Vicki Doudera has been helping people feel at home since she moved here in 1985. That's when she and her husband Ed started an inn, and she became a consummate hostess, helping each guest find their way to a fabulous vacation. That local experience led to writing "Moving to Maine," and "Where to Retire in Maine" for Down East Books in Rockport, Maine, as well as a local radio show. "We sold our inn in 1998, and I was a full-time writer for several years. But I missed dealing with people, so I jumped into real estate." That was five years ago, but Vicki's goals haven't changed. "As a Broker, I'm ready to help you feel at home in a permanent way: to find a house and settle in."

Vicki is professional, energetic, and loves a challenge. But what matters most to people who work with her is her focus on communication. "I know that people appreciate the simple things -- a broker who really listens; someone who returns phone calls; a pro who isn't too busy to call with an update. Being a natural communicator, I see that as my strength."

The truth is, she works at it, focusing and asking the right questions. "I'm listening to what they're really getting at, and what they really want. What are their hopes and dreams? What do they see themselves doing? I try to look for the thread underneath."

This precision pays off, because she too has bought houses and businesses, and chosen schools for her children. She knows the ripples from your choices flow on and on. "Choosing a home is an important, life-changing process, and I respect that. I'm somebody who takes the time to follow through, because I know how I've felt."

Camden Real Estate appealed to her because its company values mirror her own. "We're a leader in the business, and we focus on giving back to the community. That's right up my alley."

Vicki's helped raise funds for the new YMCA, the local ski area, and the Camden Shakespeare Company. She uses the Y herself, is active in the Chamber of Commerce, and serves on the Pen Bay Health Care Community Relations board. She has a blog (www.vickidoudera.com) describing her life in Maine. "I absolutely love living here. You can walk home from a restaurant at night. You can head out your door and two minutes later, hike a mountain, see the ocean, sail a windjammer, or learn to build a boat .. It's beautiful, it's safe, it's full of caring people." Vicki is one of them.

Victoria Doudera may be contacted at vicki@camdenre.com
or at Camden Real Estate (207) 236-6171.