No Prestige in Real Estate..but we are happy!
There are some interesting new studies that just hit the press in the last few weeks. One was done by Harris Poll and stated that 'real estate agents have hardly any prestige at all' and another by Time Magazine that shows Realtors in the top tier of those that are happy with our careers. Now, I find this extremely interesting. Apparently the general public does not think much of us at all but yet we are very happy about it.
I have always thought of my career choice as one of the best ways I can make a difference in the lives of families, single people, those just starting out and those looking towards their leisurely years. I have been blessed with excellent clients over the years and believe I have been able to help in stressful situations. It is not the commission cheque that gets me out of bed in the morning - it is the people. I like to believe that most people are not motivated solely by money - even in our recent economic shift in Windsor real estate - people generally want to see the best possible outcome for themselves and the other party. Buyers are not out there just to 'rip people off' and sellers are not hiding huge deficiencies in their properties. Realtors, in the same instance, are not in business to take advantage of sellers and buyers. If they were I can assure you they would not be in business long.
I understand I am not going to have the entire city shouting the praises of Realtors, but I would like to point out the majority of us honestly are here to help and guide you through an emotional and possibly stressful situation. When it is finished and all parties are happy and feel they have acheived a win-win for everyone that is where we receive our satisfaction.
To end, I went on a listing presentation recently and met some very nice people who are not huge fans of Realtors. As we sat down at the table the gentleman said 'So, I suppose now is when you tell me how great you are?' I smiled and said 'I already know how great I am - I am here to discuss marketing your home.' We both laughed. At the end of the day I get to meet fantastic and interesting people, and hopefully, they feel the same way about me!
Maybe Realtors don't have the same prestige as lawyers and politicians ; ) but we are a happy lot!