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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
By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Well this is an easy cartoon to work from off of... not that there are any "inflated" people or egos in the Real Estate business. I'm not a mean person but sometimes it's fun to see those people get deflated... like...Shania's song has always been one of my favorites. She is such a talented artist I wouldn't dare say this one is my absolute favorite.Real Estate is not the only profession where BIG egos exist, so I'll just say anyone with a big ego makes me want to puke.Some Fun QuotesWhat can you possibly add to a mind that's full, especially one that's full of itself.  JoubertAn egotist always resents meeting another egotist as if he alone had the right to be one. Jules RenardWe have a world of people to fall in love with, yet some people choose themselves. unknownThere are so many won...
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By Paddy Deighan MBA JD PhD, Paddy Deighan J.D. Ph.D
(http://www.medicalandspaconsulting.com)
Where AI fails: the judgment layerThe tasks where AI fails are not harder versions of the tasks where it succeeds. They are structurally different. They require reasoning about situations the model has not encountered, understanding how provisions interact across an agreement, and making decisions that depend on information the model cannot access: the client’s risk appetite, the counterparty’s negotiation history, the regulatory trajectory in a specific jurisdiction.Novel reasoning is the clearest failure point. Many real estate matters run on analogy: determining whether a new situation is sufficiently similar to a precedent that the same rule should apply. This is not a similarity-matching exercise. It is an evaluative judgment about which similarities are legally or practically rele...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Well, I am not a guinea pig or Popeye and I would not eat the spinach even if it were perfectly fresh. 😐What do we offer our clients? Is it always the best we've got to offer?Did we do our homework for our Buyer/Seller or did we just start looking on line after/during the appointment? Do we look our best or did we "just throw this on this morning"? If we are going to chaperone our clients did we wash and vaccum the vehicle?With all the students here on Active Rain I need to ask the obvious question, are we meeting our fiduciary obligations with every interaction with our clients? 
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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)
I alternate between mild amusement and eyerolling-into-another-dimension when some misconceptions are treated as FACT, usually by inexperienced agents and consumers.WHO TAUGHT YOU THAT . . .The seller MUST counter? Sometimes the only counter you will get is 'bring us a better number'. And that may be the best case scenario. Outright ignoring an unworkable offer is just as likely.WHO TAUGHT YOU THAT . . .it's OK to make a showing appointment requiring an occupant seller to inconvenience themselves to accommodate you, then no call-no show? When asked about it, your excuse was "I'm SOOOOOO busy!" Well everyone else was too. WHO TAUGHT YOU THAT .  . .seller needs to provide you with a NEW HOME when you're buying a RESALE. After they've agreed to pay CCs, now you want more bc you don't like ...
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By Kerri Naslund-Monday, Savvy Bay Area CA Real Estate Team Leader
(Keller Williams/ The Monday Team)
Let’s be honest.In the Bay Area — especially in Oakland — most agents know the comps. They know the inventory. They know the data.That’s the baseline.What’s harder — and far more valuable — is understanding people.We’ve worked with: Analytical engineers who need every variable mapped out Deeply rooted Oakland homeowners who care more about community than price Move-up buyers terrified of making a lateral move Sellers who are 90% ready — but emotionally stuck None of those situations are solved with pressure.They’re solved with listening.As the Monday Team, we’ve found that steady leadership beats aggressive tactics every time. When clients feel understood, they move forward with confidence. When they feel rushed, they hesitate.In complex, high-equity markets like the Bay Area, emotional...
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By Avery Jules, Brand Builder for Real Estate professionals
(Avery's Design)
 Trust is essential in any business, but in real estate it is the foundation upon which everything else is built. Buying or renting property is not a casual purchase—it is a life decision, whether it’s a modest two‑bedroom home or a commercial space for a law firm. Real estate involves serious investments of money, time, and emotion, and because of that, people must be able to trust their realtor and the agency they represent. Without trust, even the most attractive listings lose their value. The Reputation Problem in Real EstateUnfortunately, the industry has been scarred by countless stories of broken promises. On forums like ActiveRain and in interviews I’ve conducted while working on real estate brands, I’ve heard families describe moving into homes they believed were sound, only to...
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By Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
Real estate trends often feel like they appear overnight. One year, neutral interiors dominate listings, and the next, bold textures or statement kitchens are everywhere. But many of these shifts don’t actually start in property markets — they begin in design choices made by high-profile homes that quietly influence how buyers imagine their own spaces.From open-plan living to spa-style bathrooms, celebrity homes have long shaped the direction of residential design. For buyers, sellers, and property investors alike, understanding these influences can offer valuable insight into what makes a home feel modern, desirable, and ultimately more valuable.Many industry professionals now look to design inspiration beyond traditional property reports, choosing instead to draw inspiration from well...
