Celebrating 46 Years of Marriage: Lessons for Real Estate Success
As Allen C. Buchanan reflects on his 46th wedding anniversary with his wife, Carla, he draws parallels between their enduring relationship and the world of commercial real estate. While enjoying the serene view of the Pacific Ocean, he contemplates the foundational lessons that both marriage and a successful career share.
Commitment and Resilience
Buchanan, a principal at Lee & Associates Commercial Real Estate Services in Orange, California, emphasizes the importance of commitment in both marriage and real estate. “Marriage requires commitment – not just when things are easy, but through the tough times too,” he notes. He recalls navigating through the ups and downs of the real estate market since the 1980s, witnessing interest rates soar and economic crises unfold. Throughout these challenges, he asserts that a steadfast commitment to clients and properties has proven more beneficial than seeking short-term gains.
“Just as in marriage, staying the course yields long-term rewards,” he adds, highlighting how resilience shapes both personal and professional success.
The Power of Communication
Communication stands out as another cornerstone of both marital and business success. Despite their lengthy relationship, Buchanan admits that misunderstandings still occur. The couple has learned to prioritize open dialogue, a principle he applies to his work in commercial real estate. “Deals collapse when communication falters,” he explains, stressing that clients value honesty over perfection. A simple update can maintain trust far more effectively than any contract clause.
This approach to communication fosters lasting relationships in the business world, ensuring that clients feel valued and informed throughout the process.
Patience and Persistence
Buchanan highlights patience as a crucial ingredient in both marriage and real estate. Reflecting on the challenges of raising children and managing careers, he acknowledges that success does not happen overnight. “No one celebrates 46 years without patience,” he states. In the realm of commercial real estate, he points out that transactions can be prolonged and negotiations can stall. Yet, it is often the combination of patience and persistence that leads to successful deals.
Shared Values and Alignment
The Buchanans have built their life on shared values, including faith, family, and integrity. These principles guide their decisions and interactions. Buchanan notes that similar alignment is critical in business. “Not every prospect is a fit,” he cautions. When real estate professionals align with clients who share core values—such as fairness and transparency—the collaborative relationship flourishes.
Adaptability in Changing Environments
Adaptability is essential for survival in both marriage and real estate. Buchanan reflects on the numerous changes they have navigated together: career shifts, children leaving home, and new life phases. Similarly, in the dynamic field of real estate, strategies that once worked may no longer be effective. Brokers who thrive are those who adapt while staying true to their core values.
As he gazes at the ocean, Buchanan is reminded of its constant motion. “That’s marriage. That’s commercial real estate,” he observes. Both require a balance of commitment and flexibility, patience and action, shared values and adaptability.
In celebrating 46 years with Carla, Buchanan recognizes that success in life and real estate is deeply intertwined with the relationships that support us. “The relationships that anchor us at home often provide the resilience and perspective we need in business,” he concludes, reinforcing that the journey to success is about the people who accompany us along the way.
Allen C. Buchanan, SIOR, can be contacted at [email protected] or 714.564.7104.
