Preferred Properties Land and Homes

Walla Walla #8 By Business Insider

Sun, 06 Sep 2020 23:12:38 -0700

It was wonderful to see that Walla Walla made the list as one of the best cities to move to in the US after the pandemic.

Here is the link to the article in Business Insider.

If you are looking for a wonderful property. Here is a fabulous home that was custom built and has been meticulously maintained. A "matterport" tour is an excellent way to preview a property for out of town buyers.

Blooming into the Virtual World of Real Estate

Sat, 02 May 2020 22:49:48 -0700

Can you believe that it's May!

With the Washington state statewide "Stay Home, Stay Healthy Order," real estate brokers are becoming more creative. Helping home buyers and sellers alike alleviate some of the difficulties with the current pandemic and following social distancing practices, an increase in utilizing technology to reach more potential clients.

Virtual technology using live stream to view an open house, for example, is being used more and more. Programs such as Zoom, Skype, GoToMeeting, etc. allow brokers to reach their clients to provide the service needed, more importantly, staying safe.

The 'in-person' open house option is warranted and a bonus for real estate brokers to get to know their clients. This new norm will take time and run its course, but until then, social distancing, we will continue to adjust the best way we can and continue to provide quality service to clients.

What are innovative ways are you using to serve clients during the pandemic?

Staying Well and Client Support

Sat, 02 May 2020 23:42:01 -0700

It has been quite the journey for many here in the U.S. and around the world. At Preferred Properties Land and Homes, we have experienced much of what has happened with COVID-19. We are still operational and doing what we can to best serve our clients.

We believe in providing quality service to others and make this a priority. We hope you continue to stay safe, stay healthy during this time.

Stay tuned for more over the month.

New Year, New Goals...What are yours?

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 22:48:03 -0800

There are many things to look forward to in the New Year. It may be to eat better, spend extra time with loved ones, make more income, or to complete those last 2019 goals.

Whatever the goals are, it is important to stay focused, keep moving toward completing the goal, and taking pride in the steps to get there.

As 2020 begins, there are many morsels of wisdom to learn. The numbers "2020" symbolizes many things. This year is a time of clear vision and being extra intentional with working with clients following our motto: Providing the service you deserve!

From Our Families To Yours

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 21:16:27 -0800

Best wishes in 2020!

It's An Honor to Be Your Daughter

Sat, 06 Apr 2019 15:01:24 -0700

I have loved life from the time I was born. I have this vivid memory that won't quit — thinking back to when I was three years old, standing in the kitchen in my blue pajamas. I looked up at my Mother and smiled. I said, "Mommy, I love you with all my fingers!" My Father with a twinkle in his eyes said, "What about Daddy?" I thought for a quick second and said, "Daddy, I love you with all my toes!" My Father laughed. What can I say I was always good at math from a young age!

My parents were my best friends. I liked them and enjoyed their company. When my Dad would go for a run, I would trail behind him on my bike and my dog in tow. When my Mother would get up early for her morning devotional, I was right there beside her. She would say, "Trisha, you can sit here as long as you are quiet." I would have my bible, and she would have hers. I would pretend to read. I just wanted to be close to her. You had to do whatever it took to get your time in when you had three other siblings who were also vying for attention.

As I reflect on my life, I am so grateful for my parents and the positive role they played. I am glad I stayed close to them. I appreciate and respect the team effort my parents played. My father worked so hard sometimes working three jobs so my Mother could stay home to take care of us kids. My Father never bought ANYTHING for himself - he always put his kids and my Mother and his grandkids before himself even if it meant not buying a new pair of jeans, golf clubs, or a vehicle. If one of his children wanted to pursue a new business venture, masters degree, to study in Argentina or wanted a fabulous wedding my Father worked so that these opportunities were possible. If their grandkids needed anything (music lessons, private school, daycare or they were to host their grandkids entire soccer team for a meal), my parents put them first. My parents never judged their children and when they made lifestyle choices different then theirs they accepted them unconditionally. When their children were sick they would do whatever it took to help them feel better and their grandchildren too. All they wanted to do was be a help, love and to give freely.

My world was turned upside down two years ago when my Mother passed away. I miss her every day. In the morning I get up early and have my quiet time just like I use to with my Mother as a child, I usually cry (after a few minutes ) I start my devotional and then get on with my day. The bright spot in my day is my Father; he is so warm and selfless and will give you the shirt off his back if you need it. I am so blessed to have my Father. I am proud to have him as a business partner. I am pleased for what he stands for as a person. He is everything good.

My Mother would always call me her little chick who would follow her everywhere and my Dad would call me his little shadow from the time I was six until I was in my 40's. They would joke about the fact that I never left the nest. I would say, "I like it here...It's so cozy." Part of it is, I wanted to look out for them, and I believe in honoring them. It goes back to Exodus 20:12. However, the reality is that it is a privilege to honor my parents.

Anymore, I feel like honor has been tossed to the wayside. So many adult children take their parents for granted and only think of themselves. After all, is it not your parents who loved, fed, clothed, educated and helped mold you into who you are today? When you do honor your parents...The joy is immeasurable, and blessing abounds.

Walla Walla Makes the List Again

Sun, 15 Oct 2017 04:28:34 -0700

I am so proud of my community. I am sold on Walla Walla having lived here since 1991. I love watching the county grow and change. It just keeps getting better and better. We have over 160 wineries, 3 Colleges and two hospitals, one of which is a V.A. Hospital. Our downtown is charming with the restaurants and boutiques, not to mention the tasting rooms. I recently stumbled across yet another article that talked about "The 10 Most Charming Cities" and sure enough. . .Walla Walla made the list. I have included the link.

