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 Frank Worrell, Turning BPOs Into Six-Figure Incomes
(BPOS FOR LIFE LLC)
IntroductionIn the world of Broker Price Opinions (BPOs), bulk orders are both a blessing and a challenge. While they offer the promise of substantial revenue, they also come with tight deadlines that can send even the most organized BPO professional into a frenzy. In this blog post, I'll delve into the exhilarating, high-stakes world of bulk BPO orders and share some strategies for getting them in on time without sacrificing quality.The Allure of Bulk OrdersBulk BPO orders are the golden tickets of the industry. They offer the opportunity to maximize earnings and build strong relationships with clients who have large portfolios. But as the saying goes, "With great power comes great responsibility," and bulk orders are no exception.The Mad Rush BeginsOnce you accept a bulk order, the cl...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
I really like the word, "GRIT"! It implies an attitude of being an overcomer, standing strong, and, refusing to lose. In the business of real estate and in life, having GRIT is absolutely essential!Here is what GRIT means to me:G - GOING the extra mile. This means doing MORE than is expected. In real estate, this means exceeding expectations. In life, this means stepping up and stepping in at every opportunity. R - REFINE your skills. In business, it is imperative to consistently work to improve your skill set. The ability to consistently improve and grow will give you the GRIT to succeed and stand out in the crowd.I - INDESTRUCTABILITY. Business and life are tough! When you have the GRIT mindset to never give up, you will withstand the storms when they come. While your ship may take a ...
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By Anna "Banana" Kruchten, 602-380-4886
(HomeSmart Real Estate )
As a high school boarding school kid, one of my teachers taught us  'Be About Excellence' was her main goal for each one of her students.  At the time I didn't understood what that really meant - but over a year's time I knew exactly what she meant. To this day I am thankful to her for teaching me one of the best lessons ever! Be About Excellence.  I had to make a deal before my sophomore year with my Dad that 'if I didn't take 'typing' that I had to take sewing for a year. Yuck! But I sure wasn't going to take home economics, so I agreed to his deal. You see,  I planned on being a boss not a secretary. My Dad used to take me to his office to let me play office while he was working. I saw him building big projects all over the country and talking to a lot of people on the phone. He was ...
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Whether you are buying or selling, choosing the right realtor can mean thousands in your pocket.There are so many real estate agents out there--Good, Bad, and Mediocre.The following article highlights 3 of the most important qualities in an agent.Click Here
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By Jan Green - Scottsdale, AZ, HomeSmart Elite Group, REALTOR®, EcoBroker, GREEN
(Value Added Service, 602-620-2699)
At a time when so much is going on around the world - be kind!  This time in our lives when peoples differing opinions create such catastrophe - be kind! In every day life, choose the high road.  Choose to be kind! At today's Women's Council of REALTOR® final leadership zoom meeting, a story was told by a realtor who is running for the office of National Treasurer.  Her message reminded me of a time when my daughters were little.   One of my daughters was crying and upset for being mistreated by another classmate in school.   Taking her by shoulders and dropping to eye level, I told her, "You never know what's going on in that little girls' life.  She may have had a bad day or been mistreated herself and she took it out on you.  Remember that when you see her again."    And then I hugge...
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By Lori Mode, Real Estate Made Simple
(The Mode Real Estate Group)
  We'd Love it if you'd LIKE this video, and SUBSCRIBE to our channel!Just got slapped with a shockingly low offer on your perfect, immaculate home? Here's how to slap back!Low ball offers aren’t just frustrating, they can be downright insulting. Someone is coming and and saying that your house is worth WAY less to them than what it’s worth to you. Getting upset about a low initial offer is completely normal. Just remember, it's where the purchase ends, not where it begins. Keep emotions in check, because this is business! Remember, you are the boss when pricing your home! But pricing high and hoping for negotiations is not always the best strategy. And if someone tries to lowball you, we ALWAYS hit back with a counteroffer.Countering with your lowest acceptable price can cut the back a...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Beach Expert, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
Don't let student loan debt be the roadblock on your path to homeownership.🎓🏠With the right financial planning, we can navigate through it together.  It has been a while since I had any loan debt.  I don't think too much debt is a good thing but then who can tell how much is too much.  Let's chat about your unique journey and create a plan to make your dream home a reality.Contact me today to get started!#thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #homeowner #realestate #realtor #realestteagent #icanhelp #financetips #moneytips #finances #studentdebt #happyhomeowners
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By Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP, Selling Homes Changing Lives
(DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Most likey you already established your Core Value Proposition and Mission Statement. What I would really like to know is how often do you review, re-evaluate, and re-write your Core Values Proposition and Mission Statement?  REVIEWA review of Year 2023 hasn't even finished yet; however, something tells me, it's time to review, re-evaluate, and re-write my Core Value Proposition and Mission Statement. Whether we talk about Health, Education, Gender, Peers, Politics applicable to Business, Communication, or Freedom of Speech, a lot has changed in recent years, especially 2023. For those reasons, it may be time for you to re-write your own Core Value Proposition and Mission Statement.   BEST PRACTICESFundamentally speaking, Best Practices never goes out of style. If a business owner wants...
