Here’s a question from Doug, a reader our almost-neighboring state of Montana:
Hi Tim (and friends). I’ve been really enjoying this blog lately. I’m a RE market watcher in Montana, so it’s good to see news and real analysis from the Northwest.
I made a little video about my market and, amazingly, a local TV station found it and e-mailed me. They want to do an interview and show parts of the video on their evening news later this month.
Just wondering if you or your readers have any advice on how to come across. The reporter already said she was interested in knowing my motivations for making the video.
Presumably, I’m going to be viewed as a sort of doom-and-gloomer who wants to ruin the party, put developers out of business, and flush our economy (largely based on construction) down the toilet. I think we have some real problems, and I want to point them out without coming across as a jealous renter.
Any ideas, besides wearing kevlar after it airs? Thanks.
(For the record, I am a renter. But honestly, the more I rent the more I enjoy it. Even if I thought it was wise to buy today, I’m not sure I’d give up the flexibility of renting).
Congratulations Doug on being recognized for your work. The video to which Doug is referring can be viewed here. I highly recommend you check it out if you haven’t seen it already. Doug lays out the basic facts of his local housing market in a simple, easy-to-follow, and compelling way.
My advice is to be as friendly and positive as possible. It’s hard for people to dislike someone who is smiling and comes across as wanting the best for everyone. Also, as you’re talking, be aware that most of what you say will be destined for the editing room floor. News programs air soundbites, so you want to be careful about getting into any kind of lengthy explanations of your position, because they almost certainly will take something that you say completely out of context. If something takes more than two sentences to explain, either drop it or think of a shorter way to say it.
So what about all you readers? What advice would you give to Doug? Be constructive please. Insults or off-topic rants will be deleted from this thread.