User2931_17_t Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker
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In the past 7 years, I've learned a lot from fellow peers and the people I've worked for, they are called clients in a corporate type of sense.  I have no barometer in which to gauge what is going on here (With our world, with Real Estate), I don't know the immediate cause or eventual solution That's not an easy thing to absorb.

The fact is....rates are low.  They are real low.  And while I've listened and heard the Consumer Confidence or lack there of....I've also listened to us....and me.  As one of my prospective clients put it, " Depressed housing market, depressed housing stats, depressed housing prices, depressed stock market, and depressed 401K. How depressing.   My company is reorganizing, and although we are told we are in good standing, I just don't think that this is the best time to make a bold move."  I can't point a finger on what is exactly going on, as there is a ton of variables and I rarely study or do research.  Sometimes, in life, you just need to react.  Yet, there's a plan to my reaction and it starts with the Cockroach.

Economy aside, how's your life?  How's your family?  How are you?  Personally, I'm colder than a witches tit in the ides of a Frosted February, but I'm doing well.  If you want to give humans a REAL I.Q. Test, base it on survival....cause that is what it is.  At this point you may think that I think our economy is bad.  Nah.... our economy is very good....for some people.  Speaking as Robin Hood, I'm more of a Cockroach than an Eagle, yet in the end the Eagle never eats the cockroach.  The heart beats, the survival begins.

I don't want to tell a story or sell some self-promotional sort of goods here, I just want to try like the damn dickens to call it like I see it....whether it be true or just plain bad advice.  If you can survive 5 more months, as a Real Estate Professional or individual battling economic concern or despair....you'll make it.  Be the Cockroach.  Survive, no matter what.  I say 5 months because I see 5 months before purse strings loosen up more and knee jerk reactions to Market Conditions fall to the wasteland.  Become the cockroach, for it will benefit not only your business....but your life.  Here's a few attributes of our infamous little creature in the shadows:

  • Cockroaches adapt readily to a variety of environments - No matter what the winds of change may blow one's way, adaptation is key to business and in life.  Things won't always be good, things won't always be bad.  Whatever things are, one must adapt accordingly.
  • Researchers found a balance between cooperation and competition exists in group decision-making behavior found in cockroaches- Hmmmm, sound familiar?  Cooperation tends to lead to solutions, competition keeps everyone at the top of their game.
  • Cockroaches are among the hardiest insects on the planet - While anyone who really knows me knows that I'm a rather sensitive young chap, I firmly believe strength is vital to survival.  And above and beyond anything else, Inner Strength is the strongest force of all. 

As Brandon Lee's character said in the movie 'The Crow'  "It Can't Rain All The Time."  Yesterday, I had an epiphany of sorts, one I may never be able to properly express in words or in writing.  Yet, that epiphany came when I got up from my chair and went to the window of our office and looked out to the world from 3 stories up.  Thoughts raced through my mind about this Industry, this Life, this World.  A smile grew upon my face and I turned back to my chair and went to work.

Today, I went shopping and as I was meandering the aisles, I heard the voices and watched my fellow men and women as they went about their way.  I realized we weren't shopping, we were surviving.  Because that's what we do.  As repulsive as my little buddy we call 'The Roach' may be to some, we all could learn a lot from that creature in the shadows.  Before we can ever thrive, we must survive....through thick & thin, better or worse, until the inevitability of death comes calling.  And if we do that............the pursuit of the happiness we all seek will be but a moment away.

 

 

80 Comments on Apocalypse How? Becoming a Cockroach in a Survivors' Market.

Jason,

5 months? I hope it only takes that long...where did you get you insider info from:)

12/01/2007 11:18 AM by Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (RE/MAX Premier Associates)


Jason, I hate roaches and we don't get many in Michigan but boy did we get them in Alabama. I hate those things ! Yea, it is really cold here too.  I hate the cold too.

Hey something I don't hate on your post is the collabaration thingy. That I like and believe in.

