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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 Matt Helganz
(Meridian Capital Real Estate)
Welcome, fellow landlords, to the ever-evolving landscape of property management in Los Angeles in 2024. Navigating the responsibilities and challenges of being a landlord in this dynamic city requires a blend of knowledge, adaptability, and strategic planning. Whether you're a seasoned property owner or just dipping your toes into the rental market, here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the ins and outs of being a landlord in Los Angeles this year. First and foremost, familiarize yourself with the latest laws and regulations governing landlord-tenant relationships in the city. Los Angeles has strict rent control ordinances and tenant protection laws that are continually updated to address the evolving needs of renters. Stay informed about any changes or updates to these reg...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Discover how youth sports can influence real estate decisions, from choosing a neighborhood with great sports facilities to the impact of local sports culture on property values. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP As a mother and grandmother who has sat through many, many Little League games, it suddenly hit me that there are many similarities between our tiniest of athletes and the "sport" of real estate. And, any of you who have navigated the "game" of real estate, you fully understand the ups and downs of this business. There are days we sit back and enjoy the game while there are other days that are nail-biters, overtime, and exhaustion. Here are my observations regarding Little League sports and real estate: ⚾️CALLING THE SHOTS - We all know "those" parents/grand...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
From understanding emerging technologies to mastering marketing strategies, this guide offers insights into the key areas of focus for ongoing education.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP A recent article in Inman sparked my attention given my experience in public, private and corporate education.  The author shared 11 things he wished were taught to real estate agents in real estate school. Given the high drop out rate of licensed real estate professionals, this list is good, but fails to address what I have observed. #1 Missing Piece – Know the Sales Process Far too many wanna be agents have zero to limited sales experience.  Real estate is first and foremost about sales and requires a thorough understanding of the entire sales process. #2 Missing Piece – The Realit...
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By Hugh Grant, I help investors and consumers with real estate
(RealMax Realty)
A few hundred years ago, the best tools we had to fight fires were bucket brigades. But nowadays, fires are much rarer, and we have much more sophisticated tools for preventing and suppressing them. How did fire prevention and suppression become so accessible? And what's the best way to utilize these tools?The State of Modern Fire Prevention/SuppressionFire prevention and fire suppression have evolved considerably over the course of humanity’s development. Today, we have more tools, strategies, and knowledge than ever before; when used properly, this collection of resources can prevent the vast majority of fires and deal with any anomalies that break out.For example:·       Diversity of products. If you conduct a brief online search, you'll quickly realize just how many thousands of fir...
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By Leanne Smith, The Grit and Gratitude Agent
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
When selling a home, many states require real estate property disclosure. This requirement usually happens because of lawsuits where the sellers failed to disclose known property defects or what are also identified as known material facts.In AZ, the AZ Association of REALTORS® has a copyrighted, eight page disclosure document that has been approved by lawyers. This document, Seller's Property Disclosure Statement (for homes) or Vacant Land Seller's Property Disclosure Statement   is alignment with current state statues as well as outcomes from past lawsuits.Years ago, I had the opportunity to list a manufactured home. This residential listing opportunity was a referral from a friend, now a client as well.After touring both inside the home and outside the property, I asked if there was a...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
 From understanding credit reports to implementing effective repair strategies, embark on your journey towards homeownership with confidence. Don't miss out on this essential resource for achieving your real estate goals through credit repair.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP   For many individuals and families, owning a home is a key part of the American Dream. But what happens when your credit score isn't ready for the mortgage approval process? Credit repair becomes your beacon of hope. This blog post is dedicated to those seeking to repair their credit, specifically homebuyers who are considering working with the Carey team. At no cost to you, the Carey team offers credit repair guidance aimed at making you mortgage-ready. This is not just about simple advice; it...
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By June Piper-Brandon, Creating Generational Wealth Through Homeownership
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Fraud on the Rise with Vacant Land ListingsIn this electronic age, there are more and more opportunities for those who would wreak havoc on our lives to do so and those who would find ways to defraud us of those things we own.  I've gotten several requests from would-be sellers to list and sell vacant land recently.  But, upon doing my due diligence it seemed that the inquiring party did not have the authority to sell the property. So, to avoid heartache and grief when listing land here are some tips to help. Request a copy of and review the owner’s government-issued photo ID before signing the listing agreement, be sure you have this for all parties on title and if one or more parties are deceased be sure to get a copy of the death certificate and any will or documentation to show that...
