REAL ESTATE
by Jim Coleman, REALTOR®
STEPS BUYERS CAN TAKE AND STILL BENEFIT IN THIS MARKET
The Rotarian Four Way Test of the things we think, say and do reads: "Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?" While this creed or motto is laudable and extremely appropriate from a moral and ethical perspective of human relations and associations with one another, unfortunately, when it comes to business, making money, driving for profits and, striving for economic advantage, the thrust, focus and quest so often is summarized in the concept of "How can I get the best deal and promote me and my interests without regard for the other person."
So in this day of troubled conditions, a time when many are suffering financially and economically, circumstances are ripe for those who have the means and the mentality to exploit and take advantage of the moment, in this opportunistic market of today.
As the empowered investors and common or typical buyers position themselves to capitalize on situations today, perhaps a few considerations are appropriate and some questions could be asked.
(1) How well do I understand the other party's position?
(2) Is it possible to achieve a win-win outcome?
(3) Have I consulted with other professionals to know how to advance my position?
(4) Are my intentions and motives based on sound, ethical and honest principles?
(5) If my position is endorsed, will I be able to honor my commitments?
(6) In the preparation and presentation of my proposition, will the outcome allow me to live within my means?
(7) If my grandchildren could project forward and then reflect backward upon the proceedings of this event, would they be proud of me and my conduct for the legacy I am positioning for them?
We are fortunate to live in these great United States of America and enjoy the rights, liberties and freedoms our form of government affords. Our free enterprise system permits us to exercise industry and development. But it is well known that many in our society do not have the regard for others as they do for themselves and do not live within the laws, regulations and guidelines instituted to govern all within the system and framework of living. In this market today, there are those who have lost their ability to sustain themselves and keep the properties and possessions they have and are therefore, vulnerable and open to being victim or prey to those with the money, power and competitive advantage.
So as the opportunity to acquire and to enhance ones personal position is available to the one who is prepared and qualified, one might give consideration for the other person, for as one goes through the engagements of this life, there are advances and reversals and ups and downs, and many times "what goes around comes around."
St. George REALTOR® Jim Coleman is Associate Broker and Partner/Owner of ERA Brokers Consolidated. He Specializes in Residential, Investment and Commercial Real Estate, holding National Designations of Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Resort and Second Home Property Specialist (RSPS) and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES). You can contact him by e-mail at Jim@RealtorJimC.com. Call: (435) 674-0600; or write: Jim Coleman, 201 East St. George Boulevard, St. George, Utah 84770. This and other columns are available at www.ReatorJimC.com/articles.