Keeping It Real: Why you have to take control

On this edition of “Keeping It Real,” a recurring podcast series on Inman, Peter Lorimer talks through the importance of surrendering. 

The moment our backs are pressed against the wall is when we find out if our principles and the strategies we tout as standards to live by actually work. I had one of these moments not that long ago when my mother unexpectedly passed away.

And I learned this: It’s about acceptance — life on life’s terms. Figure out how to turn it to your advantage by looking at the positive.

I learned to surrender.

Surrendering sounds weak, but it might just be one of the strongest things you ever do. It has nothing to do with giving up and everything to do with clarity of purpose and focusing on others. 

It doesn’t matter what you do — removing yourself from a situation and setting your eyes on others creates a narrow and solid path to the right decisions. It also means you’ll live with significantly less regret.

The real estate landscape has changed. And if you look at other industries, you’ll begin to see the winning elements. At the top of the list is service. Look at Shake Shack or Disneyland. They are absolutely obsessed with service, and it shows — in their bottom line and reputation.

No one wants to work with a robot. They want to work with someone who is empathetic, someone they trust. 

The game has drastically changed, friends. You can no longer get someone in the car, walk them around and sign a deal. Today, it’s about going the extra mile, being entirely transparent and treating clients like family. 

Get out of your own way.

Stay out of expectations, stay obsessed with service, and exceed expectations. If you’re fired up to give up control (and in turn, take control) listen to this podcast.  

Peter Lorimer is the CEO of Beverly Hills, California-based PLG Estates.