Vicki Doudera - Realtor, Author, Mainer

For brokers, real estate is usually about buying and selling homes, not building them.

But next week I’m off with a group of 19 Maine realtors to hurricane-ravaged Mobile, Alabama, to construct a whole house in a week. That’s right — the challenge of Operation Home Build, a National Association of Realtors Habitat for Humanity trip, is for each state’s realtor association to construct a new dwelling in just five days.

I have an idea of what I’m in for, having done a Habitat trip to Mississippi last year. (See the Making a Difference page to read & see photos about that trip.) I’m packing my tool belt, hammer, and well-worn gloves, and even contemplating the purchase of work boots.  In short, I think I’m ready. 

A new part of the country; new people to meet.  A week “out of my head” and into physical labor.  But what excites me most is the idea that our little group could actually create a home for those who really need it in our brief time in Alabama.  That truly would be sweet, so wish us luck!