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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 Christopher Nelson, Montgomery County, PA - Realtor
(GenStone Realty)
As the winter months come to an end and spring begins to bloom, it's the perfect time to tackle some home maintenance tasks. Spring cleaning and maintenance go hand in hand, making it a great time to give your home the care and attention it needs. Home maintenance is not only important for the aesthetic appeal of your property but also for its long-term health and functionality. In this blog, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to spring home maintenance, including the top 10 must-do tips that will help keep your house in great shape all season long.Spring home maintenance is more than just cleaning and tidying up. It involves taking proactive steps to ensure that every part of your home is well-cared for and on top of these maintenance tasks, you can prevent small issues fro...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
No Missed Understandings Effective communication drives success in business. Breakdowns can be costly for either side in certain situations. In one case, the builder's humongous ego overrode everything else, including the buyers wants and needs. Buyer clients and I met with a builder to discuss every aspect of constructing their new home. A very specific item on the wife's wish list was wood flooring throughout the entire home. No if's, and's or but's about that! During the course of the hour, the builder continued to refer to carpet in the bedrooms and tile in all wet areas. After correcting him several times, the meeting came to an abrupt halt. The builder refused to listen! ♦♦♦ Realistic expectations towards achieving sales goals, matters greatly. A seller client wanted to cancel aft...
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By Joyce Marsh, Joyce Marsh Homes
(Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC)
Championship teams are built  . . . .  they are prepared to succeed . . . . they play unselfishly to achieve the team goals . . . .  and they are held accountable for their personal performance . . . . and for creating successful results.Team building can help us all rise!Thanks for the wisdom of the late Lou Ludwig  Championship Teams Are Built  “Championship teams are built on being prepare, playing unselfishly and being held accountable.”   Jason Kidd American Basketball Coach and former player       As I see it . . . . . . . . Championship teams are built   Three characteristics of championship teams are . . . .  they are prepared to succeed . . . . they play unselfishly to achieve the team goals . . . .  and they held accountable for their personal performance . . . . and for creat...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Streamlined Showings Can Increase Buyers Interests! Preparing ahead of time for showing houses with clients ensures a comfortable, well-timed experience. When all set and organized, things that may happen outside of your control are better handled, so plan accordingly by: Checking the weather report in your local area Plan accordingly for adverse conditions Allow more time to get from one area to the next Call clients ahead of time regarding changes  Meeting clients at the office, inviting them in Get all paperwork filled out, signed and dated Make a copy of pre-qualification letter for buyers View list of homes online showing location, features and amenities  Printing out MLS sheets on properties to view Print a copy for clients Have a more detailed copy for yourself Create a route tha...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Utilizing the telephone for marketing remains a timeless strategy, offering direct and personal engagement with potential customers. With its immediacy, it allows for real-time feedback and rapport building. However, success hinges on respect for privacy and targeted, non-intrusive communication. Tailoring messages to individual preferences and needs enhances effectiveness, fostering meaningful connections and trust. Integration with digital platforms augments outreach, ensuring a cohesive marketing approach. Yet, amidst advancements, authenticity remains paramount; genuine conversations foster lasting relationships. Embracing the telephone for marketing cultivates a dynamic channel for businesses to connect, resonate, and ultimately thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace.   It seems th...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Beach Expert, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
Are you looking for your dream home?  I am not a home inspector but I have been doing this for just a few years.  I think I have seen it all at least once.  I do recommend getting each and every home a home inspection prior to closing on the deal.  It should not stop you from getting under contract on your home but it does make sense to identify any potential problems prior to moving in.  Remember,  If it works as intended, it is generally ok. Cosmetic appearance does not become a factor.  Beyond just meeting your checklist, it's crucial to ensure the property is in good condition. As your trusted real estate agent, I'll help you navigate the disclosure process and identify any red flags.Let's find you a home that meets your needs and stands the test of time.#thehelpfulagent #home #hous...
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey real estate sales
(Fathom Realty)
Like open houses, like for sale signs, like so many things in this inventory-poor market, they may not be NEEDED to sell a house, but when you add up a lot of professional marketing, I believe it all adds up to more money for the seller.This photo is from a house I sold (my listing) in  2023.Your thoughts?
