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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 Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey Residential Sales
(Fathom Realty)
Thank you, to the agents who do not preview propertyThank you, to the agents who never call me for feedbackThank you, to all the agents who never give feedbackThank you, to the agents who use their iPhone to take pics of new listings'Thank you, to the agent who use "Welcome Home"  as their headline on adsThank you, to the agents who provide few or incomplete MLS listingsThank you, to the agents who submit weak, incomplete unprofessional offersThank you, to the agents who return calls late, or never at allThank you, to the agents who have bad attitudes about the changes we are going throughThank you, to the agents who show up late to the appointmentThank you, to agents who show up to showings unprofessionally dressedThank you, to the agents who really miss the mark when guiding a seller ...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Over the last 60 years, the average sales price of homes has appreciated at a rate of 5.56% annually, according to the Federal Reserve Economic Data. During the same period, rent has increased at a rate of 3.88% annually which presents a compelling argument in favor of homeownership.When we analyze these figures, it becomes evident that homes have not only appreciated in value at a faster rate than the increase in rental costs, but they have also provided homeowners with a substantial asset that builds equity over time. This discrepancy in growth rates means that, in the long run, homeowners are likely to experience a greater return on their investment compared to renters.Renters, while they may have the flexibility of moving without the ties of property ownership and might have lower u...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
What Does Your Daily Schedule Look Like?When I started in real estate, I ran my business like an emergency room. Simply respond to whatever comes in the door (or voicemail). It seemed like there was always too much work and never enough money. One of the greatest lessons from coaching (in my case with the mike ferry organization) was the importance of a daily schedule. Here's how I plan my day! 1) The evening before--The final thing I do in the office is plan the next business day. Key events/scheduled calls, and for prospecting who/what typed of lead I call first. Knowing the first couple of things you have to do makes it easier to start the day! 2) Early Am- The alarm goes off at 5am. This is followed by a brisk walk with the dogs. If training for a marathon, this will be a run or gym...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Not everyone finds rodents as "cute" but if you have ever owned one as a pet you most likely found it as cute most of the time (that is excluding cleaning it's cage).What about a Realtor calling a home "cute"? Well I'd say it's just as subjective as calling a rodent cute.This Tiny home is available on line (from Poland) and I'd call it cute. That being said I've seen rundown little shacks in our MLS described as cute that should be tore down... can't say cute comes to mind in those cases.Granted a MLS description stating 600 square foot home in need of repair won't draw in first time home owners thinking about a dreamy start for their marital bliss but it will draw in people who dream of fixing up a place fit for a newly wed couple.The older I get the more I dislike puffing. Just tell t...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
Congratulations to Endre Barath, Jr on securing a Top 100 ranking for Transactions from January -June 2024. This ranking included Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties."...Your hard work and dedication has truly shined through @BHHSCalifornia couldn't be more proud to have you as part of our family. Her's to continued success and a fantastic 2024..."  This was a fun notification via email as well as on Instagram. Thank you for all my clients who made this recognition happen. Wishing you a safe and healthy life and I look forward to your comments. If you are looking for a knowledgeable, focused and goal-oriented Realtor in the Beverly Hills area who will help you achieve your Real Estate goals, please reach out to me directly! If you are looking for a pet friendly Beverly Hills...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
Pineville La Real Estate-Another One Off The Market!Searching for a luxury home around Pineville La? Need top of the line...well everything? If so, 1511 Masters Drive should have been on your must tour list. Let's take a look at why this 4 bedroom Pineville La home created such a stir in the local housing market...Why 1511 Masters Drive quality design and construction by local builder Jeff Burns. He takes pride in his work, as evidenced by these photos.  Rare combination of large lot (over 6 acres) AND neighborhood location.  Custom "Louisiana Themed" touches from floor to ceiling. Reclaimed brick pavers, cypress beams, and shutters.  Bedroom balcony overlooking the manicured backyard and tree line. Many instances of wildlife encounters over the years.  Energy efficient construction res...
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If You Ask For Help With Your Work, Does That Mean That You’re Weak? Last weekend was about sports. We watched one of the best, well-played football games Saturday (FSU vs Georgia Tech) I’ve ever seen plus tennis…some NFL and the Little League World Series. Watching the sidelines and everything else going on reminded me of a post I wrote many years ago. How do we manage what we need to do and still focus on..well…what we need to do? When we lived in Florida, Larry and I attended the Delray Beach Open. I was intrigued by the Ball Kids and their roles on the sidelines.  They serve a key role in keeping the game moving along thus allowing the players to focus on their game.   How different their game would look if the pros did not have the help of these Ball Kids! The pro players know that...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, The best agent in Southern Utah!
