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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 Philip A. Raices, 1 of the Most Knowledgeable Brokers on the Net!
(Turn Key Real Estate)
Today I completed my Fairhaven fair housing online course that is required and mandatory by my local Long Island Board of Realtors to be on any of their local committees. It was an excellent course that covered many situations that revolved around discrimination and steering and other protected classes.  There are 18 protected classes in the U.S.: 1.) Race 2.) Color 3.) National origin 4.) Religion 5.) Sex 6.) Familial status (including children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18) 7.) Handicap (disability) 8.) Age 9.) Ancestry 10)Citizenship 11) Gender Identity and Gender Expression 12) Genetic Information 13) Immigration Status 14) Marital status 15) Primary language 16) Sexual orientation 17) Sou...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Stretching before a work out is a good thing.Stretching Real Estate descriptions is "Puffing"Puffing is walking a fine line of deception.Decades a go when I received my initial Real Estate training puffing was an acceptable practice and almost encouraged as long as it was not an outright lie. I am glad that is not the case these days as puffing is much more frowned up.Still I see Real Estate listings heavy laden with adjectives like: Outstanding, incredible, breath taking, and awesome, and on and on.A couple of my favorites from my own MLS in years past. #1) "Lots of covered parking" was used of a house located nearly under a busy overpass less than 50' from the homes sidewalk.#2) Unobstructed view from your living room.Yes, a great unobstructed view of the City dump.I believe a Real Es...
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By Bo Zivak, Nashville Real Estate Broker
(Zivak Realty Group)
Buying a home is an exciting journey, but the closing process can be complex and overwhelming. Understanding each step involved can help ensure a smooth transaction. This guide outlines the key steps in the real estate closing process. It's providing you with the knowledge you need to confidently navigate your way to homeownership.1. Open EscrowOnce your offer on a home is accepted, the first step is to open an escrow account. Escrow is a neutral third party that holds funds and documents until all conditions of the sale are met. Your earnest money deposit, which shows your serious intent to buy the property, will be placed in this account.2. Conduct a Title Search and Get Title Insurance A title search is conducted to ensure the property is free of any liens, claims, or encumbrances th...
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By Dana (Lerner) Sparks, Satisfying You with Service Innovation & Education
(Maximum One Realty - Managing Broker)
How do I find a form in Remine Docs? In FMLS? What if I don't know the name? What if I only know the Form number? Watch the video to find out! Dana Sparks, Qualifying Broker, Maximum One Greater Atlanta, REALTORS® Dana@MaximumOneRealty.com www.KeepMoreCommission.com - Maximum One Companies www.RealEstateAcademyofAmerica.com - Real Estate Academy
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By Roy Kelley
(Retired)
The beauty of our industry is that each of us are in charge of our own successes. If you're the sole money source for your household, whose dawdling a little at this and dabbling in that, chances are a career in real estate will come to either an abrupt halt or a become a slow death march.   Dabble and die!   Some agents close a file, then take a month or two off before returning to real estate while many work only one transaction at a time. Hey, it's their business if it works for them but detachment can adversely affect momentum plus they might miss industry changes because their focus is elsewhere.   I have seen agents who dabble, fall out of real estate because they thought it would be easy street. You and I know that isn't true. I called on one to open her listing after dicovering ...
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Being a cheerleader for new agents has always been a passion of mine. If you’re putting forth the effort, I’ll do anything in the world to help you be successful in this business…AND I’ll be your biggest cheerleader!     Legacy Letter to New Real Estate AgentsI have had letters to each of my children and their children running through my head since Carol Williams shared her beautiful idea for this challenge last month. As there are ‘raw emotions’ with each of the above, sharing publicly would not be the right thing to do. So, I chose to go a different route this week for the challenge. Being a cheerleader for new agents has always been a passion of mine. If you’re putting forth the effort, I’ll do anything in the world to help you be successful in this business…AND I’ll be your biggest ...
