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 Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
I was interviewing a young woman in my office the other day. She is not new to real estate but has been out of the business for some time. As I was sharing my business model, she was surprised at the differences between various small, real estate brokerages.It really is important to know the right questions to ask if you are considering a boutique brokerage. Knowing the questions to ask is imperative. Does the broker of the company compete with leads with the agents? Many agents don't think to ask this question and then are caught off guard when the best leads go to the broker. Of course, the broker has that right but it is important to understand upfront. Does the broker have family members in their firm? Understanding if family members are part of the company is important. I have witn...
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By Steve Penner, REALTOR / Pro Ledger Online (owner)
(Royal LePage / Pro Ledger Online Software)
People often use the words "productivity" and "efficiency" interchangeably, but they are two different ideas with different meanings. Productivity measures the total output in a given period of time, while efficiency measures the quality of that total output. For example, a productive real estate agent may close many deals in a given time frame, but if they take longer than necessary to do so with lower customer satisfaction, they are not efficient. On the other hand, an efficient agent may close fewer deals but in less time and with higher customer satisfaction ratings.Here are a few tips on Agent efficiency: Technology Use: Agents can use technology that can help automate tasks and streamline their workflow. For example, a CRM system can help agents manage their contacts, automate fol...
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By Realtyna Inc, WordPress Real Estate - IDX, RESO Web API, CRM
(Realtyna)
Creating a fast and converting real estate website is an important part of the property business. Agents and brokers invest a great deal of time and money looking for the ultimate solution to serve their clients. This is why almost all mainstream website builders have entered this market. Before we review some of the most popular web builders in the property business, let’s look at some of the factors that make a real estate website successful. Things to Consider for a Successful Property Website in 2023Here are a few things to consider when looking for a site builder for your real estate business:CustomizabilityAgents work in a variety of market segments and often change focus. As a result, they need to ensure their website is easily customizable. This way, they can add features on the...
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By Craig Lebrau, Property Geek in Upper East Side NYC
(Lebrau Property)
Are you in the market for a new home? If so, you may be feeling overwhelmed with the prospect of finding the best deal on a house. While it can be intimidating to navigate the housing market, there are some useful tips and tricks that can help you find the perfect property at a great price. In this blog post, we'll explore how to get the best deal on a house and make sure you get the most value for your money.Get pre-approved for a mortgageWhen you are looking to buy a house, the first step is to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This means that you have been approved for a loan amount that you can use towards purchasing a home. Getting pre-approved also lets sellers know that you are a serious buyer. The pre-approval loan process requires you to fill out an application, provide document...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
One thing you learn if you spend any time being mentored (in person or by Agents and Brokers here) is that you need to get out and about in your community to be a success in this business. This is a people business!You are NOT in the spotlight if all you are doing is making phone calls, texting, or counting on your web presence to be "that" agent that everyone calls.I do know that there are Agents/Brokers that do well with postal mailings but if that is your angle do not expect much if any business your first year. That being said don't hesitate to start postal mailings immediately but couple that with getting out there to your sphere of influence and press the flesh (shake hands) and anytime you are out in public it doesn't hurt to wear items with your name and Brokerage on them. Even ...
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By Stephen Fells, Marketing, Technology, Fun and News!
(AgencyLogic)
Everyday AgencyLogic shares real estate podcasts from industry leaders and visionaries.  Here are this weeks podcasts: Real Estate Podcast: How To Scale Your Real Estate Portfolio In 2023 Real Estate Podcast: Combining ChatGPT & SEO for Real Estate Marketing Domination Real Estate Podcast: The Topic We All Need To Be Discussing More Real Estate Podcast: From Losing Everything in the Last Crash to $9,000,000 Income in Nine Years Real Estate Podcast: Pros Show Up Different
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By Steve Penner, REALTOR / Pro Ledger Online (owner)
(Royal LePage / Pro Ledger Online Software)
In the real estate world, real estate agents can sometimes be referred to as "helpful" versus "salesy."While, a salesy agent is primarily focused on making a sale, a helpful agent is focused on prioritizing their clients' needs. So what are some of the key characteristics of a "helpful" agent? Here are some signs of a helpful agent to watch out for: They listen to your needs: Helpful agents take the time to listen and understand your specific situation. They will work hard to find properties that meet your criteria and will give you honest feedback and advice. They provide value: Helpful agents will offer valuable insights and knowledge about the local market and properties in your area. They may have particular expertise in certain types of properties or neighborhoods, and they will us...
