Monthly Archives: October 2013

Oh to be one and twenty…

A listing that I took up in Plymouth today caused me to remember so many years ago a young man who was but one and twenty who was determined to buy a fixer-upper. His mother who looked at homes with him was getting more and more angry at me for showing him properties. I did everything I could do to dissuade him from purchasing something that needed … continue reading

The Epistle according to St. Joseph

I attended a party tonight that was being held in honor for a dear client/customer who just turned 70 years old. It was festive and filled with mirth, yet as always with parties they sometimes turn dark with statements with underlying meanings. The one who's birthday was being celebrated was tricked and tried with a number of birthday gifts includi … continue reading

Acts of Random Kindness

Success in itself is something that at times is immeasurable and hard to define. Our society shines all the spotlights on people who have become successful in sports, in movies, and in business. I prefer to veer off that worn path and look for successes that have been trodden over by the herds of people running to be a part of the all those that ar … continue reading

Open Houses for Weekend October 19th and 20th

Open Houses for Holtz Realty this Weekend October 19th and 20th On Saturday, October 19th we will have open 530 - 20th St. SE 1:00 – 3:00 PM This much bigger and better than it looks 3 bedroom ranch home has been lovingly cared for since it was built--and it shows. There are gorgeous hardwood floors even under the carpet in the living room and … continue reading

Keeping the Callouses under Control

The more we seem to endure, assimilate, justify and pacify, the callouses of our jobs seem to appear and create a blindness on our parts as to what really is the best for our clients and customers. I have worked with many business people over the years and have noticed some who have allowed the callouses to enter their business lives. There are tho … continue reading

Metamorphosis

I am working with a young charming couple who have been renting for quite some time. Some weeks ago we found a home that fit their price range as well as most of their needs. We were able to get it purchased for a bargain price. They had it inspected and as I suspected, the home passed without any major issues needing attention. I will never forget … continue reading

Two Back on the Market Best Buys…

The first one, due to a buyer not being able to get funds to close, is back on the market. This one owner 3 bedroom ranch home has been lovingly cared for since it was built. The owner in later years had a big 2 car garage constructed that is in very good condition. The oak floors throughout are in near perfect condition. What is unique about this … continue reading

Life in the Shadows

There is a middle aged woman who lives in an upstairs apartment not far from my office. When she is out walking while I'm parking my car, she strikes up a conversation about something she believes is important for me to know. Usually she begins the conversation with, “Did you know...” It normally has something to do with a building or home in o … continue reading

Getting Back to Nature in North Iowa

I had an opportunity to visit a summer cottage several weeks ago that was far more appealing on the inside than the outside. The property is situated very close to a river with gorgeous views of the countryside. Since it is in the country, there is a private well, a septic system, electric and cable provided. The more I looked the more I realized t … continue reading

Let’s Teach the World to Sing

Sometimes I think part of the problems that surround us in the world today is that people don't sing enough. In the 1800's and far into the 20th century most families either had a piano or a violin or other string instruments. I remember my grandmother telling stories about when she was a young woman at home, her family had a piano and as part of t … continue reading