M
arket Insights
Personal Narrative: A Realtor’s Journey in the Bay Area
On a Wednesday I joined my husband at Stanford Law School for his interview on a case he’s championed for three decades. Though I rarely accompany him to public events, I felt a need for a mental‑health break and slipped in. The campus was stunning, his presentation compelling, and we shared lunch with faculty and eager law students. The experience was a welcome reset, reshaping my perspective.
That week had been rough. A harsh performance review, seemingly unjust, left me questioning my worth. After reflecting, I realized the critique had some merit, though it was exaggerated. The sting of being publicly rebuked, after months of hard work, pushed me toward a low point—blue, irritable, ready to quit.
A change of scenery was essential. The discussion that followed the interview centered on the Three Strikes Project, led by my husband’s colleague Michael Morano at Stanford. The 1994 law, designed to curb violent crime, inadvertently locked many non‑violent offenders in prison for decades, disproportionately affecting people of color. Michael’s team works tirelessly to overturn these unjust sentences.
Despite my personal setbacks, the dedication of my husband and Michael’s colleagues reminded me that my own challenges pale in comparison to the stakes they face. In real estate, losing a client or a deal can feel devastating, yet there are moments of triumph—handing keys to a new homeowner, watching families grow, celebrating milestones. These experiences reinforce the value of patience, experience, and longevity in the field.
The contrast between criminal law and real estate is stark. In post‑conviction appeals, a “win” often means saving a life. That reality humbles me, reminding me that while my work matters, it is not life‑and‑death. Homes, though emotionally charged, ultimately provide shelter; we must keep that in perspective.
I’ve built my career around championing home ownership, yet I recognize the importance of humility. When I fall short, I know my intentions are good and I consistently give my best. It’s about finding the right balance.
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Julie Gardner & Sarah Abel | Compass Realty
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