What the US Open Ruling Means for Real Estate
“It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped.” Tony Robbins
This past Sunday Dustin Johnson won the prestigious US Open Golf Tournament, but not without a great deal of controversy during the final round. While on the 5th green, Dustin’s ball moved slightly as he was preparing to putt. He immediately called over the official and explained that his club didn’t touch the ball but it moved slightly. He was told to play the ball. At that time the announcers just moved on and it wasn’t until a little later that the entire conversation changed. The rules officials spoke further and determined that he may be assessed a penalty following the round. What does this have to do with real estate? I think there’s a big lesson for all of us surrounding the US Open Golf ruling.
Fans and other pro golfers went to social media and they weren’t shy. But, their feelings had little to do with the ruling, and more with the fact that it was communicated to Dustin and the other players mid round that he may be assessed a penalty. That uncertainty had many outraged. Was Dustin actually in the lead or was it a tie? Did the other players know that they may have a chance to win or force a playoff if Dustin was assessed a penalty? If so, would they have played more aggressively or be more tentative as to not risk a mistake?
In real estate, I deal with clients all the time that don’t want to commit. Perhaps a buyer is uncertain about spending a lot of money on what may be the largest purchase of their life time, or worried that their past credit issues may cause a lender to decline their application. I think many potential sellers are uncertain about the price or timing of selling their home.
What I saw during the US Open was the uncertainty of what may or may not have been assessed at the end of the round getting in all of the heads of those topping the leader board. They all seemed to be playing tentatively. I imagine that just as the announcers were reporting who was “maybe” in the lead, the players were having that same conversation with their caddies on the course and everyone seemed a little confused and tentative.
When it comes to selling or purchasing a home, you are setting yourself up for disappointment if you go into the process unwilling to make a decision. Instead of stalling, meet with a good Realtor? and let him evaluate the situation. A good agent will provide you with solid comps of other homes selling or sold in your neighborhood. They will also work with you before you start the search to get you pre-approved for a mortgage so you don’t have that looming over your head.
It’s okay to have questions. It’s okay to have concerns. But, as a Realtor?, my sole job is to take the pressure off of you and provide you with as much information as possible so that you can make a decision. I’m not going to let you be bogged down with concerns and worries that will serve no purpose other than create uncertainty about the entire process and cause you to avoid making a decision.
If you’re thinking of buying or selling your home and would like to learn more about Ron Lyons Realty, visit www.ronlyonsrealty.com or call (214) 783.5440.