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 Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
We all miss Grant Schneider but still have some great blogs is left behind. What do you think is most important for a new person in Real Estate?  Is it skill or will?  You can have all the knowledge in the world.  But knowledge is not power.  The application of knowledge is power.  Don't be fooled by knowledge and experience.  I work largely with privately held and family held businesses. But in that arena I have worked with many industries ranging from real estate, construction, retail, service and hospitality, nonprofit, and manufacturing. I have made the same observation in all of these industries. Those running the business believe that their industry is different from others, so unique that the primary requirement is experience. Because of that mindset I have seen many bad candidat...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
In 2023, the real estate industry witnessed a significant shift in the way properties are showcased to potential buyers. Virtual tours have revolutionized the home buying experience, offering a cutting-edge, immersive, and convenient approach for prospective homeowners. Gone are the days of relying solely on static images and floor plans; real estate virtual tours now empower buyers to explore properties from the comfort of their own homes, making the home buying process more efficient and enjoyable. The Rise of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) In 2023, advancements in Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies have propelled real estate virtual tours to new heights. VR headsets have become more affordable and accessible, allowing buyers to step into a ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
The key attributes that set exceptional real estate professionals apart, from exceptional communication and negotiation skills to in-depth market knowledge and a genuine passion for helping clients achieve their goals. Learn how great REALTORS go the extra mile to provide personalized service, build lasting relationships, and deliver outstanding results. Whether you're a buyer or a seller, understanding these qualities will empower you to partner with a real estate professional who can turn your real estate journey into a truly remarkable experience. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP If you haven't read Jim Collins' "Good to Great" books then you may want to consider reading. It is geared towards midsize businesses but I think we all can take greatness out of it.  Wh...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
The invaluable network and knowledge that real estate professionals bring to the table. Learn how leveraging their expertise, market insights, and relationships can make all the difference in your real estate journey. From finding the perfect property to negotiating the best deal, this guide emphasizes the importance of working with a knowledgeable and well-connected real estate agent. Embrace the advantage of tapping into their wealth of resources for a successful and seamless buying or selling experienceHave a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Truth be told, I don't go out on many listing appointments where whether I will secure the listing is in question, thanks to years of networking and connections reverberating out into space.  When a seller prospect asks, "What will ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Explore the differences between selling For Sale By Owner (FSBO) and with the guidance of a real estate agent. Discover the advantages of saving on commission fees with FSBO, alongside the potential challenges in marketing, negotiations, and legal aspects. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Consumers do have choices when it comes to selling their homes. The big consideration between a for sale by owner vs. using a licensed real estate agent is always a choice. As a REALTOR®, I of course know the compelling reasons why consumers should do some serious thinking regarding the sale of their homes. I created this Infographic to illustrate some of the top considerations for a consumer to think through. The decision to either sell their home on their own or by hiring a profe...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Simple yet powerful strategies to strengthen your interactions with clients and colleagues. From active listening and timely follow-ups to utilizing technology and setting clear expectations, these tips will help you build stronger relationships and elevate your professionalism. Whether you're a seasoned agent or just starting out, incorporating these easy communication practices will make a significant difference in your real estate career.  Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP 5 Things Agents Can Do To Improve Communication   Throughout a real estate transaction, there's a lot of communication by a lot of involved parties.  Buyer, seller, buyer's agent, seller's agent, buyer's agent's transaction coordinator, seller's agent's transaction coordinator, escrow, title, in...
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By Denise Lones, CSP, MIRM, CDEI - Real Estate Coaching & Branding
(The Lones Group, Inc.)