12/01/2007 11:22 AM by Missy Caulk-Ann Arbor- Realtor(R)- Ann Arbor Real Estate (Keller Williams-Ann Arbor)


"Things won't always be good, things won't always be bad"

Simple, yet truer words were never written.

P.S. What do you base your 5 month theory on?

12/01/2007 11:29 AM by Kelly Sibilsky (Licensed Through Professional Referrals, Inc.)


I don't really follow that money supply all the closely but it sounds like this can be a great time in the mortgage business... Rates are very attractive and with housing inventory high there are most likely many people that are in a decent position to pull a bit of equity out of their homes and help their children purchase before the next run up in prices.

12/01/2007 11:32 AM by Dan Cummings - Connecticut's Running Realtor (Raveis Real Estate)


Neal - Just a guess man, just a guess.  Of course, that's my Market....yours could be entirely different. 

Missy - But we can learn from them:-)

Kelly - I base it on pure speculation in MY market....nothing more.

12/01/2007 11:35 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


A little coopetition goes a long way.  I've written about that a few times.  I guess we've all talked about adaptation. 

But, you have a way of summing up the various thoughts into a very Sardi Post... 

Enjoy life...  It's the only one you'll get... except for Shirley MacLane

 

12/01/2007 11:38 AM by Lane Bailey - REALTOR & Car Guy (Diamond Dwellings Realty)


Jason,  Wow!  Great post and a must read for many and probably quite often in this market.  I would also like to think that in approx. 5 months or so we will see a turn around.  I actually think it will be more like the Spring as opposed to the Summer, yet this is only speculation on my part.  But a turn around is just the beginning and many have to remember that.  It's going to take quite a while for the inventory (almost 20 months worth at todays pace) in my area to shrink.  But you are so right, we have to adapt and I've always felt very strongly about that.  Glad you had an epiphany.  Been there myself and it really blows your mind away. 

12/01/2007 11:42 AM by Marc Grossman, GRI - Greater Orlando Real Estate Specialist (Keller Williams Heritage Realty)


Dan - As I've said, if people don't think rates are attractive right now, they may just be a Renter for life.

Thanks Lane!  Shirley MacLane?  Hmmmm, you know something I don't, don't you?

Marc - Mucho Grazie Grossman!  It's speculation on my end as well.  I guess a loose analogy would be to treat life like the Martial Arts....and learn Aikido!

12/01/2007 11:48 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


Jason, what a visual picture that you paint.  I hope that 5 months is a realistic number, I think that the builders will start planning new projects in about 5 months, which will indicate the start of the up-tick. 

I must say, I  don't think that branding yourself as a cockroach is such a good idea (laughing).

12/01/2007 11:56 AM by Kate Bourland; Redding Mortgage, Debt Elimination (Windsor Capital, Dyer Beech & U First Financial)


Jason.... first off, I think this was one of your better writings....  excellent. Overall, you make some great points. There should be some inspiration in this, for all to understand. In regards to the time frame, for me and my hard shell, living in the dark alleys, I would say my May.... so we agree...  4 to 6 months. See you then brotha...

jeff belonger

12/01/2007 12:08 PM by Jeff Belonger -- The FHA Expert.com -- FHA Loans -- FHA mortgages -- Mortgages (Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc)


Wayne - From my understanding, Portland's Market is doing real well now.

Kate - It's all about the visuals:-)  Hey, I don't mind the cockroach label, lol.

12/01/2007 12:09 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


Jason, This is going to read sick and twisted but I once watched a documentary on roaches. The scientists put 500 male roaches into a tank and then secreted one drop of the female cockaroach's hormone into the tank.

Sensing there was a chick in the room all hell broke loose. The mating frenzy began, but there was no mate. One hour later they were either dead or horribly injured from the ensuing riot. My point?

Let's hide a million dollar buyer right here on Active Rain and see what happens. An all cash buyer, close in 30 days and will buy anywhere in the United States (You folks in Alaska and Hawaii can play too).

WHAT DO YOU THINK WOULD HAPPEN?

