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 Sharlene Mulchandani, Property Management Software
(Innago)
As a landlord, it is important to insure your rental property in case of damage or theft. Here is everything you need to know about insuring your rental property.Why you need rental property insuranceKeeping your rental property properly insured is an essential component of being a successful landlord. Investing in rental property insurance can help you prepare for potentially expensive damages, quote for landlord insurance to cover liability and provide additional financial protection. Not only that, but it can also give you peace of mind knowing your investments are secure whatever happens and you have access to top-notch advice if any issues do arise. By investing in appropriate rental property insurance you can rest assured that both the physical assets of your rental property and y...
Comments 1
By Sharlene Mulchandani, Property Management Software
(Innago)
 Are you having trouble renting out your property? You're not alone. Many landlords struggle to find tenants, especially in a tight housing market. But there are things you can do to improve your chances of finding a renter. Here are some tips for marketing your rental property.Create A Marketing Plan For Your RentalsCrafting a marketing plan for your rental property is essential to draw in potential tenants and maximize occupancy rates. Taking the time to devise the best where and how to advertise the available unit or units can boost visibility and generate interest. Depending on the type of rental space, advertising where potential renters are browsing for housing can help grab their attention. This could be through online search engines, classifieds websites or even physical media s...
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By Theresa Hus, The Official Real Estate Agent Directory
(RealEstateAgent.com)
How often have you felt something is off in your business and you need a groundbreaking invention to revitalize your career? Or, if you’re a beginner pursuing a realtor’s dream job, you might not know where to start. Breaking into a new business can be a tough nut to crack. So is reinventing yourself to adopt unique circumstances. You need to (re-)consider your strategy with valuable content!Rookie realtors and more established local real estate agents will always have the opportunity to rise as undisputed experts in their field. All it takes is to start creating unique and informative content! This article will present methods to approach and create your content marketing strategy. Here are the reasons you can’t postpone creating unique content anymore!And why is writing content for re...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
We know that downsizing can be stressful for homeowners, especially if they have a lot of personal belongings that they need to get rid of.  Here are a few tips to help clients downsize: 1. Focus on the positives One of the biggest challenges of downsizing is the emotional attachment that people often have to their possessions. To help your clients overcome this hurdle, focus on the positive aspects of downsizing. For example, downsizing can lead to a simpler and more organized lifestyle, as well as reduced expenses. 2. Categorize possessions To make the downsizing process more manageable, it's helpful to categorize possessions into three groups: keep, donate, and discard. Encourage your clients to be honest with themselves about what they really need and use. It's also important to co...
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By Steve Penner, REALTOR / Pro Ledger Online (owner)
(Royal LePage / Pro Ledger Online Software)
We know that downsizing can be stressful for homeowners, especially if they have a lot of personal belongings that they need to get rid of. Here are a few tips to help clients downsize:1. Focus on the positivesOne of the biggest challenges of downsizing is the emotional attachment that people often have to their possessions. To help your clients overcome this hurdle, focus on the positive aspects of downsizing. For example, downsizing can lead to a simpler and more organized lifestyle, as well as reduced expenses.2. Categorize possessionsTo make the downsizing process more manageable, it's helpful to categorize possessions into three groups: keep, donate, and discard.Encourage your clients to be honest with themselves about what they really need and use. It's also important to consider ...
Comments 12
By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
  An Open House Experience And A Different Kind of Observation. . .      As a longtime observer, participant as well as practitioner, I have a history when it comes to open houses.    My days of practicing real estate are in the rear-view mirror. While I have attended a handful of open houses in recent years, my past includes times where such events were regularly planned as part of marketing efforts of properties listed for sale.   It’s interesting to look at the topic with a real estate perspective but without current local market awareness.    It can be a bit unsettling too.  There is a certain power in knowledge after all.   I imagine anyone relocating might have similar thoughts while anticipating homebuying in an unknown environment. Putting oneself into another's shoes continues...
Comments 7
By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
3 Ways to Be Heard Above the Competition Business success depends on many factors, like abilities, plus how well they are communicated. The power of words is impactful, especially when conveying ideas, spending valuable resources and attracting clients.  These 3 Things Can Help:1. Target Audience - Search for commonalities because people like doing business with people like them. When listening to what’s important to them, you'll be seen as someone who cares. A well thought-out business plan is a step in the right direction, encouraging connections. 2. Establish Trust - A straight forward approach to business, works. Gaining trust is the most important factor that carries a relationship and strengthens the bond. Consistent methods, following up and through is crucial and soon they will ...
