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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 Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
After the Storm: Why You Should Inspect Your RoofWhen the wind howls and hail starts to fall, the first thing on your mind is probably staying safe. But once the skies clear, it's time to think about your roof.Storms—especially those with high winds and hail—can cause damage that isn’t always easy to see. A few missing shingles, small cracks, or loose flashing might not seem urgent, but they can lead to big problems like leaks, mold, or structural damage down the line.Here’s what you should do after a storm: Look up (safely): From the ground, use binoculars to check for missing or curled shingles, dented gutters, or debris buildup. Take Pictures: Video and photograph any hail, limbs, or other damage. Note links to news stories online and in local forecasts for insurance purposes. Check ...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
Many of us around the country are experiencing a sluggish market in some of our neighborhoods. We are seeing the trend of more homes on the market for sale with fewer buyers. As we all know, this business is cyclical and we have experienced and survived these slumps before.In one particular, acreage community where I have a listing, I am reaching out to the other agents who have listings there to see if they are interested in participating in a tandem, Open House Event. When we all put our marketing minds to a task, we can come up with some great ideas. And, we can all push out the event through our own social pages, etc. I do hope to hear back from these agents so we can put our heads together to come up with a creative event. I have always believed that when we come together as profes...
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By Dena Stevens, Putting The Real Into Realtor Since 2004
(Rocky Mountain Realty )
Looking Back on 20 Years as a RealtorBy Dena Stevens, Realtor® | Rocky Mountain RealtyDear Friends and Clients,As I celebrate my 20th year as a licensed real estate agent and begin my 21st, I find myself reflecting on how much has changed—not just in real estate, but in life. When I started this journey in May 2004, the world was a different place: TV shows like House and Lost were brand new Dancing With the Stars hadn’t aired yet Interest rates were about 5.8% The average home price in Southern Colorado was around $236,000 20 Years of Real Estate Experience: HighlightsHere are just some of the things I’ve had the pleasure (and sometimes the challenge!) of doing as a Realtor over the past two decades:🏡 Homes and Properties Sold homes ranging from 400 square feet to over 6,000 square fee...
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By L. Scott Ferguson, Sunny Florida Real Estate Professional
(Ask4Ferguson - Your House-SOLD Name in Real Estate)
Recently, I had the honor of interviewing the amazing Nancy Gale 🎙️ and the insights she shared were nothing short of inspiring!Nancy is the founder of the luxury leather brand JAMAH 👜 and the visionary behind AMBITION, a nonprofit that empowers disadvantaged youth through entrepreneurial education. 🌟Here are some major takeaways I couldn’t wait to bring to this community: "It’s not about getting over. It’s about marching through. That’s when the solutions stick." 🚶‍♀️🔥 - Nancy Gale Own Your Smile 😊 - Joy is your power source during the toughest times. Lead with Power, Not Pity 💪 - Your struggles can fuel your strength. Design Your Legacy 👜 - Build something meaningful that stands the test of time. Build for Impact, Not Applause 🎯 - Focus on the difference you make, not the attention yo...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
I hope you got a chuckle out of Timmothy's cartoon strip today, I did. I don't think guinea pigs or any other pet is going to refuse food because their owner failed to wash their hands first.Real Estate Buyers have every right to be choosey and demanding. We Real Estate professionals have the right to refuse service to those whom we get fed up with. Of course we need to be very careful that we are not violating any civil rights laws. It is always a good idea to carefully document why we dismiss any potential client.If you are not the Broker of the firm whose name you are working under it would be wise to fully engage your Broker and explain why you want out of the client/Realtor relationship.Back to Titus & PhilemonWith Spring comes picnicking, camping, and other reasons to eat out door...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Lou Ludwig always came up with great quotes of people and his wisdom to share with us.    Be Determine to Make Someone Happy Every Day “Resolve to make at least one person happy every day, and then in ten years you may have made three thousand, six hundred and fifty persons happy, or brightened a small town by your contribution to the fund of general enjoyment.” Sydney Smith 1771 – 1845, English Wit, Writer As I see it . . . . . . . Be determine to make some happy every day   A key component to every successful business professional . . . . is having a base of happy customers.   You will find that in every successful business relationship. When the customers like the business professional and are happy with the professional and the customer service that they provide. They will very like...
