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Real Estate Best Practices

Coaches, books, classes and seminars aim to capture real estate agents dollars with promises to teach them any number of ways to improve their business. From sales skills to how to close more deals to how to win with expireds (expired listings) and more, everyone has something to teach you.


There's nothing wrong with continuing education, whether it's keeping on top of new laws and regulations or learning how to be more productive. But before you spend an arm and a leg on any of those things, pull up a chair, put on your glasses and peruse the pages in this section of ActiveRain.


It is only here that you can tap into the world's largest online real estate community and actively engage with your peers. Find out what works and what doesn't from those that actually put into practice what others merely teach. Read how-to articles, advice on designations, certifications and continuing education classes. You never know where you will find the inspiration to take your business to the next level. So, pull up a chair and dig in!

Recent blogs on Real Estate Best Practices
By L. Scott Ferguson, Sunny Florida Real Estate Professional
(Ask4Ferguson - Your House-SOLD Name in Real Estate)
📚Listen for our FREE BOOK give-away!đŸ“šđŸ”„ Just had the privilege of interviewing Michelle Schafer on the Time To Shine Today podcast — and I couldn’t wait to share her insights with the ActiveRain community.Michelle is an ICF-certified coach, leadership expert, and one of Ottawa’s Top Coaches in 2024. She’s helped thousands navigate tough career transitions and find purpose-driven paths. Whether you’re a real estate pro, entrepreneur, or team leader — this conversation will move the needle for you.Â Â đŸ”„LISTEN HERE 👉  https://timetoshinetoday.com/podcast/michelleschafer/   Here are some key takeaways that struck me hard:1ïžâƒŁ You Bring Value — Right Now đŸ’„ You don’t need a title change to matter. Your experience already has impact.2ïžâƒŁ Turn Setbacks Into Setups 🔁 Michelle lost her job twice — and...
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By Adam Scard, World traveler and lover of real estate trends
Not every home search is about a long-term investment. Sometimes, life circumstances—whether job-related, medical, or family-driven—call for a temporary move that still requires the comfort and stability of a home.For buyers and sellers navigating personal transitions, understanding how to secure short-term housing can be just as important as closing on a permanent residence. Whether you need a place near a specialist facility or want to stay close to loved ones during a challenging time, knowing how to evaluate furnished rentals, flexible lease terms, and available resources can make the process far less stressful.Use Real Estate Platforms to Find Affordable Accommodations Near Your Treatment CenterShopping for a rental when you need to travel for cancer treatment may be a time crunch,...
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By Salar Davari
(AI HomeDesign)
Picture Sarah, a software engineer who just landed her dream job in Seattle. Her current home in Austin has appreciated nicely, but she's torn between selling for a hefty profit or keeping it as a rental property while she starts her new chapter. This scenario plays out thousands of times across the country, leaving property owners wondering whether immediate cash or long-term income is the smarter move.The choice between selling your house for a lump sum or renting it out for ongoing income rarely has a clear-cut answer. Your financial situation, local market conditions, and future plans all play crucial roles in determining the best path forward. While selling offers immediate liquidity and freedom from property management headaches, renting can build long-term wealth and provide stea...
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By Liz and Bill Spear, Transaction Alliance Cincinnati & Dayton suburbs
(Transaction Alliance 513.520.5305 www.WarrenCountyOhioRealEstate.com)
Over the weekend I attempted to scan a document to my email.  Wait, wait, wait...nada.  Reboot router, modem and printer/copier/scanner and still nothing.  Tinker under the hood,  No luck.  Spectrum had forced us to update our modem and router in April, and looking back through the error log realized that was when the issue started.  Wait, the problem started in April and you just now noticed?  Yep.  Scanning isn't the big tech tool it used to be for us.  Most offers/contracts are now Dotloop, so scanning has taken a distant back seat.Monday I gave it one last try.  Talked to the copier tech service desk and Spectrum's tech service desk.  Neither was really much help, and while I spent a little more time on Google searching for answers, it didn't take long to decide that continuing to t...
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By Anna "Banana" Kruchten, 602-380-4886
(Retired Broker/Owner)
Do you focus on Problem Solving or on Solution Seeking? There is a BIG difference between these seemingly similar approaches.  Here's my take....and mind you this is not new news! I wrote about this subject almost 15 years ago to this day and it had over 3400 views!  Now is a good time to give this subject another go around!  Let's say the home inspection didn't come out quite like your seller/buyer wanted it to. Some agents get their shorts in a bunch and 'blame the clueless inspector' as if they're the problem.  The other type pf agent gets busy finding solutions to what needs to be fixed and working with the home buyer/seller to get the job done right. Which agent is bringing better energy to the transaction? Which agent comes across more professional and trustworthy? Which agent com...
