Being Prepared - by Jonathan Broekman

One thing I have come to learn is success in any business and life is about being prepared. This was perfectly illustrated in a video I recently came across between Elon Musk and a BBC journalist talking about the most recent changes to Twitter, as well as his plans with SpaceX and Tesla. While most of the interview was pretty straightforward, things became unhinged when the journalist started pushing Musk on the rise of "hateful" rhetoric on the platform.

When pressed, Musk fired back, asking for examples, and all the journalist could do was pivot to claiming Musk was the "sole arbiter of truth on the platform". This clip has made the rounds on various op-ed segments from Sky News to Fox and showcases how ridiculous one can look when one fails to bring the receipts.

BBC journalists are held to an incredibly high standard of credibility and accountability to their audiences. While it's entirely acceptable to push back on claims from influential people, one needs to ensure that their biases do not supersede their objectivity and be prepared for the unknown.
 

Being prepared for Real Estate

Much like journalists, Property Practitioners and their clients being buyers, sellers and renters should also adopt the 'being prepared' approach to selling and buying property. Accountable, credible in their claims, and responsible for ensuring a smooth transaction. On the flip side of the spectrum, buyers must also be prepared and do their due diligence when selecting a new property.

When buying or selling a property, preparation is crucial to minimise stress and ensure a smooth transaction. Paying attention to the details can make a significant difference in the overall experience and outcome. Here are some significant pointers to pay attention to.

• Financial Readiness

One of the primary aspects of being prepared is having your finances in order. If you're buying a property, this means assessing your budget, obtaining pre-approval for a mortgage, and having a clear understanding of your financial capabilities.

• Research and Due Diligence

Another critical aspect of being prepared is conducting thorough research and due diligence. If you're buying, this involves researching the market, understanding the neighbourhood, and evaluating the property's condition and history. It also includes reviewing any applicable legal and regulatory requirements.

• Timely Communication and Coordination:

Effective communication and coordination are critical to a successful property transaction. Being prepared means promptly responding to inquiries, providing requested information, and cooperating with agents, lenders, inspectors, and other parties involved. Timely communication helps maintain momentum and prevents unnecessary delays or misunderstandings.
 

Contemporary examples

Solar panels and inverters play a significant role in buying and selling properties. An example of their importance can be seen in a recent property sale where the seller replaced the batteries before moving out. Both buyers and sellers must pay attention to the specifics of the solar system involved.

For buyers, it is essential to be detail-oriented and gather all the relevant information about the solar system in the property they are considering purchasing. This includes understanding the type, capacity, and condition of the solar panels and inverters.

Furthermore, buyers should consider the broader aspects of the property's suitability for solar energy. For example, they should investigate if there are any zoning regulations or restrictions that may affect the installation or expansion of solar panels.

In certain areas, external factors such as the planned route of transportation infrastructure, like the Gautrain, can also influence the desirability and value of a property. Buyers should proactively research any proposed developments or infrastructure projects near the property.

Take care, 
Jonathan Broekman