GUEST COMMENTARY
As Robert Anton
Wilson so adeptly observed in his book “Prometheus Rising” whatever we
think or believe, we also can prove. The thinker can think itself sick,
and can even think itself well again and the prover within will prove it
right. As we defend our beliefs that are the result of our past
experiences, we allow our past to rule and form our present.
Those who believe
that the real estate market is about to burst will invariably find
irrefutable evidence that they are right. On the other hand, those who
believe that the real estate market is healthy and will remain so, will
find “irrefutable evidence” that proves their perspective. So, how can
we interpret the consistent changes we are increasingly observing in
real estate these days?
The owners of a
completely upgraded home in Venice have chosen to sell it by “auction”
on July 8.Why not the traditional way, by simply listing it in the
Multiple Listing Service and waiting for buyers over a period of time?
Is this proof of a downturn in the real estate market or proof that
traditional real estate is adapting to a changing marketplace and
consumer needs?
Today’s consumers are
sophisticated and are demanding more effective and affordable
alternatives that traditional, independent commissioned agents are not
equipped to deliver to the consumer.
Waiting for buyers
over a period of months is not how an efficient market works.
An auction is an
extremely efficient, honest and fair way of selling a property at its
true market value in just one day. Prospective buyers see each other,
eye and evaluate each other, openly compete and bid against each other
instead of writing offers in a vacuum, competing against real or phantom
buyers.
A very
non-traditional real estate company, Right Home employs salaried real
estate agents working as a group and claims to deliver better service
and more expertise and experience to the consumer. Additionally, they
offer mortgage, escrow, foreclosure prevention services, a unique plan
for senior citizens, auctions as well as the traditional way of selling
real estate, all under one roof. The company also has weekly TV shows
airing throughout Southern California and has earned recognition from
the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban development as “innovative and
consumer-friendly.” More services at a much lower price? I think the
industry is changing.
(Paul Yalnezian is president of Right Home.)
