Don't Tread On Me! - A Lesson In Cultural Sensitivity

Many years ago I had the distinct pleasure to befriend an exceptional young woman, Connie. She explained that in the Asian culture, it is common for people to remove their shoes when entering a home out of respect and as a matter of hygiene. I learned this is a common practice in almost the whole of Asia, from modern Japan to Southern India. In other cultures, removing one's shoes may also have religious connotations. One example of this practice is even noted in the book of Exodus in which God instructs Moses to remove his sandals (Exodus 3:5).

Since learning of this cultural ritual, I adopted this practice and no longer wear shoes in my home. Frankly, it is considerably more comfortable to walk around without shoes or socks. One added benefit is that I do not have to mop floors or vacuum as often. Shoe booties or covers are kept near the entrance for any visiting guests who may prefer not to remove their footwear. 

I extended the use of shoe booties and covers in my real estate practice. It's one of the added services I offer my seller clients, providing an assortment of shoe booties and the accompanying signage requesting visitors wear them while touring the listed home. Shoe covers can be especially helpful on days of inclement weather and offer added protection to those with young children who play on floors and often place items they discover in their mouths. Parents have a natural concern for preventing germs and dirt from entering their household. Taking reasonable precaution is both wise and prudent.

In addition, it has become routine for me to don shoe covers and offer them to my buyer clients when touring and viewing homes. I like to encourage their use, especially when the owner has white or very light colored carpet. It's not an unreasonable request, and most buyer clients are willing to slip them on. As we are guest in someone's home, this simple task displays a little courtesy and respect.

Shoe covers are relatively inexpensive and generally cost less than $.20 a pair.Suppliers are abundant; performing an internet search yields firms that offer on-line purchasing and will ship them directly to you. In my opinion, it just makes "cents" to be a little considerate and polite. As a professional, I try to always put my best foot forward!

Is this an auspicious moment to buy or sell a home? Let i List For Less "Get you off on the right foot" by providing you with exceptional service to achieve your real estate goals!