(Note: I'm not equating any of us to roaches, just remarking on the universal impulse to survive. Sorry for the hijack. Yours is a great post. Really got the old cranium gears turning.)

12/01/2007 12:12 PM by Blogger To Be Named Later


Maybe it's not about the literal 5 months at all.  Maybe it's about "this to shall pass" in a more general sense.  In 5 years we'll look back on this time but still be standing, and in 15 years it will be just a faint memory.  Our choices determine how we deal with the circumstances and how we remember them.

Didn't mean to get all philosophical here, but life is easier when you put it all in perspective.

BTW, I loved this post Dahling, very thought provoking and inspirational.  I think we should be surrounding ourselves with more of this sort of info.

12/01/2007 12:20 PM by Tracey Thomas Calabasas, CA Real Estate (Keller Williams Realty)


I'm with you.  5 months?  8 Months?  Who knows?  Like a roach though adaptions are made and survival mode kicks in.  I take your point as adapt or die.  You can always debate who is at fault for the current situation, and wait for it to turn around but while the waiting occurs, you need to adapt to today to survive. 

I think others are offended by being compared to a Roach, and focusing on your time frames as opposed to your message.  But I sir, am a roach!! 

12/01/2007 12:22 PM by Chad Baird (Re/Max Spirit)


Belonger - We actually agree on something?  Wowsers!   (Eyes peer to the left, eyes peer to the right).....I'll see you on the 12th.

Lenza - I'm not sure why I'm so hell-bent on calling people by their last names, but I am.  You hide that all cash buyer and I'll just sit back and watch, I have no need for them and they have no need for me:-)  What do I think?  I think you would get a rather transparent look into many souls around here.  I wouldn't say this to many, but you can hijak me any time.

Tracey - Hey, I love philosophy!  Thank you my dear.

Chad - You and me both Chad.  Very insightful comment!  Thanks!

12/01/2007 12:29 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


Jason ~  An excellent post, worthy to be read by the masses!  I see much work sent into this one, and I love the top photograph!  Thanks for sharing your vision and wisdom with all of us underlings...it is all about you, right??

12/01/2007 12:30 PM by Sarah Eubanks ~ Preferred Oregon Loan Consultant & Notary Public (Hill Valley Financial Services)


Yes, it is all about survival...it's interesting that when that is truly the case, like when I was a single mom raising two kids in private schools and brand new to real estate during a recession I don't ever remember doubting that I would succeed.  I had to, in order for my family to survive...and we did!

12/01/2007 12:39 PM by Lake Norman Real Estate ~ Diane Aurit (RE/MAX at the Lake)


Sarah - If it were all about me, the world would be a very dour place:-)  Thank you for the kind words....

Diane - That's a great example!  We all must ask the question....when push comes to shove, will you push or be shoved?

12/01/2007 01:04 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


I think interest rates are still excellent, and in the last few weeks activity has picked up. It's all about perception. And a lot depends on how the media portrays the real estate market and how much the masses believe their hype.

12/01/2007 01:11 PM by Guilford Connecticut Real Estate Agent, Sandra Cummings (William Raveis Real Estate)


Yuck with all the cockroach comparisons!

12/01/2007 01:20 PM by Wendy Smith Real Estate


Yuck with all the cockroach comparisons!

12/01/2007 01:20 PM by Wendy Smith Real Estate


Sandra - I think the Media is going to move on to the 'Next Big Thing' pretty soon.

Wendy - Hey, I could of included a picture:-)

Wendy - Hey, I could of included a picture:-)

 

 

12/01/2007 01:38 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


Interesting...I'd also like to know where the 5 months comes in to play...I think more like a year.

12/01/2007 02:05 PM by Lania DeMers, Broker Rocky Mountain Realty Co. (Rocky Mountain Realty Co.)


Jason,

VERY GOOD MESSAGE THERE, and right in time for a voice of sanity for what has been going on in my head for the last month.

THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

12/01/2007 02:09 PM by Heather Fitzgerald (REALTY WORLD-Harbert Company, Inc.)


