Every now and then, I reflect on my career as a Homesite Specialist and Land Broker in Tucson and ask myself these questions: Am I still enjoying what I do? Am I providing excellent service to both land buyers and sellers? Am I enjoying the relationships I’m creating with my clients? Am I enjoying and excelling in guiding clients through the transactional process? Do I enjoy walking, exploring, and explaining how our beautiful desert terrain can best be used? And perhaps most importantly, am I being true to myself, and is there integrity between how I live my life and the choices I make at work?
For years, I’ve been working with clients from all walks of life, from every geographical location in this country, and in many countries around the globe. The list of clients I’ve worked with include, buyers and sellers of great wealth and minimal wealth and every political persuasion, religious background, and sexual orientation. I’ve sold vacant parcels from $10,000 to over $1,000,000 to these clients. As a check for myself, I answer the question: am I living in a way personally and professionally that exemplifies values that my dog would care about? It’s an odd question, but I believe that dogs have an innate nature to not only respond to human behavior but to sense human motivation and intention.
A dog’s world is black and white. My 10-year-old Australian Shepherd, Jackson, is smart, independent, predictable, fun-loving, and extremely affectionate to humans, which is a bit unusual for this breed. But I can tell you he could care less about the size of my bank account or the number of rooms in my house except for the fact it gives him sufficient space to taunt me into chasing him around, trying to snatch a toy out of his mouth.
Similarly, the vacations I take, the restaurants I frequently dine at, and the clothes I wear are of no consequence to him. As a matter of fact, when I complain, put on an angry face, or raise my voice, he just trots out of the room, having none of it. When my mood and actions change, he comes back in. He, however, does care about and responds to the moments I greet him with a smile and a friendly or loving gesture. Do I look out for his health, notice any signs that he’s not well, and swiftly take him to the vet when necessary? Do I think of his needs and go out of my way to satisfy them? Am I always there to assure him when he’s reluctant to act?
In my practice, I strive to embrace these qualities. Like Jackson, who doesn’t care for the material things but the joy it brings, I too focus on what land can mean for my clients beyond just the transaction—how it can enhance their lives, offer them space to play and grow, and ultimately, become a backdrop for their life’s most cherished moments.
When I counsel clients, ranging from those seeking their first plot of land to seasoned investors, I apply the same straightforwardness and dependability of Jackson’s daily walks. Each client, regardless of their budget or background, is met with the same level of dedication and integrity. My promise is to guide them through the complex process of land transactions with clarity and loyalty akin to my four-legged friend waiting patiently by my side.
Most importantly, just as I take responsibility for Jackson’s health and happiness, I ensure that every parcel of land I broker is in the best interest of the client. This means noticing the subtle signs that a property is or isn’t the right fit and acting to align their desires with the reality of the market.
If I can objectively say that I approach my business relationships and similarly treat my clients, then I know I am on the right track. My clients will know they have a broker who is more than just a guide through the land purchasing process but a trusted partner in their journey.
If you find yourself navigating the terrain of land ownership, particularly in the Tucson area, let’s tread the path together with the loyalty, care, and enthusiasm you deserve. You can contact me at rick@buytucsonlots.com or call me at 520-918-5477.
