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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 June Piper-Brandon, Creating Generational Wealth Through Homeownership
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Reviews Are the Lifeblood of Our BusinessI have the true pleasure of helping a couple find a rental home in December. We had some challenges to work with, but in the end, I found the perfect house for them and they are making it a home. I had the pleasure of being invited to their Super Bowl Party recently and they have been settling in with the help of a very supportive and loving family.They posted this great review on Yelp for me:June has been a God sent! She truly embodies what it means to be not only a great realtor, but also a great friend/person! Her passion for real estate shows in her authenticity, her care to detail, and her ability to see a couple and pinpoint exactly what they are looking for. She was extremely honest and thoughtful throughout the entire process and communic...
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By Christopher Shearer MBA DRE #02062657, Experience You Can Trust. Results You Can Count On
(Christopher Shearer Real Estate)
Understanding the Dun & Bradstreet PAYDEX Business Credit ScoreIn the business world, one of the most important credit scores is the PAYDEX score from Dun & Bradstreet. This score evaluates a company’s risk in terms of lending, similar to how an individual’s personal credit score reflects their financial reliability. Essentially, the PAYDEX score is the business counterpart to your personal credit score. So, if your business had a dating profile, this would be its “reliability” rating.Click Here For Free Guide on Getting Business Loans and Lines of CreditWhat is the PAYDEX Score?The Dun & Bradstreet PAYDEX® Score is a dollar-weighted numerical indicator that shows how well a company has paid its bills over the past year. It’s based on trade experiences reported by vendors to Dun & Brads...
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By Peter Mohylsky,, Call me at 850-517-7098
(Property Management International-Destin)
Declutter, declutter, declutter.  This is a journey that can take a little time or it can take a great amount of time. If you plan to sell your home, you can present it in pristine condition without breaking the bank. Here are a few ideas to give you a big bang for the buck.                 Caulking is one of those bangs.  Although it may seem minor, replacing old, worn-out caulk in bathrooms, kitchens, and around windows can significantly enhance the appearance of your spaces. This affordable update will instantly revitalize the look of your home. It's best to hire a professional for quality caulking. Once completed, the transformation is remarkable.   A deep clean is a must! A professional clean can create a lasting positive impression. Tackle every corner—carpets, windows, and applia...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
The Texas REALTORS®, is our state association that keeps us informed, educated, and involved with all-things real estate-related at the political level.  We enjoy two, great meetings/conferences each year. These events provide agents from all over our state to meet with our various committees, stay focused on important legislation that affects our industry, and, provides us a way to connect and network with other agents.I served as the 2024 Commercial Chair for the state and had a wonderful experience. We have some excellent commercial real estate professionals who provide our members with a ton of knowledge and experience. I enjoyed this role very much. As I pass the reins, I am confident the good work we have achieved in this committee, will continue.This year, I was honored to be int...
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By Roy Kelley
(Retired)
Go for all those minor repairs. Fix leaky faucets, make sure all doors and drawers operate smoothly, and address any worn or torn shades, blinds, and window treatments. Buyers notice these small details, giving the impression of a well-cared-for home.   If you plan to sell your home, you can present it in pristine condition without breaking the bank. Here are a few ideas to give you a big bang for the buck.                 Caulking is one of those bangs.  Although it may seem minor, replacing old, worn-out caulk in bathrooms, kitchens, and around windows can significantly enhance the appearance of your spaces. This affordable update will instantly revitalize the look of your home. It's best to hire a professional for quality caulking. Once completed, the transformation is remarkable.   ...
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By Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® CRS,ABR,PSA,RCS-D, CFSP, Coastal San Diego, Veteran's & Retirees Services
(Big Block LPT Realty 858.232.8722)
The February Challenge invites us to reflect deeply:Why We Love What We Do?I must begin with a truth—real estate sales, while a part of my journey, does not stir my "love". Admittedly, I have found a passion for it and success in it, navigating its challenges with a blend of skill and strategy. I enjoy aspects like marketing, negotiating, and problem-solving; in fact, I revel in the thrill of the process. Yes, fun can be found amidst the complexities.So, if not real estate, what do I truly love?True love is something I reserve for my cherished bride Ailina Nelson , my beloved son Wyatt, my family and friends, and of course, our dear Mr. Whiskey Wiggles.Yet, the challenge requires me to express why I love my work - what I do. And I can! Because at the core of what I do is something much ...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
 When it comes to real estate investing, location is everything. Buying in the wrong area or failing to recognize market trends can turn what seems like a great deal into a financial mistake. As your trusted real estate broker, Charles Stallions, I ensure my clients make wise investment decisions by analyzing key factors like job growth, crime rates, and overall economic stability.A thriving local economy with substantial employment opportunities often increases property demand and home values. On the other hand, declining job markets or high crime rates can reduce demand and leave you struggling to find tenants or buyers. Understanding market trends is just as important—buying in an overheated market could mean overpaying while failing to recognize an emerging hotspot could mean missin...
