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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 Monica Hill, the REALTOR to help you discover Delaware
(RE/Max Associates)
We sat at the table together, these five other women and myself, as part of a Girl Scout Cookie Sale training session. Hosted by our GS Council, the event was designed to get us all familiar with any new procedures, forms, and of course, any new cookies. I’ve been a Girl Scout for more years than I can count (seriously… when they ask for Years in Scouting, I always have to go back and add up… fifteen years as a Girl Scout, including college, plus over 30 years as an adult… makes… a lot of years) and yet, I hadn’t directly faced an obvious fact till I sat with those women. We talked about automation of the cookie sale and the way forms can be submitted electronically, yet there were women there whose communities didn’t have the access to that. Internet access doesn’t exist everywhere. Th...
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By Jason Mathis, Certified Tax Representation Consultant
(Mathis Tax Service)
Understanding IRS LT 11 Letter: What Real Estate Agents and Other Professionals Need to KnowThe IRS collection machine is back in full force, and tax practitioners nationwide are seeing a surge in IRS LT 11 letters. This "Notice of Intent to Levy" signals that the IRS is gearing up for aggressive collection actions, including levies on taxpayer accounts. For professionals like real estate agents, bookkeepers, and tax advisors, understanding the implications of this notice is crucial, especially if your clients are facing tax debt that could jeopardize their financial stability.If you’re working with clients who have received an IRS LT 11, also known as a Notice of Intent to Levy, it’s important to help them understand the urgency of this situation. This letter is a serious indication th...
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By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
When it comes to securing a mortgage, many factors are at play, but one stands out as a critical determinant: your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. Did you know that a high DTI ratio is the #1 reason mortgage applications get rejected?  Understanding and managing this ratio is essential for anyone looking to buy a home or refinance their mortgage.What is the Debt-to-Income Ratio?Your DTI ratio is the percentage of your gross monthly income that goes toward paying off debt, including your future mortgage. Lenders use this figure to assess your ability to manage monthly payments and overall debt load. In simple terms, it helps them determine how risky it would be to lend you money for a home. Why Does Your DTI Ratio Matter?A high DTI ratio signals to lenders that you might struggle to meet you...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, The best agent in Southern Utah!
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
People First! The Rest Follows. Industry professionals can agree that the business side of real estate is unpredictable. A property that was thought to have exceptional marketability can be the exact opposite when some factors come into play such as, location, condition, HOA fees and market conditions. Jumping through hoops for unrealistic people is not part of my professional business model plus there's a fine line and expected balancing act when tending properly to client needs.   Success often depends on the promise to perform, a strong work ethic along with a trusted group of like-minded people moving along in unified effort. Long-term real estate professionals lead the way, guiding a home purchase and home owners toward SOLD! Outcomes rely on motivation, negotiation and experience....
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Real estate agents play a crucial role in guiding consumers through one of life’s most significant and financially impactful transactions ~ purchasing or selling a home. Their expertise, advocacy, and unwavering support are invaluable in navigating the complexities of the real estate market. At Coldwell Banker Realty, we are deeply committed to empowering our agents with the tools and resources they need to serve their clients with excellence and professionalism. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced homeowner, having a knowledgeable real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. They bring a wealth of experience, local market insight, and negotiation skills that ensure you make informed decisions every step of the way. Dorie Dillard, with her years of experie...
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By Esperanza Butler® 818 926 5425, Homes For Sale in West Hills, Ca (818) 926-5425
(KW Keller Williams Realty -Esperanza Butler-DRE 01797405)
Myths About Today’s Housing Market, and How They Hurt Buyers and SellersThere’s no denying that there are issues with the housing market. For example, homeowners that bought when interest rates were low don’t want to sell and lose their competitive rate, which means there are fewer homes on the market for buyers to choose from. And when you combine that with high home prices and interest rates, many buyers are feeling stuck.But in the midst of the current challenges, there are myths emerging that are not only untrue, but potentially harmful to buyers and sellers alike.So what, exactly, are these myths, and, more importantly, what’s the truth?
