Why working with the Census Bureau makes me a better REALTOR

I'd like to report on my continuing work as an address canvasser (called Enumerator or Lister by the U.S. Census Bureau) on Bainbridge Island. In so doing, I'm going to make a bold claim.

In the last two weeks I have knocked on over 200 doors in rural Bainbridge. In so doing I've also put these residences on the Census Bureau's map (sometimes correcting and updated this map) via a hand held GPS. Those are the only details I am allowed to share, but you can rest assured that the tax dollars being spent on this massive project are well used.

I expect my Honda's starter will fail much earlier that it should have--I have to make a choice to turn off the ignition or leave the engine running as I walk through neighborhoods I never dreamed existed, neighborhoods only suggested by unpaved roads disappearing in the trees.

This is a remarkable place. It's possible to buy land hidden from every well-traveled road and build a modest cottage or a mansion. And you don't have to post your address on your home, either (a genuine annoyance, actually the only complaint I have about this assignment, since it takes time to puzzle out which home is which).

Here's the claim I'll make. I have seen more homes in two weeks than I have in eight years as a REALTOR. I think I know the neighborhoods I've canvassed better than (a) any other REALTOR on the island and (b) any of the people living in the neighborhood.

I realized when I was selected for this position that I was being given a remarkable opportunity for my profession. I'm glad I took it!