So! It’s been a minute…last I wrote we were in the midst of a stay at home order so we could “flatten the curve” of the dreaded Corona Virus.  We were not able to go to the gym,  get our hair or nails done, go out to eat in a restaurant, or gather in our churches.

Now almost three months later, we are slowly emerging from our homes, going to the gym and out to eat….we have our preferred hair color and the nails of our choice. We can also attend church services (with restrictions).    We are still hearing about COVID cases but luckily the death tolls are down.  It seems much of what we hearing about is the testing being done turning up positive results.   The media are still in a frenzy about cases and death tolls.  That will never change.  Tragedy sells.  Don Henley had a song called “Dirty Laundry” which summed it up pretty well.  I pray things continue to improve!!

I for one am over it.  I will gladly wear a mask when required.  I’m not sure its effective, but if it will help then fine.  But when large scale protests were allowed recently and then a very large scale funeral was allowed when we have not been able to pay our respects to the friends we have lost during this pandemic or attend our church for services,  I felt angry.   Don’t get me wrong….I’m all for allowing church, funerals and peaceful protests…but the same rules must be applied to all.  Not just a few.  What were the government officials in those states/cities thinking?  On the other hand maybe we should all protest – maybe that’s how we get together once again!  I suppose when enough people march in protest there is little officials can do.

The greatest day was my first day back at the salon…there’s something about having my hair cut and colored and professionally styled that makes everything right with the world.  I have yet to go back to get the gel nails…I may not ….we’ll see how long I can hold out on that one!

Going to the gym has been different too…mainly because Gold’s Gym closed all it’s St. Louis locations during the lock down.   Now, I’m going to Club Fitness…it’s a nice gym but all my gym friends are scattering to the various locations around town.   Hopefully, I’ll connect with some of them soon.  Glad to have this back on track…staying home and cooking is not a good combo!

As for real estate, things are actually pretty good….listings are down naturally but we are seeing a delayed “spring market” since the city/county have opened.   Sellers actually have an advantage in the county – low inventory drives prices higher on homes that are in good shape due to multiple offers.   I had two sets of buyers in the midst of all of this and both lost contracts initially due to multiple offers and had to really come in strong on the bids they did win.  But buyers also still have low interest rates that makes buying  advantageous too.   Higher end properties or homes that are very dated and need alot of work will take more time and need proper pricing.  But over all the market is still very strong!   So if you are considering a move- listing now would be great timing!

Lastly, Mike and I – in our pandemic madness- have added a new member of our family.
Meet Roscoe, our 10 week old Basset…we are too old to have an infant.   But he’s adorable so we will keep him.  Zeke is not amused but he is tolerant.  I blame boredom at home and lack of social company to distract me.  Plus, I could only buy so much online before I was referred for an intervention.

Stay well friends…and always reach out to me if you or someone you know needs professional real estate help!  I am also available for referrals if you need work done on your home.  I am happy to help you connect with a contractor should you need one!