How Elijah Sommer and Stone Realty Group Helped Turn Challenges Into a Win
Retirement is supposed to feel exciting, not stressful. For Rachel, finding her very first home as she stepped into this new chapter came with a few unexpected twists. Thankfully, Elijah Sommer and the Stone Realty Group were right there with her every step of the way.
A Home Designed for Family and the Future
Rachel knew what she wanted. A one story, updated home in the greater Charlotte area with room for her grandkids to play when they visited. Gastonia stood out for its quiet neighborhoods, easy access to Charlotte, and welcoming community feel. It checked all the boxes for this next phase of life.
When the First Plan Fell Apart
The journey was not without hurdles. Rachel went under contract on a different home, only to walk away after discovering over $30,000 in foundation issues. It was a tough call, but the right one. Elijah guided her through that decision with patience, clarity, and reassurance that the right home was still ahead.
A Last Minute Save That Made All the Difference
Just when things were lining up, another curveball hit. Less than 48 hours before closing, Rachel’s lender dropped her due to an internal error. What could have ended the deal became a powerful example of teamwork. Elijah, along with trusted vendor partners, stepped in immediately and kept the contract on track.
Strong Negotiation, Real Results
Beyond getting to the closing table, Elijah negotiated several thousand dollars in DDRA repairs, including crawl space encapsulation and electrical updates. He also secured a brand new HVAC system for Rachel, adding long term comfort and peace of mind.
A Client Experience That Says It All
Rachel summed it up best. She shared that even when she felt like a headache at times, the Stone Realty Group always showed up with smiles and encouragement. She described Elijah as a true blessing and called the team her great team. That trust and gratitude made this transaction especially meaningful.
FAQs About Buying a Home in Gastonia, NC
Is Gastonia a good place to retire near Charlotte?
Yes. Gastonia offers quieter neighborhoods, more affordable home options, and easy access to Charlotte’s amenities, making it popular with retirees.
What happens if a home inspection reveals major issues?
You can renegotiate, request repairs, or walk away. Having an experienced agent helps you evaluate what makes sense financially and long term.
Can deals still close if financing falls through last minute?
Sometimes, yes. With strong agent relationships and quick action, alternative solutions can be found, as Rachel’s experience shows.
Thinking about buying or selling in Charlotte or Gastonia? Our team is here to stick with you until you are truly happy. Reach out to Stone Realty Group today to start your journey.



