Admin

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 Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® CRS,ABR,PSA,RCS-D, ePRO, Serving Coastal San Diego, Veteran's & Seniors
(Big Block Realty 858.232.8722)
I can only speak for the great Golden State. In my opinion, a California real estate specialist is a licensed professional who focuses on the real estate market within the state of California and more specifically their geographic area of expertise. Their responsibilities can be quite varied but typically include the following: Market Analysis: They analyze market trends, property values, and economic indicators to provide insights into the best times to buy or sell properties. Property Listings: They list properties for sale or rent, showcasing them through various marketing channels to attract potential buyers or tenants. Client Representation: They represent buyers, sellers, landlords, investors or tenants in real estate transactions, ensuring their clients' interests are protected a...
Comments 17
By Denise Lones, CSP, MIRM, CDEI - Real Estate Coaching & Branding
(The Lones Group, Inc.)
Letting Go and Learning to Delegate When I first started selling real estate, I was a young "whipper-snapper" who wanted to set the entire industry on fire. I had it all planned. I was going to be the Number One real estate agent in America - no, the WORLD! - and I was going to do it alone. Being young and naïve, I truly believed I didn't need anyone else. I wanted to do everything myself. I wasn't going to ask anyone for help. I wanted to be successful and thought that the definition of success was doing it all myself. How wrong I was and my, how time changes things! Now I look at that girl with her new agent's license and laugh. If only I could step back in time and tell her all the mistakes she was going to make - but she wouldn't have listened anyway. The biggest difference between...
Comments 8
By Alan May, Home again, home again...
(Jameson Sotheby's International Realty)
We're all addicted to watching the news these days, and it's fast breaking news. Everything is changing at lightning speed, and it's hard to keep up with.  I don't know about you, but I'm getting tired of seeing every single story with the headline "Breaking News".. It's like in high school and college...If you run that damn yellow highlighter through every line in the text book... well then nothing is highlighted.  So if you title everything as Breaking News, then nothing is Breaking News.It's The Boy Who Cried Wolf all over again.  Breaking News was designed to try to catch my attention, but if you use it over and over (and over) again... I'm sorry... I just become inured to it.You might as well have created a news program entitled "Breaking News".  I think they should consider hiring...
Comments 9
By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
As a dedicated member of our Master Mind Group, which convenes monthly, I'm thrilled by the insights we share. Our Broker has brought together 12 of us, each tasked with presenting once a year. The knowledge exchange has been invaluable. This week, a colleague presenting, highlighted the importance of understanding and articulating our unique Value Propositions (VPs).We are at a pivotal juncture in real estate, faced with new industry regulations. It’s crucial for us to adapt and change our dialogue with clients. Embracing these changes positively will enhance our presentations and client interactions. A key resource introduced by my colleague is the book "Exactly What to Say: For Real Estate Agents" by Phil M. Jones, Chris Smith, and Jimmy Mackin. This book offers 30 essential phrases ...
Comments 22
By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, The best agent in Southern Utah!
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
My Promise to Clients  In this wonderful world of real estate, up/down markets cycle through, depending greatly on the economy, interest rates, supply & demand. Though unable to control outside factors, when representing my clients, there have always been exceptions:My Promise to Clients * I will do my best to listen intently.* I will do my best to encourage success.* I will be honest and truthful in all aspects.* I will diligently protect your privacy above all.* I will always put your wants and needs first. Am thankful to be present, to show gratitude to those who have loyally supported my business through the years. These guiding principals, based on ethical standards, have been my real estate practice from the beginning, without fail.  I pinky promise!  
Comments 19
By Dana (Lerner) Sparks, Satisfying You with Service Innovation & Education
(Maximum One Realty - Managing Broker)
A "Time Limit" on an offer is NOT merely a time frame for the other party to respond. So what IS a Time Limit? If there is a time limit on an offer, may the other party make a Counter Offer AFTER that time Limit & if so, what does that mean? Watch the video to find out! Also Watch:All About the Time Limit of an Offer - https://youtu.be/WJoXtv6Kfx8Acceptance After a Time Limit - Do I Have an Offer? - https://youtu.be/vUC7v2UeWuk
Comments 3
By Monica Hill, the REALTOR to help you discover Delaware
(RE/Max Associates)
Change is scary. Change is welcome. Change is exciting. Change is shattering.Change is inevitable.We are certainly at a pivotal moment in the world of real estate as forms will emerge in the coming week or two and we are forced to embrace the changes within our industry. We were close to forms being ready and then deeper scrutiny by the Department of Justice led to further reviews of all forms across the country. Push the calendar forward a few weeks, and we will all be using the new forms. There are many negative social media posts that I’ve read and while we may debate the reasons for the changes imposed on us (but PLEASE be careful not to do that in a public-facing social media post), we have to embrace the changes and improve what we do. But wait… shouldn’t we always be embracing ch...