The Power of Transaction Process Visuals As busy real estate professionals, you understand the ins-and-outs of a transaction and can operate one like clockwork. However, buyers and sellers are often unsure about the process, even if they just bought or sold a few years ago. Furthermore, the buyer side and the seller side operate both dependently and independently of the other, so providing a road-map of the milestones is important for all parties to be able to see the big picture. A list of transactional milestones does not cut it. This is a complex process with many moving parts. Only a visual flowchart of the process will do it justice and engage your clients. More Than an Illustration In addition to aiding your buyers' and sellers' understanding of the transaction process, a transac...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
We all know someone who thinks they are cool when they are not. I think often that when someone is enjoying a crowd around them that they fail to realize people love to watch a train wreck.If you read Timmothy's work often then you know that Joe's personality is a "train wreck". There are many kinds of personalities in the Real Estate business and once in a while we come across one of those train wreck personalities. To me personally it's the braggart who just has to tell you how great (or cool) they are.I think you can be different or go against the grain and yet not have a train wreck personality.In today's world we could say that going against the grain is putting others needs above our own. This alone sets the best professionals apart from the average professional. Likewise and simi...
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By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
In 2023, the real estate industry witnessed a significant shift in the way properties are showcased to potential buyers. Virtual tours have revolutionized the home buying experience, offering a cutting-edge, immersive, and convenient approach for prospective homeowners. Gone are the days of relying solely on static images and floor plans; real estate virtual tours now empower buyers to explore properties from the comfort of their own homes, making the home buying process more efficient and enjoyable.The Rise of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)In 2023, advancements in Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies have propelled real estate virtual tours to new heights. VR headsets have become more affordable and accessible, allowing buyers to step into a pro...
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By Marte Cliff, Your real estate writer
(Marte Cliff Copywriting)
... even though it's already Tuesday on the East coast!"Enter a room like you're supposed to be there and speak as if others need to hear you.” -Sean Stephenson  Have you ever considered what an edge you have when you simply proceed with confidence?  Its impact makes a great case for always being prepared mentally, dressing the part, and arriving with time to spare.  This week - I wish you confidence! Marte 
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By Paddy Deighan MBA JD PhD, Paddy Deighan J.D. Ph.D
(http://www.medicalandspaconsulting.com)
 mysterious investment company is buying up large tracts of land around a California Air Force base, raising questions about who is behind the firm — and its intentions — amid growing fears about Chinese businesses acquiring land near American military sites.The investment firm Flannery Associates has bought around $800 million worth of land around Travis Air Force Base in northern California’s Solano County, which is midway between Sacramento and San Francisco.Flannery Associates filed a lawsuit in May against a group of landowners, accusing the farmers of conspiring to inflate the value of the property — drawing further scrutiny from policymakers including Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.). Since 2018, Flannery, registered as an agricultural company, has purchased more than 50,000 acres ...
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By Kathy Schowe, La Quinta, California 760-333-8886
(California Lifestyle Realty)
Life Lessons from my 50'sThank you to Anna Banana Kutcher and Carol Williams for this soul searching Active Rain challenge in August!I went with my first instinct on both of these lessons, personal and business.  And they intertwine with the message of listen to your heart, let those that love you help you, and make yourself a priority. Personal:Last summer I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Months were spent testing and scheduling biopsies.  They caught it early, but my best, (and for me only) option was a double mastectomy.  It was terrifying waiting for biopsy and mri test results to come back and wondering if it had spread.  I was confident with my surgeon and team, so once we had a treatment plan in place I was able to focus on my surgery date in November.  But May to November is ...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
