Realtor Creates Facebook Page for Open Businesses

Local Realtor Pam Mackinder created the Facebook page Small Businesses in Jackson, Michigan still open to serve us as a way to help the community during the coronavirus pandemic.   Photo by Jeff Steers, JTV News.

By Jeff Steers
JTV News

When Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer closed a number of businesses with her “Stay Safe, Stay Home” order, Realtor Pam Mackinder knew that she needed to change her focus from sales to service.

That was nearly 2,400 Facebook page members ago.

Mackinder created the Facebook page Small Businesses in Jackson, Michigan still open to serve us. She is the moderator of the group.

The concept was simple, tell people the who, what, where, when, and how for locally owned restaurants, bars and home improvement businesses.

“I decided that I knew so many small business owners that were debating whether to close, stay open, and ultimately what this would mean to their business,” Mackinder said. “I started this Facebook group thinking if it could help a handful (of local businesses), it would be great.

“Never did I dream the group would grow this fast. The support has been amazing.”

The group has 2,382 members as of April 25.

Mackinder started posting information about open businesses in Jackson with a photo. The response turned out to be incredible as others posted information – including business owners.

“It took on a life of its own,” Mackinder said.

Mackinder said she would have additional time when the governor’s decree meant Realtors could not meet face-to-face with customers. She retired nearly a year ago as a customer service manager at Melling Tool Company. Mackinder stayed home for six months – not her cup of tea – and was persuaded by a friend to give real estate a try. She sold a couple of homes in the first few months at Century 21 Affiliated.

When the pandemic hit, Mackinder said she was able to do much of her work from home.

“It gave me time to work on a business plan, watch webinars on marketing real estate, and other things,” Mackinder said. “Through technology we can still take care of clients.

“I think the market is going to boom when everything opens up.”

Mackinder said homeowners are still buying houses based on photos on realty website. There is a stipulation of a walk through prior to the sale.

But the longtime Jackson volunteer has felt needed with the new Facebook page.

“So many business owners have reached out to thank me,” Mackinder said. “This is something (during a difficult time) that is positive.

“I have even discovered a number of businesses in Jackson I didn’t know existed.”

Mackinder said she will continue to update the page – with a few changes as the situation warrants

“I am in it for the long haul,” Mackinder said. “I love the Jackson area.”