From Florida to Portugal: Life, Real Estate, and a Denim Vest

From Florida to Portugal: Life, Real Estate, and a Denim Vest

  • Victoria Merchant
  • 01/30/25

Life Update: Back-to-School Hustle and a Denim Vest Win

The last two weeks have been a rollercoaster, but with the kids finally back to school, I feel like we’re slowly crawling back to some sort of normalcy (whatever that is). Between school drop-offs, schedules, and homework, I’ve been juggling a mix of chaos and calm—and maybe, just maybe, thriving in it.

This past weekend, Bridger suggested a family thrift store adventure, and let me tell you, it was either that or life-size Monopoly. Thrifting won by a landslide, and honestly, it was such a blast. My favorite find? A denim vest with wool inlay. It’s giving me major “I’m-a-cool-mom” vibes, which may or may not be true, but at least I’ll look the part.

Speaking of looking cool, Tag and I are diving into this new thing called Functional Patterns. It’s some kind of exercise class, and we’re turning it into a date night. Fitness and fun? Who are we? And to top it off, we’ve got another date night planned—dancing! Yes, we’re dusting off our moves and hitting the floor. Pray for my coordination.

Health-wise, I’ve been feeling pretty good despite a recent diagnosis of undifferentiated arthritis. I’m taking it in stride, though. My plan? Tackle it head-on with diet, exercise, and maybe some Functional Patterns magic.

Real Estate Adventures: Dream Homes and Team Wins

On the real estate front, things have been hopping. We’ve officially decided to list our property in Spring Hill, Florida (8273 Annapolis Rd.) with plans to trade it for a slice of paradise in Madeira, Portugal. I mean, Portugal… does it get better than that? (The answer is no. No, it does not.)

These last two weeks have also brought two amazing closings. One was my *10th* with the same family—can you believe it? Talk about relationship goals. Working with clients like them reminds me why I love what I do. The second closing was equally heartwarming. My client was initially looking for a "for now" home, but then we stumbled upon her "dream home," and it was all systems go. It’s just so rewarding to help people make those big life decisions.

Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. One of my under-contract properties might terminate because the buyer wants a new deck. The current one is fine—engineer-approved, in fact—but some buyers can be… extra. Fingers crossed I can match this home with a buyer who’ll love it as-is. On the flip side, another transaction with a first-time homebuyer is going so well. She’s a referral from a client I met at my *very first* open house almost six years ago. Isn’t it amazing how things come full circle?

Meanwhile, Adam’s been crushing it. He got his second buyer under contract, and we’re solidifying our team. Big things are happening, and I’m beyond grateful for the support from past, present, and future clients. Seriously, you all rock.

Upcoming Fun: Nails, Scotland, and Mom Time

For anyone looking for a fun night out, I’m hosting a ladies' nail night soon! Check out click here to RSVP. Let’s paint, chat, and probably overshare—because that’s what we do best.

Next newsletter, I’ll be writing from Scotland as I wrap up a trip with my mom. We used to travel together a lot when I was a teenager, and I’m so excited to have this one-on-one time again. It’s been way too long since our last adventure, and I can already feel the nostalgia kicking in.

Final Thoughts: Gratitude and Grit

Life’s a mix of joy, challenges, and the occasional denim vest. Whether I’m helping clients find their dream homes or cheering my kids on as they navigate school life, I’m reminded daily of how lucky I am to do what I do.

So, here’s to the journey—warts, wins, and all. Thanks for following along, and if you’re ever in the mood to chat real estate, life, or the art of thrifting, you know where to find me.

 

From Florida to Portugal: Life, Real Estate, and a Denim Vest

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