Through the hardest time in my life, I had to learn how to cope with grief and heal. With the support of friends and family, I have continued achieving my goals and prioritizing the many wonderful people in my life.

It was 6:38 in the morning on New Year’s Day 2021 when I received the call. The medical staff informed me they were working to resuscitate my mom. She had COVID, and due to lockdown restrictions, we couldn’t see her. All I could do was sit on the phone – I felt so helpless in that moment. Losing her so suddenly was the most devastating experience that I’ve ever had. I didn’t know how I was going to move forward without her.

That day, I received dozens of texts and phone calls from friends and clients wishing me a happy New Year. The pain was overwhelming as I informed everyone what had happened. I was in a state of immense, raw grief. My mom had been there for me through every high and every low. She was my best friend, and it felt like I had lost a part of myself.

She is the most influential role model in my life. She was a single mom when I was very young and raised my sisters and me while also working to provide for our family. Her drive and strong work ethic motivated me to chase my dreams. No goal was too big, and everything was achievable if I gave my all. She was always there cheering me on through everything I’ve been through in life.

Recovering from that loss has been the most significant challenge I’ve ever faced. Through this experience, though, I’ve learned that joy and grief can coexist. I find myself grateful for where I am in life while still missing her something fierce. My husband and son have been incredible sources of strength as I’ve worked through these hard emotions. Over time, I knew finding normalcy and routine would help me heal.

My friends, family and clients showed up and supported me as I worked toward a routine again. They have helped me find stability while also showing compassion for my situation. Just as I cared for them, they cared for me.

One of my greatest goals has been getting my broker’s license and opening an agency. My mom was with me through every phase of my life, including my professional achievements in broadcast direct response marketing, earning advanced law degrees, starting several companies, and building a career I love in real estate. On the day of my state exam, I knew she would be there with me, too. I passed the exam and started working to build a real estate brokerage that aligns with my values. It took a lot of time to create something that met my expectations and standards, but I was determined to make it happen. Opening Addressley has been a huge achievement, and I know mom would be proud.

As I look to the future, I’m excited to bring Addressley to a national level. We provide our clients with an elevated experience that stands out. Real estate is extremely personal, and I value relationships over commissions.

Losing my mother has taught me a lot about myself. No matter what challenge I may face, I have faith that I am capable of overcoming it. Life is too short to not chase your dreams. Family is everything to me; when I’m not working, I spend time with my loved ones. My husband and I also enjoy taking weekend trips to San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles.

When I returned to real estate after many years, I was amazed to see how far the industry had come. I had reached a crossroads in my life and wanted to find my true purpose. I remember asking God, “What do you want me to do with my life?” I decided to utilize my real estate license and advanced law degrees to do something great in the real estate industry. Opening Addressley has been one of my proudest accomplishments.

The most rewarding part about being a REALTOR® and broker is the relationships I form with my clients. Real estate can be, at once, stressful and emotional – I provide my clients with the support they need to feel confident every step of the way. I love helping people and making a difference in their lives. Oftentimes, my clients become friends because the relationships go beyond the transaction. I am dedicated to serving my community as an exceptional REALTOR® and supporting you through every phase of your journey in real estate.

Sincerely,

Valerie Castle
REALTOR®, Broker-Owner