Special offer

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 Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® e-Pro CRS RCS-D Vets, CEO of Vision Drive Realty - Coastal San Diego
(Big Block Realty 858.232.8722)
To my valued clients - sold, active and future alike: I want you to know how much I appreciate you and your business. I strive to build positive relationships by working exclusively with people I admire and respect, and who value the service I provide.I built my business one relationship at a time. Through networking, through my business and through referrals. My goal is to duplicate my clients through delivering excellent service, thus creating advocates by close of escrow. I work in a way that makes my clients want to share their good experience with their friends, coworkers and family members. I can only do that if I both deliver the goods and do it a way that feels above and beyond.Staying in touch with all my current and sold clients through calls, mail, notes, pop-by's, social med...
Comments 5
By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
Love them or hate them, our local school districts play a vital role in our communities. In Texas, the only way for school districts to build new schools, provide needed additions, and refurbish aging buildings, bonds must be called, have them presented to the community, and then the community votes on them. When bonds don't pass, school districts have to bring in portable buildings and make do with overcrowded facilities.In our city, we have been experiencing unprecedented growth. Therefore, every school in our district is at or over-capacity. We desperately need to pass a school bond so we can build the needed schools.As a REALTOR®, strong school districts equate to strong communities. Strong communities also equate to strong home market values. People move to areas with a solid workf...
Comments 8
By Peter Tamura, BANNOCHIE TEAM
(Coldwell Banker Select)
 We are almost finished with the final walk-through and we notice a slight gas smell in the garage. We call an HVAC technician and they investigate and tighten up a few loose connections, retest and the problem is resolved.Now, who pays? Surely, it's not the buyer, this was a safety issue and the buyer doesn't own the house yet. It might not be the seller as we were outside of our ten day inspection period. I call our broker to get his opinion and his reply is interesting. Bill the inspector who missed it. I discussed with the HVAC technicians and they said it's very unlikely that an inspector will catch this.As the amount was nominal, I discussed splitting it with the listing agent and she agreed so that's how this was taken care of.The most important thing was the fact that it gets ta...
Comments 8
By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
When it comes to enhancing your home, you're not just investing in its aesthetics and functionality; you're also impacting your insurance rates. Yes, that's right! While some upgrades might lead to lower premiums, others could see them creep upwards. Let's delve into how your home improvements can sway your insurance costs.Lowering Your PremiumsImagine making your home safer and more secure while also enjoying reduced insurance premiums—sounds like a win-win, doesn't it? Here are some improvements that could lead to a pleasant surprise when it comes to your insurance bill:Upgrading Your Electrical System: Outdated electrical systems can pose fire hazards, but modernizing them with safer wiring and circuits can not only enhance safety but also lower your insurance premiums. Upgrading you...
Comments 5
By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
There are a lot of things a cartoonist can be sure of like holidays and seasons. Generalizations about the seasons can be a little bit of a guess. In his cartoon for today, written more than a month ago, Timmothy got it wrong. We are currently in a drought.This is an easy transition into Real Estate. You can always find a "guru" with an opinion that aligns with your  thinking. One guru may proclaim "a billion homes will sell next month" and another may say "there will be a drought in home sales and only 100 homes will sell in the USA this month". Beware of false profits! Keep in mind that Real Estate is local. A great example is that while the nation was experiencing a financial crash for many the Bakken Oil Boom hit in North Dakota creating more millionaires per capita then any other S...
Comments 12
By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
D-u-u-u-u-de, take a hike! When a house is being shown, it's best that owners, family members and their guests leave the property to allow the buyers to move through without interruption. Otherwise, conversations may take place when a person remains... Example:An out-of-work, 50 year old artist (owner's son), is currently living on premises. His long, stringy hair and body odor reflected poor hygeine habits, sweat pants sagging off his butt, offering non-stop chatter. His presence was a distraction as potential buyers viewed the house.  His behavior became very telling, informing them that the last home inspection did not go well. As a matter of fact, he revealed private information, saying, "The last buyers really beat up the seller on repairs and they cancelled."  The comment was a su...
Comments 16
By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
False Evidence Appearing Real (FEAR) Verifying information plays a large part in the real estate industry but also very necessary in everyday life. Rarely do I invest in something without diligently researching to ensure my money will be well spent. Homebuyer peace of mind comes from knowing exactly what is being purchased, including: Total square feet, potential repairs, property taxes, HOA fees (when applicable) to remain in-budget, without overspending. A lender (if used) can quickly determine whether the home sits in a flood plane.The title company can uncover any tax liens or other legal problems relating to the property, then deliver a clean and clear title at closing. Inaccurate information can lead to serious financial consequences further down the road, so hire an experienced a...
