When I look at my statistics since January, more than half of my prospects and 60% of my successful closings have been with clients were born in countries outside the United States. The lesson I talk about in "Egg on MY FACE - part 1" becomes even more valid.
The lesson I refer to is: I must be observant, aware and respectful; I must always be aware of where I am, who I am talking to and most importantly ... I cannot just make assumptions and speak off the cuff. I must remember to ask responsible questions and then shut up to listen. Only then will I be ready to respond. I have discovered that the results might develop into something that exceeds any expectation I might ever have.
Kyung is a friend of 14 years, and I am proud when he calls me his "first American friend." I met him the day he arrived in the United States from Korea and was told by his sponsor to find him a place to live.
With a bit of help translating Kyung's requirements and many moments of patient confusion as we tried to understand each other, I did help Kyung and his wife find their first apartment in the US. Two years later I found his second larger apartment, then his next apartment and finally about 6 years ago, the house where Kyung and his family are currently living. Oh, I have also helped him find 2 commercial rentals for his business as well.
As a realtor to Kyung, I was a person he had to trust me to find him a home. He came to trust me not only as a realtor, but as a tour guide, a translator, a source of information about the communities, a person who could help him understand the rules and customs of the US and an all round resource.
We continue to meet for lunch several times a year. We generally speak of real estate for about 5 minutes and then we talk about life, with all of its differences and similarities we each experience. I now learn more than I teach. Kyung's business is international and he has helped me appreciate not only Korea and its culture, but also issues and cultures of the many other countries he travels through. I receive a personal view, unlike that presented in the news.
We have provided support to each other when talking about common issues like children and colleges. We have also given each other different perspectives on other life issues, from business to personal. We each come to the table looking at life from different worldviews and experiences. Kyung is a past client but more importantly a valued friend.
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