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By Stephanie Arnett, Forbes | Inman | BossBabe | Newsweek | Tom Ferry
(Mississippi Magnolia)
Much like Saturdays in Davis Wade when that third quarter clock of 2023 ran out, we reached for our phones, turned on our flashlights, cranked up some Journey and went to work!  October breathes fresh optimism, and more importantly, opportunity in the realm of real estate that allows us all to finish strong…if we are dialed in!  WHAT WE KNOW… Interest rates aren’t revisiting the days of 2% anytime soon. Unless, of course, that is part of your home buying strategy. (More on that later!)  While highER, interest rates aren’t actually high, comparatively speaking. Interest rates are competitive, and when compared to many historical rates, they are actually still quite low.  Inventory remains low.  According to Goldman Sachs, 99% of borrowers have a mortgage rate lower than the current marke...
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Choose the "high road" of honest, transparent business practices. It's not just the right thing to do; it's a business strategy that seriously pays off in the long run. A strong reputation is your best asset, especially in a world where reviews and testimonials can make or break you.   Fresh Week, Age-Old Ethics: Taking the Real Estate High Road   Diving into a topic that's been on my mind lately— the increasing trend of our peers sharing falsehoods and even more surprising, peers readily forgiving those who do. Based upon, not only our personal code but, our REALTOR® Code of Ethics, the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth is crucial in the world of real estate!   In our industry, misinformation can be costly—both for your wallet and your reputation. So, why gamble with ei...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Like a BOSS! She said, "Can I speak to your supervisor or your boss?"  "Sure. Here's the number...1-435-632-9374. Ask for Wanda Can! Preferred Realtor at Red Rock Real Estate in Sunny Southern Utah. She's happy to talk about your residential home buying / selling needs, concerns or to simply answer any questions." Many consumers believe that someone else is in charge of our business, though we are independent contractors and answer to ourselves. We are, however, governed by the Department of Commerce and the Broker oversees daily operations to ensure that we follow guidelines and that we adhere to the Code of Ethics.  These are essential rules of business that I follow:-- Maintain a professional demeanor-- Respect clients, fellow agents and brokers-- Take advantage of classes and semina...
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By Karla Jusko, Team Leader of The Concierge Group- REALTOR
(Exit Homestead Realty)
 In the world of real estate transactions, Buyer's Agency Agreements have become increasingly essential, allowing realtors to charge buyers for some or all of their commission at the time of settlement. This practice is a direct response to situations where sellers do not offer a full compensation package to the buyer's agents. The Role of a Buyer's AgentBuyer's agents are responsible for representing the best interests of their clients throughout the home-buying journey. Their fiduciary duty lies with the buyer, and their primary goal is to secure the best possible deal. However, it's crucial to understand that without a signed Buyer's Agency Agreement, the agent you have selected is not legally bound to be your dedicated representative. In fact, in the absence of such an agreement, th...
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By Debe Maxwell, CRS, The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!
(Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310)
Fresh Week, Age-Old Ethics: Taking the Real Estate High RoadDiving into a topic that's been on my mind lately— the increasing trend of our peers sharing falsehoods and even more surprising, peers readily forgiving those who do. Based upon, not only our personal code but, our REALTOR® Code of Ethics, the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth is crucial in the world of real estate!In our industry, misinformation can be costly—both for your wallet and your reputation. So, why gamble with either?Choose the "high road" of honest, transparent business practices. It's not just the right thing to do; it's a business strategy that seriously pays off in the long run. A strong reputation is your best asset, especially in a world where reviews and testimonials can make or break you.Spea...