The people are friendly; we have four fabulous seasons and approximately 300 days of sunshine a year. An active community with loads of things to do. Little to no traffic and our cost of living is reasonable. Come check out Walla Walla and see for yourself!

I Love You So Much . . .

Fri, 23 Oct 2015 09:23:04 -0700

Unfortunately, not everyone has experienced UNCONDITIONAL love. However, I am incredibly blessed in this area.

I am human and certainly make mistakes every single day. It is important that I make a conscious effort to practice unconditional love - everyday - for everyone in my life.

The best gift that you can give yourself, is to love unconditionally. When you love unconditionally or when I love unconditionally, I notice 4 keys changes in my behavior:

1. I want to forgive people, even when they are not sorry

2. I don't hold a grudge

3. I am hard to offend - nothing derails me

4. I don't judge

Whomever should read this . . .My prayer is for you, that you experience an abundance of unconditional love, today and always.

How To Care For Orchids

Tue, 20 Oct 2015 20:44:33 -0700

Orchids are exotic and delicate and one of my favorite flowers. I had 42 Orchid plants at my reception recently. Some of the guests were given an Orchid plant. I have had several people message me, "How do I care for an Orchid?"

You would be surprised how easy it is. . .

1. Do not put them in direct sunlight

2. Water them once every 3 to 4 weeks

If the roots seem dry - take a wet paper towel and place on top of the roots for about a day. You do not want to over water the plant.

Taking care of an Orchid is very easy. . .the bloom should last a long time too.

Hopefully, this helps all those wondering, how to care for an Orchid.

Walla Walla Estate Vineyard Property

Tue, 14 Apr 2015 22:39:47 -0700

A Tea Party Breakfast

Wed, 13 Aug 2014 22:22:10 -0700

Lately, I have worked long hours (like 90 some weeks). I love what I do and hard work is what I know. That said, I wish I had worked less when my son was younger. Sometimes he would ask, "Can we have a Mommy-Son day?" And occasionally, I would take the day off or we would load up the tent trailer and head to the coast to camp. I wanted my son to have everything that every other child had with two parents. For some reason, I thought that I needed to work harder and provide him with the best of everything because he didn't have a Dad (We call that over-compensating, I know). I wish I had just cut back on my hours, lived simply and played with him more. Yes, hard work afforded a trip to Disney Land, ski trips to Whitefish, Montana, every lego kit ever invented, the latest skate board equipment, pretty much anything he wanted or I thought he needed because other kids seemed to have it that came from dual income earning families. I am grateful for all the things we did do together and the memories are priceless. I just saw my son 3 weeks ago, but it seems like years. I miss him so much. He is the most important thing to me on this planet.

So this week I have my precious niece visiting me. She is 8 years old and has been my "dolly" since the day she was born. She loves barbies, sparkle and everything pink. . .Squeals with joy when she is happy and is full of fun ideas like, painting our toes, playing dress-up and baking cupcakes. This morning we picked blackberries at 10am (busy call time for me, but I hit ignore when my phone rang). We picked berries with the neighbor kids who are just darling (I sold their family the house next door. Yes, I hand picked my neighbors - total perk of my biz).

Today I did something different for a change - I stopped working for a bit and made blackberry jam with the berries we picked. After the jam was made, we (myself and three 8 year olds) came up with the fabulous idea to have a tea party breakfast in the morning on the lawn - I would get a blanket, a box of fancy hats, McDonalds biscuits and we would spread the jam we made on the biscuits. My neighbor girl said she had a tea set and juice she could bring. The joy on these 3 precious little faces reminded me what is really important in this world. . . Time with our loved ones.

Every day's a perfect gift of time for us to use. Hours waiting to be filled in any way we choose. Each morning brings a quiet hope that rises with the sun. Each evening brings the sweet content that comes with work well done.

Making Today Great Part 2

Fri, 28 Feb 2014 07:26:29 -0800

I came across this wonderful list and had to share:

I love this list! Such sound advice and 21 excellent points.

My Credo = Desiderata

Thu, 03 Apr 2014 20:14:22 -0700

Desiderata

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be critical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.

Walla Walla Weather

Sun, 09 Feb 2014 16:23:03 -0800

If you enjoy experiencing the four seasons each year, then Walla Walla is for you!

Our weather is generally mild with 2 hot weeks in the summer time and 2 cold weeks in the winter time. We average 20 inches of rain fall a year. Our valley is beautiful with ever changing colors each season.

Below are photos taken by Donna Lasater - a world class photographer.

Tis the Girl Scout Cookie Season

Sat, 29 Mar 2014 17:39:54 -0700

Spring is my favorite time of year. My senses come alive from the fabulous weather, to the beautiful colors, to the tasty Girl Scout Cookies that come for sale by some of the smallest and most precious little people.

Today, as I went into the grocery store I noticed a booth set up outside. As I approach, two youngsters ask, "Would you like to buy some Girl Scout Cookies?" I replied, "Yes, I would love too...I dream about these cookies!" One of the little girls (she looked maybe 5 years old) suddenly looked sad and said, "Well, we are all sold out of the Thin Mints." I smiled and said, "That's okay, I am after the 'Samoas' because I love those crisp cookies coated in caramel and sprinkled in toasted coconut." The girls say happily, "We have lots of those, how many boxes would you like?" I say, "5."

Fortunately, I bought a variety so I would not inhale 5 boxes of cookies this afternoon. I took a photo of what I bought - see below. I have a feeling I will be sending 4 boxes to my son at Camp Pendleton to share with his friends, so I don't eat every last one.

Girl Scout Cookies are so delicious. They are only $4.00 a box and go for a good cause. So when you eat them, you are helping the Girl Scouts which equals a guilt free experience.