My Unique Voyage: a Beverly Hills Realtor’s Perspective on Life, Business, Ethics and Morals. Thanks to Anna Banana Kruchten Phoenix Arizona      &   Carol Williams  for the motivation and inspiration to reflect on my unique voyage!The consistent readers know that I grew up in Communist Hungary with my parents who, at the time, were affluent and powerful during those years in Hungary. My father held a high-ranking position; we had a new car while virtually none of the other workers could buy or even get on the list to buy one.  In spite of his position, even my father was on the waiting list for five years before he was able to get a new Skoda in 1961. Alas, in 1964 all life changed as we immigrated to Austria with only that car and the clothes on our backs.  We were welcomed to neutral...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Can YOU see around corners? 👀 Setting client expectations up front while establishing the relationship early on, with realistic goals, usually intends the tone for achieving them with less chance of someone going off on a wild tangent when unmet. Usually, but not always! Well-matched personalities allow everyone to work together because all parties understand that tremendous effort goes into the process of getting a home sold or finding a dream home for ready, excited buyers. Professionals tend to make it look easy because they enjoy the work and possess high business standards. 90% of all disappointments are due to unrealistic expectations.  Then, there is the other side when sales goals are not met in a timely manner. Events outside the scope of control, can occur, like, a water main ...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
As a realtor, you understand the importance of collaboration with experts who possess deep local knowledge and a pulse on the community.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Superpowers? No, Local Pro's Just Know.   Unrealistic people expect agents to take a huge leap in predicting the direction of real estate markets, to possess keen insight into future mortgage loan interest rates and to determine if their offer will fly prior to submission.   That's make believe.   Only imaginary characters are able to do those things. If you want a true professional that delivers accurate, up-to-date sales statistics, relays neighborhood nuances that matter and knows the Southern Utah area...   Hold on, I'll get my cape because Wanda Woman Can do that! I, Wanda Kubat-Nerdin at Red Ro...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Discover the power of pre-listing packets in real estate, as we unravel their benefits in streamlining the selling process, showcasing your property's best features, and fostering confidence among potential buyers. From detailed property information to professional photography, these packets are a valuable tool in creating a positive first impression. Learn how to leverage pre-listing packets to stand out in the competitive market and set the stage for a seamless and successful home sale.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Do you prepare a pre-listing packet for your clients? I found years ago that providing my clients with a pre-listing packet is a wonderful tool. This packet provides my clients with thought-provoking information that truly does help me guide them thr...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Explore the benefits of simplifying your living situation, unlocking home equity, and embracing a lifestyle that aligns with your retirement goals. Understand the emotional and financial aspects of downsizing and gain valuable insights to help you make an informed choice.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP IS DOWNSIZING FOR RETIREMENT A GOOD IDEA? Retirement marks a significant life transition, where the focus shifts from the hustle and bustle of a career to enjoying the fruits of one's labor. As this phase approaches, many contemplate downsizing their homes as part of their retirement plans. But is downsizing the right move for you?   Reduced Expenses One of the most compelling reasons to downsize for retirement is the financial freedom it can provide. Retirees can si...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Superpowers? No, Local Pro's Just Know. Unrealistic people expect agents to take a huge leap in predicting the direction of real estate markets, to possess keen insight into future mortgage loan interest rates and to determine if their offer will fly prior to submission. That's make believe. Only imaginary characters are able to do those things. If you want a true professional that delivers accurate, up-to-date sales statistics, relays neighborhood nuances that matter and knows the Southern Utah area... Hold on, I'll get my cape because Wanda Woman Can do that!
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
Do you prepare a pre-listing packet for your clients? I found years ago that providing my clients with a pre-listing packet is a wonderful tool. This packet provides my clients with thought-provoking information that truly does help me guide them through the listing process.Here are some of the items I include in my pre-listing packet:✅ I ask my clients how they would like to receive the packet. Email or delivered in person.✅ Information about staging.✅ Checklists regarding things that will be needed such as inspections, warranties, appraisals, surveys, and any other informative documents.✅ Tips for preparing the home for showing.✅ What to expect during the listing process.✅  Checklists for preparing for a move.✅ Information about photography, showing service, lockboxes, expectations, a...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
Consumers do have choices when it comes to selling their homes. The big consideration between a for sale by owner vs. using a licensed real estate agent is always a choice. As a REALTOR®, I of course know the compelling reasons why consumers should do some serious thinking regarding the sale of their homes.I created this Infographic to illustrate some of the top considerations for a consumer to think through. The decision to either sell their home on their own or by hiring a professional is important.Remember, you get what you pay for. I would never act as my own dentist, attorney, CPA or other licensed professional. Consider the facts before you list your home. Your largest asset should cause you pause for thought.
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