Comments 21
By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
I just returned from our Texas Realtors®, Winter Meeting. We received many updates from our state licensing commission, legal updates, and legislative updates. In particular, one new requirement for brokerages in Texas I believe is much needed.New TREC requirement:Any agent who has not written THREE of LIKE contracts MUST have their broker assist them. So, if an agent has never written an offer for New Home Construction at least three times, they will need to reach out to their broker for review and assistance.Why I like this new requirement: This causes agents with little or no experience to reach out for help. I often see agents who don't want to "bother their broker", or, cannot reach their broker and they attempt to complete a contract they don't understand.  By requiring more assis...
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By Peter Mohylsky
(PMI. Destin)
There are LOTS of mortgage options available for folks who are interested in buying a home.  A ARM (adjustable rate mortgage)  is one of them.  This is as opposed to a fixed rate loan. "Some people think that a 7/1 ARM must be paid off in seven years, but it's the interest rate that is fixed for seven years; the mortgage itself lasts for 30 years.The interest rate can go up or down after those seven years, but 30 years is how long you have to pay back the loan." - David ReissUnderstanding all there is to know about mortgages can be tricky. But I have a network of excellent loan officers; I'd be happy to connect you with one!Just send me a message. #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #homeowner #happyhomeowner #happyhome #mortgage #themoreyouknow #icanhelp #realestate...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
🎵 Looking for love in all the wrong places...🎶A woman, dressed in skin-tight yoga pants and revealing crop top that highlighted recently augmented breasts, approached a worker in a subdivision. Handing out a business card, she breathily said her name, licking perfectly plumped lips, offering exclusive services to him and his friends.His eyes held steadfastly to her heaving chest region with every labored breath, paying very little attention to what was being said.  Flabbergasted that she would proposition him like this in broad daylight with other people around, he finally asked..."Okay, how much?"Oh horrors! She was extremely offended he would assume such a thing! What did she expect though? When dressing in such a provocative manner, it's easy for most people to get distracted from th...
Comments 38
By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
In such a tech-saturated world where practically every transaction happens online, it’s important to find a solution that’ll help you to stand out. The real estate industry is no exception.Creating a top-notch user experience, providing clients with extensive features and data through a high-performance website/application, MLS Router is designed to tackle those and more.SpeedWith the New Google Core Web vitals update speed plays an essential role in the ranking system. The faster your website is, the better user experience you can provide for your clients. And that incrementally improves your chances to rank on top. And MLS Router API does just that. It creates a super fast real estate content delivery system by utilizing headless architecture. Unlike a traditional expensive CMS framew...
Comments 0
By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
My fellow Active Rain friend, Joan Cox, wrote an important post a few days ago regarding the scary world that real estate can pose for us. As I was reading her post, I was reminded of a very frightening time I experienced early on in my real estate career. What I am about to share with you is not the norm, however, we must all stay vigilant each and every day.I was in a local coffee shop reading a real estate book. A nice-looking man approached me commenting on my book saying he too was a real estate agent. We exchanged cards as Realtors often do and low and behold, my world would soon be changed.He called me within a few hours asking me out. Having just gone through a divorce after 21 years of marriage, I was not quite ready to enter the world of dating. I politely declined and assumed...
Comments 14
By Roy Kelley
(Retired)
Now, wait a minute! I know this post may rattle a few dog-lover cages however, let me make my point. Many people these days have pets. Of all the pet lovers, dogs are by far more popular. This is where it can get rough (ruff)! Specifically, when selling your home, it is imperative to remember that not everyone will love and appreciate your dog. Therefore, following a few pet guidelines during the times your home is showing is very important: Keep the dog put up during showings. Ensuring your pet is either in a kennel or other secure location is key. You certainly do not want your dog to get out during a showing and, you definitely do not want even the friendliest of dogs to be out. A pet that is allowed to roam the house, jump on guests, etc. is not the reception you want. Take the dog...
