In real estate, we're thinking about numbers all the time. How much is this home worth? What's the right list price for this house? That's the obvious. But behind the scenes there's so much more at work.

Some clients have a lucky number they use at the casino and playing the lottery -- like the number "13". When they sell their home, they want to be sure their list price includes that number for good luck (example: $599,013). In Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese system of aesthetics, great importance is placed on numbers believing they can change the course of ones life. In looking at homes, there may be superstition about a property with an "8" (considered "favorable) or a "4" (considered "not" favorable) in the address. Numerology (the study of the occult significance of numbers) dictates timing, such as when to sell and when to buy, to those consulting the numbers.

Many of our clients are operating with these beliefs while we're working with them -- and without us being aware that this is all factoring into their decision-making. Without this esoteric information to assist us, we may not be successfully serving our clients.

Heads up! It's time we got their number.