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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 Joyce Marsh, Joyce Marsh Homes
(Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC)
Here is a refresher for all of our new members, as well as a guide for all of our members of ActiveRain.Some helpful ideas and guidelines about blogging from ActiveRain University.So start blogging!  We look forward to hearing what you have to say!! ActiveRain Gives You the Blueprint for Successful Blogs No two bloggers are going to have the exact same style. In this regard, bloggers are like snow flakes (lame! Be over already winter!) custom hot rods! Each one with their own unique style and approach. But there are cetain kinds of posts that we believe every blogger should have in their blog. Our Blogging Blueprint Series is designed to give you a map by which to create some of the most valuable posts for your real estate blog. The idea is, the first time you create a post of this natu...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Weathering Through Man-made Squallers Inclement weather is a part of life in all corners of the world. People in high-risk areas prepare for the worst by using the best, tried and true methods in preventing undue harm to their loved ones or properties. Nothing can prepare for the man-made storms that are heaped upon us, though, especially those designed to incite. As industry professionals, we become the voice of reason when emotions run at high velocity. Verbal outbursts, while mediating come from the desire to control. Angry tirades are best quashed immediately or dealt with from a distance rather than right-in-your-face. This type of situation can escalate quickly! The three stages of a storm:🌬 Heading into the storm - handling presented challenges thoughtfully and swiftly is relativ...
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By Lori Mode, Real Estate Made Simple
(The Mode Real Estate Group)
They are important 01 – Real Estate Agent02 – Mortgage Lender03 – Home Inspector A real estate agent facilitates property transactions by representing buyers or sellers in the buying, selling, or renting of properties. A mortgage lender provides financing for real estate purchases by offering loans to homebuyers based on creditworthiness and determining loan terms. A home inspector assesses the condition of a property by conducting thorough inspections, identifying potential issues to inform buyers about the property’s overall condition before a real estate transaction. If you or someone you know are thinking about buying or selling , please message me! I’d love to help you with the next chapter of your life. AND I will help you find a mortgage lender and a home inspector!#buyersagent #...
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By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
One of the best parts of owning a home is the freedom to make it truly your own with design choices that reflect your personality and lifestyle. Whether you lean toward contemporary design or a farmhouse aesthetic, your home is your canvas.Even so, it’s always smart to think about the long-term impact those decisions might have on your home’s value. Choosing over-personalized or unpopular materials and finishes could make your home less appealing to future buyers. And selecting out-of-style or overly-trendy elements could cause your home to feel dated quickly.To help inspire your design choices, we’ve rounded up some of the top trends we’re watching in 2024. Keep in mind, not all of these will work well in every house. If you plan to list or renovate your property, give us a call. We ca...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Nerdin Gardens: Medi-Okra is Unacceptable Regardless of intended outcomes, some people barely squeak by in life, while others give everything they do an all-out effort. If the goal is middle-of-the-road, folks should not be surprised at the less-than-stellar results. Avid gardeners know it takes time, sincere effort and consistent follow through to create a reliable, thriving environment. They also understand that nature unlocks its full potential every single time, mediocre just doesn't cut it! Making a client feel you care, matters, and by offering the help they need, trust develops, turning into meaningful and lasting relationships. A buyer client needed assistance unloading the moving truck after recording. Several people cancelled at the last minute. I rolled up my sleeves and got ...
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By Leanne Smith, The Grit and Gratitude Agent
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
Today in real estate continuing education class I heard this question being asked:Are you an Apple Tree Shaker or an Apple Picker? In other words, did you shake the Apple Tree and the apples (think clients, potential clients aka customers or prospects) fell to the ground or did you just pick up a fallen apple?This discussion happened in a Zoom class on AGENCY here in AZ.  With all the angst regarding the copycat law suits, this conversation of real estate AGENCY continues to bubble to the top. Of course, in this class there was no discussion about the lawsuits as the powers to be (AZ Association of REALTORS®) wanted to make sure there were no anti-trust violations.Given the lawsuits are about compensation or fees, the key points of this AGENCY class centered on procuring cause and align...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Warming up before a presentation. I always practiced my presentations before going into the real situation. I believe this gave me an edge as I usually came across as polished and professional. I would start with an outline of what I wanted to accomplish.By writing down my thoughts/plans I could keep a sense of direction so the presentation would flow smoothly. Also I have found brevity to be preferred by everybody listening to a presentation so by reviewing my outline I didn't "stretch" things out to far. 