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809 cell direct
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
🏚️ "The Great Renovation Meltdown (Why My House Almost Defeated Me — Until I Called in the 203k Pros)" If you’ve ever fallen in love with a property described as “needs TLC,” let me give you some advice: TLC stands for “Tragedy, Laughter, and Crying.”I learned this the hard way when I bought the infamous “Blue Disaster” — a 1954 ranch-style home that had more duct tape than drywall and a smell that could only be described as “haunted pickles.”The listing photos made it look quaint.In person? It looked like the Addams Family had downsized.Naturally, I said:“Perfect! How hard could this be?”(Spoiler alert: Very hard.)Phase One: DelusionArmed with a hammer, YouTube tutorials, and false confidence, I embarked on Demo Day.I swung the hammer once.The wall didn’t crack — the entire bathroom sh...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Some agents like to give new arrivals to town a list of contacts, I used to be such an agent.I am curious as to if any agents do this anymore. I am equally curious as to if clients would want such a list with so much available to them through their phones and computers?My lists held a lot of information. If Joe in the cartoon above needed medical attention one of my lists would have had a lot of valuable information and suggestions/endorsements regarding health care in Minot ND.I would imagine fellow blogger Nina Hollander, Broker has such a list as she is terrific in informing clients all about Charlotte NC. How about you?
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
As a listing agent, how do you handle feedback from an agent who is not from your area and is clearly in error about a particular market? Of course, we all desire feedback that is honest and sincere however, what happens when an agent is way off the mark with their feedback that demonstrates they are unfamiliar with the neighborhood, community, or the area? What is your response or action, if any?My area is very unique. We have historic areas, lakefront properties, and many, gated communities featuring various amenities. Each of these selling areas is vastly different and unique from one another. The REALTORS® who know our area understand how pricing a home takes a lot honed-in data retrieval and that a listing price can vary greatly depending upon the neighborhood.We often have agents ...
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By Peter Mohylsky,, Call me at 850-517-7098
(Property Management International-Destin)
Feeling cramped in your current home?ORJust needing a change?🌱🏡Whether you need a bigger backyard, an extra bedroom, or just more breathing room, I can help you find the perfect place to grow! Let’s explore your options and make your next move a reality.Ready to upgrade?Send me a message today!#thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #househunting #realestate #a042525 #investment #realestateagent #realtor #dreamhome
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Smart Planting Around the Foundation: Beauty Without the DamageIt’s finally planting season in the Upstate, and homeowners are sprucing up curb appeal with new shrubs and flowers. But before you dig that hole next to your foundation, take a moment to think long-term. Some plants can grow into your foundation, causing cracks, moisture problems—or even structural heaving.🌿 Tips for Planting Around the House Keep roots in checkAvoid trees or large shrubs too close to your foundation. As they mature, their roots can spread under the slab or crawl space, leading to unwanted movement. A general rule: Plant shrubs at least half their mature width from the wall. For trees, 15-20 feet is often the minimum safe distance. Choose low-growing, non-invasive plantsOpt for foundation-friendly choices l...
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By Brett Furniss, Charlotte Property Manager
(BDF Realty, Inc.)
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.”(Matthew 13:44) I was completely caught off-guard by the Savannah Bananas.  More accurately, I didn’t understand the frenzy around their tickets. It all started around 6 months ago when my wife casually asked me to enter the “Savannah Bananas Ticket Lottery”.  I had no idea what she was talking about, but dutifully complied.  I clicked on the website link and inputted my contact information.  Done. I ignored the marketing jargon at first:“These aren’t your typical tickets”“It’s the most fun you’ll ever have at a baseball game”“You name it, we have it.  Just be mentally prepared.” From what I could ascertain, the Savannah Ban...
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By Jose Segarra, When Experience Matters, Hire Real Estate Veteran
(Homevets Realty LLC)
Entering the world of real estate can be both exciting and daunting. As aspiring agents embark on this journey, they often navigate through three distinct areas: Yearner, Learner, and Earner. Each area presents unique challenges and opportunities, shaping their path toward success. Understanding these phases is essential for anyone looking to thrive in the real estate industry. YearnerThe first stage of an agent's journey is marked by what I call the "Yearner" phase. This is where individuals feel a strong desire for change—a yearning for a better lifestyle, increased income, and personal fulfillment. However, this phase also reveals the mental barriers that hold many talented individuals back from taking the plunge into real estate. Key Characteristics of the Yearner Phase Desire for C...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
This is an easy one to tie to Real Estate. Imagine Joe as a Real Estate Broker and Titus & Philemon are Real Estate sales agents. Imagine Joe saying to his agents "Would you like a listing, I've got a HOT one here?".There is probably not a single agent that would turn this one down.And then many/most agents will turn this one down.It's not "green" enough for them.I never turned a listing down... and I have had a few like the mobile home above. The funny thing is the old mobile homes usually sold with-in a week because people want/need a home and can not afford a mansion. I also remember that several of those sales "bought up" with-in two or three years.Even when my base was contractors and builders of higher end homes I never turned down a mobile home listing. This post is to encourage ...
