They bought a house that wasn’t actually for sale

My daughter wanted a Leafs jersey for her birthday so I had asked a few friends to keep an eye out for one in her size.

Just a few days before her birthday, a friend spotted one at a thrift store and grabbed it for me. My daughter was thrilled!

It’s simple, but it’s true: if you tell others what you’re looking for, the odds of actually finding it will increase.

Last year, my client mentioned, “For the right price and the right timing, we’d consider selling.” Their plans were flexible but serious.

At the same time, I had buyers who had been searching for over a year for that exact type of home.

Because I knew what both sides needed, I was able to bridge the gap between serious sellers and committed buyers. We negotiated the deal and both sides walked away with exactly what they wanted.

Sometimes the right home is on the MLS.

Sometimes the right home is in my database – someone weighing their options, waiting for the right moment.

This is also why I maintain my professional networks to make sure that my clients have access to the best opportunities, on and off the market.

My job is to connect those dots strategically and to properly protect the best interests of those involved. Everyone wins.

But I can’t do that if I don’t know your plans.

If you’ve been thinking about moving, whether it’s this spring, next year, or just “if the right opportunity came along”, the first step is to say it outloud.

Send me an email.

Give me a call.

Once I know what you’re hoping for, I can start watching for it.

Ready when you are,

Sarah Fothergill

Sales Representative

Century 21 Lanthorn Real Estate Ltd. Brokerage

Direct: 613 315 9365 

Let’s Connect: @fothergill.realestate

Get Mind the Market every Thursday. One short email with what’s really happening in the Bay of Quinte market, in plain English. Subscribe here, or book a time to talk.

Originally sent to Mind the Market subscribers on February 5, 2026.