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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 Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
A fallen Hornet's nest is good reason to run, or bike, as fast as you can. We should always run from danger unless we are well prepared for for the danger before us. The two minute cartoon below has Pooh and Piglet running TO danger. It should bring a smile to your face.There are plenty of dangerous things to run from with-in a home as well, including certain insect invasions. Here is a short list:Fire.The smell of natural gas.A sounding carbon monoxide alarm.An alarm warning of an intruder.We should all know the safest route out of our homes in case of any type of danger in our home. Each room may be different from any other so to be best prepared it is good to plan ahead.
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By Dana (Lerner) Sparks, Satisfying You with Service Innovation & Education
(Maximum One Realty - Managing Broker)
In the Georgia Association of REALTORS (GAR) Contract Package that was revised 7/1/24, there are a number of ways Agents / Brokers / Buyers ? Sellers negotiate compensation for professional services. If Broker compensation is negotiated prior to showing or within a contract, do you still need to complete GAR F255 - Instructions to Closing Attorney? Watch the video for 5 Reasons why this form is STILL relevant!Dana Sparks, Qualifying Broker, Maximum One Greater Atlanta, REALTORS® Dana@MaximumOneRealty.com
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By Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® CRS,ABR,PSA,RCS-D, ePRO, Serving Coastal San Diego, Veteran's & Seniors
(Big Block Realty 858.232.8722)
Well, my friends, we have discussed it before—we’ve all heard the horror stories—but this time, I finally lived it. When Your Listing Throws a Party Without You!Picture this:  Saturday night of Labor Day Weekend 2024, a peaceful cul-de-sac, and my resort-style listing. But instead of a quiet evening, it turned into the scene of an uninvited rave, complete with a DJ, lights, and beer. The kicker? I wasn’t invited, but apparently, about 50 local high school kids got the memo on social media.Imagine waking up at 11:30 PM to discover your phone has been blowing up since 9 PM, all because of a full-blown party raging in the backyard of your listing. And neighbors are texting me photos of who’s attending this unsanctioned bash: A small army of teenagers, with the cops, fire department, and ev...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
Real Estate Talk-Why Should The Seller Pay The Buyer's Closing Cost?Getting ready to list your home in Alexandria La? A common seller objection centers around the buyer's closing cost. As a seller, why should I consider paying part of the buyer's tab? Let's take a look! Reasons Sellers Should Consider Helping With Buyer Closing Cost1) Buyers may need the help--Like everything else in this world, closing costs have increased. I remember back in the last recession seller paid closing would land between 3,500-4,500 dollars. An offer we received last week had TWELVE Thousand in closing costs! Couple this with the mandatory down payment and this figure could be more than most buyers have! 2) We can use the potential concession in advertising-- Nothing attracts eyeballs like free money! When ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This article does a fantastic job of explaining the value of a two-step listing appointment process. By taking this approach, you ensure that both you and the client are fully prepared, allowing for a more thorough and personalized strategy. The first step allows for in-depth understanding, while the second focuses on crafting a tailored marketing plan. This method not only builds trust but also sets the stage for a successful partnership. Thanks for sharing why this approach is so effective! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP My new brother from another mother Michael Elliott posed a Q, whether prospective listing brokers will preview competing listings prior to listing appointment. Great question, and it's true - most agents don't. Often bc they are rushing to secur...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This article provides excellent insights into why cash offers can be a smart choice when selling a home. The benefits you've highlighted, such as faster closing times, fewer contingencies, and a smoother transaction process, are compelling reasons to consider this option. It’s a valuable read for anyone looking to sell quickly and efficiently. Thanks for breaking down the advantages of cash offers so clearly! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Selling a house to a cash buyer has become an increasingly popular option in the real estate market. Cash offers for homes involve buyers who can purchase properties outright without needing financing or mortgage applications. This method eliminates the complexities of underwriting and significantly reduces the likelihood of dea...