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By Robert L. Brown, Grand Rapids Real Estate Bellabay Realty, West Mic
(www.mrbrownsellsgr.com)
I felt a need to share this. It was posted by Richard Rawdin(in LinkedIN). Quite a few points to help us achieve what we want to achieve. Everyone needs/wants a blueprint for success. 
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
We can all learn from others here in the Rain and Lou Ludwig was great to re read his blogs  A Push In The Right Direction  “Being pushed in the right direction . . . . may be just the thing to get you over the finish line . . . . and into the winner’s circle.” Lou Ludwig Sales and Management Consultant, Success Coach, Speaker, Trainer and Author     As I see it . . . . . . . A push in the right direction   A push in the right direction will break a logjam on your success . . . .  Open the doors to new opportunities . . . . and propel you in the direction to achieve your goals.   A push in the right direction will get you out of a rut . . . . and reenergize the forward momentum in your career.   To get the most out of the push in the right direction . . . . you have to know where you wa...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
The Smallest Repair That Made the Biggest DifferenceSome repairs are obvious. A leaky roof? Please fix it. Broken HVAC? Replace it.But sometimes, the smallest updates make the biggest difference—especially in how a home feels to a buyer walking in for the first time.I remember one listing where we spent less than $50 and changed the entire showing experience.The house had great bones, fresh paint, and a clean layout. But every time we walked in, something felt “off.” It took us a while to figure it out—it was the old, scratched brass doorknobs and creaky hinges on every interior door.We ran down to the hardware store, bought a full set of matching brushed nickel knobs and hinge pins, and swapped them out in an afternoon. The next showing? The feedback went from “dated” to “move-in ready...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
We talk to buyers every day about price, location, and features. But if I could wave a magic wand and have every buyer know one thing before ever stepping inside a house, it would be this:👉 Touring starts after you’ve done your homework.That means: Talking to a lender and getting pre-qualified (not just browsing). Meeting with your real estate agent—not just to see houses, but to see if you're a good fit. Understanding the rules: Who can see the property? How are showings handled? What’s expected during the process? Before we unlock any doors, a good agent will review these basics. Why? Because you're not just shopping for a home—you're entering a negotiation, a legally binding process that requires readiness and clear communication.I’ve had buyers fall in love with a house they weren’t...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
What’s the First Thing You Notice About a House?We’ve all been there—stepping out of the car for a showing and instantly forming an opinion. Sometimes the scent of fresh mulch, the crunch of gravel underfoot, or the bold red door catches your eye. Other times... The broken shutters or the sagging porch swing speak volumes before the front door even opens.Over the years, I’ve learned that first impressions stick, and buyers form an emotional reaction faster than they realize. Some studies suggest it happens within the first 8 seconds—barely enough time to admire the mailbox.The first thing I tend to notice is the walk-up experience. Is the path welcoming? Does the porch feel like a place you’d want to sit and sip coffee? If it does, the show starts with positive energy. If it doesn’t—if ...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Why a Professional Photographer Makes All the Difference in Real EstateIn today's fast-paced, online-first real estate market, the photos buyers see online are often their first—and sometimes only—impression of a property. That’s why the quality of your listing photos can make or break a sale.A professional real estate photographer doesn’t just take pictures—they tell a story. They understand how to use lighting, angles, and composition to highlight a home's best features while downplaying any imperfections. The result? Images that make buyers stop scrolling and take a closer look.Compare this to smartphone photos taken quickly between appointments. They often suffer from poor lighting, bad framing, and lack the polish that today’s buyers expect. The difference is night and day. Listing...
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By Paddy Deighan MBA JD PhD, Paddy Deighan J.D. Ph.D
(http://www.medicalandspaconsulting.com)
I have had decades of experience in tech, legal, AI and compliance(yes hard to imagine for someone who is a Toys 'R US Kid - still 29* - with years of experience at 29 - LoL).One thing that has been UNIVERSALLY true, is that if you allow compliance and risk management teams carte blanche, they will take it and they will systematically destroy your company.  Wyndham is a prime example. Their HR department has destroyed the company and the vast number of Wyndham executives all point to one truth - their merger with an HR/Compliance firm has destroyed the sales team (which DID need some clarity (too be kind).A recent example is Adidas. I spend a fortune on their products -95% of which is online. I am blocked on all browsers, all apps - because their new compliance is AI driven and blocking...
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By Adam Scard, World traveler and lover of real estate trends
First impressions matter. When someone pulls up to your home – whether it’s a guest, a potential buyer, or just the neighbor walking the dog – they’re already forming an opinion before they even step through the door. There’s nothing you can do about that; it’s just human nature.Some would say you don’t have much control over what people think when they pull up, but the reality is that boosting your home’s curb appeal doesn’t have to be super expensive and time-consuming. A few strategic upgrades can completely transform your exterior and give it that polished, inviting vibe that makes people stop and stare (in the good way).Let’s check out a few strategies and techniques that won’t break the bank or require you to pull permits.Upgrade the Front DoorYour front door is the focal point of...
