No, we are not speaking of “Earth, Wind & Fire”, the well known “Old School” R&B group. Although we acknowledge them and their usage of this acronym because of their iconic stage presence, lyrics, and a phenomenal use of sound. Today, we are noting the contextual clues of the acronym “EWF”, as it relates to the Earth that we live on; the Water that cleanses us from within and throughout; and the Food that fuels us to live and sustain our lives.
Recently, in an interview with “Darlene Meekins”, President of the “Philadelphia Metropolitan Board of Realtists”, we were discussing the trends of Real Estate purchasing as it relates to “Gardening”. With the #1 reason for homeownership being “The pride of ownership”, it is a true benefit that settling on your own “Estate” can provide your family with a sense of security, stability, and the ability to create the ambiance that you love. Ironically, Within our conversation, I discovered that after 20+ years of homeownership, along with 8+ years as a Real Estate agent, Mrs. Meekins has propelled into 2020 Real Estate sales with a “healthy living” campaign; in addition to PMBR’s quest to stress: “The house before the car”. Her self-published, “Start Healthy” magazine, features homes with a comprehensive guide to a healthier, happier life.
Conversation w/Darlene Meekins (President-PMBR) “the oldest Black Professional Trade organization in the country”
WITH THE #1 REASON FOR HOME AND LAND PURCHASING BEING: “PRIDE IN OWNERSHIP”, WHY FOCUS ON HEALTH & HAPPINESS?
It’s apparent that more people are becoming more “health-conscious”.One of the ways to support that is to have the means to grow your own garden. Plus, it’s therapeutic!
HOW DOES THAT RELATE TO REAL ESTATE SALES AND HOME OWNERSHIP?
With “Home Ownership” you become a landowner. What I like to do with my land, in my spare time, is to grow fresh fruits and vegetables for my family. As I am a very “hands-on” agent, I like to pass benefits and helpful experience on to my clients. I recommend the “best” to them, treating them like family.
I REALIZE THAT “GREEN” SALES ARE EXPANDING IN MANY AREAS, DO YOU FIND THAT GARDENING IS TRENDING AS WELL IN URBAN AND SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES?
Definitely! Even within the heart of one of the busiest metropolitan areas in the world–“New York City”, we see the flourishing gardens of “High Line Park”.
ARE THERE ANY OTHER WAYS THAT YOU SEE HEALTHY CHOICES EFFECTING HOME OWNERSHIP?
Well, the practice of “Earthing”–contact with the earth’s surface, is helping investors and potential home owner’s to think of more than how the house is shaped, its local, living within its walls and the decor; but also considering and placing intrinsic values on what can be done just outside of its doors. Inner-city cultivation, community gardening, and horticulture, in general, not only lends an atmosphere of fresher and cleaner air; this practice promotes physical activity, stimulates mental health, and offers the chance of living a healthier, happier life.
TAKE AWAY…many “Old School” values save more than “a happy meal” or “fast food” investments ever could! The few minutes shaved from having to plant a seedling or cooking an at-home meal, may not add up to the years that “getting a little Earthier” could. Touch the earth, drink some liquid sunshine, and eat to live better!”
