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I know, I know, like opinions and certain parts of our anatomy, everyone's got one, a blog that is. Nonetheless, thanks for reading this far. If you're looking for a blog spewing forth about the riveting subject of real estate and only real estate, you're in the wrong place. There are many, many "blahgs" out there for that. I've reached a point in my life and career where there is life beyond the Multiple Listing Service, beyond email blasts looking for more business, beyond appointments, inspections, appraisals, contracts, sign calls, angry agents, inexperienced agents, marketing, prospecting, lions and tigers and bears...

I do work my behind off for my clients and my vision has slowly changed for the worse due to countless hours staring at the Mac (that's another rant, MLS doesn't work in its pure form on my Mac so I've got a PC at my desk too). I've focused on short sales intently for the past year, made a good hard earned living at it but more importantly saved many people from the the perils of foreclosure. And no, short sales have nothing to do with me being 5'-4" - Google it or call me. I've even sold several homes as a buyers agent too, often having to deal with how other listing agents run their short sales (and bank owned ones as well). Let me tell you, EVERYONE does it differently. But enough belly-aching about work, the whole reason for this blog is I've finally realized I have a life.

Here's what's different: I've got a wife and kids that I really like spending time with. My daughter is 10 and smart as a whip. My 4.5 month old boy smiles every single time I make eye contact with him, even when he's whining in a poopie diaper. I still surf, and I'll even schedule my appointments around prominent west or south swells, tide swings, and the evening glass off. Heck, if it's overhead and the Santa Ana's are blowing, I've got a board meeting to go to or maybe even a visit to my therapist for a saline treatment if you know what I mean. Note: For board meeting prep, go to www.surfline.com. I run 4 to 5 times a week, something I put on the shelf in recent years for no good reason. My tax guy had a heart attack at 38 - smoker, bad diet, tons of self imposed stress from work. Not for me - I haven't lost any weight but I didn't lose my lunch the other day after running in the hard packed sand for 2 miles either.

Although I've flown helicopters for the Navy for many years, the sound of aircraft overhead doesn't grab my attention as much as the distinct sound of a motorcycle rolling by. I ride long distance twice a year with friends that never grew up, right there with me. Last trip I logged 2600 miles in a week rumbling through CA, AZ, NM, CO and UT with an old Navy helo buddy. I've joined a coaching program, not just for real estate or sales training but a combo of training to keep me sharp and versatile in business. Just for fun, feel free to go to my Facebook site, not much real estate blah there, it's more of a reminder to myself that I have a life outside of work and some really great friends, new and old.

Truth be told, I've read "The 4-Hour Workweek" recently and was inspired not only to improve and streamline what I do with work, but to spend more time on things that matter. No, I don't work just 4 hours a week, but I do spend more time with my family, surf more, eat better food and exercise. To improve efficiency I've hired an assistant. I'm consistently being approached by other agents that want to work with me; I'll figure out how later since I'm a solo act at the moment. Don't get me wrong, you'll see my opinions, observations and experience in real estate on these pages. I'm still very, very dedicated to my clients, my skills and my industry. These entries will be a healthier mix of info for both you and I, and if anything, a mere source of entertainment for both of us. Read on friends, see you soon. And by all means feel free to call or write, especially if you'd like to schedule a "board meeting".

Thanks,

Marvin