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 Theresa Hus, The Official Real Estate Agent Directory
(RealEstateAgent.com)
We live in a digital age where attention spans are dwindling. Capturing the interest of potential clients has become an art form. As a real estate professional, you understand the importance of staying ahead of the competition. You need to leave a lasting impression. Enter real estate video marketing — the game-changing strategy that can elevate your business to new heights. By harnessing the power of visual storytelling, you can engage your audience like never before. You can entice them to explore your listings. But wait, you may wonder, "How much do real estate videos cost?" Don't worry. We'll delve into that question and more as we unlock the secrets of this innovative marketing approach. So, buckle up and prepare to discover the untapped potential of real estate video marketing. It...
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By Frank Worrell, Turning BPOs Into Six-Figure Incomes
(BPOS FOR LIFE LLC)
   1. Is it ethical to inflate property values in a BPO? Yes No 2. Can you use photos from the internet for your BPO documentation? Yes No 3. Should you disclose any personal interest in the property you're evaluating? Yes No 4. Is it acceptable to perform a BPO without visiting the property? Yes No 5. Can you perform a BPO for a family member? Yes No
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By Frank Worrell, Turning BPOs Into Six-Figure Incomes
(BPOS FOR LIFE LLC)
IntroductionThe Broker Price Opinion (BPO) industry is filled with opportunities, but some agents have found a goldmine in specializing in remote BPOs. Meet Christy from Georgia and Kia from Virginia, two agents who have turned remote BPOs into a lucrative business model. In this blog post, we'll explore how they make up to $1,200 in a single day's work. Christy's $1,200 Day: Four BPOs, Three Hours AwayChristy recently received a request for four remote BPOs, each priced at $400. The catch? The properties were three hours away from her home in Georgia. For many, this would be a daunting task, but for Christy, it was an opportunity to make an easy $1,200 in one day. She took the assignment, drove the distance, and completed the BPOs, proving that sometimes going the extra mile is well wo...
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By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
A real estate SEO expert is a professional who specializes in optimizing websites for search engines to improve organic rankings. They have a deep understanding of search engine algorithms and use their expertise to increase visibility and drive targeted traffic to real estate websites.These experts utilize a range of strategies, including conducting thorough keyword research, implementing on-page optimization techniques, creating compelling content, building high-quality links, and optimizing technical aspects of websites. By implementing these tactics, they assist real estate professionals in dominating search engine results and surpassing their competitors.In today’s fiercely competitive online environment, the inclusion of a real estate SEO expert on your team can have a profound im...
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By Frank Worrell, Turning BPOs Into Six-Figure Incomes
(BPOS FOR LIFE LLC)
In the real estate industry, the value estimation of a property can make or break a deal. While formal appraisals have traditionally been the gold standard for assessing property value, Broker Price Opinions (BPOs) have gained traction due to their cost-effectiveness and quicker turnaround. But with the rise of BPOs comes the undeniable importance of photo documentation. Here's why:1. A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words While a broker can describe a property's features in detail, nothing captures the essence of a home like a photograph. From the layout to the condition of the interiors, a photo provides an unbiased visual representation that can be invaluable for potential buyers or financial institutions.2. Transparency and Building Trust Providing photo documentation alongside a BPO e...
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By Frank Worrell, Turning BPOs Into Six-Figure Incomes
(BPOS FOR LIFE LLC)
Broker Price Opinions (BPOs) have become an integral part of the real estate industry, offering a quicker and more cost-effective means of estimating property values compared to traditional appraisals. As with many professions, BPOs come with a set of ethical considerations that brokers and agents must navigate to ensure fairness, transparency, and accuracy. Let's delve into the ethical landscape of BPOs.1. Conflict of Interest The most prominent ethical concern in BPOs is the potential for conflicts of interest. Brokers might be tempted to provide a valuation that benefits their interests or those of their clients. Scenario: A broker may undervalue a property in a BPO to help a client secure a lower purchase price. Ethical Stance: Brokers should provide objective valuations, uninfluenc...
