There are all sorts of experts out there. At least, that’s what they say (about themselves). But what is an expert?
Beyond those with academic or professional designations, what does it mean or how do you demonstrate expertise in a subject (other than to shout about it in social media)? What are the qualifications you need to meet to qualify yourself as a leader? A Sage? A consultant? A King? (sorry, thinking about Monty Python’s Quest for the Holy Grail).
Seems like on the social media, it’s arbitrary which the ‘mandate of the masses’ will elect as ‘supreme executive power’ on any given subject — it’s really a ‘farcical aquatic ceremony’. And for this reason, I’m here to say that I dislike social media very much; bull-oney baffles brains.
No offense, but if I didn’t recognize how effective it was at reaching potential clients, I wouldn’t touch it with the 10-foot aluminum pole used at Festivus to test feats of strength (“…it’s your heritage!”). Same with having a website (or being featured on others’ websites). It’s just not my bag.
Why people think it’s normal to be at a restaurant, surrounded by others, and make goofy faces as they take pictures of themselves or to take a half billion photos of their meal is still beyond me. Thank goodness I grew up in the Middle Ages before cell phones and SM; I enjoy the anonymity of leaving my glorious party days in the past without worrying about them haunting me for evermore – although I’m sure there are a few incriminating polaroids collecting dust in a shoebox somewhere. The only slight issues are that being online is both effective… and necessary in today’s market. You need to have an online presence, and be easily found on the socials to remain top-of-mind and competitive.
And I want to continue to be successful. Not just for the money – but because it’s rewarding to see others do well and prosper after giving them a hand. (Hey, at least I’m honest).
Which brings me neatly to today’s thought.
For most people, their home is the largest purchase/asset (debatable) of their lifetime. We’ve all heard this. Stands to reason, then, that you’d want to work with a real estate salesperson who espouses the same professional values and experiences you would expect to find in say, an accountant, a nurse, an associate professor in business, economics and public policy, an electrician, a paramedic, a physician, a social worker… you get the idea. In short, you want to work with someone you know, like and trust. Makes sense.
BUT…
Before you sign on to work exclusively with any realtor, perhaps you ought to ask them about their personal experience with owning property/ies. Especially if you’re looking to buy something a little… left field. Like a cottage. Or an investment rental property. Or a condo. Or a mobile home. Or a time-share.
Wouldn’t it be best to work with someone who actually practices what they preach? You know… a professional who, personally, has actually been through what they’re guiding you through, instead of someone just trying to make a quick buck. Remember, it’s the realtor’s responsibility to lead the process with the client remaining steadfastly in charge of the decisions. And while it’s shamefully immodest to point out publicly, I will admit to owning a handful of rental properties. And have served in various roles on a condo board. And have lived in several.
So, if you’re in the market – whether as a first-time home buyer, a recently single person, an empty nester or investor looking to purchase a rental property – I am uniquely positioned to provide exactly the type of perspective and advice you will need when considering a purchase. Because I’ve done what you’re about to do. Several times. And I’ve seen it from both sides.
Pick me… because what’s good for the goose, is good for the gander.
