Future Recording Artist Becomes Newest Future Resident

When Mark and Yolanda Sims arrived at Lake Ridge with their son, Mark Jr., they had no idea they would find property that surpassed their expectations and become the homesite of their dream home. Mark, a business analyst and musician at his church, is an aspiring recording artist who needed enough room to build the home they always wanted, while still allowing space enough for a recording studio and spacious yard for a pool and room for their son (and future children) to play.

After spending a few minutes discussing their ideal homesite,  I determined that our Preserve community would be the ideal match for them. I pride myself on usually finding the perfect match within the first 1-2 properties I tour my clients on and this was no exception. I had two homesites side by side that I felt would be ideal if replatted into one large 3.5 acre property. The Preserve is our country style community noted for its rolling hills and dense selection of towering hardwood trees, creeks, and fishing ponds. This particular property faced a scenic 3000 acre ranch land of hilltops and trees.

As we walked the level front of the land where the home would be built, I pointed out a small fishing pond and I could see Mark and Yolanda imagine how they would landscape around it bring out its natural beauty, while still making it a great place to catch some catfish.

The large property was full of appeal, but it wasn’t until we arrived at the back that Mark knew he had found their perfect homesi

te. Nestled behind a tree line, far from the street, was an 10-12 foot bluff overlooking a wide winding creek that formed a small peninsula of large hardwood trees going into a forest. Someone years ago had build steps down from the bluff into a brook area where water flowed over rocks and created a tranquil sound. Mark stood there with his son on his shoulders for quite some time and envision himself dressing up the area and coming here in the future to write music and lyrics for his dream career. It was as though this land had been waiting and picked him, rather than him having the choice. His wife and son both had the same feeling and they bought the properties the same day and have been back several times since to spend time on it.

I meet a lot of people in land consultation and sales; most of the experiences are pleasurable, while others are unforgettably moving. This was one that hit home for me, as I remembered my own Dad first showing me the homesite where I would spend most of my childhood, teenage years, college, and beyond. I, too, rode atop his shoulders due to the overgrown weeds and it is an image I have never forgotten. To not only be a part of such memories for another family, but to also be responsible for them making those memories is what gives me the passion and vision for my job that I believe sets me apart from so many in my field. I challenge others to find that same focus.