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By Brian Rugg, Sun City TX Real Estate - Georgetown, TX Real Est
(Rugg Realty LLC Sun City Texas 512-818-6700)
 Changes to standard of practice forNAR Settlement ComplianceIf you are like me , I have been thinking about how to guide our brokerage through the new requirements necessitated by the NAR settlement. We have always done buyer agency, so I don't see that as a big obstacle. We have always believed the vast majority of our clients see the obvious advantage of the seller contributing to a buyer’s agent compensation. So far, that is 100% the case.Bottom Line Rugg Realty LLC has created a page on our web site called Buyer Agent Compensation (BAC) and can be found at: https://www.ruggrealty.com/buyer-agent-compensation/ . There, a consumer, agent, broker, or whoever can find all of our listings and the compensation associated with that property.We welcome feedback on this step and eager to he...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
Welcome to August clients and friends.  August, typically a busy real estate month when buyers and sellers choose to move before the new school year begins. However, due to high interest rates and increased cost of living expenses, this August sees fewer buyers and sellers than in previous years. People are of the belief that the Feds will be lowering interest rates in September, hence the August moves could just be delayed to September.One thing is for certain, however.  A recent National Association of Realtors lawsuit addressing compensation to buyers’ agents means that soon there will be changes in how Realtors will be working with clients in selling and buying real estate and conducting business.  As a result of the settlement, the Multiple Listing Services (MLS) will be precluding...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, The best agent in Southern Utah!
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Next week, you say? Effective communication matters greatly in any industry that involves working directly with people. What may make sense to one person, can readily confuse or take on a whole new meaning for another. Clear and concise is best, because even small nuances get lost in the translation. Here is an example of a simple conversation: A woman called her vet because of pet concerns.Shelley: "Good morning, I need to make an appointment for my pet Giraffe.”Vet: "Ok what's the problem?"Shelley: "She can't lift her head."Vet: "Hmm, maybe neck's weak?"Shelley: "Do you have anything sooner?”  See how easily that happens? So, when conversing with buyers or sellers, ensure one another's style of communication matches or quickly adapt or you might be sent into next week without them! 
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Some really nice tips for Real Estate! It is very important thatwhen you send anything to apast or current clientthat you address it to thempersonally (not occupant)If you can find the time tohand write somethingit will make all the difference.Items like notepads withyour picture and informationon them keeps you in their mind.When you sell a homegive your buyers some postcardswith the picture of theirnew home on it to send to friends.Rememberalways includeyou contact information on them.
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By Linda Peltz, It's The Sold That Counts
(eXp Realty)
Property management can be a complex and challenging field, requiring a deep understanding of laws, a commitment to clients, and a passion for excellence. In a recent conversation, Linda Peltz realtor & Raul Pelcastre, an expert in property manager Fresno, California, shared his insights and experiences in the industry. With a focus on residential properties, Raul emphasized the importance of trust, adherence to legal standards, and the value of personal dedication. The conversation dig into the key aspects of property management, highlighting Raul's unique approach and the essential qualities that make a successful property manager. Tune in to video below   Building Strong Client RelationshipsAt the heart of Raul Pelcastre property management philosophy is the importance of trust. Raul...
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By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
With home prices and rates still relatively high, securing a mortgage can feel daunting––even to the most experienced borrowers. But don't let that deter you: If other homebuyers' experiences are any indication, odds are you'll eventually find a home loan that works well for you.In fact, most U.S. homeowners say they're satisfied with the mortgage they received, according to a recent Bankrate survey. The vast majority of the surveyed homeowners (69%) said they'd buy their current home again if they had a do-over.1The key to finding the right home loan for you is to look for one that you’ll feel comfortable with long after you've closed on your new property. In addition to comparing term lengths and mortgage rates, also consider how the loan will fit your daily life and preferences.For e...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
When Will We Know it's Time To Lower The Price-Destin Real EstateThe perfect time to develop a home pricing strategy is before the Destin Florida home hits the market. Naturally here at RE/Max Coastal Properties we do everything possible to get our sellers the most money. Let's take a look at some market signals that point to a price improvement...Signs that it might be time for a price reduction1) Your home isn't getting any showings--Thanks to listing syndication (and our robust marketing), your Destin Florida home will be in front of the buying public almost immediately. In fact, buyers who have alerts set up will receive notification THE MOMENT your home hits the market. We do this and ZERO showings in the first ten days? The seller should  respond to what the market is suggesting. ...