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By Jan Green - Scottsdale, AZ, HomeSmart Elite Group, REALTOR®, EcoBroker, GREEN
(Value Added Service, 602-620-2699)
By now, you may have read or heard about the National Association of REALTORS®(NAR)  lawsuit in Kansas City, Missouri wherein NAR lost and millions have been paid to settle as a result.   In general, this lawsuit claimed anti-trust, price fixing, and commissions as they relate to home sales and became effective August 17, 2024..   The class action suit was brought by a seller who claimed to have been harmed because he didn't realize he had to pay a buyer's agent commission.  The suit claims unfair practices and anti-trust violations by NAR to put it simply.     It's worth noting that everyone who earns a real estate license is a real estate agent.  But only those that belong to the National Association of REALTORS®, subscribing to the Code of Ethics, are  REALTORS® and must follow the n...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Real Estate Has Started a New Chapter in Connecticut   The evolution of the real estate industry with regards to practice is undergoing another change. Only time will tell who will benefit from the most recent changes. The new changes will be felt the most by buyers of real estate. This is a result of litigation brought on by buyers claiming that agents were responsible of inflating prices in order to be paid.  This has a slight tone of merit as historically a real estate agent's compensation was paid by sellers and in order to offer inducement to a buyer's representative money was included to pay the agent for their efforts and minimize the cost to a buyer.   Buyer Representation Prior to the 1970's, buyers needed to reach out to listing agents in order to see a house that was being o...
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By Ed Silva, 203-206-0754, Central CT Real Estate Broker Serving all equally
(Mapleridge Realty, CT 203-206-0754 )
Real Estate Has Started a New Chapter in Connecticut The evolution of the real estate industry with regards to practice is undergoing another change. Only time will tell who will benefit from the most recent changes.The new changes will be felt the most by buyers of real estate. This is a result of litigation brought on by buyers claiming that agents were responsible of inflating prices in order to be paid.  This has a slight tone of merit as historically a real estate agent's compensation was paid by sellers and in order to offer inducement to a buyer's representative money was included to pay the agent for their efforts and minimize the cost to a buyer. Buyer RepresentationPrior to the 1970's, buyers needed to reach out to listing agents in order to see a house that was being offered ...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
Pineville La Real Estate-- Found A Buyer in 24 Hours!Searching for a luxury home near Pineville La? 1511 Masters Drive certainly made a splash on the local real estate market. Let's take a look at what made this Pineville La so popular. Why 1511 Masters Drive  Custom home designed and built by Jeff Burns. One of Cenla's top builders. Over six acres including shared access to a pond  Solar panels (owned outright) have resulted in substantial utility savings Reclaimed bricks, cypress beams, and all sorts of Louisiana touches MASSIVE primary suite with patio access  second floor balcony overlooking a manicured backyard  Advice For Navigating The Pineville La Luxury Real Estate Market  The process for purchasing a luxury home in Pineville La is similar to transactions at other price ranges....
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By Dana (Lerner) Sparks, Satisfying You with Service Innovation & Education
(Maximum One Realty - Managing Broker)
This video walks Real Estate Agents licensed in Georgia through how to complete the Buyer Compensation paragraphs in the Georgia Association of REALTORS (GAR) Buyer Agreements - Buyer Brokerage Agreements & Buyer Customer Acknowledgement. Check with your Broker on Brokerage Policies regarding negotiating compensation for Buyers & Sellers. Dana's Notes on Buyer Compensation Paragraph
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By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
Are you the bear or the bunny rabbit in negotiating? This is a ProTip for real estate buyers and sellers, along with many other business negotiations. The bear is in control, powerful, confident, has the ability to take, the option to destroy, and the power to rip someone's head off. The bunny rabbit is soft, cuddly, agreeable, accommodating, sweet, and lovable.There is a time for both.At the beginning of a negotiation, generally, you want to be the bear. Let's talk about selling a property. When you go on the market, you want to be prepared in every way, strong, confident, and competent. Have plenty of marketing, disclosures, and attention on the property. You also want to give buyers clear instructions on how to make an offer and the path to success.When a buyer contacts you and wants...
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By J Perrin Cornell, Broker, ABR, VAMRES
(Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate)
The other day I was reviewing my FaceBook page and came across a post by Jason Pantana (Tom Ferry acolyte) that really hit home. Where business comes from. He was talking about a new survey that shows were agents get most of their activity. Here is the post and my lead...I think it is pretty interestingHow much do you spend on advertising... monthly?? Perhaps you should rethink that. Here is a list based upon recent interviews of where business comes from9% are a personal friend34% referred by friend or family member6% Live near you and know you as a neighbor28% Researched agent online7% saw advertising Where do you fall in the matrix?? Your leads??     There is some crossover eg. 5 & 4.    For me 100%... Re online... I have been getting excellent results with a Google Screened Business...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
This transaction has set a record for the longest closing I’ve ever experienced as a listing agent. The journey began on April 11, 2024, when we went under contract with our first buyer. Unfortunately, that buyer terminated after receiving advice from her out-of-state financial advisor, who suggested it wasn’t the right time to buy in Austin. Undeterred, we secured another buyer and executed a contract on April 27th, with plans to close on May 31, 2024.Everything seemed on track—until it wasn’t. On April 24th, the HOA’s master insurance policy was renewed, triggering issues in obtaining the necessary documentation for the loan. We extended the closing into June to allow time to resolve this, but then came the real challenge: the renewed insurance policy no longer provided adequate cover...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
We have been challenged this month to share our RPR successes and experiences. I have really been impressed with the many, creative uses our members have shared via this challenge. I have used RPR more for the commercial side and truly appreciate the many data points that help me whether I am working with a buyer or a seller.For this blog, I wanted to share that in my rural area, there are high areas of growth. I wanted to pinpoint where we are seeing the most household income growth as this points to a great indicator as to where people are moving. The Developers I work with use this data point to help them determine where they will seek out their next project location.Next, I will drill down to see where the commercial listings are in that particular area. The Developer can then asses...
