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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 Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
Observations on the implementation of changes to Real Estate practices. Keep in mind it is now over ten days in my market that the changes are in effect. For some it will be seven days tomorrow.How are you handling the changes as a Realtor? Are you holding your head and complaining? Or are you taking advantage of the new opportunities to interact and communicate with potential buyers and your existing clients??Some of the changes are great others not so much. To refresh those who have not been keeping up with it are as follows:1)    Buyers working with an agent now need to sign a written agreement before touring a home. This agreement will clearly outline the agent's role, services, and compensation.2)    Properties listed for sale in MLSs will no longer be able to include an offer of c...
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By Jason Mathis, Certified Tax Representation Consultant
(Mathis Tax Service)
As a real estate agent, your focus is on closing deals, building relationships, and growing your business. But in the midst of managing listings and clients, tax issues can arise that threaten to disrupt your success. At Mathis Tax Service, we specialize in helping real estate professionals like you take control of their tax situations, so you can stay focused on what you do best—selling properties and growing your career.Why Real Estate Agents Need Specialized Tax SupportThe real estate industry comes with its own unique set of tax challenges. From managing commissions to handling deductions for marketing and office expenses, ensuring that your taxes are in order can be complex. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right support, you can navigate these challenges with confi...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, The best agent in Southern Utah!
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Nerdin Gardens: Nature's Reservoirs Did you know that green, red, orange peppers aka bell peppers are small, water storage tanks? Quite often, during growing season and I cut the tops off, then stuff them with Philly cheesesteak ingredients or a hamburger mixture, parmesan cheese and chunky tomato sauce-based filling.  The peppers are pretty much watertight while growing, absorbing water up through its roots in Nerdin Gardens. I’m thinking that it’s a pretty good sustainable mechanism to collect and store water, just in case they're deprived for any amount of time. It’s like a built-in survival system.  You could say it's a 'use some now, save more for later' type use.  I am in awe about how nature continuously produces, survives and flourishes. If only humans would or could emulate the...
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By Brenda J. Andrew, Professional Realtor in N Houston & Corpus Christi
(ULTIMA REAL ESTATE)
If you enjoy what you do, you will never work a day in your lifeThis post is inspired by Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400 .  She had posted this blog It's recess, not homework  regarding the changes currently occurring in the Real Estate Industry, and a reminder of all we have been through in the past.  Is the Real Estate Industry changing?  Of course, it is ever changing.  The one constant I am told is necessary in life is change.  Imagine how boring life would be if everything constantly stayed the same.  How can we deal with these changes?  Or any of life's changes?  Do we dig a hole and crawl into it, or do we embrace the change, enjoy the process and learn to work through it?  For me, I learned my decision in 2008 when the housing market crashed.  I remember having 5 closings s...
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By Mike Tolj, Commercial Real Estate Without the Stress!
(Tolj Commercial Real Estate )
Innovative Strategies to Boost Apartment Occupancy Rates in 2024 and BeyondHigh occupancy rates are the heartbeat of the apartment rental business. Whether you're managing a small 50-unit complex or a sprawling 500-unit community, keeping your occupancy high is crucial for your property’s financial health. In today’s evolving rental market, staying ahead is more important than ever.Understanding Occupancy RatesOccupancy rates represent the percentage of rental units currently occupied. There are two key metrics to consider: Physical Occupancy: The actual number of occupied units. Economic Occupancy: The rental income collected versus potential income at market rates. To calculate your occupancy rate:Occupancy Rate = (Occupied Units / Total Number of Units) x 100Recent trends show the na...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
Why Do I Need Notice to Tour a Home?Getting ready to purchase a home in greater Destin Florida? Frustrated because developing a touring schedule is becoming more difficult than balancing the federal budget? If those sellers wish to sell, why is scheduling a showing so tough? Let's look at some reason sellers may need notice...1)Sellers may have a lot of life happening at the moment-- People sell houses for various reasons, not all of them positive. There could be a newly single parent trying to get three kids out of the house. Or perhaps the current owner is in a later life stage and has mobility issues.2) We want to see the house in the best possible light-Most buyers claim to be able to see past daily life clutter. Almost to a person they can't. We want potential buyers to focus on th...