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey Residential Sales
(Fathom Realty)
Why Do I Suggest Two Lockboxes On My Listings?  For real estate agents in my local MLS,  they have access to a phone app which allows them to open a very secure and high tech Supra electronic lockbox.   Typically, I receive an email when they open and close the box.  ONLY member and affiliate members (some home inspectors, some appraisers) have access to this app.  2. A second Master combination lockbox is also recommended for:  Real estate agents who either do not have the app or who are from another region where our app is not available.  This lockbox prevents unprofessional agents from coming back at their leisure.   This is approximately 5-7% of agents who may have a buyer for your home. Township inspectors Private home inspectors and appraisers who are not affiliate MLS members Con...
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By Patricia Feager, ABR,CRS,GRI,MRP, Selling Homes Changing Lives
(DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Today, July 30th is Happy International Friendship Day. Focusing on the athletic Olympians for 2024 in Paris, hasn't the teams competing for medals been examples of great camaraderie? Team USA Wins Gold in Women’s Gymnastics Final made it a great and happy International Friendship Day! Embracing unity! Simone Biles led Team USA to the top of the Olympic podium, winning the Gold Medals! Congratulations Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles, Suni Lee, Jade Carey, and Hezly Rivera! They gave it their all. At the podium, united they stand!  Lessons for the World's Eyes! When it comes to perseverance, Simone Biles champions success! “A quitter never wins, and a winner never quits!”  How did they succeed?  Focusing on excellence. Remaining calm under pressure. Celebrating each other's achievements. Res...
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By Matt Helganz
(Meridian Capital Real Estate)
Hello and Happy Tuesday! As the days get longer and temperatures climb, it's the perfect time to start getting your home ready for summer. Whether you're planning to host guests, create a relaxing retreat, or simply keep your home cool and comfy, a little preparation can make a big difference. Here’s your Tuesday motivation to start preparing your home for summer!1. Refresh Outdoor Spaces   Summer is perfect for outdoor activities, so begin by tidying up your outdoor areas. Clean your patio or deck, power wash your outdoor furniture, and add colorful, weather-resistant cushions. Planting vibrant flowers or an herb garden can also add life to your space.2. Service Your Cooling Systems   The last thing you want is your air conditioning failing during a heatwave. Hire a professional to ser...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Beach Broker, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
Thinking about investing in real estate?  Then get smart.  Real Estate i a long term investment and a part of a bigger investment strategy.  One of the key facts about real estate as an investment is that you can live in this investment.  🏡📈It's always a smart move to grow your wealth and secure your future! Let's explore your options and find the perfect investment opportunity today.Reach out to get started!💬📞#thehelpfulagent #home #houseexoert #house #listreports #investment #a073024 #dreamhome #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #happyhomeowners
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By Debe Maxwell, CRS, The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!
(Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310)
Legacy Letter to New Real Estate AgentsI have had letters to each of my children and their children running through my head since Carol Williams shared her beautiful idea for this challenge last month. As there are ‘raw emotions’ with each of the above, sharing publicly would not be the right thing to do. So, I chose to go a different route this week for the challenge. Being a cheerleader for new agents has always been a passion of mine. If you’re putting forth the effort, I’ll do anything in the world to help you be successful in this business…AND I’ll be your biggest cheerleader! Here is my letter to our future real estate stars: To Our Future Real Estate Stars,Welcome to the incredible journey of becoming a real estate agent. This profession offers limitless opportunities and immens...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, The best agent in Southern Utah!
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
 When Markets Change - Shift Happens!  In brisk times, builders and their on-site agents attempt to forgo paying outside agents but in a stalled market situation, they may offer some incentives along with a higher amount of compensation to those who bring buyers. 3 things to be aware of while working with buyers:Agents:Show up at model homes with clients, because no signs are posted outside or inside, warning buyers to bring their agent, the on-site rep will not ask if they have one either. Also, many builders now require agents to register their clients online. Attention:The price of a new build listing remains the same whether a buyer agent is involved with the process or not. The cost has already been calculated, so the builder absorbs that amount. When they claim that money is saved...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Beach Broker, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
Making waves?Different strokes for different folks. I love the beaches so when I see this list which was probably computer generated I scratch my head and wonder.  I have visited these locations and wish they would compare the quality of the beach before they recommend it.  If you're ready to make your move to one of the nation's most affordable beach towns, send me a message! I can help you find somewhere you won't need to compromise on.#realestate #realestateagent #listreports #buying #selling #realestateexpert #homeowner #financehub #dreamhome #homeownership #homebuying #homesearch #buyingahome
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