I’ve been away from this blog for a long time. Quite honestly, my focus has been diluted by lots of other very interesting pursuits. And, as always, Facebook and Twitter are seductively quick and easy.
The newest member of our “team” will be joining our board of REALTORS this morning, which prompted her to ask me about the Code of Ethics all REALTORS swear to abide by, which gave me the opportunity to share with her the preamble to the Code, something which speaks to me every time I read it:
“Under all is the land. Upon its wise utilization and widely allocated ownership depend the survival and growth of free institutions and of our civilization.
REALTORS® should recognize that the interests of the nation and its citizens require the highest and best use of the land and the widest distribution of land ownership. They require the creation of adequate housing, the building of functioning cities, the development of productive industries and farms, and the preservation of a healthful environment.
Such interests impose obligations beyond those of ordinary commerce. They impose grave social responsibility and a patriotic duty to which REALTORS® should dedicate themselves, and for which they should be diligent in preparing themselves. REALTORS®, therefore, are zealous to maintain and improve the standards of their calling and share with their fellow REALTORS® a common responsibility for its integrity and honor.”
The balance of the preamble can be read here.
Here’s what I hear when I read that first sentence:
Under all is the land: the very foundation of this country is the land from which and upon which the nation was created.
Upon its wise utilization: waste not, want not. Don’t spoil the land. Make good use of the resource you have.
…and widely allocated ownership depend the survival and growth of free institutions and of our civilization: Reflective of the roots of our democracy, that real property rights- the right to freely and appropriately use real property- and the freedom to engage in commerce and seek our own success, are the keystones to our way of life.
I honestly, truly believe in the role that REALTORS can and do play in building communities, in shaping and encouraging economic growth, in helping others achieve the stability and pride that a home of their own can provide, and that ownership of real estate offers an significant opportunity to build wealth.
That’s why I’m so passionate about identifying and developing the next generation of real estate rockstars, those who will champion this industry for years to come. The opportunity to impact the lives of others is amazing, and the generation now entering the real estate market, the Millienials or Gen Y, is HUGE. This generation will impact society every bit as much as the Boomers did, and more.
There will always be opportunities for people of all ages and generations in this business, but right now there is a disproportionate need and opportunity for younger professionals. We just have to go out and find them.
