Like millions of stressed out people, I practice a bit of escapism in the land of Candy.
Recently, during one of my problem solving sessions(in the shower), I was pondering some issues I've had with a transaction. I realized that there were lessons I learned from Crushing that translate into Real Estate. For Example:
1. Controlling the flow of Chocolate-
Chocolate doesn't solve everything. In the game, it takes over and obliterates the entire board. Likewise, information found in an inspection report will overwhelm all parties involved. Control must be taken. Buyers have to prioritize the repairs that are important to them, and realize that sellers will not build the house over. Sellers have to realize that no house is perfect, and just because they were willing to live with the "quirks", others may not find them so endearing.
2. Bombs going off will end the game-
Stalled negotiations will end the transaction. The way to solve these bombs is to work with the common goal always in sight. I try and look for problems before they become bombs, and find solutions to keep in my "pocket"
3. Matches are good- to clear the jelly
In the game, matches clear the jelly and move you to the next level. Sometimes, looking at a bunch of houses does no more than eliminate them from the possibilities. Showing a variety of floorplans in a day will definately help buyers narrow down the style as well as the location of their next home. The next time out, the list of homes will be well defined and another step closer to that next home.
4. Licorice is in the way
Licorice is not for everyone, and in the game it is another roadblock. Before a real estate transaction can be completed, all roadblocks need to be dealt with. That means buyers have to be preapproved. Sellers have to be competitive on the market in terms of price and condition.
5. Friends are the name of the game
I started out playing the game on an app on my Kindle. The game kept asking me if I wanted to connect on Facebook with my friends. I was terrified that the game would randomly send out notices, requests, and bug my friends, but with the safeguards in place, I did finally. When I did, it opened up all of the help they could give me. In real estate, as an agent, one of my most important resources is the agents that I have worked with in my area. I work hard to maintain the relationships, and let them know of new listings and criteria for new buyers. Doing this has enabled me to reduce stress, have happier clients, and sell more houses.
Now, what lessons have you learned from your favorite game? Leave a comment and let me know-
...and I am back to 5 lives now in Candy Crush- onward!
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