In 2017, I found myself brokering a significant deal involving a bank for sale at 3230 Third Avenue, South Bronx, NY. Little did I know that this transaction would not only test my skills as a real estate broker but also challenge my principles.

The property was listed at 3.7 million, and the deal progressed swiftly, with the buyer expressing interest in filing plans for the building during the financing phase. Despite my trusting nature, I made my first mistake by allowing this, not realizing the repercussions that would follow. As the days passed, the anticipated closing date loomed, and I discovered a supposed encumbrance on the property, a claim made by the buyer, Mr. Patel.

Upon investigation, it became clear that the alleged encumbrance was a ploy to back out of the deal after the city denied his plans to build a hotel on the bank’s footprint. With my client already shutting down his business and vacating the property, the buyer had no legal grounds to withdraw from the transaction. While I had the option to pursue legal action and claim the commission, I chose a different path.

Understanding the financial burden and time constraints on my client, I opted for a more ethical approach. Rather than engaging in prolonged litigation, I negotiated 100k in liquidated damages, allowing the seller to move forward with their plans unencumbered. The decision was met with the buyer’s dissatisfaction, but I knew it was the right thing to do.

Two years later, the property was successfully sold, and the proceeds were utilized in a 1031 tax exchange to acquire a 50-unit building, co-owned by myself and the client. The trust and gratitude fostered during that challenging transaction became the foundation for future ventures.

The true moral of the story lies in doing what is right, even when faced with financial gains through legal battles. The return on investment in terms of trust, long-term partnerships, and personal integrity is immeasurable. The lesson learned extends beyond the realm of real estate, emphasizing the importance of ethical decision-making in every aspect of life.