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Real estate has probably been the best vehicle for building wealth since, well, forever – and income-producing real estate (aka rental property) may be the type of real estate that offers the greatest opportunities to small and mid-size investors. But nothing worthwhile comes without a few potential pitfalls. You can and certainly should prosper as an investor, but to do so means being mindful of some mistakes that could derail your success. In this post I talk about some of the biggest gotchas you want to be sure to keep top of mind: https://www.realdata.com/seven-mistakes-to-avoid-when-you-invest-in-rental-property/ Keep an eye out here as I share more of the lessons I've picked up over more than 50 years in real estate. And if you're ready to get serious about learning how to unlock ...
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By Dee Toohey, Broker, ABR, AHWD, CIPS, FMS, ePro
(Innovative Realty Solutions Group)
StellarMLS members have been dealing with the changes since August, 6. I'm curious. How's is it going? Are sellers still willing to pay a co-broke? How are you getting the word out? Are buyers willing to compensate their agents? Are you having issues explaining the Buyers Broker Agreement? (I hope not as other than the new changes, you should have been using this tool previously.)Do you hints or feedback for fellow agents that you wish to share?Change is not always easy. We are a resilient group of folks. We know that we must change as our rules, laws and market changes or we won't survive. 
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By Peter Mohylsky, Beach Broker, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
These are additional costs that will typically make up about two to five percent of the purchase price.  They are all negotiable, they will vary by state and it does make sense to shop around.  Examples of closing costs include loan processing costs, title insurance, and excise tax.  The costs will be different if you are a cash buyer.  Have more questions about closing costs?I have answers. Let's talk.#thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #listreports #themoreyouknow #a082124 #icanhelp #mortgage #homeowners #happyhome #finances #investment #househunting #smartmoney
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
Should The Kids Attend Home ToursAs the father of four daughters, I'm sensitive to the needs of the home buying parent. When it's time for the home tour, should we get a babysitter or allow the little ones to tag along?Some Possible Challenges With Bringing the Kids1) Having the kids will slow our showing pace-- Regardless of how well behaved, just having more people to shuffle in and out of spaces takes time.2) Young children means one adult is always distracted-- Yes, an infant may sleep soundly from start to finish, but not so much with a 3 year old. If a parent is busy minding the kid, what home details are they missing? 3) Possible liability issues-- Even with close supervision, children are naturally inquisitive. I had a child on tour one time throw a figurine at the house cat. Lu...
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By Monica Hill, the REALTOR to help you discover Delaware
(RE/Max Associates)
We sat at the table together, these five other women and myself, as part of a Girl Scout Cookie Sale training session. Hosted by our GS Council, the event was designed to get us all familiar with any new procedures, forms, and of course, any new cookies. I’ve been a Girl Scout for more years than I can count (seriously… when they ask for Years in Scouting, I always have to go back and add up… fifteen years as a Girl Scout, including college, plus over 30 years as an adult… makes… a lot of years) and yet, I hadn’t directly faced an obvious fact till I sat with those women. We talked about automation of the cookie sale and the way forms can be submitted electronically, yet there were women there whose communities didn’t have the access to that. Internet access doesn’t exist everywhere. Th...
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By Jason Mathis, Certified Tax Representation Consultant
(Mathis Tax Service)
Understanding IRS LT 11 Letter: What Real Estate Agents and Other Professionals Need to KnowThe IRS collection machine is back in full force, and tax practitioners nationwide are seeing a surge in IRS LT 11 letters. This "Notice of Intent to Levy" signals that the IRS is gearing up for aggressive collection actions, including levies on taxpayer accounts. For professionals like real estate agents, bookkeepers, and tax advisors, understanding the implications of this notice is crucial, especially if your clients are facing tax debt that could jeopardize their financial stability.If you’re working with clients who have received an IRS LT 11, also known as a Notice of Intent to Levy, it’s important to help them understand the urgency of this situation. This letter is a serious indication th...
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By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
When it comes to securing a mortgage, many factors are at play, but one stands out as a critical determinant: your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. Did you know that a high DTI ratio is the #1 reason mortgage applications get rejected?  Understanding and managing this ratio is essential for anyone looking to buy a home or refinance their mortgage.What is the Debt-to-Income Ratio?Your DTI ratio is the percentage of your gross monthly income that goes toward paying off debt, including your future mortgage. Lenders use this figure to assess your ability to manage monthly payments and overall debt load. In simple terms, it helps them determine how risky it would be to lend you money for a home. Why Does Your DTI Ratio Matter?A high DTI ratio signals to lenders that you might struggle to meet you...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, The best agent in Southern Utah!
