What happened to Values and Business Ethics?

What happened to Values and Business Ethics?

Investor · Jessup, MD · Member since 2013 · 437 posts · 180 votes

Bpers,

This is more to blow off some steam than a question, but I would like to hear others experiences.

What happened to the days of value, ethics, decency, good will, honesty, integrity, and common courtesy?

And for all of you who will say "well you have to have thick skin" this is true, but I do not believe that anyone deserves disrespect.

First example, I contact a seller about a property that seems to be a great deal numbers wise. I get some comps and look at the asking (based on the upgrades the seller mentions). So now I get some bids on repair estimates.

The seller tells me HVAC is new, roof is less then 4 years old, and electrical all updated. I am thinking some cosmetics and updating, awesome.

3 different contractors let me know the electrical was updated, but not on the inside, and it is out of code. It is fused, box in the closest, and outlets need to be 3 pronged. Next the HVAC is newer; however, too small for the SQ of the property. The roof is leaking in several places, so it needs work.

I contact the seller with an offer lower than his asking, the only thing he says is if you cannot get lower to my price you can just halt conversation.

I let him know what my due diligence found. No response.

Honesty, he could have been forthcoming about the work that really needed to be done, however, I guess that is why due diligence is important.

My next example, I speak with HML over the phone whose information I was forwarded. Just a phone number. I tell him about myself and the type of funding I was looking for. He sends me a email checklist requesting taxes, bank statements, SSN (picture of card), drivers license, etc.

I look at the email, it had no website, no address, no other information than his name. So I asked for his company name/website so I can look at information about his company and then I would send my information.

He basically tells me that that he has no information on me why should he give me his company name and information.

I was thinking to myself, hmmm if I called Wells Fargo or any big box lender I could get their business information.

Anyone have issues with people showing common decency and ethical business practices?

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  • Investor · Northridge, CA · Member since 2012 · 249 posts · 73 votes
    12y

    I sometimes wonder about that,too. There will always be great people and shady people, but I notice that the people with unethical values don't last that long, especially in this business where your reputation is everything

  • J ScottPro Member
    Moderator
    Investor · Sarasota, FL · Member since 2008 · 18k+ posts · 17k+ votes
    12y

    I'm not so sure that the "good old days" really existed...sometimes I think people convince themselves that times used to be different just to give them something to complain about today... :-)

    I'm certainly not going to just say, "You need thicker skin," but I will say that these types of people are the rule, not the exception. I'm a big believer in giving people the benefit of the doubt, but they usually disappointment me sooner rather than later. Just part of human nature (in my opinion)...

    My suggestion is to try to deal with people on their level -- if they seem disingenuous and shady, demand strong contracts/agreements and never giver leeway. If they seem honest and trustworthy, give them more latitude and take a few more chances. While it may involve opening yourself up on occasion (to those who seem trustworthy but turn out not to be), at least you won't go around questioning everyone and everything all the time.

    I'd rather leave myself a tiny bit vulnerable in exchange for not being completely cynical all the time...

    Oh, and I'm a big fan of throwing out the common cliche of, "Don't confuse my kindness for weakness..." It can send a powerful message when dealing with those people who are trying to determine if they should be attempting to take advantage of you or not...

  • Investor · Jessup, MD · Member since 2013 · 437 posts · 180 votes
    12y

    @Zaid R.

    I agree, reputation does proceed a person majority of the time.

    @J Scott

    Well i guess for my perspective growing up in a small town in Alabama, when people said they would help, they would. Or when someone told you "hey this needs fixed" it really did.

    I guess I am used to people being genuine. Not seeking to take advantage or beat around the bush and being shady.

    I am direct and to the point. If I tell you yes, I mean yes. If I say no I mean no.

    I also think people take NO the wrong way. It does not mean I do not like you or I am trying to be mean or anything. It means I have too much on my plate, NO or I do not know how I can help or if I can so, NO.

    If people would just be honest, and stand by their word it would go a long way in many industries.

    I am no where near perfect, but I do honestly try to give the best I can at all times. If I say I will look at something, I will, and if I do not and someone calls me, I will not just ignore the phone and pretend I am invisible, LOL. I will answer and say you know what, I got busy, forgot, or whatever, but let me take a look.

  • J ScottPro Member
    Moderator
    Investor · Sarasota, FL · Member since 2008 · 18k+ posts · 17k+ votes
    12y
    Originally posted by @Tyrus Shivers:

    Well i guess for my perspective growing up in a small town in Alabama, when people said they would help, they would. Or when someone told you "hey this needs fixed" it really did.

    I'm sure location has a lot to do with it. "City folk" are probably more jaded and probably a bit more business-oriented than those from smaller towns.

    It's also likely that you're just a better person than most people. That's a good thing...even if it causes you some heartache and frustration at times. Your goal now should be to never let others rub off on you... :)

  • Investor · Jessup, MD · Member since 2013 · 437 posts · 180 votes
    12y

    Very true! It is definitely frustrating, but as you stated, I will use strong contracts/agreements or I will not do business with those who end up being shady.

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