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By Robb Harpster & Tera Barker, Residential real estate services in Central Ohio
(Century 21 Excellence Realty)
 For many individuals and families, owning a home is a key part of the American Dream. But what happens when your credit score isn't ready for the mortgage approval process? Credit repair becomes your beacon of hope. This blog post is dedicated to those seeking to repair their credit, specifically homebuyers who are considering working with the Carey team. At no cost to you, the Carey team offers credit repair guidance aimed at making you mortgage-ready. This is not just about simple advice; it's about hands-on strategies and personalized support from knowledgeable professionals who understand that repairing credit is not a one-size-fits-all journey.The Fundamentals of Credit RepairThe journey to improving your credit score often begins with understanding that significant change doesn't...
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By Stephen Fells, Marketing, Technology, Fun and News!
(AgencyLogic)
In today's Real Estate Podcast, from Real Estate Rockstars, Caitlyn Blosser, gets 100 percent of her real estate business from SOI and referrals. She joins Real Estate Rockstars to share how. Listen and learn the easy way to love on past clients, how to farm your neighborhood, and what it takes to enjoy a long, successful real estate career. Shelby and Caitlyn also discuss the best gifting services for Realtors, the key to long-term real estate success, and low-cost events that your contacts will love. AgencyLogic shares the best real estate podcasts daily. Click here for more great podcasts!
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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)
Loyalty Beyond the Game: Standing Proud with the 49ersIn the wake of the Super Bowl, emotions run high, KC victories celebrated, and SF defeats mourned. As a lifelong fan of the San Francisco 49ers (1979), I find myself reflecting not just on the game, but on the profound relationship loyalty forged with this team...and beyond, looking into my business and personal life.For many, sports allegiance transcends mere fandom; it's a deeply rooted connection built on shared experiences, memories, and a sense of belonging. And while it's easy to bask in the glory of victory, true loyalty reveals itself in moments of adversity.The Super Bowl loss stings, no doubt. Yet, as I reflect on the journey of this season, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride. Pride not just in the team's ...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Call me to get in! As a long-time southern Utah resident, who truly enjoys the high desert climate, I can offer specific insights and information, benefitting both home buyers and sellers. From a small 55+ condominium, to a sprawling estate, I am the real estate agent to call who can get you in. As an experienced real estate agent, I am respectful toward fellow agents, affiliates and clients. It's most important to: Maintain professionalism Deliver reliable, up-to-date information Allow the Code of Ethics be a guide every day Surround myself with positive, motivated people Avoid negative discussions putting others in a bad light  Listening to wants and needs, then passing along information keeps me in business and clients happy! As most of us know, that is the intended, daily goal in th...
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By KAREN SANCHEZ, ...Marketing your home like no one else will.
( Reputable Realty)
Have you search for lost money lately?  You might want to check out your states website and see if you misplaced anything.https://www.fdic.gov/resources/resolutions/bank-failures/failed-bank-list/unclaimed-property-states.htmlYou don't need to pay someone to look for you or pay a fee to get your money back.  So be careful where you search. You don't want to loose anymore money. If you want more info about the CALHalfa dream program get in touch right away. It'll go away soon. The video will stay around longer than the program.I'm Karen I market your home like no one else will. I offer Mom-approved customer service. Agents, I am a referral resource you can trust. Call me, and we can talk. I serve the Victor Valley of CA and other areas by request.  Karen L. Sanchez Broker#01804752   "Mar...
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By Lori Mode, Real Estate Made Simple
(The Mode Real Estate Group)
🚚 Moving is hard... it's hard on you but it's especially hard on kids! Here are my tips for making it easier on your kids during your move! Anything else you have to add to the tips? Comment below... #realestate #realestateadvice #realtor #sellingahome#movingwithkids #whoyiuworkwithmatters#sacramentorrealestate #elkgroverealestate#sellingrealestate #sellinghomes #realtorlifestyle#howtosellhomes #sellertips #buyingahome
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
From hidden structural issues to unseen damages, this guide sheds light on the critical aspects of a thorough home inspection. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP 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 FOUNDATION Let'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 foun...