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By Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP, Selling Homes Changing Lives
(DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
"If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams,and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours."HENRY DAVID THOREAU Members of the National Association of REALTORS® are required to take the Code of Ethics training every three years. Currently, this extends the current cycle deadline from March 1, 2022, to December 31, 2024. Although training wasn't required for another year, I took it on March 7, 2024, because ethics is that important.There is a section in the NAR Ethics Manual which references "Aspirational Concepts of the Preamble to the Code," followed by fourteen bullet points under section 1. The second bullet point is easy to remember: "The Golden Rule." Although the Instructor did not ask the class what tho...
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By Mike Tolj, Commercial Real Estate Without the Stress!
(Tolj Commercial Real Estate )
With over 18 years of expertise in commercial real estate, specializing in representing both tenants and landlords, I have successfully navigated numerous negotiations for office and retail leases. Throughout these transactions, one pivotal aspect consistently takes center stage – amenities. Although commonly perceived as optional luxuries, my experience has illuminated the substantial strategic value amenities can offer tenants. In this article, I aim to share insights from an insider's perspective, shedding light on effective negotiation tactics to secure advantageous amenity concessions from landlords.Key Insights Amenities transcend mere indulgences; they strategically contribute to attracting top talent, facilitating seamless operations, and ensuring business continuity. Conducting...
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By June Piper-Brandon, Creating Generational Wealth Through Homeownership
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Fraud in Real Estate - Due DiligenceThere was an article in a recent issue of NAR Realtor Magazine about the rise in fraud in the real estate industry. And, I just took my Ethics continuing education where we talked about the care we owe to our clients.  Both inspired me.Our buyers and sellers have no idea what is going on in our industry and we owe them the duty of care to inform them of the pitfalls not just the bonuses in a transaction.  When our industry faces numbers like 1 in 4 transactions facing a fraud threat, we need to be ultra vigilant and make sure our clients are educated too.  It isn't enough to just have the fraud verbiage in our email signatures anymore, we have to be having those difficult discussions with our clients and drilling it into them to check and double-check...
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By Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® e-Pro CRS RCS-D Vets, CEO of Vision Drive Realty - Coastal San Diego
(Big Block Realty 858.232.8722)
Lessons From The Olive TreeThree Essential Moves To Increase Your Value Right Now The Olive Tree1. Olive trees do not produce fruit unless they receive both the harsh hot winds of the desert and the cool refreshing breezes of the sea. The olive tree doesn't reach it's full potential with out experiencing both the harsh and the rewarding.  Like the resilient olive tree, our journey to fulfillment is shaped by the contrasting forces of adversity and blessing. Just as the olive tree flourishes under the dual influence of scorching desert winds and soothing coastal breezes, we too must navigate the highs and lows of life to unlock our true potential. Through the crucible of challenges and triumphs, we cultivate the strength, resilience, and wisdom needed to bear the fruits of our purpose. E...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
A Closed Mouth Doesn't Get Fed Growing up in the south, it was well known to speak up or do without. It's impossible to read minds, especially when help is needed nor can people tend to the unspoken word. The same goes for business.  Good communication while being assertive, but respectful, is a must in today's world, where you will get passed by for anything less than that. Asking for guidance or work assistance can warrant positive outcomes. Avoid being demanding, aggressive or manipulative. No one wants to be on the receiving end of that type of behavior. Knowing when to speak up and remaining patient can garner better results in most situations. I like to eat before the hunger pangs start and well before becoming hangry (hungry + angry). Regarding business, I refuse to hinder my pro...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Playing Ketchup with That Last Market!A large amount of work and effort goes into the process of getting a home ready to list, then widely marketed to consumers to get it sold. Overpriced and sellers lack of motivation are two big deterents in achieving that sales goal.Homeowners need to get realistic about true market value today, not 6 months or a year ago, that market has been put to rest! I prefer working with people who understand the industry and are realistic about the process.In this market, if a property in good condition, located in a desirable location has not sold in several months, though offers are made, it tells me the seller does not want to negotiate. I'm not willing to take on an overpriced listing under those circumstances, just to get the exclusive right to sell it (...