Comments 26
By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
In the tumultuous world of real estate financing, where mortgage rates seem to be in a perpetual state of flux, discovering a hidden gem can be a game-changer. Enter the assumable mortgage—a concept that's gaining traction for its potential to offer buyers and sellers a unique advantage in today's market. What is an Assumable Mortgage? An assumable mortgage is precisely what it sounds like: a home loan that allows the buyer to assume the seller's existing mortgage at its original terms, including the interest rate. This arrangement presents an intriguing opportunity for both parties involved, unlocking doors to favorable financing options that might otherwise be out of reach. The Rising Popularity of Assumable Mortgages Assumable mortgages aren't a new phenomenon; they've been around f...
Comments 3
By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
I Rose to the Occasion The office manager in our brokerage is having twins! When asked to bring a dish for her baby shower, I happily agreed. It's easy to order, pick something up from the store or a local bakery but instead, chose to make it more memorable. After shopping for ingredients, I went home to create some delicious edible goodies. The results of the salami roses with mozzarella balls and basil were a hit and the ham & cream cheese rollups were divine, fresh and tasty and eye pleasing! Do you know one of the top things that makes consumer's happy when buying or selling real estate? Industry smarts or community knowledge are important but it's actually an enjoyable experience! That is something everyone can provide. Many agents fall short during the process because the main foc...
Comments 23
By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
I think all of us long for home often. Home may be the traditional house across town, it maybe a place we dream of, and/or we may be thinking of our eternal home. When I get tired of North Dakota's long winters I even find myself singing along with Lynyrd Skynyrd even though I've never been to Alabama.Thinking of Earthly homes my "dream" home is not a mansion. I am very content with my current 1,100 square foot home. That being said I wouldn't mind a large pole barn building to keep my stuff in.The American dream of home ownership is still very much alive today despite higher interest rates than we had just a year or two ago.If you think that you can not afford a home now BUT have not checked with a lender you should make that your first step. Shop lenders and ask them if there are prog...
Comments 9
By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
In the tumultuous world of real estate financing, where mortgage rates seem to be in a perpetual state of flux, discovering a hidden gem can be a game-changer. Enter the assumable mortgage—a concept that's gaining traction for its potential to offer buyers and sellers a unique advantage in today's market.What is an Assumable Mortgage?An assumable mortgage is precisely what it sounds like: a home loan that allows the buyer to assume the seller's existing mortgage at its original terms, including the interest rate. This arrangement presents an intriguing opportunity for both parties involved, unlocking doors to favorable financing options that might otherwise be out of reach.The Rising Popularity of Assumable MortgagesAssumable mortgages aren't a new phenomenon; they've been around for de...
Comments 8
By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Plan B or Not to Be: After A Cash Cow Runs Dry Remember back when some top-producing agents insisted that they would never, ever discount their services? They became the ones that were severely tested, refusing to bend and struggled once the brisk market waned.  If you do what you can with what you have, you’ll always be MOORE successful. A cash cow that generates steady and reliable income over a long period of time, eventually runs dry of opportunities if conditions deteriorate. With no recovery plan, financial strain comes into play, bringing with it, some tough choices. When the primary focus is about serving the consumer's wants and needs with utmost respect and prioritizing the best representation possible, good things can happen. Chasing the money in any capacity results in faile...
Comments 36
By LeAnne Carswell, Real estate broker in charge of large team
(Expert Real Estate Team)
The Greenville County SC real estate market is booming, and with so many talented realtors, standing out from the crowd can feel challenging. But what if you could consistently surpass client expectations and become their go-to Greenville County real estate expert? Since 2011, Expert Real Estate Team has cultivated a reputation for exceptional service. Let's delve into some secrets to help you go above and beyond for your clients. Become a Greenville County ExpertGreenville County offers a diverse tapestry of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and character. Don't just be a realtor; be a local lifestyle guru. Deepen your knowledge of the area's schools, parks, hidden gems, and community nuances. This allows you to expertly match clients with their dream home and lifestyle. Tailor...