Comments 5
By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
Now, wait a minute! I know this post may rattle a few dog-lover cages however, let me make my point. Many people these days have pets. Of all the pet lovers, dogs are by far more popular. This is where it can get rough (ruff)!Specifically, when selling your home, it is imperative to remember that not everyone will love and appreciate your dog. Therefore, following a few pet guidelines during the times your home is showing is very important: Keep the dog put up during showings. Ensuring your pet is either in a kennel or other secure location is key. You certainly do not want your dog to get out during a showing and, you definitely do not want even the friendliest of dogs to be out. A pet that is allowed to roam the house, jump on guests, etc. is not the reception you want. Take the dog w...
Comments 14
By Roy Kelley
(Retired)
We all know our business in real estate can be quite litigious. As a broker/owner, we are more than aware of the importance of proper training, education, and competency for this business. Ensuring your agents are dotting their "I's" and crossing their "T's" is critical. In Texas, our contracts are updated and changed on a regular basis. Because of the updates and changes, it is important to take contract update classes regularly. Failure to use the updated forms puts everyone at risk. (I am always surprised by how many times I see other agents using outdated forms!) Today, I was attending one of these contract classes and I am always reminded that no matter how long I am in this business, I come away with new nuggets of knowledge. Our ever-changing real estate business demands that al...
Comments 3
By Craig Lebrau, Property Geek in Upper East Side NYC
(Lebrau Property)
Are you interested in real estate but confused by some of the myths and misconceptions you've heard? Don't worry - you're not alone. In this blog post, we'll be taking a look at three common myths about real estate and debunking them so you can confidently enter the real estate market. So, let's get started by taking a closer look at these three myths about real estate that you need to stop believing!The biggest myth: location, location, locationWhen it comes to real estate, many people immediately think of the old adage, “location, location, location.” While it’s true that certain locations can have an impact on the value of a home or other property, it’s not the only factor you should consider. A good location can be helpful, but other features such as the home's condition, the size o...
Comments 5
By Brian Sharkey, SharkeyRE
(SharkeyRE LLC)
A vision board is a tool used to help individuals visualize their goals and dreams. It is typically a poster board or other display with pictures and words that represent what a person wants to achieve. Vision boards can be used to help people stay motivated and focused on what they want to accomplish. They are also a great way to remind yourself of your goals and keep them top of mind.There are many reasons to incorporate vision boards into your goals. By setting up a vision board, you will be able to clearly visualize your goals, and this can help to create a more positive mindset. Seeing the images and words related to your goals can help to keep you motivated and inspired. Additionally, vision boards can help to make your goals more tangible and real, and can give you an incentive t...
Comments 2
By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
We all know our business in real estate can be quite litigious. As a broker/owner, we are more than aware of the importance of proper training, education, and competency for this business. Ensuring your agents are dotting their "I's" and crossing their "T's" is critical.In Texas, our contracts are updated and changed on a regular basis. Because of the updates and changes, it is important to take contract update classes regularly. Failure to use the updated forms puts everyone at risk. (I am always surprised by how many times I see other agents using outdated forms!)Today, I was attending one of these contract classes and I am always reminded that no matter how long I am in this business, I come away with new nuggets of knowledge. Our ever-changing real estate business demands that all p...
Comments 14
By Michael Jacobs, Los Angeles Pasadena 818.516.4393
 An Open House ExperienceAnd A Different Kind of Observation. . .    As a longtime observer, participant as well as practitioner, I have a history when it comes to open houses.   My days of practicing real estate are in the rear-view mirror. While I have attended a handful of open houses in recent years, my past includes times where such events were regularly planned as part of marketing efforts of properties listed for sale.  It’s interesting to look at the topic with a real estate perspective but without current local market awareness.    It can be a bit unsettling too.  There is a certain power in knowledge after all.  I imagine anyone relocating might have similar thoughts while anticipating homebuying in an unknown environment. Putting oneself into another's shoes continues to be h...
Comments 32
Many agents struggle to maintain a consistent level of success. The good news is that, with the right approach and mindset, it is possible to turn frustration into lasting success. Here are a few key ideas that can help: 1. Develop a Strong Work EthicAgents who are willing to put in the extra time and effort required to succeed tend to be the most successful. This can include working longer hours, networking with potential clients, and continuously learning about the industry and market trends. 2. Build a Strong NetworkBuilding strong relationships with other agents, mortgage brokers, inspectors, and other industry professionals can help you find new leads and close more deals.  3. Continuously Improve Your SkillsIt is critical to continuously improve your skills and knowledge. This ca...
Comments 6
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