The Former Real Estate Outlook Versus Today’s Outlook

Today’s real estate market is more often than not too costly in 2026, leaving many families out of the running.

Young families strive for thepicket fence life of earlier generations.

They work hard, raise their children with loving care and… try to have all of their ducks in a row after saving for their dream home.

Realistically, times have changed with the state of the economy.

What was once a readily achievable goal, may not be without a lot of creativity.

More than ever, families are looking for that forever home,escalating costs and not being forced to mortgage their lives away at the expense of all other activities.

Children today are more savvy and discerning and know what they want in a home too.

Parents and realtors are involving them more in the process as a means of making them happy. No longer are they staying at home with a babysitter. Several decades ago, as we chose a new home in the early 70’s we were content with picking our bedroom color.

But, life is infinitely more complicated with so many modern conveniences that were never even conceived years ago.

Such items have become essential.

Without them, they are often dealbreakers.

So, realtors have to be ever creative to meet the demands.

Families may live far away from grandparents who were always the built-in babysitters of past generations
Children’s schedules after school are often overbooked with sports.
Time is precious such that they need to bring the kids along
Virtual appointments for house showings can help bridge the gap… but they don’t replace looking in the nooks and crannies.
Multigenerational living and co-pay with other relatives are also being considered to make home buying possible.

How do we bridge the gap and keep younger kids entertained when showings are so important to the process?

Kids are kids… Some are well behaved and can take an interest.

Others may be bored and not have the attention span or appear hyperactive and disruptive.

Unfortunately, electronic devices have becomethe new babysitter.

Some realtors set up kid checklists, or scavenger huntsduring showings.

But for those parents who have not surrendered to such tactics…

What about simplicity - engaging, entertaining books?

I recently proposed an idea to a local realtor about utilizing “Plugnose and the Fisherman” and the Educational- Adventure Kit as a way to entertain and delight the younger kids.

What’s Inside?

An educational brochure explaining the benefits, language milestones, activities for parents, teachers, babysitters;
Plugnose and the Fisherman children’s book ;
Coordinating sketch -coloring book than can be photocopied;
Character description book to explore personalities, traits, and story elements;
A themed bookmark;
Two customized pencils for drawing, writing, and creative play

As A Realtor, What’s In it For You?

Flexibility-

Have copies on hand during initial meetings;
As a perk to demonstrate you care about the kids needs;
During the actual in person showings, or office visits;
When a child is upset and may require quiet time;
Plugnose materials could easily be incorporated in scavenger hunts in a home as prizes;
Informing the kids of the many fishing opportunities in the Carolinas (should that be their desired location) with ‘Plugnose’ as a delightful introduction;
Bulk purchasing and other deals are negotiable to assist you!

As an Educational Tool- The Book and Packet Accomplishes Much!

Encourages reading comprehension and literacy;
Supports fine motor skills through coloring and writing;
Promotes critical thinking and imagination;
Helps children engage with characters and story structure in an interactive way.

If you happen to be part of a family and just want to purchase it for your kids, grandkids or a grandparent, These are some of the benefits-