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By Lawrence "Larry" & Sheila Agranoff. Cell: 631-805-4400, Long Island Condo and Home Specialists
(The Top Team @ Charles Rutenberg Realty 255 Executive Dr, Plainview NY 11803)
Long Island Wednesday Words of Wisdom  “You’ve got a friend in me.” ~ Toy Story song by Randy Newman.Buying or selling a home can feel overwhelming, but that’s where Larry and I can help on Long Island. From the first showing to closing day, we’re here to guide you, answer your questions, and cheer you on. In this business, having someone you can count on makes all the difference, and that’s exactly what we do. You've got a friend in us! Sheila
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By Shirley Coomer, Realtor, Keller Williams Realty, Phoenix Az
(Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living)
Historic districts are not just charming neighborhoods.When buyers talk about Phoenix historic districts, the conversation usually starts with architecture and tree-lined streets. As agents, we know the real conversation is more layered than that.Historic designation affects renovation timelines, inspection strategy, pricing psychology, and even buyer profile. If we treat these homes like any other resale property, we miss the leverage and the risk embedded in the designation itself.Phoenix currently has 36 residential historic districts on the Phoenix Historic Property Register, plus additional non-residential districts and individually designated properties. Not every older home qualifies. Not every charming street carries overlay zoning. That distinction matters in practice. Designat...
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By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
If you’re thinking about selling your home in the next year or two, it’s easy to fall into the trap of believing everything needs to be updated. Suddenly the paint color feels wrong, the kitchen looks dated, the bathroom seems too small, and that list of “someday projects” starts feeling urgent. Before long, you’re considering expensive renovations just to compete. The good news? Most sellers don’t need a full remodel to successfully sell their home. What they need is a clear strategy. Focus on Condition Over Trends One of the biggest misconceptions in real estate is that you must follow every design trend to attract buyers. Paint colors go in and out of style. Finishes change. What buyers consistently respond to, however, is a home that feels clean, cohesive, and well maintained. Fres...
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By Shirley Coomer, Realtor, Keller Williams Realty, Phoenix Az
(Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living)
In the current Phoenix Metro environment, sellers do not lose leverage because of “the market.” They lose leverage because of misalignment.As listing agents, we are operating in a climate where buyers are deliberate. They are comparing condition, price, concessions, and long term ownership costs with precision. That makes our role less about promotion and more about orchestration.When I take a listing in the Phoenix Metro area, I am not thinking about exposure first. I am thinking about positioning. The difference shows up in the first two weeks. The first two weeks tell the truthThe initial market response is diagnostic.Strong showing activity in the first 7 to 14 days typically signals that price, presentation, and condition are aligned with buyer expectations. Silence usually signals...
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By Brett Furniss, Charlotte Property Manager
(BDF Realty, Inc.)
Early in my business career, I attended a networking event at a local restaurant.  I went to the sign-in table and was enthusiastically greeted by Susie.  “Welcome!  What’s your name?” As Susie found my name on the sign-in sheet, she dutifully checked a box and pointed me to a nearby table with white sticker nametags and black Sharpie markers on top.  “Write your name, your business name, and go meet some great people!”  Then she quickly repeated the same spiel to the fellow behind me.  I did what I was told and uncomfortably started to mill around the room while simultaneously straining to read the other attendees’ nametags around me.  Me: “Hi, Jim.  I’m Brett.  What do you do for Hillman’s Autobody?”Jim: “I fix cars.  What does ‘BDF’ stand for?  Oh, that’s really interesting…” It was ...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
I do not remember the last time I had a pixelated computer screen but it seems to happen plenty often enough while watching streaming video on my television. I'm eager for warmer temperatures so when that happens I can put the leash on Baby and go for a walk. I'm glad that I am well past the point of beating my head against the wall when things don't work. Taking a walk is my favorite thing to do when technology frustrates me.Because of my jail ministry (The Noodle Ministry) I take a look at the jail roster every day. Regretfully one of the crimes I see most often is domestic violence. I'd say it's number two only behind drug abuse. This may surprise you but these days there are just as many women charged with domestic violence as men are. If only these men and women would learn to turn...
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By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
When your home goes on the market and multiple buyers start submitting offers, the excitement can be real. But what’s next — and what’s the best strategy to maximize your outcome and avoid pitfalls?Many sellers instinctively want to announce to all buyers that there are multiple offers and set a deadline for “highest and best.” While that can generate competitive bidding, it’s not always the optimal path — especially when you consider the big picture of terms and risk.Let’s break down how to handle multiple offers the smart way, combining practical negotiations with strategic decision-making.1. Price Isn’t the Only Factor — Far From ItIt may seem like the highest number should win, but offer quality is equally important. Sellers should consider: Financing strength: Cash or pre-approved ...
