was on leased land. In addition, the land was in separate negotiations as part of a large parcel sale with multiple buyers that we were involved in at the same time. Being on leased land presented an immediate problem. Banks would not lend money on leased land. We had to convince his parents to let us utilize the equity in their homestead to secure our loan. They agreed. Within a few months, we purchased the land and were able to roll his parents equity back out of the security position. Not bad negotiating at age 25! Although this was an unusual real estate transaction, it did increase my comfort level when presented with future properties with similar caveats. Eventually we got married and still own our great home on Lake Quassapaug some 20 years later. Finding great real estate opportunities is a passion of mine.

Fast forward to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. My mom was turning reclusive during the winters of Connecticut; I suggested she consider Hilton Head Island. A world traveler herself, she thought St. Augustine would be a better fit, but agreed to check Hilton Head Island out. As we crossed the bridge, she stated, "Paula, you can't describe how beautiful this place is. I absolutely love it." She bought her villa at Governors Harbor after 3 days of looking, and as the saying goes, is living happily ever after.