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Running a Factually Accurate Business? Prove it. Every day, on the MLS, I read fairy tale descriptions on residential properties for sale that seem to come from an AI app or unrealistic declarations made on the sellers behalf. Stating facts about a property will never get an agent in trouble but making statements that seem 'too good to be true', can.  I say, "Just the facts", like Sargent Friday once did on Dragnet, a television series, of long ago (I'm dating myself here)! His no nonsense approach was very effective and far from heresay. Same should go for all real estate practices. Seller motivated? Prove it. So many times I see the SELLER MOTIVATED TO SELL!!! MAKE ANY OFFER!!! SELLER WANTS IT SOLD!!! Only to find out that none of that is true. This nonsense needs to stop, seriously! ...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
Have you ever heard of the term, "Right-Sizing"? Most, I'm sure have heard of "downsizing". Right-sizing is a more "open-ended" term that encompasses many more options.As I have worked with Sellers and Buyers over the years, there are always many reasons people are choosing to move. Lifestyle changes such as job changes, marital changes, and sometimes, just a desire for a fresh start. Whatever the reason for moving, it isn't always about downsizing or upsizing."Right-sizing" means determining some very important information from your clients. A great agent will learn to ask the right questions to be able to confidently counsel your client about their options. Also, it is important to be able to assist them in determining if the "Right-Sizing" is a good idea at the time due to market con...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This article is a must-read for real estate professionals! Crafting a compelling listing description is an art, and you've captured the essentials perfectly. A well-written description can make all the difference in attracting potential buyers and setting a property apart from the competition. Thanks for sharing these insightful tips to help create descriptions that truly resonate!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP How to Write a Compelling Listing Description   Writing a compelling listing description is essential to attract potential buyers and generate interest in a property. A well-crafted description highlights the property’s best features, sets the right expectations, and motivates buyers to schedule a showing. Here’s a guide on how to write an effective listing...
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By Dena Stevens, Putting The Real Into Realtor Since 2004
(Rocky Mountain Realty )
Does anybody have a DOJ compliance sign rider? Ideas? Pictures? Anything compliant AND clever? 
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Timmothy Timm, my son, is living the life I wish I would have when I was his age. He is a very dedicated Christian truly living his life for Christ. He has projected that faith through todays strip as Titus dreams of heaven.Until our lives come to an end here on Earth we have to deal with all the imperfections Earth throws at us.The biggest imperfection we deal with is ourselves and our fellow man. Most of us try our best to be "good" people but let's face it... we fail every day. I had/have no intention to turn this into a sermon oddly enough I wanted to address one of the most discussed subjects in Active Rains Q&A section, poor/misleading MLS home descriptions. I don't think anyone is going to hell for poor and even inaccurate listing descriptions, it takes more than that 😈. That bei...
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By Mike Tolj, Commercial Real Estate Without the Stress!