Lania - Again, that's just my opinion for my particular market.  The changes will be felt

 Regional in my opinion, not the same for every area.

Heather - Thank you for your kind words!

12/01/2007 02:20 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


Good post Jason...right on the money....with a differnt twist..

12/01/2007 02:35 PM by Al Maxwell - Real Estate Agent - (Coldwell Banker)


It's nice to read something encouraging, even tho it's about becoming like a roach! But hey, when we survive, and I plan on surviving, we will be better agents because of having the experience of the current market.

12/01/2007 02:49 PM by Pam Graham- Jacksonville Florida Real Estate (Vanguard Realty, GMAC Real Estate)


Jason, Very interesting theory.  They say that cockroaches would survive even nuclear annihilation.  :)

12/01/2007 02:51 PM by Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate


Al - Thank you kind Sir!

Pam - When we get a grasp on the pulse of what is Reality vs. what is Perception, my feeling is that we will always evolve.

Lola - According to Wikipedia, yes they would.....at least longer than us.  But it seems Fruit-Flies are even more of a pest.  Every once in awhile, I do study:-)

12/01/2007 03:01 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


Jason, have you been watching "Joe's Apartment" again? Ain't that the one with all the cockroaches? Anyway yes my friend this to shall pass but it sure won't happen in 5 months in my market. Wish it would but it won't. 2008 ain't going to be purdy. But I am a survivor so I'll just keep moving forward.

12/01/2007 03:21 PM by Bryant Tutas-Tutas Towne Realty, Inc


deep..as usual.  The cockroaches are one thing that will survive until something comes along and crushes it.  survival and perseverance...mixed with a little positive outlook on life...to prevent from being crushed!  

12/01/2007 03:56 PM by Bob Carney Licensed MD/PA Real Estate Agent (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.)


Bryant - In your market, from what I've read, you are probably totally right on the button.  Imagine that, you being right?:-)  Everything I know and have read from you....SCREAMS....that you are a survivor.  I'll try/insist to keep moving forward myself.  I must admit, you've added a dash of inspiration along the way...

Carney - Being crushed sucks!  How's that for simple?  Good point.  Perseverance is so important, in every aspect of life.  I would love to have met the author of that particular word & definition.  Hope you are doing well amigo, stay warm!........and MWA!  (Sorry, had to do it)

 

12/01/2007 04:04 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


Jason,

Did you know that a cockroach can live for days without it's own head? I really don't want to be a cockroach, but it'd be nice to survive. I'm hoping that things will get better soon, but I can see it taking a few months as well. Good job on the post, my friend. Keep the chin up!

12/01/2007 04:05 PM by Andrew Trevino Wilkes-Barre Homes For Sale (TradeMark Realtors Group)


Fascinating and extremely insightful post, Jason !  I loved reading this and your analogy is dead on...

Jo 

12/01/2007 05:25 PM by Jo-Anne Smith-Belleville, Quinte and Prince Edward Region Real Estate, Ont. (Royal Lepage Proalliance Realty, Brokerage)


Jason ~  You are welcome.  I will look forward to your future posts.  Thank goodness that the world is not all about any of us.  It would be rotten for sure!

12/01/2007 06:12 PM by Sarah Eubanks ~ Preferred Oregon Loan Consultant & Notary Public (Hill Valley Financial Services)


Jason, Great writing the cockroach theory makes super sense. If this isn't working try that. The cockroach is a survivor, and so should we.

Can't we become a bit smarter about conserving resources to make it until next summer. The way we as agents were acting reminds me of a fly buzzing and bumping into a window when an open door is just feet away. (since we are describing ourselves as bugs!!!) I am specifically talking about all that advertising cash wasted because we don't want to take a chance on stopping the silly expensive habits.

Most agents, or Mortgage Brokers, would be put over the top with only a few more deals a year. Our "open door" is  a cash buyer, investor, or even a side job that brings us into contact with more people. I ran an ad once for cash investors and got calls for just that. We owe it to ourselves to find a way to to make it happen. I see nothing much in here about a common savior for many, the lease option. Its a perfect Christmas Holiday recipe.

