Q: I've tried several real estate agents here and I'm getting very frustrated.

None of them seem to be able to find me what I want. I'd like to start working with you since you come highly recommended.

A: I'm always happy to hear that folks are recommending me and ordinarily I'd be happy to try to help you. However, after our initial little talk I have to tell you that what's wrong is not that your other agents haven't been able to "find" you anything, but rather that you are unwilling to accept what is available.

Some real estate professionals do use terms like "I've found you the perfect house" and such. But let's face it, houses don't show up under a cabbage leaf to be found by the most eagle eyed agent. They show up on the Internet, on the multiple listing service or sometimes, as a "for sale by owner" ad. All of us have access to this information. The best agents make a fast connection between a new listing and a client whose needs would be met by what that listing has to offer.

On Vashon we have a very small inventory of homes to sell at all times. If you're in the lower price ranges the possibilities are even more limited. I always make sure that my clients understand that regardless of their price range they aren't going to get exactly what they want.

None of us got our dream home when we moved to Vashon Island. We settled for the best thing we could find that was affordable for us. What we got was something far more valuable than the perfect house. We got a wonderful community filled with caring people in a natural environment that is exceptional.

What has to change is your attitude. You are unrealistic and will never own your own home here unless you begin to listen to the voice of reality. Give your last agent another chance and this time, open your mind to what is really possible.