Reality

Over the past 12-24 months, I've realized that reality can be a very difficult pill to swallow. Especially for those of us in real estate -- it's no secret that home prices have come down in Minneapolis-St. Paul and elsewhere.

I've also found that it's sometimes difficult to talk in realistic terms, especially when a realistic view isn't what others want to hear. However, like mom always said - "honesty is the best policy".

When we go to a professional, we don't consult or hire them to tell us what we want to hear, we hire them to give us their honest and professional opinion.

Anyone can sugarcoat the truth. That leads to having to fight reality and since reality always wins, it also leads to un-necessary stress. Reality or bad news isn't like wine. It doesn't get better with age.

Always try to ask the hard questions and be ready to listen to the answers. Question why that's the answer but just don't shoot the messenger.