Reflecting on my 15-year journey in real estate fills me with gratitude and humility. This year, achieving significant milestones like being named the top individual agent in our office, receiving the prestigious Chairman award from Remax, and ranking different months, #8, #76, #47 and #26 in 2023 for Remax Western Canada has been incredibly rewarding.

But amidst these achievements lies a story often overlooked—the personal transformation that brought me to this point. Five years ago, I reached a breaking point. Despite professional success, I was overwhelmed with stress, achy body and lacked balance in my life. Big changes were needed!

In 2018, I underwent a profound shift. Through meditation, mentorship, and prioritizing self-care, I began to reshape my life. I realized the importance of taking time off, exploring new passions, and nurturing relationships outside of work.Challenging societal expectations of perpetual availability, I committed to nurturing a healthier lifestyle. In 2019, I embarked on an unforgettable adventure, traversing South America and conquering the rugged terrain of Patagonia alongside like-minded souls.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 presented unforeseen obstacles, yet it also offered an opportunity for introspection and connection. Despite the challenges, I embarked on a journey to Thailand, where I found not only love but also a renewed sense of purpose.

In 2021/2022, I decided to push the boundaries of conventional living further by taking an extended hiatus to explore the world and cultivate meaningful relationships. From traversing the picturesque landscapes of northern Thailand on a scooter to basking in the tranquility of Laos, each moment was evidence to the beauty of living life on one's terms.

The following year, I continued to embrace the spirit of adventure, immersing myself in the rich cultures of Thailand and the Philippines. Sharing these experiences with loved ones, including my cherished team and beloved mother in law, brought unparalleled joy and fulfillment.

As I reflect on the past 15 years, I am reminded that true success extends beyond professional accolades—it lies in the ability to embrace change, cultivate balance, and seize every opportunity for growth and exploration. My journey in real estate has not only shaped my career but has also enriched my life in ways I could have never imagined. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

The upside of having a Realtor who lives where you’re looking to buy.

Perhaps when it comes to choosing a Realtor we should consider one who actually lives in the area(s) of interest we are considering.  This often over looked benefit could provide heaps of valuable insight during your information gathering phase that you do during your search of where to live and where to buy.

A Realtor who lives in your area of interest could offer invaluable information to your house hunting process, as they will have personally vetted the neighbourhoods in question.  They will know the creature comforts like good restaurants, parks, cafes, places to shop, what schools are in the area, and so much more.  It is something worth considering when choosing the person (or team) who will help guide you in one of life’s biggest and most exciting choices.

Matt Henry, a Vancouver Remax Realtor, specializes in Vancouver’s Main Street homes for sale and he also happens to live in the area.  He feels the added benefit he can offer people looking to move to the area is essential during their hunt as he went through the process personally so he firsthand understands the questions his clients have about the area, and he can provide honest answers from his own experience.  “People appreciate a personalized experience, and what more personal than sharing how I came to be in my home I love, right in the area that they too are looking to buy,” he says. 

So in that regard, Vancouverites looking to move to Vancouver’s Main Street area can take comfort in having Matt on their side, as he truly is organic to the area and also happens to know his stuff when it comes to Real Estate!

-Matt Henry Team