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By Eileen Burns 954.483.3912, FLorida Real Estate Connector
(Trans State Commercial Realty Inc. )
AI Revolution or Resistance? Guess Photo credits:  Relay, Pixabay, Canva?  Attitude is everything in life.  How you approach challenges can be half the battle.  Change is constant and how you adapt can be positive or negative. Over the past 60 years we have gone from party line telephones to rotary phones to many different generations of smartphones.  I personally like the flip phone versus blackberry as I did not text.  Early adapter or late to the party?  It matters not so long as you join the party and get your feet wet! Google, Bing, GPS, OnStar, black boxes that track your every movement. Nothing like a muscle car and never will be again.     Not interested in intrusive gadgets in my home.  Alexa comes to mind.  Smart thermostats that could cut your electricity off at any moment in...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
Some days are more challenging than others, today was one of those days that I have not experienced in quite a while. I call that a true test of Real Estate....Seldom does this happen but when it does, I reach to my favorite philosopher Marcus Aurelius and I calm down, clearly these problems are not new, they  have been around for over 3000 years.So, with that said let me quote some of Marcus Aurelius sayings, these few quotes are in no particular order or reason hope you will enjoy them:Soon you will have forgotten all things: soon all things will have forgotten you. Imagine you were now dead or had not lived before this moment. Now view the rest of your life as a bonus and live it as nature directs. Perfection of character is this: to live each day as if it were your last, without fre...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
It's Tax Time!The photo above is my Notary Public office and the mess is 100% tax related. The worst of it is you only see about half the mess. Lucky for me I can use the receptionist desk in the Art Gallery to do Real Estate closings and other notary work.Right NOW is the best time to contact those first time home owners from 2023 and remind them that there are tax benefits they should check out in regards to their home ownership. Tax time is a great excuse to get your name in front of you clients. Let it be known I never gave my clients tax or legal advice I only wanted them to be aware that there are benefits waiting to be claimed.If I am asked for advice my answer always is: "Fear the IRS, take your taxes to a local CPA. Don't trust a free tax program or anyone else who does not wor...
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By Christopher Nelson, Montgomery County, PA - Realtor
(GenStone Realty)
Today, we're delving into the not-so-charming side of dream homes – the hidden issues that could turn your dream into a financial nightmare. So, whether you're a potential buyer or seller, stay tuned to uncover the top home inspection nightmares that might impact your transaction.THE FOUNDATIONLet's start with the very foundation that holds your dream home. It's not just about bricks and sticks; it's about the slab or basement foundation. Foundational issues can be deceptively costly, from small repairs like crack filling or soil regrading (under $1,000) to larger undertakings like underpinning or full foundation replacement (potentially $10,000 to $155,000). Knowing the condition of your foundation is crucial for a smooth transaction.THE ROOFMoving up, we reach the roof, where small re...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
With all the AI posts I would be remiss if I did not share one of my books that is hand reach from my laptop. It is called " Double Your Brain Power" written by Jean Marie Stine.If you have not read it may this post inspire you to look for it. Forget the AI stuff keep your brain and double its power.Here is a quote on page 19: You can put these University of California findings to work in your life right now.... here is the short version:1. Look at a clock or watch.2. Note how long it has taken you to read the past few pages.3. Now return to reading. This time, make a conscious effort to concentrate on reading as fast as you can without skipping anything,Now may I quote another message:In Today's world, you have only two choices:Stay as you are and continue to be overwhelmed by its dema...
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By Joyce Marsh, Joyce Marsh Homes
(Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC)
What if we stopped sharing everything on social media?What if we stopped doing that and started to keep things to ourselves.At a time... when everyone seems to think that it's not only a great idea, but a necessary one, to share every detail of their lives on social media.  Or, text messaging to all of their friends.TikTok, X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and so on...Is it time to revisit and reevaluate the desire to share everything with the world?Why do people feel the need to share everything from what they're eating, what they're wearing, and what they're watching to everyone?? Where they've been, where they're going? What they like and what they don't like.When did this get so out of control?What ever happened to privacy? Or confidentiality? A certain degree of mystery? Elusivity?...
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By Joseph Domino 480-390-6011, Real Estate Made Easy
(HomeSmart)
In a recent article here on AR, Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400 discusses the pros and cons of Title Lock Insurance. Title Insurance Yes-Title Lock Insurance Maybe NotThe article is important because with the tools available online it has become easier than ever for scammers to record legal (or illegal) documents without showing up in a government office.Here in Arizona, we do see Title Fraud. Most often it happens to vacant land. People come from other parts of the country buy a parcel of undeveloped land and then hold it for 20 or 30 years as an investment. Then after 20 years discovered the property had title changes recorded via Quit Claims or counterfeit sales contracts.Maricopa County, where I live and work, has recently implemented a free service that alerts property owners ...
