It's a natural survival instinct. Preying on the weak is part of the process of natural selection, allowing the species to improve its genetic heritage.
But in our enlightened times, is it appropriate to seek out those that are suffering and to attempt to take advantage of the situation?
During tough economic periods, some will that seek to profit by tickling the ears of those in trouble and making pie in the sky promises that are rarely accurate and even less rarely delivered.
Now, I am not talking about hard working professionals that use truthful and legal means to help mitigate problematic situations. Rather, I speak of those that operate in the fringe and grey areas, playing the odds that one in ten of their schemes will be successful, and to heck with the nine failures.
We need to do what we can to help those that are suffering, but we need to do it with honesty and professionalism. It's best not to offer false hope, but rather, to present an opportunity for limited damage control.
When compassion overrides opportunism, it results in satisfaction and appreciation.
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All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Coweta Fayette Real Estate Better Homes and Gardens Metro Brokers, Newnan Georgia. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2009. Richard Weisser REOS, E-Pro. licensed Auctioneer. 770-827-6225.
Learn more about Coweta County and Fayette County Georgia Real Estate, and to search the entire Georgia MLS for free with no registration required. Visit CowetaFayetteRealEstate.com! Photos of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. North Georgia Photos.
In the past two months,I've been astounded by the situations I've seen first hand. Where attorneys and loan servicing companies are encouraging people to go into foreclosure and file for bancruptcy in spite of other. less damaging, options being available.
Now that employers and insurers are going to begin scrutinizing credit scores, it is more important than ever to do avoid those to beasts. I've noticed now, that the government is offering loan servicers bonuses to steer people away from foreclosure.
Deanna...
And even a short sale can damage credit, and it's being recommended to often, even for those not in immediate need of relief. Thanks for the comment.
Richard, There are some things that you can just put out there and hope for the best. Each new crisis brings with it even more destructive solutions. If there's anything to be thankful for, the numbers of the users and abusers are few compared to those who try to help. rich
Rich...
I think that now that most agents have become better informed and trained, you are correct. A year ago, it was a free-for-all! THX
It is hard to know what advice to give to our clients. There is so much conflicting information in the news. The first thing I always say is call your lender before you do anything foolish.
nice post Richard ...it is so unfortunate that people fall prey to bad people...but so uplifting when you find someone that truly wants to help out someone in need no matter what the situation is...peace zane
Well said!
... too many vultures out there right now ... sick indeed ...
But on the other side of the fence, there are those who truly do show their true colors, their compassion, and those are the heroes that help so many through the tough times.
Information is key. If it sounds too good to be true it probably is. Calling a Realtor is a good place to start.
Richard, it's those that seek out to help those in a struggle and do it in a way that is sensitive and informative that will be seen as the true beacons of hope in these hard times. As I've often said and I know many believe, real estate is not a simple transaction - it's so personal to all people involved and needs to be treated as if it were our very own transaction. Great post! ~Anne Marie
Richard...Honesty and Professionalism! If we keep these in mind, everything will fall into place.
I am a firm supporter of taking advantage of opportunity, but I am firmly against taking advantage of people. When times are hard, it always seems as if schemes come out of the wood work to offer a false silver lining to the clouds of desperation.
I keep telling all my clients to check everything out very thoroughly before jumping into anything. Of course that's the ones that call me first. I have found that if I help people the money follows. I have seen many others that just help themselves and receive a bad reputation and a going out of business sign instead.
Seems like too many are not thinking ahead, and not thinking of the consequences...like bankruptcy! Gather all the information, before jumping.........If we are honest with our clients, family, and ourselves....we may come out ahead.
Cindy...
There has to be some rules of order at some point. That will help!
Zane...
You're right, there are plenty of UPLIFTING stories out there!
Wendy...
THX!
Richard, one man's junk is another man's treasure but only if done within ethical means.
The vultures are truly amazing in the scams they present to the public. I don't understand how they sleep at night.
Hi Richard, you are truly a good person and I couldn't agree more with your thoughts in this post.