Gonna write a book!

My customers, clients and friends ask me all the time, "What's the most interesting thing you've seen or done as a Broker?" Well, it's never a dull moment....some days being more exciting than others and I learn something new with every single transaction. I tell ya, one day I am gonna write a book!

Today started like any typical day. I ran across town to unlock a house I have under contract in Uptown Greenville, NC. The home inspector was already there and we briefly discussed how someone of his size, about 5'10" and 195 pounds, was going to fit under a crawl space only 8" tall. I left that conundrum with him and headed to the office.

Two hours later my client who is purchasing the property collected me at Keller Williams Realty and we headed back to the house. Ten minutes later the block is surrounded by Sheriff deputies and Greenville city police officers. One of them flagged me down and asked if I'd seen a guy in handcuffs riding a bike. Apparently the guy had escaped from the court house and stolen a bike out front. I sorta giggled at the image in my mind and headed back inside, promising to call if I did see anyone matching that description.

The home inspector asked me what was going on, scratched his head after I told him then lead me back to a pair a bolt cutters and a C-clamp sitting on top of a fireplace mantel. I was just in the house a few days before and that mantel was empty. Then he showed me where the sheet of wire and metal bars nailed across a back window had been cut away. He also said that he locked the window, that it was unlocked when he got there. Hmmmm, someone sure had been busy!

The police and Sheriff cars were still circling the block so I flagged one down. The officer was about to come in, probably just to take a break from the madness, when another officer pulled up outside. They spoke briefly then drove away quickly. Now I'm not saying that it was all set-up though one of the officers said it was a possibility. Chances are that the seller happened to put those items there over the weekend. Sure was a noggin-scratcher at the time, though!

This is far from being the pinnacle of excitement I've encountered out in the field. After all, I did get my career started in New Orleans! One day, however, I am gonna write a book.

The fugitive has since turned himself in. The whole article is below.

Handcuffed Man Steals Bike In Front Of Pitt County Courthouse



At your service, Gena G. Winstead Broker, Realtor, ABR http://www.GreenvilleNCBroker.com/

What are YOU doing for National Night Out?

Tomorrow night is the 29th Annual National Night Out against crime. This program was designed to heighten drug and crime awareness and strengthen neighborhood spirit. By working directly with local law-enforcement officials it is a great way to show criminals that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back!

What is your neighborhood doing for National Night Out? I am fortunate enough to live in a great neighborhood that already fosters a deep spirit of community. To begin with, we are within a very short walking distance to Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium, home of the ECU Pirates. Arrrgh! Tailgating is the rule and not the exception during football season, we get to know each other well! We also have an annual yard sale every Spring as well as go caroling to visit our neighborhood shut-ins every Christmas. I was a stop along the caroling caravan last year but not because I'm a shut-in...the Jolley Trolley stopped in front of my house so everyone could take pictures of my "Christmas Story" leg lamp!

This year for National Night Out, my neighborhood, Elmhurst-Englewood, will have lemonade stands, cookie giveaways, kids playing their musical instruments (which will be interesting considering my 16-year old neighbor across the street plays the bagpipes), as well as folks just walking and biking in our lively neighborhood. I can't wait!

For more information on this National event please visit http://www.natw.org/nno/about.html


At your service, Gena G. Winstead Broker, Realtor, ABR http://www.ggwinstead.kwrealty.com/

THE coolest property for sale in Greenville, NC!

In my 16 years in the Real Estate industry I've marketed many awesome properties, but this one has to be THE coolest property I've ever had listed. It reminds me of that slightly techie and artistic friend that we all seem to have. You know the one...cool composure, was the first person you know who bought an iPad when they went public, dresses in their own unique yet flattering style, enjoys the finest things life has to offer...and loves to entertain.

This is that house.

Greenville, NC's Coolest Home For Sale

Unique home for the discerning buyer. His and Hers touches abound! She will relish the extra storage space and abundant walk-in closets, upscale appliances and one-of-a-kind touches. He will want to camp out in the oversized garage and workshop with man cave above. No expense or detail was spared in this home. Flow through the open kitchen to the living room with built-ins, enjoy lunch on the patio overlooking a serene lawn pond. Techies will enjoy this fully programable Smart House.

The set up your private viewing of THE coolest property for sale in Greenville, NC please give me a call at (910) 232-6383.


At your service, Gena G. Winstead Broker, Realtor, ABR http://www.GreenvilleNCBroker.com/