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Understanding Estate Planning CostsEstate planning is incredibly important. It's the process that guarantees your assets go to the right people when you're no longer around. While many people understand the importance of the topic, they may need to be more open due to concerns about the associated estate planning costs. In this guide, we'll delve into the complexities of estate planning costs, providing valuable insights to navigate this aspect of financial planning.What Does Estate Planning Cost Cover?When considering estate planning costs, it's essential to understand what services are typically included. These costs encompass various components necessary for creating a comprehensive estate plan: Attorney Fees: The primary expense in estate planning often revolves around hiring an att...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Truth be told I believe nearly all pets are self prescribed medication by their owners.Many of us here in the Rain tell stories about our pets.I've posted quite a few pictures and stories about Baby, the eight year old mutt we rescued a year and a half ago. I wanted another dog to help encourage me to get out and walk more often. Carol just wanted a K9 companion. Timmothy didn't really want a dog as he was always stuck with poop patrol in the past (so guess who has done it all over the last year and a half... me!)My five minuets of research was based on searching for a good article on Pet Therapy which I did find HERE on Wikipedia. The main take away to me was this paragraph:Use of these animals in therapies has shown positives results in many cases, such as post-traumatic stress disord...
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By Stephen Fells, Marketing, Technology, Fun and News!
(AgencyLogic)
Your database marketing plan shouldn’t be the same as every other marketing plan in your playbook. These leads are special – potentially more valuable – and require a particular nuance that will spur them to refer and repeat business.In today's Real Estate Podcast, from the Tom Ferry Podcast Experience, Jason Pantana will demystify a few unspoken rules or guidelines surrounding your database marketing plan for this year. You’ll learn exactly what not to do and how to guide all your database marketing efforts in the right direction.Before you do ANY kind of marketing to your database, this episode should be your first priority, so watch or listen now and form the basis of your database marketing plan!AgencyLogic shares the best real estate podcasts daily. Click here for more great podcasts!
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey real estate sales
(Fathom Realty)
The headline says it all, I am not going to crush you with a 10,000 word essay on the subject.  Other than to add:  Lazy, rude, inconsiderate, unprofessional, and not business -like.   MOVE ON. 
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By Peter Tamura, BANNOCHIE TEAM
(Coldwell Banker Select)
Our local lender Amber said she was dealing with three transactions with this same issue last week. If you get solar panels today, they are quite expensive and often purchased and financed over twenty five or thirty years. The idea of using solar panels, harnessing the sun's energy to power your home is very attractive. However, consider the rate of improvement in technology, Moore's Law for instance states that the number of transistors on a microchip doubles every two years. This means that the cost will decrease and the improvements in solar panels will increase at an exponential rate. In five years, the solar panels you install today will probably be obsolete.Another option that is available to homeowners is to lease solar panels from the solar panel companies. Be aware that when yo...
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By Michael Mahoney, Boston Realtor
(Real Broker, LLC)
Class today @2:OO PM ESTComplimentary: Sponsored by Real Broker LLCLearn how to systematize your business by streamlining your operations and creating automated workflows through technology to save time, increase productivity, and drive efficient growth.Sign up for the class on Growing Your Business with Systems by Real Broker LLC Here
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By Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP, Selling Homes Changing Lives
(DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
"Change your thoughts and you Change your world."---Norman Vincent Peale  Whether one is the buyer, seller, listing agent, or buyer's agent, a positive attitude goes a long way to achieving positive results. There are three important instructions: Read carefully to understand. Listen carefully to understand. See carefully to understand.    Whether you are a buyer, seller, both; or an experienced or inexperienced agent, listen attentively with both ears. Age may be just a number, but the truth is age is reality. The reality is buying or selling a home is still one of the most expensive investments. As the mind wonders on price, size, decor, paint colors, functionality, staging, clutter, cost to move, closet space, size of garage, pets, fenced in yard, schools, location, transportation, h...
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