Whenever anyone comes over to our new home they always say "Oh you're so lucky!" and my husband says 'Luck had nothing to do with it" with a smirk on his face. What he really means is that we found our dream home thru sheer perseverance and excellent guidance on the behalf of our realtor, Jamie Madison. We bought our home while living 2,000 miles away, having never lived in Davis before and competing against nine other buyers. In spite of these odds, it's perfect for us in every way. We could not have done it without Jamie's help.
 

"My wife and I have roots in Texas and the Midwest, but we met in school at Auburn and arrived in California via Florida, Tenn, KY, OH and SC. To say we were a bit hesitant would be an understatement. We were very content in SC and the opportunity here was not required.

When the offer was made we started with a fairly intensive internet search to review schools, neighborhoods, etc. It became apparent to us that if we were to move out it would require that we live in Davis. We felt there was no comparison within a 30 - 45 mile range from our business. CA achievement tests weren't even close in the surrounding areas and the high school actually had more of a collegiate-like curriculum than most high schools. Other "pros" for Davis included UC Davis and the various Chamber of Commerce highlights for the city.

Once we decided it was a possibility, we made a visit. We were sold immediately. My wife made several, intentional street interviews. She was overwhelmed with how pleasant everyone, from college students to shop owners to long time residents, responded. The service levels were incredible. We visited the schools and the neighborhoods. We couldn't find one reason not to move here.

I started around Labor day and had the opportunity to take advantage of the college facilities and the downtown atmosphere. (Keep in mind that the weather was incredible up to about Thanksgiving - not so much now.) We moved as a family three weeks ago. The kids love school and our neighborhood. They have seen that despite larger classes than what they were use to, there is a certain discipline that allows for group work and self study that wasn't possible back in SC. Their school uses a group approach to certain class decisions, including consequences for bad behavior or disagreements. There is a higher expectation and eventually a high level of competition.

It has only been a few weeks, but we absolutely love it here. My wife has announced that this it....no more relocations. There is a definite quality of life that offsets the sticker shock for real estate. Additional highlights that we have discovered are the weekend farmer's market, the bike paths and even the local paper.

So that is probably more than you bargained for, but maybe it will help. If you are looking for further detail just let me know, especially around schools. My wife can provide additional details. If you guys visit the area and Jamie is showing you around, consider having her run you by our house. The girls always enjoy a few moments of unplanned play and it might help with your children. I should also mention that after experiencing 8 relocations, and working with 15 real estate agents, we honestly believe that Jamie is the best that we have ever utilized. Her attention to detail, before, during and after the sale, was really second to none.

-David H., Davis, California

Looking for just the right house or property can be so stressful and it was for us. Then Jamie came into our life. She was able to take our frustrations and disappointments and turn them into a workable challenge. She tiredlessly looked for just the right situation, showing us property after property after property, helping us define what we really needed. We happily ended up with the perfect large lot in the perfect old neighborhood and are building just what we want. Jamie is sincere and honest. She listens and is willing to work long hours to find what her clients want. She treats you like a friend.

- Ron and Sara, Davis, California