When circumstances change, I adapt quickly. I learned that while I wasn’t in control of events, I could control my reactions. That helped me to pivot personally and also help many others do the same.
I soon realized the real estate market wasn’t going to improve anytime soon, and I knew I had to figure something out fast or else lose all I had worked for. When the recession hit in 2008, I refused to give up.
The downturn was here to stay. For how long—no one knew. At the time, I had many clients trying to sell homes, but no one was buying. This inspired me to find a solution – renting was one option. I created a property management company to help my clients keep their homes and sell after the market recovered. I have always enjoyed creative thinking and have had an artistic streak since I started painting and drawing as a child. That creative insight, and a love of architecture has helped me more times than I can count in real estate, from coming up with unconventional solutions to exceptional spatial awareness in a home.
Another concern at the time was my own home. I knew there was no way I could keep making the payments on my own without using my retirement savings. So, I decided to rent out a couple of the bedrooms. I slept on my couch for two years and simplified my life in every way I could. It was not just about making ends meet for me – it was about being self-reliant and providing the best life I could for my family as well.
I love being a father, and during those tough years in the downturn, one of the ways I maintained balance in my life was through volunteering at my children’s schools, helping with everything from math flashcards to sports. Family has been a priority to me for a long time, and I have enjoyed connecting with my four children every chance I have. Of course, now they are all grown with lives of their own, and I am thankful of who they’ve become.
Getting through the recession and coming out the other side with my business and home intact, makes me forever grateful. I strive to walk the Christian path, and over time, I realized that God is in control, not me. It is so easy to work ourselves up whenever something goes awry. I simply learned to let go and take control of what I could – my reactions. I do not worry about the future or what it will bring because I know that “..all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose..” (Romans 8:28)
I focus on putting my best foot forward in all I do as a person, father, friend and REALTOR®. Letting go of the illusion of control freed me up to focus more on coming up with solutions and helping others. The more I think about it, I wonder, “Why would I want to control everything anyway?” That would be exhausting and take all the joy out of life now and in the future.
Whenever I am not working, I enjoy biking on local trails, going to the gym, spending time with friends and family, antique cars and performing in the local theater. My favorite part of being a REALTOR® is doing the absolute best I can for a client, ensuring they get the best terms and price through my negotiations.
This is all about you, which is why I always start with questions. Once I get an understanding of where you are and where you hope to go, I can find the best options to fit your needs and lifestyle. My clients matter most to me, which is why I will remain in constant contact with you throughout the process. With decades of experience, I know how to handle complicated situations while keeping things running smoothly and stress to a minimum. As your REALTOR®, I am your personal consultant and will do everything I can to get you the best results possible.
I have lived in this area my entire life and have an extensive network to help with every step of your transaction. Integrity is paramount to me, so I pay attention to the details and follow up thoroughly. Once the transaction is over, my goal is to continue supporting your success as your lifelong REALTOR®.
Kind regards,
Mike Machlet
Broker, CNE (Negotiation Expert)