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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
Your business plan is your blueprint for success in 2025, guiding you through the unpredictable market. It should evolve to stay aligned with new insights and strategies, keeping you on track for success.    Implementing an Easy-As-1-2-3 Real Estate Business Plan for 2025 Your business plan is your blueprint for success in 2025, guiding you through the unpredictable market. It should evolve to stay aligned with new insights and strategies, keeping you on track for success. Your business plan is more than just a document—it's your strategic roadmap for navigating the complexities of the 2025 real estate market.Our market is constantly changing, from fluctuating interest rates to evolving buyer preferences, inventory challenges and new market trends. Therefore, your plan must be a dynamic...
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By Peter Mohylsky,, Call me at 850-517-7098
(Property Management International-Destin)
If you’re thinking of purchasing in an HOA community, here are some things to consider!  I live here in a community that has a HOA.  There are alot of items that need to be considered. IT IS NOT FOR EVERYONE.  At the end of the day, it all comes down to your preferences and priorities.While HOAs can be great for some, others prefer to stay far away.Questions about whether it’s a fit for you? Send me a message — I’m here to help!#realestate #realestateagent #fhm124 #buying #selling #listreports #realestateexpert #financehub #homeowner #HOA
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By Frank Worrell, Turning BPOs Into Six-Figure Incomes
(BPOS FOR LIFE LLC)
If you're looking for a way to maximize your earning potential while keeping a healthy work-life balance, Broker Price Opinions (BPOs) are a fantastic option. By dedicating just 6 hours a day, 5 days a week, to completing seven BPOs daily, you can generate an annual income of over $85,000. Here's how it all adds up.Breaking Down the MathWith seven BPOs per day, here’s how the numbers look: Earnings Per BPO: $47 Daily Income: $47 x 7 = $329 Weekly Earnings: $329 x 5 days = $1,645 Monthly Earnings: $1,645 x 4 weeks = $6,580 Annual Earnings: $1,645 x 52 weeks = $85,540 In just 6 hours a day, you can build a career or side hustle that generates consistent income without overworking yourself.Why 6 Hours a Day Works PerfectlySpending six hours a day on BPOs allows you to comfortably complete ...
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By Debe Maxwell, CRS, The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!
(Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310)
Implementing an Easy-As-1-2-3 Real Estate Business Plan for 2025Your business plan is your blueprint for success in 2025, guiding you through the unpredictable market. It should evolve to stay aligned with new insights and strategies, keeping you on track for success. Your business plan is more than just a document—it's your strategic roadmap for navigating the complexities of the 2025 real estate market.Our market is constantly changing, from fluctuating interest rates to evolving buyer preferences, inventory challenges and new market trends. Therefore, your plan must be a dynamic tool that evolves alongside our market shifts. By regularly updating your plan with fresh insights, emerging strategies, and data-driven tactics, you ensure that your approach remains relevant and effective.K...
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By Roy Kelley
(Retired)
Sincerity, industry knowledge and finding a common bond helps to establish rapport.    Business Reflexology 2025  When first meeting potential clients, the first goal is to gather as much useful information as possible about them. Timelines to buy or sell sets the tone for the expectation to be fulfilled in it's totality. First impressions matter as well!   Through the years, I have discovered that tried & true methods work, no need for shiny penny strategies to conduct business. Sincerity, industry knowledge and finding a common bond helps to establish rapport.    These are 3 things that have encouraged my success:    🔶  Be Specific to Real Estate 🔶   Remaining to the professional side is important. Getting them qualified or discussing mortgage needs, city, county and state taxes, pref...
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By Candice A. Donofrio, 928-201-4BHC (4242) call/text
(Next Wave RE Investments LLC Bullhead City AZ Commercial RE Broker)
We've all seen this.'Suspects not prospects' will send a text or email and ask: "Will the seller take X (usually pennies on the dollar)?"What they may intend is for seller to counter them back and begin negotiations.But what I tell our seller clients is:Do NOT negotiate WITH YOURSELF! First thing, throwing out 'just a dollar amount' is FISHING.Offers are about more than just the money. How many of you brokers have had a LOWER offer than the others end up selected, because the terms were more attractive to the seller? Earnest money substantial. Known, trusted financing. Timeframe made sense. The buyer was assuming some of seller's risk in exchange for a lower dollar deal.  Or maybe the buyer was more serious and professional than the others. So many variables.Speaking of money - how woul...