(Tolj Commercial Real Estate )
Planning Your Commercial RenovationLet’s dive into the planning phase, the foundation of a successful commercial renovation. I know the urge to start tearing down walls can be strong, but hold that enthusiasm for a moment. A solid plan is your best ally here. Start by clarifying what you want to achieve with this renovation. Are you aiming to attract new tenants, improve energy efficiency, or simply refresh the property’s look? Document these goals—they’ll guide you throughout the project.Next, conduct a comprehensive property assessment. This means a detailed inspection of every corner, potentially with the help of experts. Identifying issues now can prevent costly surprises later. Let’s talk numbers—budgeting is crucial. Add 20% to your estimated budget for contingencies. It’s better ...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
Destin Florida Real Estate-What Is The Best Day to List My House?Getting ready to sell your home around Destin Florida? One of the common questions I get from home sellers is what is the best day to hit the market? That's a GREAT question, let's go over some options...Advantages to listing on various days 1) Wednesday/Thursday-- People (read buyers) are in the heart of their weekly routine. Any work/home fires were likely put out earlier in the week. Folks will also plan their weekend home tours in advance. This gives us a couple of days to market before the end of the week. 2) Saturday-- Hot off the press, not even waiting until Monday to make a splash on the market! This is diva house day. Buyers need to accommodate HER to get in before the crowd. 3) Monday--The theory here is more ag...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
How to Write a Compelling Listing Description  Writing a compelling listing description is essential to attract potential buyers and generate interest in a property. A well-crafted description highlights the property’s best features, sets the right expectations, and motivates buyers to schedule a showing. Here’s a guide on how to write an effective listing description: 1. Start with a Captivating Opening Attention-Grabbing Headline: Begin with a strong headline that highlights a key feature or unique selling point of the property, such as "Charming Victorian with Modern Updates" or "Stunning Lakefront Property with Panoramic Views." Engaging Introduction: The first sentence should draw the reader in. Use descriptive language to create an emotional connection, such as "Welcome to your dr...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
Your House Is Under Contract, What Could Go Wrong?Putting your home on the market can be an exciting (and a little scary) life transition. After a bunch of paperwork, professional photos (please use professional photos), and marketing the winning offer is inked. Nothing left to do but pop the Champagne right? Let's looks at some common escrow challenges (and how we prep for them).Escrow Killers1) Home inspection issues-- Within a days of acceptance, a fellow with a ladder and charged laptop will take a look at the home. His/Her report will go a long way in determining what happens next. What's the best approach as a seller? Fix  the defects you are aware of prior to listing. Short on cash? Disclose and adjust your price accordingly.2) Appraisal shortfall--Depending on loan type, a third...
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By Monica Hill, the REALTOR to help you discover Delaware
(RE/Max Associates)
Among the thoughts that the priest shared today as Mass was a statement he made: How awesome it is when we are challenged. That was in the context of being challenged in our faith, especially within our families, to illustrate the importance of our faith to our children. He went on to say that as the world has become more automated, it becomes more challenging to stay on course. We are distracted by all the bells and whistles of the world, along with the darker elements, and dragged away from things that truly matter to us. Of course, being me, my mind wandered off. Automation should make us better, more efficient, yet it can also divert our attention. Think of how many times each day we are offered the next best thing for our business. Now, perhaps more than ever, we are being tempted ...
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By Dana (Lerner) Sparks, Satisfying You with Service Innovation & Education
(Maximum One Realty - Managing Broker)
Watch video to learn how to complete the Brokerage Compensation paragraph in the Georgia Association of REALTORS (GAR) Seller Brokerage Agreement.  This video addresses Seller compensation to their own Broker, Seller-Side compensation to Buyer's Broker, how the contract addresses agent having "both sides" of a contract AND how to avoid Violating Fair Housing Laws when addressing the NAR Settlement issue of "conditional compensation."  ALWAYS CHECK WITH YOUR OWN BROKER PRIOR TO COMPLETING ANY CONTRACT FORM.Link to pdf with extensive Notes: https://realestateacademyofamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Notes-on-How-to-Complete-Compensation-Paragraphs-in-GAR-Seller-Buyer-Brokerage-8-24.pdfDana SparksQualifying Broker, Maximum One Greater Atlanta, REALTORSDana@MaximumOneRealty.com
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Real estate agents play a crucial role in guiding consumers through one of life’s most significant and financially impactful transactions ~ purchasing or selling a home. Their expertise, advocacy, and unwavering support are invaluable in navigating the complexities of the real estate market. At Coldwell Banker Realty, we are deeply committed to empowering our agents with the tools and resources they need to serve their clients with excellence and professionalism. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced homeowner, having a knowledgeable real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. They bring a wealth of experience, local market insight, and negotiation skills that ensure you make informed decisions every step of the way. Dorie Dillard, with her years of experi...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
What can I say, Thomas J. Nelson has a great blog, if you miss it here it is again.  This was the question posed in Lab Coat Agents recently and there were some very good and some very expected answers. But as I was about to write in my "obvious answer" this notion hit me and I went with it instead: The Most Important Quality a Real Estate Agent Should Have, As I See It: LOVE In the world of real estate, one quality stands above all others—LOVE. It’s not just a feeling but a driving force that fuels success and resilience in this demanding industry. First, you must embrace the entrepreneurial spirit. Real estate isn't just a job; it’s a business you own and operate. To thrive, you need to love the process of building and nurturing that business. This means waking up every day with the p...
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