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By Jon Sanborn, Real Estate is a Team Sport
(Brotherly Love Real Estate)
Selling a house to a cash buyer has become an increasingly popular option in the real estate market. Cash offers for homes involve buyers who can purchase properties outright without needing financing or mortgage applications. This method eliminates the complexities of underwriting and significantly reduces the likelihood of deals falling through.Considering cash buyers when selling a home is crucial due to several reasons: Cash transactions often lead to faster closings Lower costs Fewer complications compared to traditional financed sales For sellers looking to sell their house fast, accepting a cash offer can be particularly advantageous. In this article, we will discuss 5 compelling reasons why you should seriously consider accepting cash offers when selling your property. 1. Simpli...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
Is Now A Good Time To Buy A Home Around Alexandria La?Has making that September rent payment giving you the blues? Perhaps 2024 is the year you take the next step and purchase your piece of the bayou state. With all the economic and political stuff on the media let's see if home ownership is a good option...The economy in generalIt's like 2024 looked at 2023 and said, "Hold my beer". Conflict in Europe and the Middle East, a host of bad economic news (priced groceries lately), and a political scene like none in memory. During such "interesting times" why buy real estate? Well, rates are down for one! When will they dip down back in the 2-3% range? Who knows? Bidding wars (which tend to push prices north) have become more rare than snow in Natchitoches... More about YOUThe thousand dolla...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
The real estate industry is never one for remaining the same. Having been in this business now for two decades, I have seen the ups and downs, the numerous changes, and, the ever-changing forms that we use. While many are frightened with these changes, what I have learned over the years is if we are providing our clients with the "value" they need from their agent, your business will thrive.Value most likely means different things to different people. Therefore, it is imperative that when visiting with your clients, you need to determine what their expectations for you are clearly defined. When you understand what your client needs from you, it is then you can know how you can add "value" to them.I was recently introduced to a fabulous, healthy, non-toxic product that took the time to e...
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By Eileen Burns 954.483.3912, FLorida Real Estate Connector
(Trans State Commercial Realty Inc. )
photos created in Night CafeFrom real estate success to significance is the plan. Leaving the planet a better place than when I arrived.  How to accomplish the goal entails new alliances to reach the destination.  The universe is shifting its energy now and one must believe in change to achieve the goal. I am a willing participant. "Once you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen"Ralph Waldo Emerson Americans enjoy a food supply that is abundant, affordable and among the world's safest, thanks in large part to the efficiency and productivity of America's farm and ranch families.  The global population is expected to increase by 2.2 billion by 2050, which means farmers will have to grow about 70% more food that what is now produced.  Sources include the American Farm B...
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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)
My new brother from another mother Michael Elliott posed a Q, whether prospective listing brokers will preview competing listings prior to listing appointment. Great question, and it's true - most agents don't. Often bc they are rushing to secure the listing, and figure out the (IMPORTANT, SOMETIMES CRITICAL) details   . . . later.I'm primarily a CRE broker but I end up dealing with homes for my clients anyway, on occasion - and have sold hundreds over the years. I approach the 'problem to be solved' (converting the asset into cash in the most efficient way, with the best net) the SAME WAY with all property types! SO . . .Initial meeting is to Identify the problem and discuss how to go about solving the problem as a team, to gather intel about the seller, their situation and the propert...
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey Residential Sales
(Fathom Realty)
Licensed real estate agents are not permitted to discuss specific commissions in public forums.It is that simple.We can't talk about normals or standards, or what used to be or what is.  It is that simple.You can discuss specific commissions in your office meeting.Or when asking a listing agent about compensation.Or what your personal policy on commission is when prompted by a would-be seller.  But not on Facebook, which happens too often.Or on Active Rain, which occurs way too often.Or at a Realtor event with agents from other companies.If you do not agree, I suggest you see your broker and your local Board of Realtors for training.If your company has not trained you on this, ask them why.  My cell:  (609) 864-8164My website:  https://michaelelliott.fathomrealty.com/ 
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By Victoria Craig, Keeping the "Real" in Real Estate!
(Century 21 Select)
According to a recent report, while we may strive to be kind and compassionate in our communications with people, we’re bound to fall short sometimes. And one of the ways we do that in conversation is when we condescend, or talk down, to the other person.We’re being condescending when we speak to someone in a way that implies our own superiority, said journalist Celeste Headlee, author of “We Need to Talk: How to Have Conversations That Matter.”“It generally involves some kind of haughty tone, but condescension also almost always involves a passive-aggressive behavior,” Headlee told HuffPost.“In other words, when you are condescending to someone as in, ‘Bless your heart,’ you are putting on a false persona of kindness but beneath that is that clear message of superiority. You’re treatin...