Comments 10
By Leanne Smith, The Grit and Gratitude Agent
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
With the emphasis on social media, so much is lost making those in person, authentic connections. Whether you are a real estate agent, a REALTOR®, a buyer or a seller, sitting down and taking time for a cup of coffee, “Joe,” with another reaffirms who we are.When we take time for coffee, we can make that necessary eye to eye contact. We begin to know if we can trust the person across the table.People buy from people they know and trust.In sales, that being the transference of feelings (Zig Ziglar), many are able through telephone calls and/or Zoom meetings to bring to the virtual coffee table that sense of being emotionally authentic and trustworthy. However, for many others who lack those specific communication and sales skills, having a cup of coffee with another person is quite benef...
Comments 11
By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
With the 2024 Olympics about to begin, I was thinking about the "sport" we engage in with the world of real estate. And, if you don't know that real estate takes skills and finesse, you most likely aren't in the arena full-time! This business has more twists and turns than Simone Biles' floor routine! So, let's have some fun and pretend that real estate is an Olympic event! Here are some of the events I think would be included: 🇺🇸 Tenacious Transaction - Every single transaction has a life of its own. There are no two transactions that are the same. Therefore, agents must be able to be on their toes to make the necessary adjustments when needed. 🇺🇸 Persistent Property Search - Researching and understanding the properties in our area takes more than skill. It takes hours of research, be...
Comments 0
By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
With the 2024 Olympics about to begin, I was thinking about the "sport" we engage in with the world of real estate. And, if you don't know that real estate takes skills and finesse, you most likely aren't in the arena full-time! This business has more twists and turns than Simone Biles' floor routine!So, let's have some fun and pretend that real estate is an Olympic event! Here are some of the events I think would be included:🇺🇸 Tenacious Transaction - Every single transaction has a life of its own. There are no two transactions that are the same. Therefore, agents must be able to be on their toes to make the necessary adjustments when needed.🇺🇸 Persistent Property Search - Researching and understanding the properties in our area takes more than skill. It takes hours of research, being ...
Comments 26
By Monica Hill, the REALTOR to help you discover Delaware
(RE/Max Associates)
Today was jury duty. I actually look forward to the opportunity to sit on a jury, which I know many people do not. To me, it’s a privilege and a very important part of our judicial process. If you’ve never been called for jury duty, the process is pretty straightforward. Call the night before to confirm you’re still needed, follow the procedures for arrival (including what to and not to take with you), and proceed to the jury room. Once there, you’ll get the introduction to the process for the day. Then you may be called up to the courtroom. It’s there that you’ll learn what the case is… who the parties are including the defendant, the plaintiff, the attorneys and witnesses…  and you’ll be asked a series of questions. This is all part of voir dire, which means “to speak the truth.” As v...
Comments 18
By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
In Real Estate Practice Teamwork Makes the DreamworkIn 16 years of practicing real estate (across two states), one thing I have NEVER done is sold a home all alone. Let's take a look at some of the moving pieces in a typical real estate transaction...1) The Buyer or Seller-- Let's start with the most important piece, the actual client. As real estate agents we help our clients articulate their real estate goals/wants/needs. We depend on clients to get their documents to lenders or title reps in a timely manner and provide the agent with loyalty. 2) Loan Officers- When financing is required, the mortgage broker (or lender) will explore financing options with the buyer and help him/her understand all the numbers. A quality lender is worth his/her weight in gold! 3) Home Inspectors-- Buyer...
Comments 1
By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
In real estate, your perfect client is more than just a buyer or seller; they are the ones who resonate with your business's strengths and values, making every transaction seamless and enjoyable. But how do you pinpoint and attract this ideal client? Let's dive into it. Knowing Your Target Market Before identifying your ideal client, you must understand your target market. This broader group comprises potential clients who share common characteristics and might be interested in your services. Within this group lies your ideal client—the one you'd love to work with over and over. Defining Your Ideal Real Estate Client To find your perfect client, consider what traits matter most to you. These go beyond simple demographics to include personalities, preferences, and behaviors. Here are so...
