Part 2: My Hairdresser Cuts To The Chase

(This is Part 2 of a six-part memoir series. If you’re just starting, begin with Part 1.)

After attending what felt like hundreds of open houses, I went to get my hair cut one day and happened upon my first client, my hairdresser, Talia.*

Talia told me that she and her husband, Tony, were “sort of” looking for a house in Berkeley Heights, NJ. I immediately recalled my manager’s warning. Always ask if they already have a realtor. If they do, stay clear.

When I asked Talia, she shrugged. “Nope.”

Perfect.

I told her about an adorable little brick ranch that I had just previewed that morning on Caravan. Half an acre, very tidy, priced at $340,000 — squarely in her budget.

We agreed I’d show it to her.

I thought, This is so easy!

On my way back to the office to print the MLS listing and make the appointment, I was so crazed with excitement that I got a speeding ticket. (Apparently, real estate showings don’t qualify as valid legal defense by NJ cops.)

The truth was, I had no real idea how to show a house — no one had modeled that part for me. So I did my best “What would Sally B. do?,” trying not to look as inexperienced as I felt. After a long fumble with the lockbox and the front door, I finally got it open and swept inside.

“The hallway!” I announced dramatically, arms wide.

Talia and her husband smiled politely and wandered off to explore.

I stood by the front window, pretending to thoughtfully assess the landscaping while silently praying I didn’t look as nervous as I felt,  when Talia came up to me and said, “We’ll take it.”

“Take what?” I asked.

“The house,” she said matter-of-factly. “We want it.”

*Names changed to protect the innocent.

➡️ Next: Writing an Offer