“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.