A life-changing event woke me up for the first time in years. In the following months and years, I stayed the course, rebuilding my life as I realized a valuable lesson.
Checking out of the hospital, I felt wide awake for the first time in seven years. Walking away from a car accident that should have been fatal gave me a new lease on life.
When that happens, it makes you wonder what you are still doing on this planet. It was 2007, right at the beginning of the recession, and after going through a difficult divorce, I found myself given a second chance. That day after the accident I reevaluated what I wanted my purpose here to be.
I became a licensed REALTOR® in 1997 and have been one ever since. My first year, I made Rookie of The Year at my brokerage, and while I got lost for a few years, during the recession I developed laser focus. I pivoted into distressed property sales, learning everything I could about foreclosures, REO’s and short sales. Through adapting to what was going on around me, I was able to help clients in new ways. So many people were in over their heads during those years, and many were unable to save their homes. I helped them pivot too.
Creating an exit strategy for each family, I designed concrete plans for them with a goal of buying again, whether it took months or a couple of years. During that time, I worked with many people in difficult situations and felt fortunate to be able to help. So many friends walked with me through difficult times in my life – I felt the least I could do was pass on the compassion they poured into me to someone else.
I have always been a hard worker and owned my own businesses since I was 12 years old. At the same time, humility and commitment are paramount to me. My mother raised my siblings and me on her own, working hard and never taking any handouts. We struggled growing up, which gave me an appreciation for everything I have.
When my stepfather came into my life, I was 12 years old. His relationship with my mother was one of the defining factors of how I approach relationships with everyone around me. While engaged, my stepfather was in a terrible car accident that left him as a quadriplegic.
They still married and spent the next 34 years together. She was by his side in good times and bad until he passed away in 2021. They loved each other so much – I witnessed from a young age what true dedication and unconditional love looked like. Through them I realized this is the life we are given, and it is the life we will fully live.
Ultimately, that day when I almost lost everything, I decided to stay the course. In doing so, I learned how interconnected we all are to one another. None of us live separately on this earth – everything I do affects everyone else, and I have a responsibility to stay the course not just for myself but for everyone else as well.
I met my wife Mel, in 2008, and she was by my side as I rebuilt my life. We have two phenomenal children together. A long time ago, I once considered becoming a pastor because I enjoy walking with others on their journeys. It may seem a far leap to real estate, but I enjoy walking with my clients to find the perfect home.
Whenever I am not working, I enjoy hiking, fishing and hanging with my children. My favorite part of being a REALTOR® is watching my clients’ lives grow as I help them through each new chapter.
As your REALTOR®, I will be here to listen and walk with you. I have been a REALTOR® for decades, and no one knows the market here like I do. I have devoted my life to studying it and staying up to date on trends so I can help my clients get the best results possible. This has been my home my whole life, and I know the communities here inside and out. Once I get to know you and your goals, I will be your advisor guiding you through this process.
As a member of the Zoological Society, I offer all my clients free zoo passes. Real estate is about more than a transaction – it is about relationships. While helping you find your home, I will find the perfect fit to fulfill your relational needs. Whether it is the big kitchen to cook for family holidays or the man cave to have more space – I am here to help you live your best life. Once the transaction is over, I will continue to walk with you as your lifelong REALTOR® and friend.
Sincerely,
Erik Ulvog