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
If you plan to sell your home, you can present it in pristine condition without breaking the bank. Here are a few ideas to give you a big bang for the buck.               Caulking is one of those bangs.  Although it may seem minor, replacing old, worn-out caulk in bathrooms, kitchens, and around windows can significantly enhance the appearance of your spaces. This affordable update will instantly revitalize the look of your home. It's best to hire a professional for quality caulking. Once completed, the transformation is remarkable. A deep clean is a must! A professional clean can create a lasting positive impression. Tackle every corner—carpets, windows, and appliances all deserve special attention. A clean home indicates to potential buyers that the property has been well-maintained.D...
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By Dana (Lerner) Sparks, Satisfying You with Service Innovation & Education
(Maximum One Realty - Managing Broker)
 FINAL Episode in the Series on the 2025 Changes to the Georgia Association of REALTORS Contract Package! Dana Sparks -Broker, Maximum One Greater AtlantaDana@MaximumOneRealty.com
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By L. Scott Ferguson, Sunny Florida Real Estate Professional
(Ask4Ferguson - Your House-SOLD Name in Real Estate)
📚Listen for our FREE BOOK give-away!📚I had the pleasure of sitting down with Danny Martin, a lifelong entrepreneur and business coach who knows what it takes to build, grow, and lead with passion. From delivering newspapers at 13 to thriving as a multi-industry business owner, Danny proves that enthusiasm, service, and mindset are the ultimate game-changers.💡 Key Takeaways from My Interview with Danny Martin:1️⃣ Sales is a transfer of enthusiasm – If you believe in it, others will too! 🔥 2️⃣ Every journey starts somewhere – From paper routes to business ownership, small steps matter. 🚀 3️⃣ Lead with service, not self-interest – Focus on helping others, and success will follow. ❤️ 4️⃣ Your mindset determines your outcomes – Cultivate a winning attitude daily. 💪 5️⃣ The long game matters ...
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By Anna "Banana" Kruchten, 602-380-4886
(Retired Broker/Owner)
Back in the early 90's I was involved in an intensive leadership course that went on for weeks and weeks. One of my favorite experiences was the High Ropes Course.  It scared  the living bajeebers out of me! They roped us up and then one by one we had to lean over a cliff - kind of like we were going to take off like a bird. I didn't handle it well on the first try but by my 2nd try I realized that we were totally safe. What a freeing feeling looking out over a gorgeous valley 'flying'. Well not really flying but it felt like time was suspended. A few years later when I was by then staffing and speaking at the course, one of the students (who was a pretty big guy) was roped up - AND had this idea that he was supposed to jump off and climb back up. OMG you can imagine our surprise when w...
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By Mike Schneider, ABR, CDPE, SFR
(10 YRS with Active Rain !)
looking for your opinion....For years I've been thinking about the value we have in 2nd Opinions....Medically, Mechanically, etc.  Encouraged when we're fearful of a medical diagnosis....either personally or a loved one....It's an act completely acceptable in society...We're purchasing a used car...and reaction prior to committment, is that 2nd opinion by a trusted life long mechanic to assess its condition....all common sense...So what about 2nd Opinions within the Real Estate arena..?...buyer and seller anxieties. Our knowledge and experience are pillars of market knowledge...but what about 2nd Opinions ? Of course sellers and buyers have every right to pursue another opinion...Here's another thought///   How often do realtors rely on 2nd opinions? Feedback...is a  natural tool design...