  1. First, add on vacant FSBO home that has been on the market for 3-6 months
  2. Stir in one needy family with medium credit scores, and cash for down payment
  3. Cook at low temperatures for a week or so to iron out details
  4. Serve the delightful dish, happy FSBO seller, Happy new lease optioner, and happy RE agent with a few dollars in option fees to share with family

This dish is able to be served a few times a month without anyone getting tired of it

12/01/2007 06:13 PM by Mike Norvell Sr., Developers Capital Realty (Developers Capital Realty, LLC)


Jason, WOW!!!! If that is not inspiration enough to yank someone up by the pants and get them to tough it out, I do not know what it. I have been in management a long time and I do not think that I could have said that any better myself. And being a sales manager, that is saying a lot my friend. Continued succcess my friend.

12/01/2007 06:29 PM by Danny Thornton (Home America Mortgage, INC.)


It's taken 2.5 years to get our prices down about 5-10%.  That hasn't brought new buyers out.  We need to go down another 15-20% to get back to a price range where folks can and will buy. 

Which is, of course, being the cockroach that I am, why I'm only selling new homes this year because builders have seen the light and slashed prices 20%. 

Just got another lot hold on today. 

Who knows.  Maybe in 5 months when a buyer asks me "Lenn, is this a good price?", I'll be able to say "Yes, don't let it get away."

 

12/01/2007 07:16 PM by Lenn Harley Homefinders.com MD & VA Real Estate


Jason - did you ever read Franz Kafka's "The Metamorphosis"? It's all about a person who was turned into a cockroach.

12/01/2007 09:58 PM by Sharon Simms St Pete Florida CRS CIPS CLHMS (RE/MAX Metro)


ewwwww.... we couldn't be like cute bunnies or something to be survivors?? 

12/01/2007 10:01 PM by Bethesda Real Estate Sales ~ Josette Skilling (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.)


Unfortunately, I think a lot of buyers and sellers think we ARE cockroaches already!!  Isn't that ironic? 

12/01/2007 10:53 PM by Jackie Blankenship (Century21 Award)


Happiness is right around that corner lil bro...you watch. There'll be great happiness while surviving the small kind storm right now. No matter what.... time nor distance is a matter...:)

12/02/2007 12:47 AM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), e-PRO HAWAII Relocations & HAWAII Real Estate (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)


Trevino- I did know that.....now that's survival!  Though, I don't want to run any experiments to see if I'm that Hard-Core:-0

Carney- Mucho man love:-))

Jo-Anne - Thank you so much, not an attractive analogy I suppose...but I felt it VERY relevant.

Sarah - True be that.

Mike - Personally, the lease option is an underestimated tool that we often overlook.  Great way for certain individuals to buy a home.  Very good point!

Danny - Why thank you Sir!  I will be here all week;-)

Lenn - If anyone has a pulse on solutions, my guess...it is you. 

Sharon- Amazing that you point that out.  No I have not but a certain stranger in the mist (Jennifer Bukaty to be specific) pointed out the same thing when I talked about this.  I certainly should check that book out....and here I thought I was original:-)

Josette - Well, I'm curious in having Rabbit Stew....does that count?

Trevor - Thanks man!

Jackie- LOL...don't ya think?

 

12/02/2007 12:51 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


OK great title!  You make some good points here.  And the anaology is very good.  This markt is unchartered territory. While rates re low, it is more difficult to get a loan.  As with any epic disaster, eventually there will be regrowth. It is only a matter of time.

12/02/2007 05:19 AM by Allison Stewart REALTOR ®St. Cloud Florida (Florida Pines Realty, Inc)


Jason, Only 5 Months?  The good thing is that I see a lot of the bad element have left the industry and not just mortgage people. Realtors, Title people and Appraisers.