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By Candice A. Donofrio, 928-201-4BHC (4242) call/text
(Next Wave RE Investments LLC Bullhead City AZ Commercial RE Broker)
Now more than ever, other agents are OUR CUSTOMER. They always have been, but now it's extremely important that we COMMUNICATE.Agents who avoid contact with other agents are failing to do an important part of their job! Of course there are those 'Coyote Uglies' we'd rather not interact with but even they can get us paid. So CUT OUT the 'I'm gonna find cute ways to show splits so I DON'T HAVE TO TALK TO YOU' . . . and pick up the effin' PHONE! Original post below goes back 8 years. How much has changed? How much stays the same?****Everyone Is Your Customer.In one of my favorite books EVER, Shut Up, Stop Whining And Get A Life, author Larry Winget, known as the Pitbull of Personal Development  (and fellow resident of the great state of Arizona) quoted the pioneering radio host and Dean of...
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By Denise Lones, CSP, MIRM, CDEI - Real Estate Coaching & Branding
(The Lones Group, Inc.)
Lost Control of Your Summer? I have talked with a number of agents lately who feel that they entered the summer with the best of intentions, but got derailed by chaotic transactions, life, and vacation time that took them out of their element. Now that it is mid-August and their to-do lists remain largely undone, they want to feel that they have accomplished something. Does this sound like you? Regardless of whether you had ambitions to revamp your listing presentation, start a geographical farm, plan a client event, or even repainting your bedroom, there is still time to make progress! How? All you need is an hour. Just one hour can help you get started and get on a path to project completion. You can find an hour somewhere in your schedule - get up a little early, put down your phone...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
What Happens The First Week Your Home Is On The Market Getting ready to sell your Destin Florida area home? Need the home to fetch top dollar but not stay on the market longer than a Taylor Swift song? Let's take a look at what Doug Rogers with RE/MAX Coastal Properties does IN WEEK ONE to get sellers the best terms. Before Going Live Professional listing photos- The first contact your home will have with the buying public will be online. The days of rocking ten blurry photos from the agent's iPhone 3 are gone. Only in rare instances (say an occupied rental) will anything less than a full set of high quality photos be used.  Listing paperwork-- At RE/MAX Coastal Properties we make sure our sellers understand ALL the paperwork they are filling out. In addition we will provide a mock net ...
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By Bo Zivak, Nashville Real Estate Broker
(Zivak Realty Group)
A well-planned renovation of your existing bathroom avoids financial strain. Renovations increase home value; there is no doubt about that. But renovating on a budget will make a huge difference in knowing what your home is worth. This blog offers budget bathroom renovation ideas for homeowners. It is for those seeking affordable ways to remodel their existing bathrooms.The Top 6 Lists of Ideas for Renovating Your Bathroom on a Budget Maintain the Current Plumbing Setup. Include Some More Storage Upgrade Your Basin Paint Your Bathroom a Vibrant Color Add New Lights Modernize Your Shower Head You won’t experience any hassles if you renovate your bathroom with a perfect plan and a fixed budget. Remodeling a bathroom can be a distraction. A strict budget will keep you focused on the essent...
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By Monica Hill, the REALTOR to help you discover Delaware
(RE/Max Associates)
Things are swirling these days. It feels like we’re in a real estate blender where people are tossing in all kinds of things that shouldn’t be in there. Emotions are amping up the responses that I’m seeing flying around on social media, as well as in classes and zoom sessions that I’ve been part of these past few weeks. Greatest truths being the simplest, it dawned on me what is fueling this, at least in part… Realtors feel a loss of control. No, we never controlled commissions, but we had a measure of control over a transaction and the way it was presented because we are the professionals, contracted by our clients, to provide a much-needed service. We bring so many assets to the table to ensure as smooth of a process as possible. Then enters a third party… or parties… who now have bee...
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