Some part of me always wanted to return, but getting laid off due to COVID-19 gave me the final push. It was such an exciting feeling to be back at it, helping individuals and families through one of the most life-changing experiences.

 

In this new chapter, I have focused on finding balance, building a sustainable business with the right systems and processes while also making time for the things I love. My husband, Tony, has been my rock through thick and thin, so we prioritize spending quality time together. As an avid skier and cyclist, I enjoy being outdoors and staying active. Animals are another big part of my life. I have a German shorthair and enjoy volunteering at the SPCA.

 

As I reflect on our journey through the 2008 market crash, I'm filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. The road may have been long and arduous, but it has led me to where I am today—stronger, wiser and more resilient than ever before. As I continue to build my business in real estate, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose and determination, knowing that every challenge I have faced has shaped the person I am today.

 

With each transaction, I am reminded of the journey that brought me here—the setbacks, the struggles and the triumphs—and I am grateful to take my experiences and apply them to helping others achieve their goals. I bring immense empathy and experience to every transaction, understanding where my clients are coming from and how I can best serve their needs. As a REALTOR®, I am your advocate, guide and confidant, here to support you through every step of this journey.

 

What drives my passion for real estate is the opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. I love hearing my clients' stories and connecting with them on a deeper level. Whether it's guiding someone through the selling process or helping someone attain their dream vacation home, I take pride in providing a personalized, attentive service every step of the way. One area of expertise is working with expired and canceled listings, taking a new approach to marketing and showcasing the home in a way that actually gets results. As a hands-on REALTOR®, I oversee every aspect of the process, helping mitigate unexpected issues and providing my clients with a seamless experience!

 

Sincerely,

 

Charlene Sandoval

REALTOR® | LIC# S194494

Primary (775) 846-4487

charlene@charsmyagent.com

www.charsmyagent.com