Your Story Is My Story The Fernandes Family

I love writing these stories about my clients who, over time, become dear friends.

One evening, as I was on my way home, I received a call from Kris and Keith Fernandes. They said I might not remember them, but they remembered me from five years earlier, when I had sold their next-door neighbor’s home. A new adventure was calling: Keith was preparing for retirement, they had already purchased a home in Arizona, and they needed my help to guide them through their next chapter.
When we met, it was clear we had a plan to create—and meaningful work ahead of us. Kris and Keith, now empty nesters, had lived in their Old Orchard home since 1989, raising their two daughters and building a lifetime of memories in our wonderful Santa Clarita Valley community.
I walked through the home, making careful notes on what would best showcase it and achieve the highest market value. Together, we took it step by step—discussing timing, preparation, and strategy. I called in my trusted service professionals, and we got to work.
While I coordinated painters and vendors, Keith and Kris tackled the emotional task of sorting through decades of family memories—decluttering, donating, and letting go. We refreshed the home, painting the eaves and interior in neutral colors, sprucing up the backyard, and hiring my housekeeper for a deep clean. I even put my sewing skills to use, making valances for the family and dining rooms. Once in “Picture Perfect Condition,” I brought in my professional photographer, and then it was Showtime! With a few price adjustments, we received three offers, and escrow closed successfully.
As we worked together, I got to know Kris and Keith on a deeper level—listening to stories of life in Santa Clarita, meeting their longtime neighbors, and discovering we shared roots in my home state of Ohio. They both have a wonderful sense of humor, and Keith plays Santa during the holidays—truly the perfect Santa with his natural white beard.
Eventually, they moved to Arizona, and I continued overseeing the final details. Their home sold smoothly, and they moved forward with confidence and peace of mind. It’s always bittersweet forming friendships and then saying goodbye at the close of escrow, but it’s a reminder of why I love what I do: helping people navigate a major life change and making lifelong friends.
Your story truly becomes my story, and walking alongside clients like Kris and Keith is a privilege I will never take for granted. If you’re considering a major life change, I would be honored to help you every step of the way.
For more information call 661-645-1334 or email Holly Hanlin at hollyhanlin@bhhscalifornia.com.

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