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By Eileen Burns 954.483.3912, FLorida Real Estate Connector
(Trans State Commercial Realty Inc. )
Meeting Dynamic People 2025Do you ever wonder how busy people accomplish so much?When you want something done, ask a busy person!Years ago, I was part of a group or commercial real estate women who built a local chapter and then affiliated nationally with 7,000 other women across the nation. CREW Fort Lauderdale/Palm BeachWHY?  MLS at that time was merely for residential agents. We, in the commercial arena, needed a different outlet.WHAT was is it?  A network to do more deals with people you know, like and trust.WHO?  We began with 16 members who were part of the profession for a minimum of 5 years.  These women needed to belong to a committee from Day One to ensure participation with interesting programs about our industry.We drafted a Budget, wrote a Business Plan and discovered there...
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By Nancy Braun, Professional Service, Personally Delivered
(Showcase Realty LLC)
As one of the best real estate agents in Charlotte NC with Showcase Realty, I’ve helped many homeowners navigate maintenance issues and overbuilding that can lower property values. My clients’ experiences highlighted how understanding these factors and taking proactive steps can make all the difference.  In this article, I’ll share key insights into what affects Charlotte North Carolina homes and how to avoid common pitfalls. Neighborhood Changes That Lower Property Value in Charlotte Neighborhood safety is one of the biggest factors influencing property values. Rising crime rates or declining school ratings can make a once-popular area less attractive to buyers. People prioritize safe communities with access to quality schools, which helps maintain demand—and property prices.  Crime ra...
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By Dena Stevens, Putting The Real Into Realtor Since 2004
(Rocky Mountain Realty )
When purchasing vacant land, it is important to understand that this type of real estate transaction comes with unique challenges and considerations. As your real estate agent, I may provide you with a Vacant Land Representation Clause form. This document is designed to help you carefully consider the critical aspects of your land purchase. It is essential to note that this form is not an official document approved by the State of Colorado, the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), or any other governing authority. Rather, it is a tool to ensure you are fully informed and mindful of the potential complexities involved in purchasing vacant land.Understanding the Purpose of the Vacant Land Representation ClauseThe Vacant Land Representation Clause form is provided to encourage you, as...
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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)
To continue with this month's theme of Planning for Success in the January challenge, here are a few more areas I will focus on to retain my current loyal clients.These last couple of years haven't been that busy, so I have been working hard to stay in touch with many of my best clients.    Some I email, some I call, and others I set up lunch or dinner plans to catch up.    It is fun to hear what updating they have done in their homes, where they have been, and where they plan to go on vacation.    (Sometimes we have to schedule another date so I can SEE what they are updating)    It is fun to hear about their family adventures, new grandbabies, and sadly sometimes the deaths of parents or others in their families.    I then go back home and make notes in their records, so I can keep tr...
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By Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® CRS,ABR,PSA,RCS-D, CFSP, Coastal San Diego, Veteran's & Retirees Services
(Big Block LPT Realty 858.232.8722)
You'd better decide who you are...because clients do not need traditional sales people today.Planning for Success: 🎵Who Are You?🎶 (Contest Week 4 / Entry #4)"Tell me, who are you? (Who are you? Who, who, who, who?)'Cause I really wanna know (who are you? Who, who, who, who?)"~ Pete Townsend & The WhoDecide Who You Are: The Evolution of Real Estate ProfessionalsIn today's real estate landscape, it's crucial to recognize that clients no longer need traditional salespeople. With the rise of online resources, they can effortlessly browse properties on various free platforms, explore virtual 3-D tours, and access valuable information about neighborhoods, schools, demographics, and market comparisons — all from their own homes.So, why do clients still need us, and what role do we play in thei...
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By Dana (Lerner) Sparks, Satisfying You with Service Innovation & Education
(Maximum One Realty - Managing Broker)
I welcome you to watch this ENTIRE Series on the 2025 CHANGES to the Georgia Association of REALTORS (GAR) Contract Forms. In this series, I'll discuss how various 2025 GAR Contract Documents differ from those same forms that were available to Georgia real estate agents in 2024. Dana Sparks, Qualifying Broker, Maximum One Greater Atlanta, REALTORS® Dana@MaximumOneRealty.com
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, The best agent in Southern Utah!
