About 28 years ago, I met Alan Friedman and George Griswold. Recently, George’s daughter (George Jean) and I arranged a little get together for these two great friends and “Legends in Real-Estate Exchanging” since they hadn’t seen each other in a quite a while. Talk about a real kick … listening to their stories! Both Alan and George never took to selling homes because they said they “couldn’t compete” against all the pretty female Real Estate Agents. Alan also made another comment on the advantage women have, but I’ll let one go!
When Alan started in the business, he asked George to hang his license with him. George, in the meantime, told him to get some experience and come back. So Alan went to work for Gordon Strunk. They were the both part of the founding members for the “Traders Club” in the early 1960’s and loved selling land. George, known for his industrial expertise, sold the Empire Ranch in Sonoita back in 1969 for $5,000,000.00! Not bad for a 50,000 acre deal. During that same period, Alan bought and developed 4,200 acres of the Hilton Ranch for $58.00 an acre.
George then reaches into his pocket and pulls out a card, “Bill, do you remember what I put on the back of my business card?”
You see, he grew up in Havre, Montana and loved baseball and on the back of his business card (as shown on the front cover) he included a Trivia question to make it unique, so folks would remember him. Have you figured it out? Tree to tree; bottom of the 5th; one out; nobody on …
Back then being politically correct was not an issue! I just I came across a quote that reminded me of these two friends and mentors of mine:
“People admire you for your accomplishments, but they love you for your vulnerability.”
It took some patience and planning to put these two together … and I can’t thank George Jean enough! Connecting with people that matter is important.
Blessings,
Billy A
PS. As a Creative Private – Hard Money Lender my practice has evolved into helping Lenders & Realtors with Issues & Opportunities to network with “REAL PLAYERS not POSERS!” If you, or someone you know, needs financing: Please don’t keep me a secret! With nearly thirty years in this business, I can offer great information without obligation and would love to be of service. Connecting people that matter is what it’s all about. When you have some time, give me a call at 520-299-4878 or email me at bill@anastopoulos.com and let’s touch base over a cup of coffee. And always Remember … It’s not only the grades we make … it’s also the hands we shake!