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She said the majority of people have been patient and understanding, but it’s just a select few with “nothing better to do.”

The Millarville resident started the competition earlier this year after being inspired by a similar home giveaway in the United States, in a creative effort to get rid of her current home to downsize to a smaller, more accessible space to cater to her health needs.

Photo by Facebook

Entrants were asked to compose an explanation, up to 350 words, explaining why they should win the contest and become new residents of the 4,200-square-foot, two-storey lakefront house, in addition to the $25 entry fee.

Despite her best efforts she only amassed 4,627 contestants, which she said is in part due to an Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis investigation, trolls who tried to sabotage the contest and her own mistakes in relation to process and management of the competition.

Wagner estimates it will take her a few months to complete the refund process and said she has already returned money to about 1,000 applicants, who are refunded their entry fees, less banking and postage charges, when applicable.

Even though her dream to give away the home to a deserving candidate was foiled, and time and money was spent trying to make the competition successful, Wagner said she doesn’t regret any of it.

“In the long run, I think that there are a lot more good people out there. People believe in people. I can not lose faith in the good because that’s the only thing that keep me going,” she said.

“I have been touched by these people’s lives.”

alsmith@postmedia.com

Twitter: @alanna_smithh