Comments 2
By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
To become a licensed real estate broker in Pennsylvania, you need to meet certain education, experience, and examination requirements.This article provides an overview of the key steps you must take, starting with completing the required real estate education.We discuss the experience you need, such as working as a licensed real estate salesperson. You’ll learn about applying for and passing the Pennsylvania Real Estate Broker Licensing Exam. We outline the application process and fees to become a broker.This article aims to give you a comprehensive look at how to transition from a real estate agent to a broker in Pennsylvania.Requirements to Become a Real Estate Broker in PennsylvaniaEducationTo become a real estate broker in Pennsylvania, you must have a minimum of two years of experi...
Comments 0
By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Invaluable tips! Negotiating skills are crucial in real estate deals. This blog likely offers must-know strategies for navigating negotiations successfully. Looking forward to learning more about negotiating like a pro in real estate!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Here at Expert Real Estate Team, we've helped Greer and Greenville SC residents achieve their homeownership dreams since 2011. We understand that buying or selling a house is a significant life event, and the negotiation process can feel daunting. But with the right knowledge, you can approach the negotiation table with confidence and secure the best possible outcome for your Greer real estate deal.  Understanding the Market Before diving in, it's crucial to understand the current market conditions. Is i...
Comments 0
By LeAnne Carswell, Real estate broker in charge of large team
(Expert Real Estate Team)
Here at Expert Real Estate Team, we've helped Greer and Greenville SC residents achieve their homeownership dreams since 2011. We understand that buying or selling a house is a significant life event, and the negotiation process can feel daunting. But with the right knowledge, you can approach the negotiation table with confidence and secure the best possible outcome for your Greer real estate deal. Understanding the MarketBefore diving in, it's crucial to understand the current market conditions. Is it a buyer's or seller's market in Greer and Greenville? Research recent sales of comparable properties to get a sense of fair value. This empowers you to make informed decisions when crafting your offer or counteroffer. Beyond Price, What's Negotiable?While price is a significant factor, i...
Comments 6
By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
The short answer to Is an Illusion Sufficient is NO!Why do you need a Real Estate professional when buying or selling a home? Because the business of Real Estate is full of illusion.If you are a real Estate buyer and you chose not to have a Real Estate professional represent you... god help you! You may encounter fraud from legal misrepresentation to deception that is right in front of your eyes. Title fraud is BIG these days... you may be buying from someone who has no right to sell the property. Home Seller fraud can be as small as non-functioning appliances or home systems. Try browsing "Home Inspections Reveal". On Active Rain you will see and hear many illusions revealed by Home Inspectors, some quite silly like heat vent covers screwed to sheet rock with no venting behind it.If yo...
Comments 9
By Peter Mohylsky, Destin BeachPro, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
The down payment is an important part of the home-buying process, so here are some tips to help you prepare.  You will need to have other sums of money as we head down this path.  The down payment is one of the steps toward purchasing a home.  There are a variety of ways to get these funds but you will need monies to complete the journey.  If you're looking for more tips to help you become a homeowner, leave me a comment. I'm a wealth of knowledge, and I'm here to help.😉#thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #homeowner #househunting #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #moneytips #finances #investment #happyhomeownersThis home b
Comments 0
In a world where the mystical and the practical often seem at odds, Jyotish Acharya Devraj Ji stands as a shining example of how these two realms can coexist beautifully. Born and raised in India, Devraj Ji's journey into the world of astrology began at a young age, deeply influenced by his family's rich spiritual heritage and his own innate curiosity about the cosmos.As a child, Devraj Ji would spend hours poring over ancient astrological texts, marveling at the intricate connections between the stars and human destiny. This early fascination laid the foundation for a lifelong dedication to the study of the stars and their influence on our lives. Over the years, his knowledge and skills grew exponentially, as he delved deeper into the complex systems and symbolism of astrology.Jyotish ...
Comments 1
By Leanne Smith, The Grit and Gratitude Agent
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
President Teddy Roosevelt said “No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” The reality of these words continue to resonate with me even more so in real estate, let me explain.Here in Golden Valley, AZ often buyers of vacant land parcels are living in travel trailers or recreational vehicles parked at local RV parks. Then these individuals start looking for vacant land parcels and sometimes even residential properties. Often these potential buyers may have a computer, an i-Pad or tablet with most having a mobile device.  However, more than likely, these buyers do not have printers.One of my standards of practices is to print out all documents and give these hard copies of these buyers without computers or even the Internet.  My buyers are often surprised by this s...
Comments 9
Back to Top