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By Christopher Shearer MBA DRE #02062657, Experience You Can Trust. Results You Can Count On
(Christopher Shearer Real Estate)
How to Navigate Real Estate Contracts: A Beginner’s GuideFor new real estate agents, contracts can feel overwhelming. They’re full of legal jargon and complex terms that can be confusing, but understanding them is essential for ensuring smooth transactions and protecting both your clients and yourself. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some common contract terms, explain their meanings, and highlight key pitfalls that new agents should watch out for.1. The Basics of Real Estate ContractsA real estate contract is a legally binding agreement between a buyer and a seller (or landlord and tenant) that outlines the terms and conditions of a property transaction. Whether you’re handling a sale, lease, or rental agreement, understanding the core components of these contracts is crucial.Mos...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
The first words out of my past client’s mouth when I answered her call, "it's so nice to hear your voice," were such a pleasure to hear.I had called the other day and left a message and it was nice to hear her voice as well…it’s been a number of years. I have sent multiple emails and handwritten cards in accordance with my “staying in touch with past clients” plan. And we have exchanged multiple emails about the housing market conditions, additional purchase opportunities, and more in response to her periodic email requests.But there is something special about talking in person on the phone, instead of sending multiple text messages and emails that are so much a part of our business, and no doubt our personal lives, too. They are important, for sure, but so much more impersonal in some ...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Let’s be real: the real estate market is a bit of a rollercoaster lately, isn't it? Up one minute, down the next. And if you're trying to make sense of property valuations in this whirlwind, you're not alone. Market trends can change overnight, like finding out that the most coveted piece of luxury furniture isn’t some exclusive rug or Italian marble but, apparently, property location (who knew?). But hang on a second, while that’s still true, the right mix of factors (yep, including interior design!) can be your secret weapon in these unpredictable times.Consider, for example, the unexpected impact of a high-end, limited-edition piece of furniture, such as something from the Edra collection with Swarovski. It’s not just about aesthetics (though it definitely adds some serious flair): i...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
When listing a home, timing is everything. One of the most important questions a listing agent can ask a seller is:👉 “What does your timeline look like to go to market?”This simple yet strategic question sets the stage for a smooth, successful sale. It ensures everyone is on the same page, avoids last-minute surprises, and helps position the home for maximum exposure.🔑 Why This Question is Crucial ⏳ Market Readiness: Are You Truly Ready? Some sellers want to list ASAP, while others need time to declutter, stage, or complete repairs. Example: A seller eager to list next week but still has unfinished renovations? Knowing this early helps you set realistic expectations and avoid delays. 📈 Strategic Pricing & Market Timing The right timing can impact a home’s value. Rushing to market in a s...
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By Anna "Banana" Kruchten, 602-380-4886
(Retired Broker/Owner)
Being an Ambassador of any organization is a worthwhile way to serve the greater good of the community.  Personally I've been an ambassador of many organizations over the years.  One of my favorites was the  Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and of course my other favorite is ActiveRain.  Many years ago I received a phone call from the powers that be at that time, asking me to step up and be an ambassador for ActiveRain.My answer - absolutely I"d love to be an ActiveRain Ambassador! I joined ActiveRain in 2006 but like many just hung out looking and not doing much for awhile.  Then I 'got it'.  WOW there is so much to learn here about blogging, long tail and short tail searches and the list went on and on.  The most amazing part to me was all the AWESOME members that reached out to me, showed...
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By Dana (Lerner) Sparks, Satisfying You with Service Innovation & Education
(Maximum One Realty - Managing Broker)
 Dana Sparks, Broker, Maximum One Greater AtlantaDana@MaximumOneRealty.com770-919-8825 x 302Metro Atlanta Area
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
When preparing to list a home, one of the best ways to create an engaging and compelling listing is to ask the seller:👉 What do you love most about your home?👉 What are its best selling features?These questions go beyond the basics of square footage and bedroom count. They bring out the home’s unique personality, emotional appeal, and hidden gems that can attract buyers on a deeper level.Why These Questions Matter✅ Emotional Appeal – Buyers often choose homes based on how they feel rather than just logical factors. A seller’s personal connection can help create a heartfelt story that resonates.✅ Highlighting Unique Features – Sellers can reveal charming aspects that might not be immediately obvious, such as: A cozy reading nook by a sunny window. A vibrant community with friendly neighb...
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By Christopher Shearer MBA DRE #02062657, Experience You Can Trust. Results You Can Count On
(Christopher Shearer Real Estate)
How to Use Realtor Property Resource (RPR) to Price Homes Effectively: A Step-by-Step WalkthroughRPR offers a powerful suite of tools for real estate professionals, but navigating all its features to price homes effectively can sometimes be overwhelming, especially for those new to the platform. To make the most of RPR, let's walk through some key steps to help you accurately price a home, leveraging RPR’s data-driven features. Getting Started with RPRBefore diving into pricing a home, ensure you're familiar with the RPR interface and features. If you're a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), you’ll have access to RPR by logging in with your NAR credentials at RPR'swebsite.Once logged in, the dashboard is your gateway to all the tools and resources RPR offers. Here are ...
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