I had lunch the other day with a colleague of mine. We work for the same company but in different offices.
I sold one of his listings last year, and that was the first deal I had with him. I had heard of him before, but that was the first time I met him. He is simply one of the kindest people I've met.
At our lunch on Tuesday, we talked about the challenges the world of real estate is presenting. He offered some simple, yet effective ideas on how to work with a seller to properly price their home to get it sold, how to break the news that the market cannot handle the price we're currently at, and how not to let their frustrations "get to you." It wasn't a "pity party" by any means -- just a chance to share some ideas and offer some encouragement.
Those of us who are "in the business" are certainly not the only ones feeling anxious. Sellers and buyers, too, are in the midst of uncertain times, aware of falling prices, and facing job uncertainty. And I think it's important that we all understand we're in this together. Whether we want to admit it or not, we are scared.
But I also think we all know when we've done all we can to try and make things work. As in any relationship, if both sides don't really want the same thing, it is probably best to cut the ties and move on.
And it is best to know and trust better times are ahead -- for all of us.
