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 Debe Maxwell, CRS, The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!
(Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310)
📊How to Prepare For an Appraisal in a Declining MarketIn 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 move is to team up with your agent and gather solid, local comps to present to the appraiser. Sure, they'll ...
Comments 14
By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Does That Mean You Should? My Answer is NO! An out-of-area real estate agent called, saying she was coming down from Salt Lake City. The woman asked if I was available to open doors to several homes for her clients, since her electronic key didn't work here in southern Utah.  In other words, she did not have a local Board membership. I told her I was not available. When the COE discusses the 'spirit of cooperation', this is clearly not what it means, nor the intended environment. She went on to say, "I wish there was just one Multiple Listing Service across the state.  Though I am licensed to sell in the entire state, it doesn't necessarily mean it's a good idea. Definitely not my choice of practice for client's sake! Instead, I'd refer them to an experienced agent, because: All real es...
Comments 24
By Scott Seaton Jr. SLS Home Insp, The Home Inspector With a Heart!
(SLS Home Inspections-Kankakee Will Iroquois Grundy Counties)
Lessons From Life and Business.     As a father of 6 kids, it has been one of the standing jokes of the family over the years that I am always telling stories about random events and happenings in my life that should be a valuable lesson for them to learn from. Here are a couple examples. I told my daughters for years that I was the smartest guy they will ever know. After numerous boyfriends and one ex-husband, I can confidently say still to this day that I am the smartest guy they have ever known. There are a few challengers to my title at this time. My middle daughter's boyfriend of 10 years+ is very smart. My youngest daughter's fiance is getting his masters degree in education administration to be a school administrator. One of my son's has completed his masters degree in Biology an...
Comments 11
By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
The three effortless paths you've outlined shed light on accessible routes for individuals looking to venture into real estate. It's fascinating to see how these strategies, from turnkey properties to real estate crowdfunding, can provide diverse opportunities to generate passive income.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Investing in rental properties offers a pathway to generating passive income and building wealth. But what if you could make this process even simpler? In this blog, we're unveiling three super easy ways to acquire rental properties, strategies that are often overlooked yet accessible to almost anyone. If you're not keen on the intricacies of property search, number crunching, or property management, read on to discover these game-changing methods. Re...
Comments 2
By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Poor Titus. Doesn't he know that books are for leveling uneven table legs?Then of course there are the other kind of books, the books the Real Estate Commission loves us to keep on all our trans actions.If you are an agent chomping at the bit to get your Brokers license you best understand that a Broker is responsible for every agents paperwork under them. If your State is anything like North Dakota that paperwork must be meticulous or you will get noted and it must be corrected quickly.North Dakota audits a Brokers books every two years. I remember my first audit... I felt like the baby in front of the laptop above. Afterwards I felt like a baby with a sore behind.
Comments 22
By Danny Papadopoulos, Offering Private & Second Mortgages in Toronto
(Homebase Mortgages)
Imagine someone ordered a large shipment of goods under a fake identity and company information or obtained a loan with falsified personal information. No matter how sizable your business is or what industry you are in, fraud is harmful and economically devastating. Canada lost $283.5 million to fraud in 2022. How can businesses distinguish fraud from genuine opportunities, prevent falling victim to fraud, and fight fraud in the workplace? Here are the top five tips from Canada's Premiere Corporate Fraud Investigators at Haywood Hunt & Associates Inc.:  Be Informed: The first thing to do is understand how fraud can take place in your business model and whether there are any pain points that are more susceptible to fraud. Better understand what fraud is and how it can take place in gener...
Comments 0
By Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP, Selling Homes Changing Lives
(DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
A few weeks ago, I coined "Tuesday is Choose Day." It has made a significant difference in my life and the way I think. I recognize more today than yesterday how valuable it is to have the power to choose. If that power is taken away, what choices do you have? To be clear, this is not a post, nor do I want examples of current affairs or comments about politics, but to make a point about how valuable it is to have the gift of making choices for yourself and how important it is for parents to teach their children well about making the right choice. Just before covid and the lockdowns, I learned a lesson. I happened to stop inside a quaint little tourist shop where there were antiques and items of curiosity. The verse or written composition on the wall by Christian D. Larson caught my eye ...
Comments 15
By Femme Capital Partners, Residential & Commercial Mortgage Broker
(Femme Capital Partners)
Investing in rental properties offers a pathway to generating passive income and building wealth. But what if you could make this process even simpler? In this blog, we're unveiling three super easy ways to acquire rental properties, strategies that are often overlooked yet accessible to almost anyone. If you're not keen on the intricacies of property search, number crunching, or property management, read on to discover these game-changing methods. Real Estate Syndication: Let the Pros Handle It  If you're not keen on rolling up your sleeves and getting your hands dirty in the nitty-gritty of real estate, real estate syndication might be your golden ticket. In a real estate syndication, a team of seasoned professionals takes the reins while you enjoy the benefits. They do the heavy lift...
Comments 5
By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
The real estate industry has seen a significant transformation in recent years, largely due to the integration of technology and the advent of real estate apps. These apps have not only simplified the property buying and selling process but have also empowered both real estate professionals and consumers with valuable tools and information at their fingertips. In this article, we’ll explore Realtyna real estate mobile apps that have been making waves in 2023. Realtyna Mobile Apps: Revolutionizing the MarketAmong the standout innovations in the real estate app landscape are the apps developed by Realtyna. With a reputation for cutting-edge technology and user-centric design, Realtyna mobile apps have carved a niche for themselves in the market. Realtyna offers headless API based mobile a...
Comments 2
By Dan Rochon, Top Realtor in Northern Virginia
(Greetings Virginia with eXp Realty)
ARE REAL ESTATE AGENT COMMISSIONS NEGOTIABLE?When buying or selling a property, choosing the right real estate agent is one of the most crucial decisions.While their expertise and guidance can be invaluable, agent commissions can often become a sticking point for potential clients. Many wonder if it's possible to negotiate agent commission and what factors come into play.How Real Estate Agents Get PaidIn a typical real estate transaction, the agent's commission is a percentage of the final sale price. This commission usually is split between the listing agent (representing the seller) and the buyer's agent. The seller pays the commission upon closing the sale.What You Get for Your Agent's FeesReal estate agents provide clients with a range of services and expertise, and their commission...
Comments 2
By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
MLS Note: Do Not Pet the Dogs. In the private remarks on the MLS, the listing agent warned all buyer agents about LARGE DOGS present inside the home with a side note that said DO NOT attempt to pet the dogs. To me that translates to say: DO NOT SHOW THIS HOUSE ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK DANGER! DANGER!   Besides, the hair on the back of my neck would stand at attention when shuffling from room to room -  at a good clip while looking behind with every step in anticipation. Or that flimsy wire cage that Brutus and Maneater are in may suddenly disengage, leaving nothing but air between us! Aaaaack! DO NOT Pet the Dogs = DO NOT SHOW THE PROPERTY! All humor aside, I refuse to put my client's in an unsafe environment because someone refuses to cooperate and take the dogs for a walk or ensure pets...
Comments 68
By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
For four days now Titus and Philemon have been enjoying the ride of a magic napkin. No I do not know where Timmothy gets this stuff BUT I know where I am going with this. As Real Estate agents we are given a license to fly.SO WHAT KEEPS US FROM DANGER?Ask the trainees who ask us that annoying question. The fiduciary duties of a real estate agent are: Loyalty. Obedience. Confidentiality. Disclosure. Accounting. Reasonable Care.
Comments 14
By Peter Mohylsky, Beach Expert, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
Just like every gnome needs a perfect garden, every dreamer needs the right home!  I have a gnome that moves around the exterior of my home to see if the neighbors notice.  It was given to me as a gift and I smile every time I see it.  The wife does not like it in the front yard but it still shows up there sometimes.  Let's work together to find you a place that truly feels like your own magical haven.Reach out today and let the home search adventure begin!#thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #gnomeplacelikehome #noplacelikehome #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #househunting #happyhome #happyhomeowners #investment
Comments 1
By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
In real estate, as in life, you need to have reference points. What are your reference points?As most or all of us know, for historians and keepers of time, reference points have always been BC and AD, i.e., Before Christ was born and Anno Domini, after Christ was born.I certainly have my own personal key life dates that I consider reference points, and I'm sure you do as well.  For me, the biggest ones are when my parents and I left communist Hungary, when we entered the United States, when I went to West Point, The United States Military Academy, when I left the U.S. Army, when I met Diane, when I became a Realtor in Boston, MA, when we relocated to California and when we bought our first (and current) home.  All of these are powerful personal memories that are fondly etched in my bra...
Comments 32
By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
It's captivating to explore how these properties can hold both historical charm and potential financial gain. Your insights into the benefits, challenges, and considerations of investing in such unique assets provide valuable guidance for investors. By shedding light on the significance of preservation and the opportunities it can bring, you're offering a fresh perspective on real estate investment.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP My husband and I have now invested in and renovated two historic buildings in our town. Both projects were interesting, challenging, and fulfilling. There are certainly many things to consider before diving into any type of historic project. 🚧 SCOPE. It is important to get a full understanding of the condition of the building you are consi...
Comments 1
By Kathy Schowe, La Quinta, California 760-333-8886
(California Lifestyle Realty)
We live and work in a seasonal area which means most of my neighbors, friends, and clients leave La Quinta and the Palm Springs area during the summer.  Our house is the only one on our street with people in it.  In our La Quinta Country Club neighborhood, I estimate about 35% stay, and the rest head back to the midwest, Pacific northwest, Texas, LA, or where ever they are from.  So I have a habit of sending out a note to say "hi" to clients, friends, and neighbors to keep in touch.  We communicate so often with texts, emails, zoom, and calls- sometimes it's nice to receive a card or letter.  I write a few each morning when I have my coffee and look forward to doing it.  As many of you know, I'm an artist and I usually send my notes on custom cards with my artwork on them.  As a result ...
Comments 17
By Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time
(House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373)
Remember years and years ago -- there was AOL --- You've Got Mail?   It was really cute back then, but now when you see an agent's email with AOL, you scratch your head.I remember way back, that AOL tried to charge us for the email, and most around me did.   I did not, but they still let me use it, until I switched. A few years back, I remember an agent having a strange email - something to do with dancing.   Cannot remember the exact email, but they taught dance, so after I asked that made sense.  But, what does their real estate clients think if they don't ask? Just be professional in the name you select, if it isn't your domain name.    Go Daddy has domains for as little as $20.00, and really easy to set up.    I think the best way to go is your name - i.e.  Joan@JoanCox.com. It coul...
Comments 18
By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
The story of the magic napkin continues in Timmothy's cartoon strip and the importance in relationships carries over into Realtor/Client relationships.As experts in our field it's easy to think "shut up and listen to me" which is totally the WRONG attitude in any service orientated business. We are here to SERVE our clients and not here to lecture them. As Nina Hollander, Broker said in a comment to one of my posts earlier this week "We are here to serve and to teach". I agree and I for one am not good at learning from a lecture. Obviously college was not for me.
Comments 13
By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
Look what arrived at my home: a fantastic bottle of Bordeaux.... one of my clients reach out to me for advice. Yes, it was Real Estate related... he wanted to thank me by sending me money. I absolutely rejected the idea. He insisted I insisted then he said OK.He asked casually what I like to drink, I mentioned I am a red Bordeaux wine drinker. Now with that said I am so thankful, and I will have a hard time waiting to open this bottle. If you are not familiar with this, it is an awesome and delicious wine.... not for everyday consumption:)Endre Wishingyou 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 ...
Comments 32
By Denise Lones, CSP, MIRM, CDEI - Real Estate Coaching & Branding
(The Lones Group, Inc.)
Processes and Procedures This afternoon I was teaching my Encore coaching group and we were discussing referral processes and it really made me think about how important it is for agents to have a procedure for everything in their business. For example, what is your process for: Taking a new listing? Closing a property? Post-transaction client care? Every part of your business needs to be procedure oriented. The reason for that is threefold. First and foremost, it saves you time and energy. Second, it streamlines your business and adds a rhythm to your business that is regular and ongoing - you don't have to rethink things and that saves you time. Finally, it creates consistency for you and your clients. Once you have a process, it is easier to decide if something new is something you ...
Comments 0
Back to Top