I often wish helping people buy houses in the St. Croix Valley were more like a sappy Hallmark movie.

You can picture it, right? Everything would be idyllic and scripted to perfection. No one wants a plot twist in the middle of their holiday chick flick. Jane’s grandfather passed away and left the family farm to her, but Lord knows she doesn’t have a clue about homesteading. Luckily, Adam does, and even though he’s a prince, he’s single. And on and on it goes until the credits roll to the tune of wedding bells.

Hallmark movies always have a happy ending. That’s the whole bit. We want those wedding bells.

If only the real estate market were this flawless. Every buyer has a perfect credit score. They leave NYC behind and move to a small town where they can walk to the grocery store and the post office. Their new home is move-in ready (the inspector cried tears of amazement). They have plenty of savings, no debt, and a lucrative job that brings them joy and helps people.

I mean, what a life. A seller’s agent calls me a few days before closing, not out of anxiety or rage, but to tell me they appreciate my hard work. The loan officer rents a plane and flies over my office with a banner that reads, “YOU’RE THE BEST, JASON. WE’RE READY TO CLOSE.”

And then—because we’re in my fantasy and I’m on a roll now—a gift box parachutes down to Earth and lands on my doorstep. And what do you know? Inside is an extra large pizza—still warm, even after reaching terminal velocity. This loan officer really loves me.

We close in less than a week. Everyone is thrilled. And to top it all off, the Minnesota Vikings win the Super Bowl.

I don’t have to tell you that—just like a Hallmark movie—this scenario is totally unrealistic. When buying real estate, random things almost always go wrong.

That’s why you need an expert agent to help guide you through the process. If you’re considering buying (or selling) a house in the St. Croix Valley, I’m your guy. I know this area like the back of my hand, and I can help you negotiate the best deal for your family.

So, reach out. Life may not be a Hallmark movie, but with a little support and optimism, we can still get our happy endings.