More Than a Yard: Caring for the Land and the People

It’s that sweet spot in spring when the azaleas are showin’ off, the pollen’s flying, and the earth feels wide awake again. The dogwoods are blooming, the garden centers are full, and the good dirt is officially under my nails—so I guess it’s safe to say spring has settled in. And with it comes one of my favorite quieter holidays: Earth Day.

Now, Earth Day doesn’t come with deviled eggs or decorations. It’s not loud or flashy. But in its own simple way, it reminds us of something we all know deep down: this world we live in—it’s worth tending to.

I’ve always believed that real estate isn’t just about property—it’s about place. The land under our feet, the trees outside our kitchen windows, the porches we wave from. Whether you’re on a half-acre in High Point or tucked into a little apartment in Greensboro, we all have a corner of the world we call home. And Earth Day is just a reminder to treat that little corner with care.

That might look like planting something. Turning off a few lights. Picking up litter on your walk. Or maybe it’s just pausing long enough to notice—the birdsong, the breeze, the way the sunlight hits the floor in the morning. These little things matter. They add up.

And if you're like me, this season might also have you thinking about what kind of legacy you're leaving—not just in your business or career, but in your neighborhood. In your family. In the way you treat what you’ve been given.

Maybe you're dreaming of something new. A way to build a career that also builds community. A way to grow without losing sight of what keeps you grounded. If that’s stirring in your heart, just know—you don’t have to rush it. You don’t have to leap. But when you’re ready? We’ll be here.

Maybe you’re in real estate already—Earth Day is a perfect time to show up for your community in a different way, especially here in the Triad. Volunteering at a local community garden isn’t just good for the planet; it’s also a beautiful way to meet folks right where they are. You’d be surprised what kind of conversations happen over a tomato bed or a row of zinnias. Whether you’re handing out water, planting seeds, or just lending a hand, you’re planting trust, too—and in this business, trust is everything. Community gardens grow more than vegetables. They grow relationships.

At the Jan Secor School of Real Estate, we teach more than contracts and classes. We teach folks how to care—about their clients, their work, and yes, their communities. We believe being a good broker starts with being a good neighbor.

So wherever you are this Earth Day, I hope you’ll take a minute to breathe deep, get your hands a little dirty, and remember: you’re part of something beautiful.Even the smallest seeds can grow into something mighty.

Get your hands dirty, soak up the sunshine, and keep listening to what matters. We’re cheering you on.

Image by RDNE Stock Project on Pexels