A real estate transaction is a complex process, involving many pieces of a puzzle that must fit together in order to be complete. Multiple parties must work together, at some level at least, in order to put that puzzle together. 

Some pieces do not fit the puzzle which can prevent it from reaching closure. Some pieces are missing and must be found, if the puzzle is to be finished. Not all puzzles can be fixed, however. And the analogy sometimes does not work, for while the goal is to complete the puzzle, the way in which it is accomplished and the pieces necessary to do so are not always what one expects. 

The buyer, and seller, are at the heart of the matter, and it really is all about them. One party wants to sell, the other to buy, and both wish to reach the closing table (however that is done locally) so a title transfer can occur along with the exchange of funds. Of course this is notwithstanding all the personal agendas, roadblocks, and emotions along the way. But the desired end result is really pretty simple, isn't it? At least in theory. 

While the focus, naturally, IS the buyer or seller, depending on which side of the fence you are on, a real estate transaction really is about WE, not ME. A team effort is essential, striving toward the common goal of closing, with each person filling in the appropriate pieces. A buyer or seller must cooperate with the members of the team, and at times must rally them to keep the process moving. Similarly, those supporting the effort - escrow, title, agents, attorneys, lenders - must somehow work together to reach the goal while at the same time ensuring individual objectives are met, clients' interests are protected, and required paperwork is completed. 

Sometimes agents and other real estate professionals seem to be centered more on their own agendas (Could it be the commission? Or controlling what happens and when? Or something more insidious, like fraud?), failing to keep in mind what, and who, this is all about. At least it can appear that way. Being that we are human, it is sometimes difficult to not let individual emotions and personal desires interfere, even more so when things are not proceeding in the way in which you want them to. Some folks simply don't, or can't let it go. Those who like to be in control may have a particularly tough time. 

In some transactions, one or more ME's make it impossible to reach the closing able, buyers and sellers included. Certain deals are doomed to fail, for financial or other reasons, legitimate or otherwise. However the right attitude, of working together, can sometimes go a long way toward overcoming some obstacles so the common goal may be reached. 

So how to keep WE from becoming ME? 

1. Set expectations
2. Keep lines of communication open, regular, clear, timely and unemotional
3. Focus on tasks and information, not people
4. Keep focused on the objective, but don't forget about the intermediate goals that must be met
5. Put your personal agenda away
6. Maintain a spirit of cooperation and being helpful, not antagonism and "we versus them" - this should not be a win/lose proposition
7. Do your job
8. Keep those emotions in check
9. Say thank you...often

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If I can provide more information about Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2008 Jeff Dowler Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits