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 Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Always miss Lou Ludwig but will always re blog his great information.     When You Speak . . . . Speak Clearly and Listen “Speak clearly, if you speak at all; carve every word before you let them fall.” Oliver Wendell Holmes 1809 - 1884, America Physician, Poet, Professor, Lecturer, Author   As I see it . . . . . . . When you speak . . . . Speak clearly and listen   For those who speak clearly will be understood . . . .   Those that listen will understand . . . .   When you’re listening you’re fully engaging the speaker.   A proactive listener will draw the other person into the conversation with their listening skills. The more you listen. . . . the more information you will gather and the better you will understand what the speaker is saying.   Information and knowledge does not come ...
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By Monica Hill, the REALTOR to help you discover Delaware
(RE/Max Associates)
Driving through scattered thunderstorms, I found myself again on the highway following a very slow car. Why were they in the fast lane? Why wouldn’t they move over? Didn’t they see me back here? My frustration growing, the thoughts began to race through my head. My friend, Moira, with a glimmer in her eye, once told me that when I get frustrated in traffic and start cursing at the cars, I should say a Hail Mary each time I curse. I called her one day to tell her that thanks to her suggestion, I had completed at least two decades of the Rosary. Then the conversation with my daughter who is learning Dutch via Duolingo flashed into my head. I asked her to say a sentence out loud from her current assignment, which made her laugh because the sentence had no bearing on the conversation she an...
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By Lise Howe, Assoc. Broker in DC, MD, VA and attorney in DC
(Keller Williams Capital Properties)
This was from a client who had many concerns about environmental contamination and ultimately decided against buying in the DC area.  He is now considering moving back to his home area.   I wish this had turned out differently but I do have the comfort of knowing that I treated my client with kindness, professionalism and respect - and to have him recognize that.  Mission accomplished.  You don't win every one - but that doesn't mean it's a loss. I worked with Lise Howe for some months as I searched for a property to purchase in the DMV (District, Maryland and Virginia). Lise took exquisite and unsurpassably compassionate care of and for me – a demanding, difficult, exactlng, anxious potential buyer. Lise brought to bear seasoned, keenly professional knowledge about various aspects of p...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
Speechless Sunday: where did my sign go? Oh it's back now...The other day as in Labor Day Weekend I went out to check a potential land listing, happened to be one street above my current listing. Hence, I went by it to check it out and I noticed my sign was missing?Needless to say, a couple emails later my sign was reposted. Now it makes me wonder was it the neighbor or the other party who has a listing five lots from mine? Anyway, the good news it the sign is back up again. 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 Realtor w...
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By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
In today’s digital age, a professional website is a must-have for realtors looking to establish a strong online presence and effectively market their properties. However, choosing the right website vendor can be a daunting task. This decision can significantly impact your online success and business growth. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the perfect website vendor to meet your real estate needs.1. Understand Your NeedsBefore you start searching for a website vendor, it’s essential to understand your specific needs and goals. Real estate websites come in various types, including those focused on lead generation, property listings, or branding. Determine your target audience and identify the key features necessary for your website’s success.2. Research P...
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By Georgie Hunter R(S) 58089, Maui Real Estate sales and lifestyle info
(Hawai'i Life Real Estate Brokers)
There's 2 parts to any address, let's not forget thatOK - here's a pet peeve of mine in the real estate business:  All day long we get emails from other agents or title companies, advertising a listing or an open house.  Too often they put just the street address and neglect to put the name of the town. HELLO, can you please let us know which town this is?  Not everyone knows exactly where that street is, and I don't want to search through the whole email to know whether or not I'd consider going...There are TWO parts to every address.  (Actually three if you count the state too.)Does this happen to you?  Don't be guilty of making this mistake yourself.Thanks for listening to my rant about inadequate addresses.Thanks for reading my Maui blog...Buying or selling real estate on Maui?  Let...
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By Kathy Streib, Home Stager/Redesign
I love this post! Let's encourage Dana to write a post for each of her 20 Things She Learned While Tending Bar. I recently re-read an ActiveRain post I wrote in 2015 where I listed 20 things I learned tending bar. In reflection, the list still rings true to me, but I wish I had taken the time to expand on each of the 20 lessons a bit more. I also realized that these lessons were accumulated through many service jobs I've taken on, including as a waitress at a New Jersey Diner (Golden Coach), at a New Jersey bagel shop (Bagel Town) and at an restaurant/ice cream shop in DC (Swensen's). Sadly, all three of these businesses are no longer around, but the lessons I took from them live on in me and I've passed them to my daughters.  So today's post focuses on the first of twenty lessons. Less...
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By J Perrin Cornell, Broker, ABR, VAMRES
(Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate)
Last weekend was Labor Day. A day with a lot of different meanings. Celebrating Labor… all kinds. Pretty much the signal that Summer is on its way out and Fall is just around the corner ( my favorite season). Time for families and friends to have one last long weekend together. Time to recognize the positive changes from Labor movement and if you are in real estate a last opportunity to relax before starting work on next years marketing and  setting up activity for Q1 next year. All good stuff!   2023 has been a year with lots of different challenges and opportunities. Pretty much a back to basics year. Be available don't fall victim to the electronic tools go back to personal skills. Phone calls, pressing the flesh,  writing cards, pop-bys. Keeping you, your name, and business out ther...
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We can be sitting ducks in this business, but doing some background checking can save your life!   Trust your instincts, and don't go alone!   Once a month our REALTOR® Association has a "Power Lunch", which does include lunch, but usually important topics.    This month featured Carl Carter, son of Beverly Carter, a REALTOR® from Little Rock, Arkansas who lost her life in 2014.   Carl presented a slideshow and went through the days leading up to the day she went missing and was ultimately killed.   This married couple called her a few days prior and explained they were in a short-term rental and needed to get into a home ASAP.    They had relocated from out of state and explained the out-of-state area code on their cell phones.    Beverly had 12 years in the business and went through t...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Once a month our REALTOR® Association has a "Power Lunch", which does include lunch, but usually important topics.    This month featured Carl Carter, son of Beverly Carter, a REALTOR® from Little Rock, Arkansas who lost her life in 2014.   Carl presented a slideshow and went through the days leading up to the day she went missing and was ultimately killed.   This married couple called her a few days prior and explained they were in a short-term rental and needed to get into a home ASAP.    They had relocated from out of state and explained the out-of-state area code on their cell phones.    Beverly had 12 years in the business and went through the client wish list with them.   She set them up on a drip from the MLS, and was quite surprised when they wanted to see a home that had been ...
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By Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time
(House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373)
Once a month our REALTOR® Association has a "Power Lunch", which does include lunch, but usually important topics.    This month featured Carl Carter, son of Beverly Carter, a REALTOR® from Little Rock, Arkansas who lost her life in 2014. Carl presented a slideshow and went through the days leading up to the day she went missing and was ultimately killed. This married couple called her a few days prior and explained they were in a short-term rental and needed to get into a home ASAP.    They had relocated from out of state and explained the out-of-state area code on their cell phones.    Beverly had 12 years in the business and went through the client wish list with them.   She set them up on a drip from the MLS, and was quite surprised when they wanted to see a home that had been throu...
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By Realty Net Media - Real Estate Web Design
(Realty Net Media)
Like so many industries, real estate sees a constant ebb and flow, and at some point, every agent and broker will find themselves in the midst of a market downturn. These periods of slower activity may appear challenging, but they can be a springboard for growth and development. Smart real estate professionals recognize these phases as opportunities to refine their operations, harness technological advancements, and strengthen their brand for both the present and the future. Here are key real estate lead generation strategies that agents and brokers can employ to thrive during a sluggish market and come out stronger when it rebounds:-Refine Your Brand and Enhance Your Digital Presence:In the hustle and bustle of a thriving market, many agents overlook the importance of investing time on...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
This blog by Wanda is so important for all of us to keep us safe. Making Safety a Top-of-Mind Priority   The month of September is REALTOR SAFETY MONTH, though personal safety while working should be practiced year 'round. There's no better time to reassess your go-to protocols and make safety a top-of-mind priority than right now.     There are some real threats while working, like: 45,000 REALTORS® were crime victims  300,000 REALTORS® felt afraid for their safety  400,000 REALTORS® have no safety protocols in place   The lure of easy money becomes greatly intensified when criminals encounter a successful professional, one who most likely has plenty of money in the bank. An instructor told the classroom this chilling story about a very harrowing experience.   After showing homes to a ...
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By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
In the dynamic world of real estate, the role of a seller’s agent is pivotal in connecting homeowners with potential buyers. With the ever-evolving landscape of technology and communication, establishing a strong local presence has become more crucial than ever. Achieving local success might sound daunting, but there are several effective and relatively simple ways to accomplish it.Embrace Social Media PowerSocial media platforms are your digital playgrounds for establishing an hyper localness. Create profiles on major platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, focusing on content that resonates with your local audience. Regularly post about local events, market updates, property listings, and community stories. Engage with local groups and forums to showcase your expert...
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By Loreena and Michael Yeo, Real Estate Agents
(3:16 team REALTY ~ Locally-owned Prosper TX Real Estate Co.)
The last post was written in May 2020 and my VA wrote that. It was the only post in 2020. 8 in 2019 and the VA wrote them too. It's just been too long but recently, I just got that itch and missed my days for being here. Perhaps over the coming months, I'll update on where I've been and what I've done. But today is Labor Day 2023. Nothing better to make this come back.   No lake & home today means it’s WORK Day, although we’ll be treating the kids to some sushi for lunch (Mama’s treat for them & Papa get to drive us there). MY WORK QUARTERS are not in lined w physical quarters & today is my start of my 4th 12 Week Year plan.   1st 12 = Started 12/5. Full of greatness & astounded myself w all I accomplished 2nd 12 = 3/6 (started on Spring Break week). I was too gungho & started compress...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Making Safety a Top-of-Mind Priority The month of September is REALTOR SAFETY MONTH, though personal safety while working should be practiced year 'round. There's no better time to reassess your go-to protocols and make safety a top-of-mind priority than right now.   There are some real threats while working, like: 45,000 REALTORS® were crime victims  300,000 REALTORS® felt afraid for their safety  400,000 REALTORS® have no safety protocols in place  The lure of easy money becomes greatly intensified when criminals encounter a successful professional, one who most likely has plenty of money in the bank. An instructor told the classroom this chilling story about a very harrowing experience. After showing homes to a client couple, the agent gets a call after parting ways. They wanted to m...
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You may not have control over the market but, you can absolutely set yourself up for appraisal success!   📊How to Prepare For an Appraisal in a Declining Market In a market that's shifting, it's even more important to be prepared when it comes to your home appraisal. During stable or rising markets, you can generally count on the comparable properties to back up your negotiated sales price. Even if the market is a bit unpredictable, understanding that appraisers use the most recent sales for comparison helps you stay ahead of the curve. A new sale at a lower price can certainly impact your home's value but, with the right preparation, you'll be well-positioned for success.   You may not have control over the market but, you can absolutely set yourself up for appraisal success! The first...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Your insights into enhancing curb appeal, maintaining property condition, and providing documentation are spot-on. It's essential to emphasize the proactive steps homeowners can take to ensure their property's value is accurately assessed, even in challenging market conditions. By offering this guidance, you're helping individuals navigate the appraisal process with confidence, whether they're selling or refinancing.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP 📊How to Prepare For an Appraisal in a Declining Market In a market that's shifting, it's even more important to be prepared when it comes to your home appraisal. During stable or rising markets, you can generally count on the comparable properties to back up your negotiated sales price. Even if the market is a bit unpredi...
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By Dana Hollish Hill, REALTOR * Broker * Coach
(Hollish Hill Group, JPAR Stellar Living)
I recently re-read an ActiveRain post I wrote in 2015 where I listed 20 things I learned tending bar. In reflection, the list still rings true to me, but I wish I had taken the time to expand on each of the 20 lessons a bit more. I also realized that these lessons were accumulated through many service jobs I've taken on, including as a waitress at a New Jersey Diner (Golden Coach), at a New Jersey bagel shop (Bagel Town) and at an restaurant/ice cream shop in DC (Swensen's). Sadly, all three of these businesses are no longer around, but the lessons I took from them live on in me and I've passed them to my daughters. So today's post focuses on the first of twenty lessons.Lesson 1:  Greet Everyone with a smileWhen I was a Girl Scout Cookie Mom, and we set up a booth outside the local groc...
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By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
With Point2 Agent’s decision to phase out its IDX service, real estate agents and brokers are presented with an opportunity to transition seamlessly to Realtyna’s Organic MLS Integration. This service is designed to empower professionals with advanced tools and capabilities, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition for agents’ online property listings.What Does This Mean for Point2 Agent?The changes were announced in summer 2013. Point2 Agent subscribers have about 6 months until the end of the year to transition to an alternative service. Realtyna is hoping to offer a smooth transition to a new setup under Realtyna’s Organic MLS Integration.For more information about the sunsetting Point2 Agent service, check out the following announcement:Saying Goodbye to Point2 Agent, Welcoming Po...
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