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By Greg Harrelson, Myrtle Beach Real Estate
(Century 21 The Harrelson Group Firm | 7 Offices)
IntroductionVideos have become an essential tool for real estate agents in today's digital age. With the rise of social media and online marketing, videos offer a dynamic and engaging way to showcase properties, build relationships with clients, and establish a strong online presence.In this blog article, we will discuss the top videos that every agent needs in their marketing strategy. These videos are proven to be effective in attracting potential buyers and sellers, increasing brand awareness, and differentiating yourself from the competition.- Explanation of the importance of video content for real estate agentsOne of the main reasons why video content is crucial for real estate agents is its ability to capture attention and engage viewers. In today's fast-paced society, people have...
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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!  Thanks!When building a house, the builder is not necessarily on your side.  I know that’s a strange thing to think about, but it’s true.The builder and their representatives are there to make sure THEY make as much money as possible, and so, even when building, it can really benefit a buyer to have an agent there to represent THEM.  Here’s a few reasons why.Firstly, an agent experienced in new home construction will have a good idea of the best home builders in your area. They’ll help you compare warranties, workmanship, and track records for resolving issues that tend to vary from builder to builder. Additionally, an experienced agent can let you know the best time to reach out and start the process of building. Bel...
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By Denise Lones, CSP, MIRM, CDEI - Real Estate Coaching & Branding
(The Lones Group, Inc.)
Where Will Your Business Be in Six Months? When is the last time you gave yourself space to think about your goals? As many of us are caught up in the day-to-day of running our lives and our businesses, we need to take some time to reflect on a few things: What are we doing all of this for? Are we on track? Without the vision, the action plan, and then making sure we follow the action plan, we aren't likely to make the forward momentum that we should. If you have 15 minutes right now, grab some paper and a pen - you can make a digital file later if you like, but for now, let's go analog. Make five big boxes on your paper and label these: 90-Day 6-Month 1-Year 5-Year 10-Year In a minute, we are going to start making a list! But Don't Make This Mistake! But before we dive in, I want to a...
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By Debe Maxwell, CRS, The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!
(Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310)
Motivational Monday - Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Your Truth 🌟 A couple of months ago, my hubby was hospitalized for sepsis. This time it didn’t land him in ICU, thank goodness. I truly feel that keeping his doctor aware of what was going on in the weeks prior AND, more importantly, his doctor responding very quickly and hospitalizing him, had everything to do with that.While in the hospital, primary docs (PCPs) are overridden by ‘hospitalists’ who don’t always know the detailed history the PCP does. So, I always assume the role of patient advocate and I take that role VERY seriously! During this last hospitalization, things were moving along ‘status quo’ and hubby needed something different. I shouted (nicely, of course) from the highest rooftop and finally, when I got no results, I text...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
When I was in the Houston market, I worked with a lot of relocation clients. These clients were with large companies that utilized relocation companies. Over the years I received a lot of ins and outs regarding these types of transactions.The main thing I learned was they do things very differently than a typical transaction. These are some of the Pros and Cons that I have learned along the way:Pros:🏡 When you are an "approved" agent/broker, you can begin receiving a steady stream of referrals for either buyers or sellers.🏡 These buyers and sellers are pre-approved and are ready to make a move. There is no guesswork regarding "if" and "when" they are ready to go.🏡Relocation clients most likely have moved numerous times and typically understand the buying or selling process. Because of t...
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By Frank Worrell, Turning BPOs Into Six-Figure Incomes
(BPOS FOR LIFE LLC)
In the ever-turbulent seas of the real estate market, stability can sometimes feel like an elusive dream. But what if there was a way to sustainably supplement your income, bridging the gaps between those big commission checks without resorting to credit card debt or advances? Enter the world of Broker Price Opinions (BPOs), a realm where real estate pros find a balance between hectic sales and financial steadiness.Take Emaia, a seasoned 70-year-old agent from Oakland, CA. She's been a beacon in the buying/selling domain and recently began feeling the pull towards a slower pace without exiting the real estate stage entirely. BPOs, with their blend of analytical and localized knowledge, offered her a way to stay engaged with the market while dialing back on the intensive client-facing as...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
Proper planning and event anticipation are two critical necessities for a savvy Realtor. The more prepared and focused one is, the more successful one becomes.  We can, of course, apply this to anyone and in any profession.  At 10 years old, I saw my parents take the leap of faith to leave Communist Hungary and begin our lives over in the United States.  When I was in the US Army and enrolled in Ranger School, it was ingrained to plan every forward step and that you can never be overly prepared. Not only did we have to plan, but we had to practice every step; thus, whenever we actually had to do something (i.e., the Long Range Patrol) my unit was ready, and we could do it in our sleep.  Although I've not played chess in decades, at one point I played regularly; anyone who plays or playe...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Avoid Purging When First Meeting Potential Clients  Seasoned professionals understand that upon getting to know buyers or sellers, it really is all-about-them. Their wants and needs take precedence over sharing too much by bragging or being self-serving. Besides, if you’re too full of yourself, it could get messy, real fast!