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By Darryl Davis, CSP, Designing Careers and Lives Worth Smiling About
(Darryl Davis Seminars)
By Darryl Davis, CSP  What if the difference between a one-time client and a lifelong advocate isn't your marketing budget — it's a single, perfectly timed moment? In real estate, we spend a lot of energy chasing the next lead, perfecting our listing presentations, and staying ahead of market shifts. All of that matters. But here's something worth pausing on: the clients who refer you endlessly, who call you first when they're ready to move again, who sing your praises at dinner parties — they're not remembering your yard signs. They're remembering how you made them feel during a moment that mattered. There's a powerful concept worth borrowing from the world of hospitality. Disney calls them "magical moments." The Ritz-Carlton famously empowers every staff member to spend up to $2,000 —...
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By Patricia Feager, Licensed to April 2027
(Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
Journal Entry for Monday, 2/23/2025  There are only 7 more days until next Monday! Write down your top 3 things to do. Write them down and count while crossing them off your list: 3 - 2 - 1 BLASTOFF! Now get yourself another cup of coffee. Tell yourself the hardest tasks to do are a lot less painful than getting your tooth pulled - at least you're in control!!! Celebrate your top achievements by thinking about crossing over the finish line in a relay race. Make your cell phone clock go off with a winning sound for each priority you finish! Think about the small things that are so annoying but must be done like tiny bubbles. Point your finger to the imaginary bubble and pop it so it's gone. Don't tell anyone what you're doing - just keep smiling! Think of the tasks you must do as a compe...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, Southern Utah's Preferred Real Estate Agent.
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Drama-Free? A Veyo Pie for Thee! Guiding clients to successfully buying or selling properties can be tedious at best. Problems may arise but does that mean an agent needs to stretch their lung and vocal capacity in a yelling, screaming fit? Not in my world. They'll be doing that to thin air and as a party of one! In my humble opinion, remaining to the professional side plays a huge part in creating a stress-less environment for clients. They deserve a clear line of communication, adhering to contract terms, deadlines and always putting them first and foremost. That is my world. ✨🥧✨When the sale is done and papers are signed, a local, yummy Veyo Pie is what you'll find. Professional vibes make a closing sweet & complete. ✨🥧✨Agents are surprised to be the recipient for a job well done. Th...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Now Is Not the Time to Overprice Your ListingIn every market cycle, there is a temptation to test the market.List it a little high. Leave room to negotiate. See what happens.In today’s environment, that approach can cost you time and money.Buyers Research Before They Ever Walk InMost buyers begin their search online. They study properties on Zillow and other platforms long before they schedule a showing. By the time they step into a home, they already know:• What has sold• What is pending• What has reduced• How long similar homes stayed on the marketThey are educated. They understand price per square foot. They compare the condition and location. They calculate monthly payments.When it comes to the most expensive purchase of their lives, they are not swayed by pretty decorations or stag...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
 What Would You Do? Survey 343 Acres or Risk Losing the Sale?Land sales are different.There are no granite counters to distract a buyer. No staging to soften a concern. No paint color to debate.There is only dirt, timber, topography, access, and numbers.And right now, I am dealing with the numbers.I have 343 acres under contract discussion. That is what the deed reflects: this is a property from a King George Land Grant.  All the deeds have been deeds of distribution from estates. The size is as indicated by historical records. That is what has been represented for years.But here is the complication.The Acres app and several hunting map platforms are showing closer to 330 acres.That is a 13-acre difference.When you are selling in-town lots, 1this difference would be a rounding error.Whe...
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By JORGE VAZQUEZ, Investor-Focused Broker | FL Statewide | 3,500+ De
(Graystone Investment Group)
Can a Quiet Title in Florida Help You Get a Property Back? Here’s What Most People Don’t UnderstandRecently, I had someone reach out after reading one of my articles about Quiet Title in Florida.She had sold her home subject to the existing mortgage. The buyer promised to make payments. Things seemed fine at first.Then the payments stopped.To make matters worse, her husband had never signed the transfer documents. That created a potential defect in the chain of title. Now she was asking a very common question:“Can I file a quiet title action and get my house back?”This is where understanding quiet title in Florida becomes critical.A quiet title action is designed to resolve ownership disputes and remove clouds on title. It is commonly used in inheritance cases, tax deed sales, boundary ...
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