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 Tommy Wyher, I am an freelance writer and professional marketer
(Husky Marketing)
Estate planning isn't just about money - it's about ensuring your loved ones are taken care of after you're gone. And for those who have multiple properties or assets to allocate, it can be a particularly complex process. However, with the help of an experienced estate planning attorney, it doesn't have to be daunting or overwhelming. Properly dividing your assets can provide peace of mind for both you and your family, and prevent any disputes or theft from occurring down the line. To develop an ironclad estate plan, we are sharing the top things you should be aware of when it comes to dividing multiple properties or assets in your will or estate.Work With An Estate Planning Legal ProfessionalAs previously alluded to, finding an estate planning attorney is of utmost importance when writ...
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By Stephen Fells, Marketing, Technology, Fun and News!
(AgencyLogic)
Are you familiar with the T3 Sixty Annual Trends Report? Because you should be. Every year, this industry leading brokerage consultancy releases a report covering all the vitally important real estate trends that agents need to know. This document is a data powerhouse that agents can use to establish themselves as the knowledge brokers in their markets. In today's Real Estate Podcast, from The Tom Ferry Podcast Experience, T3 Sixty CEO, Jack Miller discusses the most important real estate trends affecting your business right now. We hear about the upcoming NAR class action lawsuit, what’s going to happen to real estate commissions, the future of iBuying, and the pitfalls agents need to be looking out for right now These are real estate trends that you can’t afford to ignore, because the...
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By Stephen Fells, Marketing, Technology, Fun and News!
(AgencyLogic)
Full disclosure: We are Simon Sinek fans. Most people first learned about Sinek following his TED talk, How Great Leaders Inspire Action, which centers on his question "why?" If you haven't seen the talk we strongly recommend you watch it. In the following brief video, from last years Realty ONE Group International 2022 One Summit, Sinek talks about the importance of listening, and how it can help real estate agents create real relationships.
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By Paul D. Diaz, EA, MBA, Admitted to Practice Before the IRS
(Paul D. Diaz, EA, MBA)
This came out in The Miami Herald:Commentary: What’s the most likely thing a home warranty will guarantee for you? HeadachesIn a recent — and unusually puffy — puff piece in a pay-to-play real estate publication, two agents sang the praises of home warranties. But in truth, home warranties are not warranties at all. They’re service contracts. And if you’re considering buying a house that comes with one, you’re likely better off asking the seller to credit you with the warranty cost at settlement. [Source: Miami Herald]I found the story in Yahoo! with no paywall. Here is the link: https://news.yahoo.com/most-likely-thing-home-warranty-103000065.htmlI have suggested Home Warranties in the past. I have used home warranties myself and found them to be worthwhile. I replaced a $1300 water he...
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By Elizabeth Leanza, "Helping Your Dreams Come Home"
(Elizabeth Leanza Synergy Realty - Realtor)
Important items to look out for on your home inspection report.A home inspection is a crucial step in the home buying process, as it can help identify potential issues or repairs needed before finalizing the purchase. Here are some key things to look out for during a home inspection:1. Structural issues: Check for signs of structural problems, such as cracks in the foundation, walls, or ceilings. These issues may indicate a compromised structural integrity and could be costly to repair.2. Roof condition: Inspect the roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles, as well as signs of water damage or leaks. Check the attic for proper insulation, ventilation, and signs of moisture.3. Plumbing system: Look for signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage to pipes and fixtures. Check water pressure, a...
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By Elizabeth Leanza, "Helping Your Dreams Come Home"
(Elizabeth Leanza Synergy Realty - Realtor)
Important items to look out for on your home inspection report.A home inspection is a crucial step in the home buying process, as it can help identify potential issues or repairs needed before finalizing the purchase. Here are some key things to look out for during a home inspection:1. Structural issues: Check for signs of structural problems, such as cracks in the foundation, walls, or ceilings. These issues may indicate a compromised structural integrity and could be costly to repair.2. Roof condition: Inspect the roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles, as well as signs of water damage or leaks. Check the attic for proper insulation, ventilation, and signs of moisture.3. Plumbing system: Look for signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage to pipes and fixtures. Check water pressure, a...
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By Stephen Fells, Marketing, Technology, Fun and News!