Comments 2
By Matt Helganz
(Meridian Capital Real Estate)
In real estate, your perfect client is more than just a buyer or seller; they are the ones who resonate with your business's strengths and values, making every transaction seamless and enjoyable. But how do you pinpoint and attract this ideal client? Let's dive into it.Knowing Your Target MarketBefore identifying your ideal client, you must understand your target market. This broader group comprises potential clients who share common characteristics and might be interested in your services. Within this group lies your ideal client—the one you'd love to work with over and over.Defining Your Ideal Real Estate ClientTo find your perfect client, consider what traits matter most to you. These go beyond simple demographics to include personalities, preferences, and behaviors. Here are some ke...
Comments 6
By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
Destin Florida Real Estate Advice-Pricing Right From The StartGetting ready to sell your Destin Florida home? Need to sell soon but every dollar is important? Let's look at the reasons why pricing right from the start is critical. Why Pricing Right From The Start Is Critical 1) The BEST time to get an offer is when the property hits the market- Thanks to technology, Destin area home buyers have a wealth of immediate market data. When a home hits the mls, every active buyer gets a mobile alert. If an offer doesn't come in short order, that suggest buyers think the price is too high.2) Inventory along the Emerald Coast is growing- Destin home sellers face more competition than they did in the last few years. With more homes on the market, buyers have more choices than they have since Covi...
Comments 1
By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog provides excellent tips for preventing buyer's remorse! Making informed decisions and understanding the purchase process can help buyers feel confident and satisfied with their investment. Thanks for sharing these valuable insights to ensure a positive home buying experience!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Buyer’s remorse hits everyone from time to time. You might wish you had bought the red shirt instead of the blue after you’d already taken the tags off and worn it. You might worry about how soon you’ll be able to pay off your credit card after splurging on a recent shopping trip. One time you don’t want to experience buyer’s remorse is when you buy your home. Owning a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make in life. It can be one of ...
Comments 2
By Kukun--240-483-3649 Franklin Carroll, Elite client engagement tools and proptech
(Kukun, Inc.)
Buyer’s remorse hits everyone from time to time. You might wish you had bought the red shirt instead of the blue after you’d already taken the tags off and worn it. You might worry about how soon you’ll be able to pay off your credit card after splurging on a recent shopping trip.One time you don’t want to experience buyer’s remorse is when you buy your home. Owning a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make in life. It can be one of the most stressful, too.Buying real estate can be challenging, but you can avoid anxiety and regret after signing off on the deal. Here are some ways to prevent buyer’s remorse when purchasing a new home. Find out your home's credit score Check your home condition score to find out! Check it out  Preventing home buyer’s remorseSet a realis...
Comments 1
By Brenda Mayette, Getting results w/ knowledge & know-how!
(Miranda Real Estate Group, Inc.)
My soapbox is out & aimed at agents... A lot of you are failing to show your value.  I see this alot in posts that lead with "Under Contract in 1 day!" or "Sold in 36 hours!".   While it is factual that these things happen, why would anyone need an agent if it's THAT EASY??? The real story is everything surrounding that "one day" where a buyer & seller came to an agreement.  The call from the seller months (or years!) ago who was thinking about selling often came about from the agent's consistent marketing efforts (direct calls, social media posts, direct mail & advertisements).  The seller & agent met & divised a plan. Resources were shared to help the seller get their home ready to attract maximum market attention & top dollar!  Weeks (or months or sometimes even years!) after that fi...
Comments 12
By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
Online Analytics Reports: Do you look at them? Do you share them with your sellers?I am constantly looking and analyzing where the potential buyers are coming from and how do they find my listings.We all know the list price is very important, especially nowadays with higher interest rates and few buyers during the summer season. At the same time, it is also equally important to understand where the buyers are looking and coming from.So, with that said, I decided to analyze this particular listing that I just started marketing. At the same time, I thought I would share with my seller for him to see what I am seeing.Hence, I was just curious if you do the same? Or do you just keep the information to yourself? Or do you even bother to look. Let me know your thoughts.Wishing you a safe and ...
Comments 28
By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey Residential Sales
(Fathom Realty)
One of the challenges in a career in real estate sales is that there are so very many things to learn.  One of the opportunities in this business is that when you set up duplicatable systems, the process becomes more familiar, easier, and repeatable.Without systems , we are always starting over.So, what needs to be systemitized?  Lead generation, lead gathering and follow up Scripts:  How to explain things to our clients To do lists, both daily and transactionally Transaction management Scheduling Presentations Showing houses Paperwork and files Your daily routine Offers and contracts Post closing interactions Processing New Listings and Sales I love making my systems better and more efficient, which makes my customer service better, makes me more confident, and helps me close a higher ...
Comments 11
Back to Top