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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 Chris Dunham, The Real Estate Guy™
(Brokers Hub Realty)
Cash Buyers: Don’t Skip the Home Inspection — It’s Worth Every PennyI get it—when you're buying a house with cash, everything moves faster. No lenders. No appraisals. No waiting. It's a smooth ride to close… until it's not.Let me say this loud and clear: just because you're paying cash doesn’t mean you should skip the home inspection.Over my 25+ years selling homes across the Phoenix metro area, I’ve worked with plenty of cash buyers—some who did inspections, and some who didn’t. Guess who regrets it later?Here’s the deal: a home inspection isn’t just a formality for lenders. It’s your chance to know what you're actually buying. Foundation cracks, roof damage, faulty plumbing, mold issues—these don’t magically disappear just because you're not financing the place.I once had a buyer who ...
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By Chris Dunham, The Real Estate Guy™
(Brokers Hub Realty)
I love animals—always have. But as someone who’s been selling homes across the Phoenix metro area for over 25 years, I’ve seen how quickly a furry friend can scare off a potential buyer and make it that much harder to sell a beautiful home.Let me paint a picture: I walk into a showing and bam—the smell hits. A powerful combo of cat litter, wet dog, and desperation masked by chemical air fresheners. The buyer’s nose crinkles. My eyes start to water and the sniffing begins. The vibe shifts. We’re no longer talking layout or upgrades… we’re wondering what’s hiding in the carpet.If you’re planning to sell your home in Arizona, and you have pets, here’s what you need to know:✅ Odor Matters – That dog smell you’ve gone nose-blind to? Buyers haven’t. Same goes for litter boxes. Remove them bef...
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By Karina Sayed, REALTOR ® CEO I BROKER I OWNER PLAYA REALTORS
(PLAYA REALTORS)
Why Choosing the Right Buyer Representative in Quintana Roo Matters More Than Browsing ListingsWhen you start looking for property in Mexico, especially in Quintana Roo, the first thing most people do is search online listings. But here’s the catch, in Quintana Roo, that’s not the smartest move.Unlike other parts of Mexico, such as Los Cabos or Puerto Vallarta, there’s no MLS here. The market is fragmented, listings are inconsistent, and many of the people posting properties don’t even hold the required real estate license (matrícula).That’s why the real question isn’t “Where do I find properties?” — it’s:  “Who will represent me?”A qualified buyer representative ensures you:✔ See the real opportunities, not just what one developer wants to sell you.✔ Don’t overpay in a market with no t...
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By Andrea Lilienfeld, Scottsdale Realtor | 55+ and Investment Expert
(The Kay-Grant Group)
The Kay-Grant Group didn’t become a team of top Scottsdale Realtors by accident.It took planning, hard work, and a relentless focus on delivering full-service real estate support to our clients; many of whom live out of state.I was reminded of that today as our team headed in different directions to check on our active for sale listings across the Valley.🌧️ Last night brought rare wind and rain to Arizona.  And while weather might seem unrelated to real estate... in many ways, it’s everything.When a Storm Hits, Who's Watching Your Home?Many of our clients are out-of-state homeowners. When storms hit and they're hundreds or thousands of miles away, they’re asking: Who can I call to check on my property and make sure there’s no damage? How do I get a key to someone I trust? Who should I c...
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By Katina Hargrove 352-551-0308, Broker/Owner, SFR®, e-PRO®, GRI, AHWD, REALTOR®
(Stake Your Land Realty, Inc.)