(AgencyLogic)
Martin Perdomo, also known as “The Elite strategist,” is an inspired instructor, speaker, and entrepreneur that has inspired thousands around the globe. He is also the host of Latinos In Real Estate Investing Podcast.In today's Real Estate Podcast, from the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, Martin’s shares the four phases of business that ensure you stay focused enough to scale your business. We also learn:Why finding a mentor was so instrumental to Martin’s growth and successMartin’s algorithm involving decision, commitment, and massive action that leads to successHow not focusing on one niche can hinder your successWhy commitment is the number one most important step to changing your lifeAgencyLogic shares the best real estate podcasts daily. Click here for more great podcasts! 
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By Stephen Fells, Marketing, Technology, Fun and News!
(AgencyLogic)
Using a copyrighted work without permission is an infringement and could result in liability, including damages up to $150,000 for a willful infringement. Real estate professionals can help avoid these potentially costly claims with these four risk management tips. Learn more including how to protect yourself in the following brief video from the National Association of REALTORS YouTube channel. 
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By Stephen Fells, Marketing, Technology, Fun and News!
(AgencyLogic)
Everyday AgencyLogic shares real estate podcasts from industry leaders and visionaries. Here are this weeks podcasts: Real Estate Podcast: The Name of the Game Real Estate Podcast: How Distractions Negatively Impact Your Productivity and Profitability Real Estate Podcast: How to Invest in Real Estate Real Estate Podcast: Unlocking the Potential of Real Estate: The Power Pivot Real Estate Podcast: Top Real Estate Coaches on Marketing for Listings 
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By Steve Vondran, IP Lawyer for the Real Estate Industry
(The Law Offices of Steven C. Vondran, P.C.)
What happens if a tenant is engaged in copyright infringement while living on your premises using your IP address?  A potential legal issue you may not have considered.OverviewMy law firm focuses on copyright infringement matters.  One class of cases we are involved in is defending people accused of using BitTorrent protocal to download and share copyright protected movies.  Typically, a user installs a file-sharing software program, and then can anonymously download and share movies, videos, films, music, software, e-books and other content (all without paying for it).  This can include some of your short-term or long-term rentals.After infringing downloads are detected, a lawsuit will be filed (for example, by Strike Three Holdings, LLC) in federal court where copyright cases are hear...
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By Steve Vondran, IP Lawyer for the Real Estate Industry
(The Law Offices of Steven C. Vondran, P.C.)
What happens if a tenant is engaged in copyright infringement while living on your premises using your IP address?  A potential legal issue you may not have considered.OverviewMy law firm focuses on copyright infringement matters.  One class of cases we are involved in is defending people accused of using BitTorrent protocal to download and share copyright protected movies.  Typically, a user installs a file-sharing software program, and then can anonymously download and share movies, videos, films, music, software, e-books and other content (all without paying for it).  This can include some of your short-term or long-term rentals.After infringing downloads are detected, a lawsuit will be filed (for example, by Strike Three Holdings, LLC) in federal court where copyright cases are hear...
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By Steve Vondran, IP Lawyer for the Real Estate Industry
(The Law Offices of Steven C. Vondran, P.C.)
What happens if a tenant is engaged in copyright infringement while living on your premises using your IP address?  A potential legal issue you may not have considered.OverviewMy law firm focuses on copyright infringement matters.  One class of cases we are involved in is defending people accused of using BitTorrent protocal to download and share copyright protected movies.  Typically, a user installs a file-sharing software program, and then can anonymously download and share movies, videos, films, music, software, e-books and other content (all without paying for it).  This can include some of your short-term or long-term rentals.After infringing downloads are detected, a lawsuit will be filed (for example, by Strike Three Holdings, LLC) in federal court where copyright cases are hear...
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By Steve Vondran, IP Lawyer for the Real Estate Industry
(The Law Offices of Steven C. Vondran, P.C.)
What happens if a tenant is engaged in copyright infringement while living on your premises using your IP address?  A potential legal issue you may not have considered.OverviewMy law firm focuses on copyright infringement matters.  One class of cases we are involved in is defending people accused of using BitTorrent protocal to download and share copyright protected movies.  Typically, a user installs a file-sharing software program, and then can anonymously download and share movies, videos, films, music, software, e-books and other content (all without paying for it).  This can include some of your short-term or long-term rentals.After infringing downloads are detected, a lawsuit will be filed (for example, by Strike Three Holdings, LLC) in federal court where copyright cases are hear...
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By Steve Vondran, IP Lawyer for the Real Estate Industry
(The Law Offices of Steven C. Vondran, P.C.)