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By Joyce Marsh, Joyce Marsh Homes
(Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC)
Selling a home with young children can feel chaotic, unpredictable and slightly comical.  But, here are some genuine insights to help you navigate this wild ride of home selling when you have kids. As a mom and a home designer, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to navigate the home selling process while juggling the demands of parenthood. While I no longer have young kids living at home, I have worked with many young families with children both as a real estate professional and interior designer  With that in mind, here are a few of the most practical tips that I can offer, to help make selling your home with kids less stressful in a stress filled world.  Prep and Purge:I know you’ve heard this before, but this is no joke. You have to get rid of all of your accumulated stuff! T...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Rewards in real estate come from many areas.  One great source is repeat customers.  If they like what we do, mother will be back and they will brag about us to their friends and co-workers.  I am a firm believer that if we Wow my clients they will pass our name on to everyone they know who even starts talking about buying or selling real estate.  I am a firm believer that the more we do for our clients and the more we communicate, the more they will remember us.i am a firm believer in what goes around comes around.Now phone,  I believe you will ring with referrals! 
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By Leanne Smith, The Grit and Gratitude Agent
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
A recent article in Inman sparked my attention given my experience in public, private and corporate education.  The author shared 11 things he wished were taught to real estate agents in real estate school.Given the high drop out rate of licensed real estate professionals, this list is good, but fails to address what I have observed.#1 Missing Piece – Know the Sales ProcessFar too many wanna be agents have zero to limited sales experience.  Real estate is first and foremost about sales and requires a thorough understanding of the entire sales process.#2 Missing Piece – The RealityBeing a real estate agent as an independent contractor is a sole proprietor of a small business.  Very few new agents and even established agents have a strategic thinking business action plan.  If there is a p...
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By Joyce Marsh, Joyce Marsh Homes
(Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC)
Great words of wisdom from the late Lou Ludwig...  "Learn to become a better person and learn from your mistakes . . . . and be willing to step to the edge and be an innovator and trendsetter.  Step Out of the Box and Be an Innovator and Trendsetter  “Sometimes when you innovate, you make mistakes. It is best to admit them quickly and get on with  improving your other innovations.” Steve Jobs 1955 -2011, American Entrepreneur, Marketer, Inventor, Co-Founder and Chairman, CEO of Apple Inc       As I see it. . . . . . . . Step out of the box and be an innovator and trendsetter   Innovators and trendsetters . . . . move to the edge to find success.   Innovators will occasionally make mistakes to find an edge. When they make a mistake they admit it . . . . correct the condition. . . . . and...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Learning from people here is the Rain is worth it and Barbara Todaro is one to learn from all the time. We commonly hear the phrase “do what works best for you” so we continue to follow that system because it’s familiar and comfortable.  When discussing listing presentations, there is a one-step visit and a two-step presentation.  In my area, the majority of agents use a two-step.  Sellers now expect it!! However, whether we use one or the other should not make a difference.  The two step actually allows us more time to “assess” and “make good decisions.”  The one step is a “one shot deal” but with either method, the agent’s presentation will be the determining factor. One cannot say that because he/she planned a two-step the homeowner chose someone else.  If the presentation reflects t...
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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)
"People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."Author and Founder/Chairman of BNI-Business Network Int'l, Ivan MisnerAilina, Dr. Ivan Misner & Myself circa 2007Your action for today is to do something special and unexpected for one of your clients or friends that shows them how much you care. This doesn't have to cost money, be creative!Design An Extraordinary Day! 👉 Get After It / Take Action Archives 👈We work 100% By Referral!Our experienced team is coached by the #1 businesscoaching company in North America:Buffini & Company for over 20 years!We Provide Excellent Service and:Active Duty Military DiscountsVeteran RebatesSchool Teacher RebatesFirst Responder RebatesAll our listed properties come with:and Professional Photography,Marketing and Negotiating Skills...
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