 We’ve all heard it, whether it pertains to investing in the stock market, buying a car or a house: “Caveat emptor,” or “Let the buyer beware.”Houses have problems, even newly built houses. The problem is that many of these problems can’t be seen and are therefore not obvious to even the professional home inspector. Some of the larger problems, however, leave clues, so let’s take a look at some of these red flags. Plumbing System Red FlagsLow water pressure could be a sign of a problem as simple as a water softener requiring service, or as complicated as a leak somewhere in the plumbing lines. If the low pressure only occurs when the hot water is on, it may be an indication of a problem with the water heater.Use the tip of your toes to press on the floor around the toilet. If it feels s...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
National Association of REALTORS® Go REALTOR® Store Contact Pay Dues Sign in Real Estate Topics  Membership  Research & Statistics  Advocacy  Education  News & Events  About NAR  More  You are here Get the Facts Consumer Guide: Working With a Real Estate Attorney Share NOTE: Consumer guides do not constitute any change in NAR policy. Real estate professionals must ensure they market properties consistent with relevant MLS rules and educate sellers on the choices available. Buying a home is one of the most important decisions you can make. Many professionals are available to help you throughout the homebuying process, including a real estate attorney. When navigating the homebuying process, this is how a real estate attorney can help you: What does a real estate attorney do? A real esta...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
When working with a real estate agent, it's essential to understand the level of responsibility they have toward you as their client. In almost all cases, when a seller lists their home with an agent, an agency relationship is formed, meaning the agent owes the seller a fiduciary duty—a high level of care and loyalty. The same can apply to buyers when they enter into an agency agreement with their agent. However, some agents may work with buyers without an agency relationship, which means they are not required to act as fiduciaries. Since each state determines its agency laws, it's essential to know what kind of representation you're receiving. Reasonable Care: The Basic Standard At a minimum, all real estate agents must provide reasonable care, meaning they must perform their job comp...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Boat and Lake Safety: SCDNR Courtesy Inspections for July 4th WeekendAs we approach the busy July 4th weekend, South Carolina’s lakes and waterways are gearing up for an influx of boaters. Whether you're out on Lake Keowee, Lake Hartwell, or another local waterway, safety should always be your top priority. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is here to help ensure that everyone enjoys the holiday safely by conducting courtesy boat inspections at public boat landings across the state.These inspections focus on verifying that your boat has all required safety equipment and that both your boat and motor registrations are up to date. These quick but thorough checks are a simple way to ensure you’re compliant and ready to enjoy the water safely this weekend.SCDNR Boat...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Sometimes it is hard to get a good night's sleep. Last night Carol and I were at the train station seeing someone off. Amtrak leaves Minot at 11:00 PM when it's on time... that is an hour later then when I usually start sawing logs. An interruption from the normal schedule of things can really leave one tired. With today being Friday I do not feel guilty about opening my business an hour later to make up for that lost hour last night.I don't like yawning all day, especially if I have appointments set. It's just not professional and I like being professional in front of clients.I know everyone has different sleep needs. What ever your sleep needs are do your best to get a good night's sleep so you can appear professional to the clients of our profession as they may judge ALL of us by you...
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By Andrea Lilienfeld, Scottsdale Realtor | 55+ and Investment Expert
(The Kay-Grant Group)
If you’ve ever lived near a world-class medical center or needed one you know just how important proximity can be. For both patients and physicians, living near top-tier healthcare isn’t just convenient; it can be life-changing.I was fortunate to grow up less than an hour from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. As a child, I didn’t realize how lucky I was. But as an adult? I’m deeply grateful.My Personal Journey with Mayo ClinicAt the age 25, I was in so much pain I couldn’t care for myself and had no idea what was happening.  Just months prior I had run my first half marathon and I was in the best shape of my life. After a series of failed diagnoses, I went on short-term disability while doctors scrambled for answers. Eventually, I was referred to Mayo Clinic in Rochester.  Withi...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Cold call prospecting can be like yelling into a dark hole. You don't know what will happen and most of the time nothing at all happens.I'm old school so when I think of cold calling I think about going door to door and introducing myself to who ever (if anyone) answers the door. It may not be the most effective way to prospect but if one person out of 100 shows interest it is worth it PLUS it's good physical exercise. As far as Real Estate goes I have only done this in a one mile radius of my own home. My logic to sticking close to home is I can tell them "I live in this neighborhood" and who can better sell their home than someone who loves the neighborhood.When you think about it all marketing is like shouting down a dark hole other than referrals. Advertising on the Radio, TV, Newsp...
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By L. Scott Ferguson, Sunny Florida Real Estate Professional
(Ask4Ferguson - Your House-SOLD Name in Real Estate)
🔥 I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Tracy Beavers on the Time to Shine Today podcast — and wow, did she deliver! If you’re a real estate pro, lender, or entrepreneur looking to grow your audience, build real relationships, and stop relying solely on social media, you need to hear what she shared.Here are 5 takeaways that will immediately shift your business mindset:1️⃣ "Your email list is the only thing you truly own in your business." 📧Social platforms can disappear — your list stays yours. Forever.2️⃣ Don’t fall for the corporate security myth 🏢💣Tracy left a 20-year award-winning sales career after realizing control over her income wasn’t real.3️⃣ Visibility = Income 👀📈If people don’t see you, they can’t buy from you. Grow your list, and stay top of mind.4️⃣ Make your emails...
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By Brett Furniss, Charlotte Property Manager
(BDF Realty, Inc.)
Savannah Bananas Event Schedule: Early Merchandise Sales: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Pre-Game Party & Player Appearances: 2:00 PM "Before the Peel" Show: 3:00 PM Gates Open: 4:30 PM Show Starts: 6:30 PM First Pitch: 7:00 PM (ET)   As I had written a few months ago, my family had the “privilege” of buying tickets to the Savannah Bananas baseball game in Charlotte earlier this month.  We had never been and the Charlotte community was whipped into a frenzy for this event at Bank of America Stadium.  It was sold out for both nights in the 74,000-capacity stadium!  Local social media was ablaze: Were you one of the lucky ones who were able to buy tickets in the lottery that started 6 months prior???   Oh, you’ve never been??  It’s such an amazing experience!  So funny!  Fun for the whole family!  Be...