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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 work with Buyers and show property even if they have no information on any Seller-Side compensation (from co-op or Seller directly) & protect themselves from being accused of steering or not showing a property based on "not knowing how much they are going to get paid." In this video, I share a form we use at Maximum One® Companies to protect our agents & Brokers from any false allegations of steering or violating any terms of the NAR Preliminary Settlement Agreement. Check with your Broker on Brokerage Policies regarding negotiating compensation for Buyers & Sellers & using any forms you learn of from any video / Class / Podcast / Source outside of your own Broker.Also Watch: "Decoding Buyer Compensation in GAR" - ht...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
What is RPR? Well, another new toy for Real Estate Practitioners to play with. The reality is that there are so many different platforms and areas that help Real Estate Practitioners to get their data. I personally do not rely only on one platform. My favorite is Altos Research, they include not just MLS closings but properties that sold off the MLS in other words we call that Off Market. Their data is updated daily, pretty impressive if you asked me.Then there are the MLS statistics that I watch closely.Now combining all these statistics, I come up with my own assessment of what the property is truly worth.Now let us look at what and who is behind RPR? Well, many people are not familiar with it, but let me share here since you might not have been aware.The National Association of Realt...
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey Residential Sales
(Fathom Realty)
Thank you, to the agents who do not preview propertyThank you, to the agents who never call me for feedbackThank you, to all the agents who never give feedbackThank you, to the agents who use their iPhone to take pics of new listings'Thank you, to the agent who use "Welcome Home"  as their headline on adsThank you, to the agents who provide few or incomplete MLS listingsThank you, to the agents who submit weak, incomplete unprofessional offersThank you, to the agents who return calls late, or never at allThank you, to the agents who have bad attitudes about the changes we are going throughThank you, to the agents who show up late to the appointmentThank you, to agents who show up to showings unprofessionally dressedThank you, to the agents who really miss the mark when guiding a seller ...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Over the last 60 years, the average sales price of homes has appreciated at a rate of 5.56% annually, according to the Federal Reserve Economic Data. During the same period, rent has increased at a rate of 3.88% annually which presents a compelling argument in favor of homeownership.When we analyze these figures, it becomes evident that homes have not only appreciated in value at a faster rate than the increase in rental costs, but they have also provided homeowners with a substantial asset that builds equity over time. This discrepancy in growth rates means that, in the long run, homeowners are likely to experience a greater return on their investment compared to renters.Renters, while they may have the flexibility of moving without the ties of property ownership and might have lower u...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
What Does Your Daily Schedule Look Like?When I started in real estate, I ran my business like an emergency room. Simply respond to whatever comes in the door (or voicemail). It seemed like there was always too much work and never enough money. One of the greatest lessons from coaching (in my case with the mike ferry organization) was the importance of a daily schedule. Here's how I plan my day! 1) The evening before--The final thing I do in the office is plan the next business day. Key events/scheduled calls, and for prospecting who/what typed of lead I call first. Knowing the first couple of things you have to do makes it easier to start the day! 2) Early Am- The alarm goes off at 5am. This is followed by a brisk walk with the dogs. If training for a marathon, this will be a run or gym...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Not everyone finds rodents as "cute" but if you have ever owned one as a pet you most likely found it as cute most of the time (that is excluding cleaning it's cage).What about a Realtor calling a home "cute"? Well I'd say it's just as subjective as calling a rodent cute.This Tiny home is available on line (from Poland) and I'd call it cute. That being said I've seen rundown little shacks in our MLS described as cute that should be tore down... can't say cute comes to mind in those cases.Granted a MLS description stating 600 square foot home in need of repair won't draw in first time home owners thinking about a dreamy start for their marital bliss but it will draw in people who dream of fixing up a place fit for a newly wed couple.The older I get the more I dislike puffing. Just tell t...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
Congratulations to Endre Barath, Jr on securing a Top 100 ranking for Transactions from January -June 2024. This ranking included Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties."...Your hard work and dedication has truly shined through @BHHSCalifornia couldn't be more proud to have you as part of our family. Her's to continued success and a fantastic 2024..."  This was a fun notification via email as well as on Instagram. Thank you for all my clients who made this recognition happen. Wishing you a safe and healthy life and I look forward to your comments. If you are looking for a knowledgeable, focused and goal-oriented Realtor in the Beverly Hills area who will help you achieve your Real Estate goals, please reach out to me directly! If you are looking for a pet friendly Beverly Hills...
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