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By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
A Guide for Easy Property Listings and Realtyna’s RF Shell Plugin Creating a real estate website using the Easy Property Listings plugin involves a few steps. The Easy Property Listings plugin is a popular tool for building real estate websites on WordPress. It provides features for listing properties, managing property details, and displaying them in a user-friendly manner. In this review, we are going to show you how to build a real estate website with this plugin and with MLS/IDX functionalities. Before we proceed to the tutorial, let’s learn a bit about what we need: WordPress Basic Setup Realtyna’s RF Shell Plugin An Account on RealtyFeed System (For API access) What is Easy Property Listings Plugin?Easy Property Listings is a real estate plugin on WordPress which is used to build ...
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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!You know what they always say, “It’s what’s on the inside that counts.” That... is not always true. Especially for houses! Your curb appeal is a first impression. It provides a gut reaction for what is to come once they cross the threshold into your home.So let’s quickly explore the most impactful changes you can make to increase the appeal, at the curb.#1 Paint the front door. Your front door is the first thing people see when they look at your house. They will literally be interacting with it in a few seconds when they enter, so make sure it stands out as fresh and inviting. Be sure to paint it a color that is coordinated with the rest of the exterior, and consider adding that same color to other aspects of the outsi...
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By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
The world of real estate is dynamic, and for professionals in the industry, staying ahead of the competition means having access to the latest property listings and market data. Multiple Listing Services (MLSs) are crucial sources of real estate information, but managing data from various MLSs across the United States can be a daunting task. That’s where the MLS Router™ comes in, offering a solution that simplifies the process and empowers real estate professionals to build fast, customizable websites with improved SEO and access comprehensive real estate data.The MLS Router™ AdvantageSuper Fast Real Estate Listings Content DeliverySpeed is of the essence in the real estate industry. The MLS Router™ API leverages the power of AWS (Amazon Web Services) to ensure super-fast delivery of re...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Beach Expert, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
Where has this blogger been.  Everyone wants to close the next sale, have another offer accepted, and earn a commission. But, often times, there are hurdles or obstacles that get in the way of a quick and efficient closing. In fact, I’d say that more than half the transactions that I’ve been a part of have had at least one challenge (often a minor one) that—if not dealt with correctly—could have blown the deal. Sometimes the burdens of these challenges or the personalities of the other people on the team (the other agent, the lenders, the buyer or the seller) can really wreak havoc on your emotions. Sellers and buyers may not respect your time; they may even be rude, or they may not see the market the way that you do. Your fellow agents can occasionally be overdramatic or difficult. Don...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
Throwback Thursdays: Some memories are not so much fun... Since the last three years I have been watching the market, reading experts' perception of what the Real Estate market is going to be like. All this so I can give good advice to my clients.Then, I was watching what the predictions of experts as to what are and will be the activity for the stock market as well as the economy.Now with that said the predictions, the prognosticators all had views & opinions.So, with that said hope you looked at my illustrations and will agree with me that as far as I know they were not fun memories for the past two or three years as to what the predictions and what the reality became.Stay focused on your goals and focus on what you need to do to continue to thrive in this market. Wishing you a safe a...
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By Alan May, A moving experience!
(Jameson Sotheby's International Realty)
I had a recent transaction that went very smoothly.  I was the listing agent, and it was a beautiful home, lovely sellers, we had a long weekend full of showings... I was exhausted.  Feedback was excellent, and by Monday we had a handful of offers to choose from.The sellers were happy, although not ecstatic... they had heard about the recent seller's market where buyers were paying ridiculous amounts over list price, fighting amongst each other to get the property, and this was not the case here.  The offer we ended up accepting was a very nice offer, don't get me wrong.  But the sellers had built themselves up and thought they'd get one of those crazy 10% over list price offers, and that just didn't happen.BUT... here we were with an "almost" full-price offer... we weren't going to cry...
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