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
People First! The Rest Follows. Industry professionals can agree that the business side of real estate is unpredictable. A property that was thought to have exceptional marketability can be the exact opposite when some factors come into play such as, location, condition, HOA fees and market conditions. Jumping through hoops for unrealistic people is not part of my professional business model plus there's a fine line and expected balancing act when tending properly to client needs.   Success often depends on the promise to perform, a strong work ethic along with a trusted group of like-minded people moving along in unified effort. Long-term real estate professionals lead the way, guiding a home purchase and home owners toward SOLD! Outcomes rely on motivation, negotiation and experience....
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
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 experie...
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By Esperanza Butler® 818 926 5425, Homes For Sale in West Hills, Ca (818) 926-5425
(KW Keller Williams Realty -Esperanza Butler-DRE 01797405)
Myths About Today’s Housing Market, and How They Hurt Buyers and SellersThere’s no denying that there are issues with the housing market. For example, homeowners that bought when interest rates were low don’t want to sell and lose their competitive rate, which means there are fewer homes on the market for buyers to choose from. And when you combine that with high home prices and interest rates, many buyers are feeling stuck.But in the midst of the current challenges, there are myths emerging that are not only untrue, but potentially harmful to buyers and sellers alike.So what, exactly, are these myths, and, more importantly, what’s the truth?
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By Jan Green - Scottsdale, AZ, HomeSmart Elite Group, REALTOR®, EcoBroker, GREEN
(Value Added Service, 602-620-2699)
By now, you may have read or heard about the National Association of REALTORS®(NAR)  lawsuit in Kansas City, Missouri wherein NAR lost and millions have been paid to settle as a result.   In general, this lawsuit claimed anti-trust, price fixing, and commissions as they relate to home sales and became effective August 17, 2024..   The class action suit was brought by a seller who claimed to have been harmed because he didn't realize he had to pay a buyer's agent commission.  The suit claims unfair practices and anti-trust violations by NAR to put it simply.     It's worth noting that everyone who earns a real estate license is a real estate agent.  But only those that belong to the National Association of REALTORS®, subscribing to the Code of Ethics, are a REALTORS® and must follow the ...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Real Estate Has Started a New Chapter in Connecticut   The evolution of the real estate industry with regards to practice is undergoing another change. Only time will tell who will benefit from the most recent changes. The new changes will be felt the most by buyers of real estate. This is a result of litigation brought on by buyers claiming that agents were responsible of inflating prices in order to be paid.  This has a slight tone of merit as historically a real estate agent's compensation was paid by sellers and in order to offer inducement to a buyer's representative money was included to pay the agent for their efforts and minimize the cost to a buyer.   Buyer Representation Prior to the 1970's, buyers needed to reach out to listing agents in order to see a house that was being o...
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By Ed Silva, 203-206-0754, Central CT Real Estate Broker Serving all equally
(Mapleridge Realty, CT 203-206-0754 )
Real Estate Has Started a New Chapter in Connecticut The evolution of the real estate industry with regards to practice is undergoing another change. Only time will tell who will benefit from the most recent changes.The new changes will be felt the most by buyers of real estate. This is a result of litigation brought on by buyers claiming that agents were responsible of inflating prices in order to be paid.  This has a slight tone of merit as historically a real estate agent's compensation was paid by sellers and in order to offer inducement to a buyer's representative money was included to pay the agent for their efforts and minimize the cost to a buyer. Buyer RepresentationPrior to the 1970's, buyers needed to reach out to listing agents in order to see a house that was being offered ...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
Pineville La Real Estate-- Found A Buyer in 24 Hours!Searching for a luxury home near Pineville La? 1511 Masters Drive certainly made a splash on the local real estate market. Let's take a look at what made this Pineville La so popular. Why 1511 Masters Drive  Custom home designed and built by Jeff Burns. One of Cenla's top builders. Over six acres including shared access to a pond  Solar panels (owned outright) have resulted in substantial utility savings Reclaimed bricks, cypress beams, and all sorts of Louisiana touches MASSIVE primary suite with patio access  second floor balcony overlooking a manicured backyard  Advice For Navigating The Pineville La Luxury Real Estate Market  The process for purchasing a luxury home in Pineville La is similar to transactions at other price ranges....
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