Still, Sophia understood the market dynamics in this country were different. In her past life, her brother, who studied economics, often analyzed various market trends. He had a theory about the housing market: second-hand houses were difficult to sell, and strict purchase restrictions meant properties couldn’t be resold within five years. This discouraged speculators, leaving most buyers as those with genuine housing needs. Housing prices had reached their peak, with signs of decline.
For someone like Sophia, who didn’t own property, buying a house for stability made sense. But for investment? It was far from worthwhile.
—
“Hello.”
Sophia entered the sales office alongside a middle-aged couple. Most of the sales representatives flocked to the couple, leaving only a young man to casually greet her with a faint smile. “Take a look around. If you need anything, just let me know.”
Sophia frowned slightly. Did she really not look like someone who could afford a house?
Why wasn’t anyone showing her the same enthusiasm? Did she need to wear gold chains and diamond bangles to prove her worth?
The young man smiled again. “First time visiting?”
“Yes.”
“Then feel free to browse. This area is known for its school district, so properties sell quickly. The price tags are on display. Let me know if you have any questions.”
His tone wasn’t unfriendly, but it lacked the warmth shown to the couple.
Sophia was puzzled. How did these sales agents decide who to prioritize?
“Aren’t you going to explain anything to me?”
The man hesitated briefly before laughing lightly. “Why don’t you take a look first? I’ll explain if you have questions.”
“If you don’t explain, how am I supposed to know the details, like prices and features?”
He smiled again, still polite but with an air of condescension.
“Even if I explained, you wouldn’t buy it.”
Sophia was taken aback. She wasn’t sure whether to feel amused or offended. His words weren’t outright rude, but paired with his knowing glance, they made her uncomfortable.
She frowned. “I’m curious. What makes you think I wouldn’t buy it?”
The young man didn’t seem worried about upsetting her. Covering his mouth, he chuckled.
“Look at you. You’re so young, probably just graduated from university. Realistically, how many recent graduates can afford a house? I’m not looking down on you; it’s just that as a sales professional, we develop a sense for these things.
You might have some money and want to browse properties to set a goal for the future, but you’re not ready to buy yet. Besides, with the current down payment requirements, it’s not easy. The bank’s loan review process is also strict. If you’re planning to get a loan, it might be tough. Paying one to two million Dollars upfront isn’t easy, right?
“And since this is a school district, small units are highly sought after and usually require full payment. Naturally, I assumed you wouldn’t opt for a large unit either. So, your chances of purchasing here are very low.”
Sophia wasn’t angry, but she turned her gaze toward the middle-aged couple. “What makes you think they’re more likely to buy than me?”
The young man chuckled. “They’re probably not buying their first home. Likely for investment or their children’s schooling. Most buyers are middle-aged. This couple looks like they’re here to buy a home for their child, who is studying nearby, or as an investment. Plus, they drove a Porsche, which suggests they have some financial backing.”
His explanation drained Sophia’s enthusiasm.
What was this? She just wanted to buy a house, yet here she was, encountering so many complications.
At that moment, her phone rang. It was Livinus.
“Where are you?”
She hesitated before giving the sales office’s address.
“Buying a house?”
“Yes.”
“Have you found one you like?”
Sophia answered honestly, “I’m still looking, but nothing has stood out yet.”
—
Livinus was nearby and drove over immediately. The moment he stepped into the sales office, several sales representatives rushed to greet him. Clearly, they had seen the car he was driving. Even the young male agent who had dismissed Sophia earlier approached, offering him a brochure with a bright smile.
“Is this your first visit? Would you like me to show you a model unit? We currently have a promotion—buyers can enjoy a 100,000 Dollars renovation subsidy.”
Livinus didn’t respond and strode directly to Sophia. She caught a glimpse of the male agent’s shocked expression and found it amusing.
Even as she left the sales office, the young man stood frozen in regret.
—
Sophia sighed. While being with a powerful figure like Livinus had its perks, it also felt painfully pragmatic.