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By Joe Stephenson, Real Estate Agent serving the KC metro area
(Joe Stephenson)
I’ve seen, time and again, that chasing late rent payments is one of those realities that comes with managing any rental property. When a tenant doesn’t pay rent on time, or skips out entirely on overdue rent, you’re left juggling notices, rent tracking who still owes what, and figuring out the next steps. Some people accept partial rent payments, send out a pay or quit notice, or need to stick to in person delivery for legal reasons. I find that every decision made tends to come back to clear documentation and consistency.For me, a well-written past due rent notice or notice to pay is about setting clear expectations, following local laws, and keeping your process above board in case the rent remains unpaid and you have to start the eviction process. Some owners prefer to allow partial...
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By L. Scott Ferguson, Sunny Florida Real Estate Professional
(Ask4Ferguson - Your House-SOLD Name in Real Estate)
🔥LISTEN HERE 👉 https://timetoshinetoday.com/podcast/emilyhawkins/  🔥 Just hosted a powerhouse episode of the Time to Shine Today podcast, and I had to bring the conversation over here to ActiveRain.I interviewed Emily Hawkins — creator of LeaderSHIFT — and let me tell you, her insights were tailor-made for business pros, entrepreneurs, and yes… even real estate rockstars. 💼✨Emily went from saving millions for corporate giants to transforming small businesses with simple, effective strategies that reignite passion and boost profitability. And she brought the heat.Here are 5 knowledge nuggets you can apply right now:1️⃣ Simplicity wins — eliminate what’s unnecessary and focus on what works 2️⃣ Culture is a mirror — how you lead is how your team performs 3️⃣ Communicate with clarity — sile...
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By Liz and Bill Spear, Transaction Alliance Cincinnati & Dayton suburbs
(Transaction Alliance 513.520.5305 www.WarrenCountyOhioRealEstate.com)
As we're getting closer to having our home finished (still a few months to go...as we have been saying all year!), we're preparing for the move.  And one of those big tasks is going through 30+ years of accumulations and deciding what comes with us and what doesn't. We've not exactly been minimalists, and despite rumors to the contrary, engineers can be sentimental too.  The last week or so has been a walk down memory road as I've found items and photos from elementary school, high school, my Navy days and my early days after the Navy.  And for the most part in the Keep/Trash/Donate decisions being made, I'm keeping the reminders of what made me who I am today.We're a few Goodwill runs completed with more to go, and we'll be keeping the garbage cans full for a bit.That same stroll down ...
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By Mike Tolj, Commercial Real Estate Without the Stress!
(Tolj Commercial Real Estate )
The industrial real estate market is hotter than ever—and that’s no surprise. With e-commerce growth, supply chain shifts, and tech innovations transforming the way we do business, demand for industrial space is soaring nationwide.Here’s what’s driving this surge:🚚 E-commerce Explosion: Online shopping means warehouses and distribution centers are in high demand.🏭 Supply Chain Adaptation: Companies are investing in local storage and manufacturing to stay resilient.🤖 Tech Integration: Modern industrial spaces are evolving to support automation and robotics.What does this mean for YOU? Investors: Industrial properties offer strong returns and long-term stability. Tenants: The market is competitive — location and features matter more than ever. Brokers: New opportunities abound to guide cl...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
  In today's digital world, protecting your online information is more critical than ever. You likely have multiple accounts...email, banking, investments, and social media...all of which need strong, unique passwords. Trying to create and remember complex passwords for each site can be overwhelming. That's where a password manager comes in. A password manager is a secure app that stores and generates strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts. Instead of struggling to remember dozens of complicated passwords, you only need to remember one master password. Here's why using a password manager is one of the most innovative security moves you can make: Stronger Passwords - Password managers generate complex passwords using a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. These are much ...
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By David Buck, Realtor-Broker
(Harcourts Island Real Estate)
Whether you’re moving to Oahu for work, family, or lifestyle, one of the first questions you'll face is: How do I find a place to rent — safely and efficiently? With inventory tight and scams on the rise, navigating Oahu’s long-term rental market can feel overwhelming. But with the right strategy and resources, you can find a great rental without getting burned.In this guide, we’ll break down the best way to search, what to avoid, and where to turn when listings feel too good to be true... Read More
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Gwen has a good test for us to take! What Does Your Entry Say About You? It’s easy to overlook, but your front porch (stoop, step, or path) says more than you think. It’s the first thing people see. It's the unspoken welcome before they ring the doorbell or knock. In the South, porches have long been more than architectural features. They’re where we: Greet neighbors 🌞 Sip tea or coffee ☕ Watch summer storms roll in 🌧️ Wave at passersby, even if we don’t know them 👋 But in real estate, your front entry is more than tradition—it’s a signal. Buyers notice if the walkway is cracked, if the paint is peeling, or if the lightbulb’s out. But they also notice rocking chairs, flower pots, a welcome mat, or a bench that says: Come on in. This is a place to slow down. Want to make your home feel m...
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