Reframing the Narrative

Respect, Real Estate, and Reframing the Narrative

I came across a meme recently that struck a chord. It said something like:

“It’s okay to have an opinion. It’s okay to disagree with someone’s opinion.
It’s not okay to humiliate them because they don’t think the same way you do.
Show some respect. Society needs more of that.”

It stayed with me; not just because of the truth in it, but because of how relevant it is to real estate.

We live in a time where social media amplifies negativity. Opinions become judgments. Neighborhoods get labeled. Areas are dismissed as “scary” or “unsafe” based on hearsay, headlines, or outdated perceptions.

But here’s the thing: every neighborhood is someone’s home.
Every street holds stories. Every block has beauty, struggle, resilience, and life.

When we approach real estate with judgment, we miss the opportunity to see what’s real. We miss the chance to connect with people, understand their choices, and honor their experiences.

The energy of respect and compassion vibrates far higher than fear or criticism (David Hawkins). And as Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga (authors of The Courage to be Disliked and The Courage to be Happy) remind us, we are free to choose how we respond to the world—and how we treat others within it.

In my work, I’ve learned that the best agents aren’t just market experts. They’re listeners, learners, and bridge-builders. They don’t just sell homes; they help people feel seen, heard, and respected.

So, whether you’re buying, selling, or simply observing, I invite you to look deeper. Ask questions. Be curious. And above all, be kind.

Because real estate isn’t just about property.
It’s about people.
And people deserve respect.