Pleasure or Pain: What’s Truly Influencing Your Real Estate Decisions?

By William “Bill” Boswell

Bill is widely known as one of New Jersey’s most sought after real estate agents and is a sales associate of Keller Williams Prosperity Realty.

What drives your real estate decisions, pleasure or pain? When I think about real estate, I realize it is not just about houses or prices; Every buyer and seller makes decisions based on a natural process, which is either pursuing pleasure or avoiding pain. Interestingly, most of us tend to lean more toward avoiding pain than pursuing pleasure, even if we start with a clear idea of what we want. Let’s take a closer look at how this plays out in real estate decisions.

Choosing pain over pleasure. People begin their real estate journey with a clear vision: this is what I want, this is where I’d love to be, and this is the kind of home I want to live in. But often, that clarity fades once potential pain points arise. The hassle of cleaning out the old home or uncertainty about losing their personal network can weigh heavily on people.

Balancing and isolating pain and pleasure. I’ve noticed that doubts and second-guesses can become powerful enough to shift someone’s focus from pursuing pleasure to avoiding pain. When that avoidance takes over, it clouds the original motivation and makes our real estate goals feel out of reach.

For us, the key is always trying to find a balance between these two forces. If we isolate one, especially the pain, it can take over and steer the decision. Take a step back and clearly identify the pain point because recognizing that can help us regain focus and move forward.

Our drive for growth. As humans, we are naturally wired for growth. We’re drawn to new experiences, new places, and new opportunities. That’s why it’s important to stay focused on what’s next. Once we move past the fear and take a moment to think clearly, we often realize that the desire to move forward is still there.

So, when you feel stuck, just take a step back, breathe, and ask yourself: Am I chasing what I want or avoiding what I fear? The answer to this question can help bring clarity and guide you toward what is truly best for you, both in the short term and in the long run.

In the end, understanding this balance can help us stay focused on what really matters and continue moving toward those new horizons. If you need any help, feel free to call me at 973-224-4605 or send me an email at bill@northjerseyluxury.com. I’m happy to answer your questions.