Life rarely unfolds in a straight line, and my career path is a testament to that! It all started with a Hospitality and Management degree, fueled by dreams of creating memorable guest experiences. My first step was as an Assistant Food and Beverage Manager, a role that quickly taught me the vibrant energy (and demanding pace!) of the industry.

However, a key realization dawned: truly climbing the hospitality ladder often meant leaving the familiar comfort of my small town. This led me to pivot, taking on management roles in the fast-paced world of fast food. From there, I transitioned to a Field Inspector for a franchise, gaining invaluable insights into operations and consistency.

Then came a chapter that many might see as a blast from the past – owning and operating my own video store for over a decade! Yes, I was that person, holding the fort as the last video store in the Comox Valley. It was an incredible experience, connecting with people over their movie choices and being a hub in the community.

Looking back, the golden thread that wove through every single one of these roles was customer service. Whether it was ensuring a perfect dining experience, leading a team in a busy restaurant, or recommending the perfect movie for a Friday night, I discovered a genuine joy in connecting with people. I truly care about understanding their needs and, surprisingly, people have always felt comfortable sharing their stories with me.

And then there's the backdrop of my life – the moves that shaped me, from Port Alberni to Parksville, Nanaimo, and finally settling in the beautiful Comox Valley. With each move came a deeper appreciation for the concept of "home" and the significance of finding the right place.

Now, as my own kids are navigating the sometimes-stressful process of thinking about their future careers, I often share my own winding path with them. The truth is, it doesn't really matter what you decide to do right now, because that can and likely will change as you grow and evolve. The most important thing is to make a decision and get started. Every experience, even the unexpected ones, offers valuable lessons and can open doors you never imagined.

That brings me to today. After over ten years as a Realtor in the Comox Valley, I can honestly say that I still love this job as much as I did on day one. Every single day brings something different and engaging. Whether it's the joy of helping new clients find their perfect home, reconnecting with previous clients for their next chapter, or the satisfying challenge of problem-solving the unique situations that arise, this career continues to inspire me.

Combining this lifelong interest in real estate with the business acumen honed over years of entrepreneurship, the practical know-how and wisdom passed down from my father, and that ever-present passion for helping people, being a Realtor here in the Comox Valley remains an incredibly rewarding journey – albeit one with a few interesting detours along the way!

My journey might look unconventional, but each step has equipped me with a unique perspective and a deep understanding of people and business. So, if you're looking for a Realtor who genuinely cares, brings a wealth of diverse experience to the table, and understands the importance of finding not just a house, but a home in this incredible valley, I'd love to connect!

Selling a home when you have pets comes with a unique set of challenges. While your furry friends are beloved family members, not all potential buyers feel the same way—some may be allergic, fearful, or simply turned off by signs of animals in the home. Taking the right steps can help your home appeal to the widest audience possible.

1. Communicate Clearly About Cats

If you have cats, determine whether they are indoor-only or allowed outside. If your cat must stay indoors, let your real estate agent know so they can alert other agents and buyers. Posting a polite sign near the door (“Please don’t let the cat out”) is also helpful.

Before each showing, clean and deodorize the litter box. Use a low-scent or unscented litter to minimize smell, and avoid heavy sprays or air fresheners. Strong or artificial scents may deter sensitive buyers and give the impression you’re masking something unpleasant.

2. Handle Dogs With Care

Even the friendliest dog can make a buyer uncomfortable—or become stressed themselves during showings. Ideally, take your dog off-site during showings. If that’s not possible, consider crating them in a quiet, low-traffic area like the garage (if temperature-controlled and safe), but only if they are crate-trained and calm in that environment.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and other organizations recommend removing pets from the home during showings whenever possible to reduce stress and eliminate risk for both animals and buyers. [Source: ASPCA.org]

3. Focus on Cleanliness and Odor Control

Pet odors are one of the top turn-offs for homebuyers. What you no longer notice could be very obvious to visitors. Use baking soda to deodorize carpets and upholstery—sprinkle it, let it sit for 15 minutes, and vacuum thoroughly.

Wash pet bedding regularly and consider professional cleaning for carpets and furniture before listing. Keep toys, food bowls, and scratching posts out of sight during photos and showings.

In Summary:
A little extra effort can make a big difference. Keeping your home clean, fresh, and free of pet distractions will help it show at its best—and sell faster. Your pets may not love the process, but with good planning, they’ll be settled in your new home before you know it.

There’s no denying it—getting into the housing market today is more expensive than ever. Higher prices, elevated interest rates, and low inventory have made homeownership feel out of reach for many, especially first-time buyers. But with the right mindset, it’s still possible to take that important first step.

Today’s buyers often need to make compromises. That might mean choosing a smaller home, an older one, or a location that’s a little outside your ideal zone. But by shifting your focus from “dream home” to “smart start,” you can make a strategic move that sets you up for future success.

Look for homes with “good bones”—a solid structure, functional layout, and room to grow. With a little sweat equity, you can update and personalize the home over time. Improvements like painting, landscaping, replacing flooring, or refreshing a kitchen or bathroom can go a long way. Work with your real estate agent to identify which upgrades are worth the investment and which ones will bring the best return.

Real estate has consistently proven to be a strong long-term investment. According to the Real Estate Investment Network, Canadian real estate has outperformed the stock market over the past 25 years when leveraging is considered. Even during slower years, home values tend to increase over time, helping you build equity and financial security.

If you're ready to consider a home with potential, check out 1535 Willemar Ave in Courtenay. This well-cared-for home sits on a large 0.241-acre lot and has exciting future potential, including possible redevelopment into a fourplex with City of Courtenay approval. It's centrally located, making it ideal for long-term living or investment.