A Nation of Experts, On Everything, Just Ask Us

Since I live in the United States, I can only speak to our inclination, in many situations to take the position that our opinion is superior to any other opinion. It maybe the same in other countries, but I know it is in our DNA.

An agent advises a Seller on market prices within a neighborhood and maybe discusses adjustments appropriate for the house being reviewed, but the Seller decides that they need to net say $65,000 from the transaction. The data shows, best case a potential net of $20,000. If the Seller decides to be the expert, they'll set the high price and hope for success. Very low probability for success, but that does not sway the expert.

The Seller, being the homeowner, is entitled to set whatever asking price they think appropriate. No argument from me. But by not using market information, and becoming the expert in pricing, they will pay for this by having a longer time needed to get the property sold. Experts make efficient use of time.

Now that works for agents helping Buyers too. If a Buyer takes a look at the asking price, and reduces it by some arbitrary percentage, that is one way to get to an Offer Price. Some Buyers claim this is the way they always buy property. Maybe so, and if a Buyer buys a home every 3-5 years and this process works for them OK. Some never let the facts get in the way of their expertise.

I did not watch any of the Casey Anthony trial and did not listen to much of the analysis as the trial was going on. It is obviously sad that the child, Caylee, is dead. What got me thinking of experts was the reaction so many media people are having about the trial and the outcome. I don't know who is responsible for the child's death, nor did I sit through the trial and deliberations like the jury did. I wonder how many of the experts really listened to the same information the jury heard or had the same instructions they had to make a decision. I guess when you're an expert and any decision reached that differs from yours must be wrong.

I remember a proverb I first heard in the eighth grade:

“He who knows not and knows not he knows not: he is a fool - shun him. 

He who knows not and knows he knows not: he is simple - teach him. 

He who knows and knows not he knows: he is asleep - wake him. 

He who knows and knows he knows: he is wise - follow him.”

 Author-Unknown

I try to always avoid that number one sentence. Sentences two and four are where I try to remain. I don't always make it, but that's my goal.

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Wayne Johnson
18756 Stone Oak Parkway
San Antonio Texas 78258

Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper Realtors®
Texas Real Estate License # 0566780

wjohnson@cbharper.com

Wayne-Johnson.com

210.483.6329 (Tel)
210.483.4729 (Fax)

Texas Law requires all real estate licensees to give the following information about brokerage services: http://www.trec.state.tx.us/pdf/contracts/OP-K.pdf

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