Independence – how sweet it is

By: J. David Chapman/June 29, 2023

Happy Fourth of July! You will be reading this before one of my favorite holidays – America’s Independence Day. In celebratory fashion, we host barbecues; eat watermelon; visit parks, lakes and beaches; attend parades; and shoot fireworks. This federal holiday in the U.S. commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. I split my Fourth of July holiday between two of my favorite places. We always try to be on the rooftop of the Chapman House in downtown Edmond to have one of the best views of one of the best parades in Oklahoma, but we also can’t miss hosting family and friends on Grand Lake and time on our boat – Doctor’s Orders. This year will be no different.

We are extremely blessed to live in an independent and free country. I am thankful for those who sacrificed for our independence and freedom. It made me reflect on how fortunate we are in the real estate industry to practice our trade with little regulation and much independence as independent contractors. While contemplating these blessings, I am in the middle of several real estate negotiations and contract closings. I can continue my work around the state and on the lake as if I were there locally. We have technology to thank for this convenience; however, much change has come to enable us to leverage this technology. We have organizations such as the National Association of Realtors, the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission, the Oklahoma Association of Realtors, and several area boards and MLSs to thank for keeping regulations in check and at the same time protecting the consumer.

I remember driving around to get original signatures and multiple copies of all contracts and signatures. E-signature legislation and products such as Authentisign now allow us to conduct transactions over e-mail. This technology is made even more convenient when linked with smartphone technology, enabling us to conduct transactions whenever and wherever we have internet connections or cellphone service.

As we watch the annual Fourth of July parades, participate in firework displays, and consume hamburgers and hot dogs celebrating our nation’s independence, let’s take a moment and give thanks for our independence as professionals. And if you appreciate the independence and convenience we have, please continue to support the people and organizations that promote safety for consumers and convenience for professionals.

J. David Chapman is professor of finance and real estate at the University of Central Oklahoma (jchapman7@uco.edu).