What happens if a tenant is engaged in copyright infringement while living on your premises using your IP address?  A potential legal issue you may not have considered.OverviewMy law firm focuses on copyright infringement matters.  One class of cases we are involved in is defending people accused of using BitTorrent protocal to download and share copyright protected movies.  Typically, a user installs a file-sharing software program, and then can anonymously download and share movies, videos, films, music, software, e-books and other content (all without paying for it).  This can include some of your short-term or long-term rentals.After infringing downloads are detected, a lawsuit will be filed (for example, by Strike Three Holdings, LLC) in federal court where copyright cases are hear...
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By Joseph Domino 480-390-6011, Real Estate Made Easy
(HomeSmart)
While it sounds simple on the surface, divorce can complicate home ownership. Property settlements provided by a divorce can often result in one party being awarded the right to the house while the other must vacate.The divorce settlement may leave many questions that need legal answers.Does your divorce decree grant you clear title to the property or did the judge award you the right to remain in the property? The two may not mean the same thing.Often the judge awards the property to one party, but due to liens on the title, mortgages, or other debts, further action may be required for that party to get clear title.Who is responsible for the liens and are they still valid? Even if the judge awarded the house to your ex-spouse, you may still be responsible for the debts even though you ...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Hiccups are never convenient and usually are very annoying... especially in a business transaction. Obviously I am NOT talking about the type of hiccup Joe is experiencing while trying to sleep.Purchasing or selling a home is one of the most complex business transactions most people will face in their lifetime. As a retired Real Estate Broker who owned one of Minot North Dakota's oldest brokerages I want to encourage Home Buyers to run away when they see For Sale By Owner. There are just to many legal hiccups that can ensnare you and cost you your life savings.It has been my experience that most homes being sold For Sale By Owner are being sold that way because the Seller does NOT want to disclose a condition/flaw in the home, or worse yet, a flaw (cloud) in the title.A Real Estate agen...
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By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
Headless CMSs are taking the world of web development by storm. Developers are figuring out whether or not they should opt for a headless structure or continue with traditional native templating.What Is a Headless CMS?A headless CMS is a content management system that allows you to develop solutions with any frontend channel (head) you prefer. Traditionally, CMSs are limited to certain platforms for development. For example, you need to use a WordPress backend with a WordPress theme. With a headless system, however, you can use WordPress and connect it to a React native theme, for example. Learn more about this here:How to Build A Headless WordPress Website: Real Estate EditionWhat Are the Advantages of a Headless Structure?Apart from flexibility in terms of the frontend channel, a head...
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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)
Keep Your CFO Calm, By Keeping Your CEO Busy, When Your COO is Slow. There's really never a slow-time in your business if you are a go-getter, only slow roles. If you wear many hats in your business like I do, you'll always be busy doing something productive that generates income. It's just a question of long-term vs. short-term results.Your CEO role focuses on big picture strategies that often yield long term results like marketing, branding and goals.Your COO role is often working on the short term results driven income producing activities like showing property, listing homes and writing offers and closing escrows. Let's define the three major roles in a business, arguably there are more.CEO, COO, and CFO are all top-level executives in a company, but their roles and responsibilities...
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By Daniel Ramsey, MyOutDesk - Real Estate Virtual Professionals
(MyOutDesk)
So how do YOU create effective videos easily and on any budget? - In this webinar, learn how to... - Set more appointments with these tried and true 1-to-1 videos - Create videos on any budget, even if you have no budget - Take baby steps now for real results, then grow your budget on proven ROI Take your video mastery to the next level...EVERY Professional Needs Video: Increase your credibility and connection to people with different types of bio / promo videos.EVERY Brand Needs Video: Does your brand name (as a product, service, agent, or team) have a video?EVERY Database Needs Video: How often does your list hear from you and how often is it via a video?EVERY Testimonial Needs Video: There is nothing better than someone else bragging about you. Testimonial videos are HUGE!EVERY Produ...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
OK, I know that many will think this post has to do with a sinister side of real estate. Nope! The NASTY topic today has to do with some of the properties that we come into contact with in this business. I mean, sometimes they are downright NASTY!So, for those who may be new to the business, you might want to skip past this post. The nitty-gritty of the reality of this business is, we don't always get to tour beautiful, clean homes. Often, we walk into a pig stye of a home and come away shaking our heads asking ourselves how some people can live the way they do.Here are my TOP NASTY real estate experiences:NASTY ODORS - Ugh! The smell of that litter box, urine-soaked carpets, mold or mildew, dirty clothes, cigarette smoke, grease, or other heavy cooking smells are just a few of the disg...
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