The “List & Win” Contest Winner Of $17,225 Is….

Carolann can you tell us about yourself?

I grew up in north eastern Ontario and after I graduated from University I moved to Toronto and had a family, a career mainly in corporate sales and I enjoyed many of the wonderful things that Toronto had to offer. After some major life changes I decided I wanted to be closer to family and in a smaller place that offered a stronger sense of community. So after talking with my family and finding a new home I really liked (I live across the street from a beautiful lake) I decided to make a move.

How are you enjoying life there?

I’ve been living in my home town of North Bay for six months and I’m really enjoying it. There’s a wonderful sense of community here and I enjoy being surrounded by nature. The winter was challenging, lots and lots of snow that doesn’t melt after two days but the six deer who sat in my neighbour’s yard provided some welcome entertainment. I’m home from work in 15 minutes and I can go for a swim with my miniature Poodle, Bailey who also loves the water.

What advice would you give anyone who hesitates to make a life change as you have done?

After a very sad life altering change in my life I was forced to “take stock” as they say and I felt I had two choices: remain stuck or take charge and move in a new direction that might be stress inducing but would ultimately bring about more positive changes than negative ones. Sometimes we forget that we do have choices, as Audrey Hepburn once said, “Nothing is impossible, the word itself says “I’m possible”!

How did you feel when we called to let you know you won the “List and Win” draw?

Elated! Amazing! I’ve never won anything in my life so it was a fantastic phone call to get especially on a Friday afternoon.

Do you have any immediate plans to enjoy the money?

I’ve spent the money in my head roughly ten different ways! From a practical standpoint investing the money or using it to replace my current car would both be good choices. However, a trip to Peru and Russia are at the top of my bucket list. Part of the fun of winning the “List and Win” draw is just being able to entertain different possibilities.

Can you describe your experience dealing with the Josie Stern Team?

Happily, I can say without exaggeration, that my experience was an extremely positive one. I’d seen Josie Stern “For Sale” signs in my neighbourhood for years so when I was ready to move I knew they were the team I wanted to work with. It goes without saying that Josie and Valerie are extremely hard working and understand the Toronto market inside and out. Not to mention that they’re both stellar negotiators! However, probably the most pleasant surprise was the “human touch” they brought to the sale of my home. Both Josie and Valerie were very supportive as they knew I was going through an emotional time. Josie would call me every morning to see how I was doing which I doubt is on the “to do” list of a very busy and successful realtor. Valerie was also extremely kind and her warmth and lovely sense of humour helped me stay positive. I don’t think you can ask for anything more.