Unlocking Doors with Kindness: How National Common Courtesy Day Shapes Canadian Real Estate

Published on March 21, 2025 | Maxwell Realty Blog | Ron Alfred De Guzman, Communications Manager at MaxWell Realty

Have you ever noticed how a simple "thank you" can transform an ordinary interaction into something memorable? Or how holding the door for a stranger often creates a moment of connection through a smile and nod? These small, thoughtful gestures lie at the heart of National Common Courtesy Day, celebrated annually on March 21st. Today, we're exploring what makes this day special, why it resonates so deeply with Canadian culture, and its surprising impact on the real estate industry—particularly for community-focused Real estate franchises like MaxWell Realty.

What Is National Common Courtesy Day?

National Common Courtesy Day serves as a gentle reminder to embrace politeness, respect, and consideration in our daily interactions. While its exact origins remain somewhat unclear, it has been recognized since the early 2000s as a day dedicated to celebrating the power of kindness (National Day Calendar, 2025). Unlike holidays that call for grand gestures or expensive celebrations, this observance focuses on the small acts that brighten our collective experience.

Courtesy: A Deeply Canadian Value

The tradition of courtesy has deep historical roots. Around 2350 BCE, Egypt's Vizier Ptahhotep wrote maxims on respect and humility (The British Museum, 2024), and centuries later, Confucius (551–479 BCE) made courtesy a cornerstone of his philosophy. But Canadians have developed their own distinctive brand of politeness.

If there's one thing Canadians are internationally renowned for—besides hockey and maple syrup—it's our politeness. From patiently waiting in lines to our reflexive "sorry" in almost any situation, courtesy is woven into our national identity. A recent 2023 Angus Reid Institute survey confirmed that 79% of Canadians consider politeness a fundamental national trait (Angus Reid Institute, 2023).

This reputation isn't just a stereotype—it's a cultural strength. In a country as diverse as Canada, courtesy serves as a common language that helps bridge differences and build community. Whether it's a friendly wave between neighbors or a realtor patiently guiding newcomers through their first home purchase, these moments of consideration create connections that foster trust and belonging. Research even suggests these courteous acts provide health benefits, lowering stress and boosting overall well-being (Greater Good Magazine, 2023).

Common Courtesy in 2025: Essential in a Bustling Market

As we navigate 2025, the Canadian real estate landscape is experiencing renewed energy following the Bank of Canada's significant 50-basis-point rate cut in late 2024. Home sales are trending upward, listings are increasing, and market competition is intensifying (Canadian Real Estate Association, 2025). In this fast-paced environment, courtesy becomes more than nice—it becomes necessary.

Consider these scenarios: a buyer respectfully accommodating a seller's timeline for moving, or an agent who truly listens to a client's priorities instead of rushing to close. These courteous acts don't merely smooth transactions—they humanize them. In a market where everyone is competing for properties, kindness creates meaningful differentiation.

Why Courtesy Reigns Supreme in Canadian Real Estate

Real estate transcends buildings and property lines—it's fundamentally about people and relationships. Here's how courtesy transforms real estate experiences:

Trust Building: An agent who promptly returns calls, clearly explains complex terms, and follows through on commitments earns lasting loyalty. Clients quickly discern who genuinely respects their time and concerns.
Negotiation Excellence: Home buying can become emotionally charged. Maintaining polite, respectful communication keeps discussions productive even when stakes are high.
Community Connections: Successful realtors thrive through local relationships. Acts of kindness—whether sponsoring a neighborhood event or simply engaging warmly with community members—build reputations that marketing dollars cannot buy.

This perspective is supported by industry research: a 2024 National Association of Realtors survey found that 68% of clients ranked "trust and respect" as their primary consideration when selecting an agent (National Association of Realtors, 2024).

MaxWell Realty: Courtesy in Action

At MaxWell Realty, a Canadian success story founded in 1999 with offices throughout western Canada, courtesy isn't just practiced—it's prioritized. Their company motto, "Your Success is Our Success," reflects a commitment to client-centered, considerate service that transforms transactions into relationships.

For MaxWell agents, every client interaction presents an opportunity to demonstrate the power of courtesy. This National Common Courtesy Day, you might find MaxWell professionals hosting "Courtesy Open Houses" offering not just property viewings but genuine conversation and expert guidance. Or perhaps you'll spot them participating in community initiatives that extend beyond business—helping neighbors with snow removal or supporting local causes simply because it's the right thing to do.

As a MaxWell agent, recently observed, "In our experience, courtesy is what turns clients into friends and houses into homes. It's not just about being nice—it's about creating trust that lasts long after closing day" (The Globe and Mail, 2024).

Opening Doors with a Smile: The Lasting Impact

National Common Courtesy Day reminds us that kindness remains essential in our increasingly digital and fast-paced world. In Canada, where politeness shapes our national character, this day celebrates qualities that unite us. For real estate professionals and home buyers alike, it highlights how small gestures—a thoughtful "please," a genuine "thank you," or simply giving someone your full attention—can literally and figuratively open doors.

This March 21st, consider how you might incorporate more courtesy into your day:

Use "please" and "thank you" generously in all interactions
Hold doors for others without expectation
Practice patience during your commute—let that car merge with a smile
Send a brief note of appreciation to someone who's helped you
Offer assistance to a neighbor or community member

At MaxWell Realty, we believe these simple acts create the foundation for successful relationships, transactions, and communities. After all, in real estate as in life, how we treat each other matters just as much as what we accomplish, and that's where real estate happens.

Your Turn: Has a courteous gesture ever changed your day or your real estate experience? We'd love to hear your story in the comments below!

MaxWell Realty is proud to serve communities across Western Canada with professional, courteous real estate services. To learn more about how our approach can help with your real estate needs, contact us today.