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By Adam Scard, World traveler and lover of real estate trends
In the competitive world of real estate, where the speed of information and engagement can make or break a deal, modern marketing tools have become essential. Among these tools, QR codes stand out as a powerful way to connect potential buyers and renters with vital property details in real-time. With the ability to generate QR code and embed key information, real estate agents can create dynamic, interactive marketing materials that drive faster and more efficient conversions.The Role of QR Codes in Real EstateGone are the days of printed brochures and static listings. Today, potential buyers want instant access to comprehensive property details, video tours, floor plans, and nearby amenities. QR tags deliver this seamlessly. By simply scanning a QR label on a “For Sale” sign, brochure,...
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By Nelson Huggins, Local junk removal service. Real Estate clean outs
(Black Dog Junk Removal)
Whether you’re preparing a home for sale, clearing out a rental property, or just managing a large-scale cleanout, getting rid of unwanted junk is part of the process. In Charleston, SC, property owners typically have two main options: rent a dumpster or hire a professional junk removal company. We know this first hand because here at Black Dog Junk Removal, we often work with homeowners, landlords, and agents who ask us: Which is better? While both methods have their place, here’s why so many of our clients choose full-service junk removal over renting a dumpster. Budgeting & Real CostsDumpster rental can initially seem like the more affordable route (especially for larger cleanouts) if you’re willing to do all the labor yourself. However, keep in mind that the quoted price usually cov...
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By Adam Scard, World traveler and lover of real estate trends
Certain improvements are simply worthwhile when it comes to raising the value of your house. Whether you're looking to sell or simply improve your living space, making smart upgrades can give you a significant return on investment. However, where do you even begin? Let's examine five effective remodeling projects that can increase the value of your home and draw in purchasers.1. Kitchen Renovations: The Heart of Your HomeThe kitchen is often called the heart of the home for a reason. Families congregate there, cook together, and create memories. Start here if you want to raise the value of your house. However, what makes the kitchen so crucial? Well, it's the place where many buyers will spend most of their time when they move in. A dated, cramped kitchen might turn them off, no matter ...
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By Alan May, Home again, home again...
(Jameson Sotheby's International Realty)
I live in Evanston, which is the first suburb north of Chicago, IL, in an area known in our region as 'Greater Chicagoland'.  The entire area that surrounds Chicago (also known as the 'collar counties' that surround Chicago's "Cook County").I don't know of any other community that speaks of itself in such terms.  We don't talk about New Yorkland, or San Franciscoland.  Houstonland, People who live in distant communities such as Naperville, which is over 30 miles from Chicago proper, calls itself a part of Chicagoland.  When traveling out of state, and people ask where we're from, we don't automatically say we're from Skokie, or Cicero... we say Chicago... with a modicum of pride.According to TimeOut magazine, Chicago was voted as one of the top best cities in the world (#11).  I know, I...
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By Joe Stephenson, Real Estate Agent serving the KC metro area
(Joe Stephenson)
Setting up your rental property business comes with many questions, I have found out over the years. One of the most important is choosing the right structure for protecting your investments and managing operations effectively. If you're considering a rental property LLC or another option, then the decision impacts how you handle property management, report income, and even your ability to claim tax deductions. For those owning rental properties, the right structure, notably a separate legal entity like an LLC with a separate bank account, can simplify tax obligations, shield personal assets from business risks, and help avoid unnecessary legal costs. Know key details like corporate taxes and the benefits of creating a separate LLC ensures a smoother path to success. Also note, this is ...
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By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
Navigating the real estate market without guidance is like starting an expedition without a map. Whether you're selling your cherished family home or searching for your dream property, having the right real estate agent by your side can make all the difference.According to a 2024 report from the National Association of Realtors, agent-represented homes sold for a median price of $435,000, compared to just $380,000 for those sold by owners alone.1But home sellers aren’t the only ones who can benefit. A study by the Consumer Federation of America found that homebuyers can save significantly by working with an agent dedicated to their interests.2While it’s easy to see the advantages of working with a real estate professional, it can be challenging to find the right representative whose exp...
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By Peter Mohylsky Gulf Front Homes, Call me at 850-517-7098
(Property Management International-Destin)
Your credit score plays a big role in your homebuying journey, so it’s important to be prepared!  It also plays a factor in other financial issues. Big Brother is always watching.  📝Having a few key documents ready can make the mortgage process smoother and faster. I’m here to help you feel confident and informed every step of the way.Thinking about buying soon? Let’s chat and make a plan!🏡#thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #finances #a060225 #investment #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #happyhomeowners #househunting #dreamhome
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