I’ll advise (and even hold your hand), but it’s really up to you
I had a client once who’d been steamrolled by his city for years. His land sat near a growing airport, and when they built a new runway, it pointed right at his house. You could practically read the name tag on the pilot’s chest as planes buzzed overhead.
Wasn’t great, but it was manageable—at first.
Then the city exploded in population. From 40,000 to over 200,000.
That runway got busier and louder. And worse? They decided to extend it. The initial plan would’ve made his land undevelopable. Worthless, basically.
The city would technically need to buy it—but since no one else was going to, they had zero urgency.
They dragged their feet. Lowballed him. Treated him like dirt.
Eventually, the plan changed, and his land regained value. But by then, he was fed up. Wanted every last penny out of it when he sold. Couldn’t blame him. He was gonna get his.
Except—more delays. Roads, utilities, more city slowdowns. The land had potential, but was still a little green. Meanwhile, the guy was 84, not in great health, using a walker, not very mobile. From where I sat, it made more sense to take really good money now—$7+ million with no contingencies—than hold out 2–3 years hoping for maybe $8.5 million that he might not live to see or enjoy. And that would involve the stress and anxiety of waiting for a developer to get their approvals.
That was a tough conversation. But it was his decision. I laid out the facts. I showed him the options. I gave my honest take. And then I backed off.
Eventually, he came around. And he was glad he did.
Here’s the point: I don’t make decisions for my clients. I can’t. And I shouldn’t. That’s your job.
I work for you, not the other way around.
I’m here to give you the real picture, not promises. I don’t control the market, or the city, or the weather. I can’t force anyone’s hand—not yours, not a buyer’s. But I can give you solid advice, grounded in experience and facts, and help you make the best decision for your situation.
Not only that, but let you make the decision, and support you.
I’ve learned this the hard way. Early on, I tried to solve everything, carry the burden, push people toward the “right” move.
Disaster.
Even if the outcome was good, they resented me for pushing. And if it went sideways? That’s on me now.
No thanks.
I’m not responsible for the outcome. I’m accountable for doing what I said I would—professionally, diligently, and honestly. If you want someone to make decisions for you, hire a guardian. If you want someone to shoot straight and help you weigh your options like an adult, that’s me.
So when we work together, know this: I’m not selling you certainty. I’m offering clarity.
And the decision? That’s yours.
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