The Skinny Behind SarahiouslySpeaking

I began SarahiouslySpeaking in June 2008 to help consumers better understand the real estate industry and associated fields.  Spun from my own disappointment when purchasing my first home, I hope this blog will make the real estate transaction and industry more transparent.  My goals as a REALTOR(R) are to put the consumer first, educate my clients about today’s market, and provide a superior service that all consumers deserve.  My goal as a blogger is to introduce readers to topics that pertain to the area I live in, Fredericksburg, Virginia. 

I appreciate all comments, but for liability reasons, I must remove any comments that violate human decency or could be construed as offensive.  I am not an attorney, and therefore, can not give you legal advice.  I am licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and therefore, my opinions are based on Virginia real estate practices and procedures.  I would be happy to refer you to a REALTOR in your area if you need specific advice about your local market.  This blog expresses my opinions and, where necessary, I will provide you with the source of my information. 

Sarah in a Nut Shell

If you really want to know a bit about me, well, I’m the mother of 3 cats, Linus, Maddie Mae, and Ginny West.  I married my college sweetheart.  He works as an Engineer for the Navy in Dahlgren, Virginia.  I love any and all celebrations!  I think that life should be celebrated every day!  I have a sarcastic sense of humor and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.  You will find me at every NC State University home football game cheering on the Wolfpack!  I have a passion for 2 important causes:  HIV/ AIDS Education and Research and Homeless Animals.  My policy is to be honest and direct in everything I do.   

For Those of You Who Want My Resume’

I earned a Bachelor’s Degree from North Carolina State University in Communication Disorders; specializing in traumatic brain injury in adults and stuttering.  I then attended West Virginia University to obtain my Graduates Degree in Special Education; specializing in severe mental retardation and behavior disorders.  Since entering the real estate profession in 2003, I have promoted my drive for education by becoming an Instructor for the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors(R)’ Real Estate Career Academy (RECA).  I am a Success Series Instructor and a certified Accredited Buyer’s Representative Instructor.  I am licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia as a Fair Housing Instructor and Pre-licensing Instructor.  I also teach Agency, Ethics, Contracts, Short Sale, and Foreclosure classes. 

I’ve been my company’s Rookie of the Year and earned a spot in the Sterling Society.  I’ve served on the Education Work Group with FAAR since 2006 -and I’m now the Chair for the Education Work Group for 2009, the FAAR Grievance Committee since 2007, the Technology Work Group since 2008, and I’m the Chair of EMERGE – a new working group geared toward the needs of the 20/30-something real estate professional.

I hold the designations of an Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR),  Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI), and e-Pro certified.  I am an Associate Broker with Coldwell Banker Elite. 

At the 2008 FAAR Installation Dinner I was the proud recipient of the 2008 REALTOR Code of Ethics Award presented by the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors.  I’m also a member of the 2009 class of the Virginia Leadership Academy; 1 of 22 members this year.   

I do hope that you enjoy reading this blog and I look forward to seeing where we can take www.SarahiouslySpeaking.com in the future!  

Sarah Stelmok is a licensed Associate Broker in the Commonwealth of Virginia.  Her license is affiliated with Coldwell Banker Elite  5444 Jefferson Davis Hwy Suite 100  Fredericksburg, VA  22407  (540) 735-2600 ext 658