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
And then he said, "You’d sell a mouse a snake hole." After ownership was transferred, a For Sale by Owner transaction took a turn in the southern direction, costing the buyers an extra $30,000 several days after they moved in. By that time, the sellers had taken the money and moved on. The leech lines had been ran over by a semi-truck, crushing them but they failed to disclose that. Apparently, they were not buried deep enough per health department guidelines and waste water began puddling in certain areas plus the stench became unbearable. The sellers feigned ignorance but knew full well. 🐁. 🐁. 🐁 Soon, the septic tank backed up into their tubs, showers and sinks and kept coming until the house was filled with several inches of stinky waste water, seeping into the flooring, baseboards a...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
3 Reasons Buyers Hesitate To Purchase In Destin Florida As a local real estate agent in Destin Florida (my office is a stone's throw from the harbor), I speak with people interested in buying or selling on a daily basis. Like most things in life, we hear the same handful of objections. My time as an Emerald Coast resident puts me in a position to answer these concerns. Let's look at the big three...1) It's too hot in Florida-- Believe it or not, two of our largest feeder markets are Wisconsin and Minnesota. Many will come during "snowbird season" to escape the northern winter. Some birds then decide not to fly north after. Does it get hot in Florida? You bet, July, August, and half of September can get toasty. But, everywhere is air-conditioned. Outdoor activities shift to 5am-9am and l...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Don't we all, like Joe, love having minty fresh breath. I don't know about orange juice but I know I lose that minty fresh feeling with my first cup of coffee. Being I love coffee what is a salesperson to do? With a tiny bit of research I found an article posted on The Mayo Clinic's website. If you click on the picture it will take you to said article.As for me I keep a toothbrush and toothpaste in the office at all times. After coffee and prior to a client coming in I always make use of my dental tools mentioned above.When I was an active Real Estate Broker I do not remember any of my agents having trouble with halitosis but I did have one agent who was always chewing gum (nicorate) and I did find that annoying but it certainly was better then him lighting up and smelling like smoke an...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
As a professional realtor, I often guide my clients toward properties that not only meet their immediate needs but also provide long-term value. One of the most noteworthy indicators of a home's resilience and quality is the IBHS Gold Certification. This certification, awarded by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), represents the pinnacle of safety, durability, and storm resistance. Let’s explore what makes an IBHS Gold Certified home unique and why it could be a game-changer for your property investment.Understanding the IBHS Gold CertificationThe IBHS Gold Certification is part of the organization’s Fortified Home program, designed to reduce property damage caused by natural disasters. This certification is earned only by homes that meet the program's highest st...
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By Christopher Shearer MBA DRE #02062657, Experience You Can Trust. Results You Can Count On
(Christopher Shearer Real Estate)
 The real estate market is known for its volatility, with market fluctuations, seasonal shifts, and changing economic conditions. As a realtor, navigating these ups and downs can feel like riding a rollercoaster. While this industry offers incredible opportunities, achieving long-term stability requires thoughtful planning, sound financial management, and proactive career development. In this blog post, we’ll discuss key strategies that can help you create a stable and thriving real estate career for the long haul. Diversify Your Income StreamsOne of the most effective ways to protect yourself from market fluctuations is by diversifying your income streams. Relying solely on commissions can leave you vulnerable during slow periods or economic downturns. Consider these options: Property ...
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By Christopher Shearer MBA DRE #02062657, Experience You Can Trust. Results You Can Count On
(Christopher Shearer Real Estate)
 As a realtor, navigating tax laws and deductions can feel daunting, but one provision you shouldn’t overlook is the Section 199A tax deduction, also known as the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction. Introduced under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, this deduction can significantly reduce your taxable income, allowing you to retain more of your hard-earned commission. In this post, we’ll break down what the 199A deduction entails, who qualifies, and how you can maximize its benefits.What Is the 199A Tax Deduction?The Section 199A deduction is a tax benefit that allows eligible self-employed individuals and owners of pass-through entities to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income (QBI) on their federal tax return.For realtors, this means you could potentially exclude...
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By Doug Rogers, Your Real Estate Resource!
(RE/MAX Coastal Properties)
Destin Florida Snow Storm January 2025 Just before loading the wagon (Jeep) and moving to Destin Florida, I made one last stop at Goodwill. In the donation bin went a lifetime of coats, sweaters, and most of my long sleeve shirts. After all, I won't need this in a tropical paradise, right???Like any productive real estate agent, I worked until the very last minute. As in snow  started showing up on the local weather radar. Time to go home, but first a quick stop for gas and groceries! Inside the grocery store looked like a Jimmy Buffett tribute festival. This had to be the greatest concentration of folks in flip flops purchasing snow supplies. Apparently alcohol and fishing magazines were the trophies of the day. I managed to buy everything that needed cooking or some sort of electronic...
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By Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® CRS,ABR,PSA,RCS-D, CFSP, Coastal San Diego, Veteran's & Retirees Services
(Big Block LPT Realty 858.232.8722)
"There is someone in the hospital begging God for the opportunity you have right now...Step Into Your Moment."~T.D. Jakes.Thomas Dexter Jakes is an American non-denominational Christian pastor and motivational speaker.❤️What are you grateful for right now? What would make today amazing?What one thing could you do today - to bless somebody else's day?Design An Extraordinary Day! I work 100% By Referral And Focus My Energy on The 5 Circles of Life!My wonderful and  experienced team is coached by the #1 businesscoaching company in North America:Buffini & Company for over 20 years!
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