David S. Demarest

Recently I received a posting from a friend, peer, and past Windermere manager.  His message reminded me that I had failed to update my story as presented on this blog, and that it was time to do so as much has changed since my last posting.

As you may recall, I returned to work as manager at Windermere Real Estate in Monroe in July, following my three month “sabbatical” that has been the main subject of this site.  I returned not knowing for sure what I wanted to do – whether stay as manager or pursue some other path.  What I did know was that during my time away – whether it was in Mexico with Sally, fishing with my cousin Pete in Colorado, traveling solo through Asia and Eastern Europe, or visiting with family at the Diamond D Ranch in Idaho – there was no blinding revelation or sudden realization that presented me with an answer.  What I realized was that I needed to return to work, and that by doing so, I would be most likely to come up with my answer.  It did not take long.

Returning to work, I soon realized this was not what I wanted to be doing.  That said, I did not have an alternative plan, but rather a recognition that as long as I was either there or going back, I would not find an answer. 

Over the course of the next four to six weeks, I talked with Sally, met with my general manager, and other friends and peers.  It was a time of exploration and also one of closure as I participated in the drafting of a succession plan for the office.  Suffice it to say the process went quickly, was well supported by all, and culminated in my resignation as manager effective October 1, 2008. 

It is now almost six weeks later.  I am still affiliated with the office in an assistant manager capacity, supporting the agents and especially the new manager, Kristine Nicholls, as she transitions from her previous role of assistant manager to manager.  To put it another way, our roles flip-flopped!  In addition to my role as assistant manager, I am also looking at doing some transactions, with an emphasis on commercial. 

I am also completing a tax class with H&R Block in Monroe, with the potential for some part-time tax prep work during the upcoming tax season.  I must admit to getting more than a few startled looks upon sharing this latest endeavor – but I have to admit I love it!  For those of you that know me, you probably are not surprised.  Given the current state of the real estate business and economy, this may turn out to have been a good decision!

As I reflect back, I am convinced I have made the right decision.  It feels good!  Where I will be a year or two or three from now I have no idea, but I am excited about the process of figuring it out. 

In addition to supporting Kristine and the office, and learning about taxes, I have also decided to dedicate a certain amount of time to volunteering at the Center for Wooden Boats in Seattle.  Sally and I have been members for a number of years, and it will provide the opportunity for me to spend time in the maritime environment that I have always enjoyed.  As a volunteer I anticipate I will be instructing in their “Sail Now” program, as well as any number of other opportunities. 

I hope you have enjoyed this update.  Please feel free to share any comments you might have, as I will continue checking for postings.  As life changes, or events occur I deem worth writing about, I will from time to time add my own postings.