12/02/2007 07:07 AM by My Favorite Mortgage.net - Matthew J Blum


This business has always been cyclical and each time it hits a slump it is always the worst ever.  Those that have legs will survive and those that just came along for an easy ride will fall off.

12/02/2007 07:19 AM by The Best Spot Realty/Waterfront Real Estate/Ooltewah Real E


I love it Jason! Cockroaches rule.  Great post with good points and made me laugh too.  Thanks.

12/02/2007 08:20 AM by Denise Shockey Cocoa Beach Brevard County Real Estate (RE/MAX Absolute)


Allison - Thanks!  For a lot of us, you are right...this is uncharted territory.

Matt - That's my guess for the Market here in the Lehigh Valley.  Generally speaking, I think the Mortgage Market in general will loosen up, but not nearly to where it was (which isn't necessarily a bad thing at all).  As always, time will be the only teller.

Gayle - Right on, it is a cyclical business, this just happens to be a rather brutal turn....which shall pass.  I agree with your sentiments, those who came along for an easy ride will fall off...if they already have not.

Denise - Thanks for the kind words, wasn't sure how the cockroach analogy would come off....but I believe it to be valid.

12/02/2007 11:17 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


Jason, I am still wondering why Eagles do not eat roaches? While I expect the market in my area is different than yours, (5 months would be great), I still agree with your synopsis on living. Only we can determine our happiness in life, business and personal feelings. We are the masters/mistresses of our own destiny, and don't ever forget it, no matter what Karma throws your way. Nice photos, btw.

12/02/2007 11:53 AM by Karen Hurst ~ Real Estate Broker ~ Warwick ~ Rhode Island (Storm Realty LLC)


Jason: beautifully written! what a great post. Congrats on the feature...

 

12/02/2007 01:01 PM by Janet Guilbault, California Mortgage Expert (RPM Mortgage)


Eventually, human nature will help end the slump.  People will tire of sitting on the sidelines, year after year.

12/02/2007 01:13 PM by Wayzata Lakes Realty: Eric Kodner Sells Luxury Homes


This is well written, clever and very inspired, you handsome cockroach you! Why am I not surprised?? You are absolutely correct about the measure of intelligence.

But of course it was featured! 

12/02/2007 06:08 PM by Portland Oregon Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Bukaty * (RE/MAX equity group, inc.)


Jason-Congrats on your featured post.  I've never thought about myself as a cockroach.  You've sure given me a different perspective of that gross insect.

12/02/2007 10:54 PM by Christi Stewart, Prudential Calif. Realty (Prudential California Realty)


Jason

Only YOU can make a cockroach sound SEXY!

A brilliant observation....I have to figure out a way to tie this in to a presentation I have coming up....the group is pretty 'uppety' and I know this will get them fired up in more ways than one!

You are awesome Sardi! Another brilliant post..........

12/03/2007 02:00 AM by Bill Nazur (Nazur Enterprises, Inc. & BAMG)


Great points made with passion and backed up with a memorable analogy--I've always associated cockroaches and great writing with Kafka--now I have a new one--real estate, cockroaches and Sardi.

12/03/2007 03:00 PM by Norma Toering Rolling Hills & Palos Verdes Property (REMAX Palos Verdes Realty Lic# 01147470)


Sardi: You have a crazy way of putting things into a great perspective.  My grandfather has gone through many things in his life but he has always come back from them (Knock).  We always joke about him being like a cockroach.  This hits home!

12/03/2007 07:06 PM by Rey Gallegos Home Loan Consultant Las Vegas, NV (A Mortgage Bank)


YOU are SICK and yet ... there is a beauty in your sickness.

I purchased Beckwith's YOU inc. today in your honor...

12/03/2007 10:10 PM by Eleanor Thorne, Cary Mortgage Loans (Meridian Residential)


Karen - In regards to the Eagles eating the Cockroaches...beats me, I forget if I read that somewhere or just made it up to illustrate my point:-)

Janet - Thank you very much, you are on a roll yourself!