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By Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® CRS,ABR,PSA,RCS-D, CFSP, Coastal San Diego, Veteran's & Retirees Services
(Big Block LPT Realty 858.232.8722)
"I'm a fool for your love"—a timeless refrain echoed in poetry and song. Well, let me tell you, I’m an even bigger fool for Ninja Selling! For the past 26 years, I’ve proudly embraced this methodology, and I continue to bloom in its practices.My introduction to Ninja Selling came about five years after its inception. It was in July of 1999 during one of our Broker Pitch & Ride caravan meetings at the San Mateo Elks Lodge—a delightful chaos where we stuffed 2-5 REALTORS into cars, after a breakfast meeting pitch session, and explored new listings each week. That particular morning, Walt Fry, a new vendor sponsor with us, pitched an exciting opportunity: a CRS sanctioned Ninja Selling class that would not only enhance our skills but also earn us credits towards the prestigious CRS designa...
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By Dana (Lerner) Sparks, Satisfying You with Service Innovation & Education
(Maximum One Realty - Managing Broker)
When you are negotiating an offer and a Buyer is getting an FHA 203k Loan, what amount do you put in the Amendatory Clause paragraph? When is the Buyer's Earnest Money at risk in an FHA 203k Loan based on the Appraisal Value? Watch the video to find out!
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By Peter Mohylsky,, Call me at 850-517-7098
(Property Management International-Destin)
It's true that the market is cooling, but it's still a good idea not to lowball sellers on your offer.Lowballing is never a good idea.  In fact it is a sure fire way to stop a deal.  Work with an experienced agent, come up with a game plan, then execute that game plan.  The bottom line question to answer is how much are we really willing to pay for this property.  Work backwards from this number seriously.  Most sellers know what their home is worth and don't want to waste time haggling.Going in with the highest and best offer right off the bat can help set you apart from other buyers and might be part of your game planOf course, working with me is the best way to set you apart and give you the best chance of snagging your dream home.#thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listrepor...
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By John Sansaricq, Real Estate Broker serving Flagler County Florida
(SanCastle Realty LLC)
When I published The Buyer Agreement Tightrope a few days ago, I had no idea how much it would resonate.Agents from across the country chimed in—each adding their own take on how this post-settlement reality is playing out on the ground. From seasoned pros who’ve always used buyer agreements to agents navigating wildly different market rules, one thing is clear:This shift might look different in every market, but we’re all working toward the same goal: clarity, value, and better communication.So instead of writing another opinion piece, I want to share your voices—the real-world feedback from agents who are living it right now.🧩 “This Isn’t New… But the Explanation Sure Is”Nina Hollander (Charlotte, NC) and Dorie Dillard (Austin, TX) both reminded us that buyer agreements aren’t new ter...
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By Pat Starnes-Front Gate Realty, 601-991-2900 Office; 601-278-4513 Cell
(Front Gate Real Estate)
Here is one example of how Realtors provide service after the sale...I received a call today from a local insurance agency. The company sent my buyers a Notice of Cancellation on their homeowners insurance policy. The policy was set to expire in three days, and the customer service rep was calling to see if I could offer assistance.The policy was set to be canceled due to an issue noted on the home inspection report from three years ago. The CSR wondered if I had documentation showing that the issue had been corrected.If there is one thing I have, it is documentation. So I told the CSR I would look through my files for the requested information.Less than five minutes and a few key strokes later, Voila! The needed document appeared and was forwarded to both the insurance agency and my bu...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
Recently, a situation arose that has inspired this post. I closed a home for a client over a year ago. The client was one of those who was very demanding, wanted everyone to do everything for them, and, treated all parties with disdain. Needless to say, it was touchy and difficult for all involved.Yesterday, this client reached out via text asking me to "remove" a lien from their home. When I explained that not only could I not do this for them legally this type of situation requires the "owner" of the property to perform their own due diligence with the proper entities. I explained as politely and professionally as I could who they needed to speak with, where these offices were located, phone numbers, etc.Unfortunately, this was not sufficient for them. The texting became more and more...
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