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CONTRACT TO CLOSE

JUST PENDED! 1927 SW 47th Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33914

5/17/2026

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This home had been on the market for quite some time—listed with multiple agents and zero offers. The sellers were frustrated, and rightfully so.

When they reached out to me, I knew what needed to be done—but it wasn’t going to be easy. I had to sit down and have the hard conversation. The kind of conversation that nobody loves having, but that makes all the difference.

We looked at the data. The real data. And together, we made the tough decision to price the home at true fair market value.

They weren’t thrilled but they trusted the process.

A few strategic price reductions later, activity picked up, showings increased and multiple offers came in. 
Today, I am beyond proud to announce that this home is officially UNDER CONTRACT!
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To my incredible sellers—your patience, trust, and willingness to embrace the process made this happen. I am so excited for you both and cannot wait to celebrate at closing!
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JUST SOLD! 1718 SW 12th Ln, Cape Coral, FL 33991

5/14/2026

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When a grandson reached out to find the right agent to help his grandmother sell her home, I knew this was bigger than a listing—this family needed someone they could trust.

His grandmother had just lost her beloved husband. She needed more than an agent. She needed a partner through one of the most emotional transitions of her life.

After all the interviews, they chose me. Not for my sales record—but because they felt I genuinely cared.

From there, I got straight to work—helping her de-personalize her space, staging her home, and making sure it was picture-perfect for photos.

We listed on a Thursday. Multiple showings flooded in—we could hardly keep up. By the end of the first weekend, we had multiple offers. One month later—SOLD—over asking price.

In a buyer’s market where homes are sitting for months and often selling below list price—this was truly something special.

She’s now on her way back home to be with her family and start a brand-new chapter. 

This is why I do what I do. Real estate is people. It’s heart. It’s showing up when it matters most.
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If you or someone you love is thinking about selling, I would be honored to walk alongside you through every step of the journey.
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3 Sellers, 3 Painful Lessons

5/11/2026

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The market doesn’t care what you paid for your home. It only cares what buyers are willing to pay — right now.
I’ve watched three sellers learn this lesson the hard way.

One rejected my recommended list price and walked away $155,000 less than they could have made. One turned down an offer — and sold for the exact same number 9 months later, after months of mortgage payments, taxes, and stress. One rejected a $330,000 cash offer and held out 8 months... to sell for $335,000. After carrying costs, they likely netted less.

Here’s the truth nobody wants to hear:

Every month you fight the market, the market wins. Carrying costs are silent killers — mortgage, taxes, insurance, HOA fees, utilities — adding up while you wait for a number that may never come.

Your agent isn’t your opponent. They’re your partner. When they bring you honest data and hard conversations, they’re protecting you from a much more painful truth down the road.

A closed mind has a price tag in real estate. And it’s always higher than you expect.

If you’re thinking about selling, let’s have an honest conversation about what the market is actually telling us — because the best time to sell is when the market gives you the opportunity.
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Don’t wait until it takes it away.
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JUST PENDED! 29111 Coral Harbour Dr, Englewood, FL 34223

5/6/2026

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What’s the true value of an expert buyer’s agent in a new construction deal? It’s not just about opening doors—it’s about strategy, foresight, and negotiation that can save you tens of thousands of dollars.

I’m incredibly excited for my new clients, who were referred to me by a buyer I just closed with last week! They were looking for the perfect vacation home on the Gulf Coast, and we found it at BeachWalk at Manasota Key in Englewood—a community with the exact resort-style amenities and private beach access they dreamed of.

But finding the right community is just the beginning. Here’s how we turned a great choice into an unbeatable deal, securing them a total value of over $85,000!

1. Protecting Resale Value from Day One: The buyers were drawn to a lot on a quiet cul-de-sac. It seemed perfect, but my local knowledge raised a red flag. I pointed out that a major thoroughfare was planned just beyond the property line, which would eliminate the quiet appeal and negatively impact its future resale value. We chose a better-positioned lot that truly protected their investment.

2. Smart Upgrades for Maximum ROI: We walked through the design options together, focusing on upgrades that add real, long-term value, ensuring their investment would pay off when it’s time to sell.

3. A Data-Driven Negotiation: Before talking numbers, I ran a full analysis of recent comparable sales in the community. When the builder presented their final price, we stepped aside to strategize. I then presented our counteroffer supported by hard data, building a powerful case for our price.

The result? The builder accepted. We secured a $60,500 price reduction AND an additional $25,125 credit for their closing costs and rate buydown.

The builder’s sales team represents the builder’s best interests. My job is to represent YOURS. Congratulations to my clients on this incredible win!
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If you’re considering a new build, let’s talk. Don’t leave money on the table.
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    Ruth Hillestad is a trusted guide in buying and selling residential real estate in Lee County, Florida.

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