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By Gloria Johnpierre, Real Estate Broker- Selling Tampa Bay Homes
(Siven Premier Real Estate, Inc)
In the world of real estate, a broker open house is often the subject of debate. Is it worth the time, money, and emotional energy required from overworked listing agents, or is it simply a waste of resources?In this article, we aim to shed light on the potential hidden treasure of the real estate world: Broker Open House. When executed with precision, Broker Open Houses can be an incredibly effective tool for marketing listings in today's competitive market.In fact, I can personally attribute at least a dozen closed transactions in the past year to the beloved Broker Open House.While many realtors express their disdain for the logistical challenges, low turnout, and costs associated with these events. I am still optimistic that with the right approach, a broker open house can become a ...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
Is everyone enjoying the latest spin of relentless repetitive messaging to use, or experiment with, Artificial Intelligence (AI)? As I log onto my laptop now, I am often greeted with "Create Stunning Images with AI". Thank you, but no, all I wanted to do was log in, check and reply to emails and do some leisurely browsing as I sip my coffee or drink my wine depending on the time of day. I've never been a fan of being pushy or pressured, I've never used those tactics on my real estate clients, yet here I find myself consistently on the receiving end of a pushy approach. How about: Hello, Endre! I can do even more with Microsoft Edge, ask me anything or pick a suggestion to get started!I've also noticed that if you express resistance or are not a fan of embracing this next wave, here come...
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By Mike Tolj, Commercial Real Estate Without the Stress!
(Tolj Commercial Real Estate )
As a seasoned commercial real estate professional with over 18 years of experience representing business owners and landlords, I’ve facilitated countless property transactions through an efficient and dedicated approach. My passion lies in helping clients fulfill their real estate ambitions, whether they’re looking to lease or purchase commercial space.Throughout my career, I’ve gathered invaluable insights on attracting and retaining optimal tenants for industrial properties. With vacancy rates rising in many markets, it’s essential to implement an effective tenant-sourcing strategy to keep your asset generating revenue.This comprehensive guide provides my best tips for finding—and keeping—the ideal industrial occupants for your property.Key Takeaways Define your ideal tenant profile a...
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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)
I recently interviewed the SD Mission Bay Resort for my Bay Park Buy Local Show:    and discovered a wonderful value-add for San Diego REALTORS...to include in their marketing and client thank you gifts. I'm always networking and thought I'd share this, in case you were not aware of it and could use it: A Great Value-Add for your 2024 Marketing, Recruiting & Client Perks!Introducing THE CLUB at San Diego Mission Bay Resort Cross-Sell Opportunity  / The Purpose – A Sales Tool:“THE CLUB” Membership at the San Diego Mission Bay Resort can be a talking point for you and your associates; something in your toolbox for a value-add for new and current homeowner-clients in the San Diego area and beyond. THE CLUB is a great option for buyers for homes without a pool, and for enjoying many other ...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Real Estate is Akin to the Weather! Unpredictability reigns big in our industry, as it is very cyclical. One day, we are inundated, almost drowning in business and the next, become so parched that even water cannot quench the ongoing thirst.  Things that can be done to remain buoyant: 💦 Turn on the messages.Reach out with a phone call, text or email to people who have appreciated the service provided in past transactions. 💦 Create a trickle effect.Get busy with the important stuff, like relationship building, not only with past clients but also affiliates near and far.  💦 Go with the flow.Rather than ruminate about things outside the scope of control, continue the success path that has worked in the past. Staying the course matters, in any market, avoid getting carried away. Consumers a...
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By Dee Toohey, Broker, ABR, AHWD, CIPS, FMS, ePro
(Innovative Realty Solutions Group)
I am seeing so many reductions in price. I showed a property yesterday that came on market $30,000 above comps a month ago and has had 2 price reductions and is still well over market. In talking to the listing agent, she said that the seller is motivated to sell, she had no showings at the original price, she had a few at the second price and a few at the new price. No questions from agents other than me.  No offers submitted.The market is speaking loud and clear!It does the seller and the listing agent no good to over price a listing by 15%.My MLS does a market report that lets me print out the active, pending and sold listings that show days on market and, for sold listings, listing price/selling price rations. This has been very useful in leading sellers to reality. Do real comps an...
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