Integrity!

“A building has integrity just like a man. And just as seldom” – Ayn Rand.

I am not as cynical as Ayn Rand, perhaps because I am more of a dreamer…..

But I am too often disappointed by the lack of integrity shown by too many people.

Integrity is a priceless attribute in real estate (and life).

Having integrity is smart business.

Yes, integrity is often put to the test because of a short-term benefit,

But long-term thinking should always trump short-term gain.

Some “smart buyers” lose integrity when it comes to closing a deal.

I’ve been to too many contract signings where the purchaser changes terms – after they were agreed upon, because they have the “seller over a barrel”.

No integrity – but also the last time these people will transact together.

Some “smart sellers” lose integrity when it comes to honoring a deal.

When the market favors their interests, they become penny-wise and pound-foolish by abandoning their agreed deal looking for the last penny from the highest bidder.

No integrity – often resulting in no deal at all.

Some “clever agents” lose integrity when they have a listing that “sells itself”.

They are unresponsive to co-brokers when the request comes, waiting for the full commission that a direct deal may pay.

No integrity – but co-brokers have memories when the tables are turned.

Just this past week, I had someone renege on a prior agreement.

We had a handshake, and an email clarification – which is all one should really need,

(If the person you are dealing with has integrity).

He lost his integrity – and now a bridge has been burned.

Integrity is contagious though, and dealing with people who honor this value is a joy

Source:  Shaun Oscher, Core Real Estate - Selling New York