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By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
A sitemap is a file that lists all of the important pages on your website, along with additional information about each page. Sitemaps are important for search engine optimization (SEO) because they help search engines crawl and index your website more effectively. This can lead to improved search engine rankings and increased organic traffic and can be helpful in fixing indexing issues.An optimized sitemap is especially important for real estate websites, which can often be large and complex. A well-structured sitemap can help search engines understand the hierarchy of your website and the relationships between different pages. This can make it easier for search engines to find and rank the most important pages on your website.Sitemap optimization is one small part of our SEO offerings...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Short-Form Video Basics Almost half of all internet usage is currently devoted to watching video content. For example, 91% of Instagram users report watching videos every day. Currently, short-form videos that run up to 90 seconds and supply easily digestible content are the most popular. YouTube has given such videos their own section called Shorts. While many agents produce video walkthroughs of their listings, you can still take advantage of the short-form video trend. Here are some ideas. Keep it short. While you're probably used to creating video walkthroughs that are several minutes long, short-form videos should ideally run from 15 to 45 seconds. One report found that videos over 60 seconds actually stress some viewers. Post regularly. Consistency will keep your audience coming ...
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
I need help with my 203k loan?I'm at my wit's end. I think no one is on my side. The contractor isn't showing up at my job and I'm paying the mortgage. I call the loan officer and she can offer no assistance. The consultant says he can't tell me what to do. Where can I go to get the help I need?Simply put "call 203k911" we have helped hundreds of people with their issues and helped them get back on track with their constuction project with little or no cost. It is FREE to discuss your issues just click on that link above in this paragraph.I actually thought this would be a big money make for us only to find out that most of the calls we received were about very small issues that were not taken care of promptly and ultimately were wearing on everyone's nerves.  This keeps happening and f...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Overview of This LocaleWoodforest, a carefully planned residential community in Conroe, Texas, is a part of the city's new developments. It brings together the beauty of woodlands and splendid homes created by well-known builders. Spread across 3,000 acres, Woodforest offers top-notch facilities to its residents. The Forest Island Recreation Center is packed with enjoyable features: a pool with a natural shape, water slides, tennis courts, basketball courts, and more. Regardless of your housing needs – whether it's your first home, an upgrade to something more luxurious, or a cozy downsizing – Woodforest has properties that match your preferences. Homes in Woodforest come in various architectural styles to cater to a wide range of potential buyers. Whether you're into Contemporary/Moder...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Short-Form Video Basics Almost half of all internet usage is currently devoted to watching video content. For example, 91% of Instagram users report watching videos every day. Currently, short-form videos that run up to 90 seconds and supply easily digestible content are the most popular. YouTube has given such videos their own section called Shorts. While many agents produce video walkthroughs of their listings, you can still take advantage of the short-form video trend. Here are some ideas. Keep it short. While you're probably used to creating video walkthroughs that are several minutes long, short-form videos should ideally run from 15 to 45 seconds. One report found that videos over 60 seconds actually stress some viewers. Post regularly. Consistency will keep your audience coming ...
Comments 2
By Roy Kelley
(Retired)
One of the most important aspects for any real estate professional is the ability to effectively negotiate a transaction.   One of the most important aspects for any real estate professional is the ability to effectively negotiate a transaction. Unfortunately, I have yet to find a licensing requirement for learning the art of negotiation.  What typically happens is an agent who is new to the business simply flies by the seat of their pants. But, there really is a lot to learn regarding a real estate negotiation. The reason I am calling this the "anatomy" of real estate negotiating is because of the intricate details associated with negotiating. The dictionary defines anatomy as a study of the structure or internal workings of something.  So, let's take a look a the internal workings of ...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
One of the most important aspects for any real estate professional is the ability to effectively negotiate a transaction. Unfortunately, I have yet to find a licensing requirement for learning the art of negotiation.  What typically happens is an agent who is new to the business simply flies by the seat of their pants.But, there really is a lot to learn regarding a real estate negotiation. The reason I am calling this the "anatomy" of real estate negotiating is because of the intricate details associated with negotiating. The dictionary defines anatomy as a study of the structure or internal workings of something. So, let's take a look a the internal workings of a negotiation which is the discussion of reaching an agreement:1.  THE most important first step when you receive an offer or ...
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