Eric - Human nature is....................Survival.

Jennifer - Handsome cockroach, now I don't know if I've ever saw those two words in the same sentence:-)

Christi - The cockroach is the Rodney Dangerfield of the Insect Kingdom.

Bill - Wow, thanks man.  Let me know how the presentation went.

Norma - I have no problem being associated with the cockroach!

Rey - I suppose it would, sounds like a strong man.

Eleanor - I am sick, that's a fact.  Thanks for noticing:-)  Let me know how you like your purchase.

12/04/2007 08:51 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


Jason, yes, roaches are gross.  Are they smart?  Maybe not, but they've got that instinct for survival.  People come and go from the industry, but the hardened ones adapt to all circumstances and make a plan to continue and avoid a crushing defeat.  For the roach, that plan is simple -- avoid the light.

12/04/2007 11:30 AM by Brian Block -- Northern Virginia & D.C. Real Estate (RE/MAX Allegiance)


The only roach that likes the light is the Oriental Roach I believe.  I agree with your second sentence Brian.

12/04/2007 11:42 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


Jason ~ You have a way with words.  Pure and simple.   Love the analogy.  Great post and gives us all something to chew on (grins)    Congratulations on the feature and keep em coming!

12/04/2007 04:55 PM by Linda Peters (Franklin American Mortgage Company)


Geez, I am losing my mind.  I could have sworn I posted to this already, but I didn't!  I must've dreamt it - but then again that would be wierd if I am dreaming about your roach blog, so let me just change that subject now to say, "great post!"  I plan on being a cockroach.  It's not easy, and I never thought those words would come out of my mouth, but yes, I plan on being a cockroach.

12/04/2007 11:08 PM by Jeannie Kontis - Lancaster Real Estate, Lancaster PA Homes for Sale (Long & Foster Real Estate, Lancaster PA)


Linda - Hey, I forgot to mention....I once chewed on a dead cockroach on a bet....got me $10.00 and a good week before my ex-girlfriend would kiss me again:-)

Jeannie - Hmmm, not sure Jeannie.  I'm with you on being a cockroach though.

12/05/2007 02:11 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


When I grow up I want to be a cockroach...lol, wow, never thought I would say anything other than squashhhhh with the word cockroach ! Great post !

12/06/2007 05:41 AM by Crossville TN Real Estate, Melissa Grant REALTOR®, Homes and Land For Sale (Choice Real Estate, on The Cumberland Plateau )


Jason ~   Why am I not shocked to hear that?    Ewwwweee - might that be a clue why she's an ex girlfriend and not your wife?   grins.     Hope next time around you went for a nice steak dinner - safe!

12/06/2007 07:18 AM by Linda Peters (Franklin American Mortgage Company)


Melissa - Lol, thanks!  Just be careful where you are stepping:-)

Linda - Yup, that's reason # 5,678 why she's an ex.  I'll keep that steak dinner thing in mind next time.

12/06/2007 10:52 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)


Before we can ever thrive, we must survive....through thick & thin, better or worse, until the inevitability of death comes calling.  And if we do that............the pursuit of the happiness we all seek will be but a moment away.

You do have a way with words that puts it all in prospective.     Thanks for sharing...  sorry I am late to the party

12/06/2007 05:01 PM by Desiree Daniels New Jersey Real Estate (609) 448-2222 (RE/MAX Tri County)


lol self amusement ... the security word was papaya and I am eating it right now.... tee hee   <sigh> sorry

12/06/2007 05:02 PM by Desiree Daniels New Jersey Real Estate (609) 448-2222 (RE/MAX Tri County)


Didn't read all the comments, don't have the time...but what surprised me from what I read was how everyone got caught up on the 5 months.  I took the blog to be more of an inspirational piece.  And of course my juvenile mind couldn't get past the word t*t, lol!  I'm guess I'm more of a prude than I thought!  Great writing!

12/07/2007 10:09 AM by Krista Fuchs Pennsylvania, Chester County Realtor (Prudential Fox & Roach)