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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)
 I have heard over and over video is so important, and will rank higher than blogs and web pages.  So, when you add video to web pages, the public should find them.    I have done a few videos, mostly for my listings, but over the last couple of years have done more for neighborhoods. 1.  More videos of neighborhoods or attractions close to the neighborhoods I like to work in.  I try to get these done when I am not busy, usually in November and December, or when it gets slower at the end of the summer.   In the summer, the grass is still green and we have leaves, making it more attractive.     I have watched a few videos that have kids or people in them, and considering doing that, as it puts the personal touch on them. 2.   Improving the look of my YouTube channel.   I have had my chan...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
"We frown on contingent sale offers." 🙁 I find this comment a little disconcerting and it could come back to bite the one who leads clients toward this way of thinking. Some buyers, looking in the marketplace, must first sell to purchase a property. If a home seller refuses to accept -any- contingent sale offer, the listing agent should write that in the private remarks of the listing on the Multiple Listing Service. Otherwise it's a huge time waster for everyone. Contingent sale offers get accepted, especially when the seller needs extra time to vacate and also if the buyer needs to sell their home. Of course, both parties must agree on all other contract terms and conditions.  When shifts occur, it is pertinent to catch up with current market conditions to achieve the intended result....
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Full disclosure The sun on the rise, appears to be peeking out between the heavy cloud cover in an effort to be seen in all it's glory. In real estate, it's important to give full disclosure, rather than just a peek-a-boo view. Blue hued skies,Amid clouded rise.Sun sifting through,Playing peek-a-boo!~Wanda Kubat-Nerdin Happy Sunday all!
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By Rocky Dickerson, Superior Service!
(Realty One Group)
There I was. It was my second computer I ever owned. The first that operated on Windows (my first was simply DOS). And long story short, I deleted one of the most important files that helped the computer operate in my first 4 days. Without it, my computer wouldn't start.That mistake was one I learned how to repair. Then in the weeks and months ahead, I made many more mistakes. Each time, I learned something new.Fast forward a few years and I was charging $80 an hour to repair other folks computers in my spare time. That was back in 1998.I still make mistakes and learn new things. And every once in a while, I take all that I have learned and help others. Sometimes teaching. Sometimes consulting. Sometimes doing a service for others.And now it is just something that keeps me from getting ...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
With the ever-increasing Zoom meetings, it is important to establish professional decorum for these events. When all participants follow some simple guidelines, everyone can enjoy video conferencing. However, it only takes one or two people choosing to deviate from some basic good manners.Here are the top Zooming infractions that can wreak havoc on a meeting: Eating or drinking while on camera. Not only is this distracting, but it is also just plain unnecessary.  Too much movement. This becomes more of an issue when there are many participants. But overall, a general rule is to try and remain still as this is less distracting for all. Talking on your cell phone. Seriously! Just don't do it. Give the presenter your attention. If you cannot pay attention, don't attend the meeting. Present...
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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)
We all have something that could be changed to create a better 2023.   Grant is sure missed, as he always had some great posts. This time of year, I talk about annual goals review. And I also suggest eliminating habits that no longer work. These are the habit and behaviors that you are comfortable perform but have lost their value. First, you should see what things did not work. It might be marketing activities for example. You will want to eliminate the ones that did not produce desired results. Ok check those off. Now let’s talk about something different. If any of you have ever done an assessment with a coach or you have had a developmental assessment for your job you probably saw a section on the worksheet that is titled “I will stop doing…” Attitudes, behaviors, and activities can ...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
This is an excellent post regarding leasing residential property. Please take a moment to head to the original post and give her the kudos she deserves. Also, she is a new member so let's give her a nice, Active Rain welcome!The ins and outs of property management and leasing are important to know. Anyone who desires to lease property should make sure they are paying attention to the laws and rules that govern residential leasing. And, any brokerage engaged in property leasing needs to insist on any agent involved with leases is fully trained.Beam & Branch Realty is fully prepared to assist you with leasing your property or to help you with property management. We have a seasoned agent with years of experience to assist our clients in this capacity. Give us a call today.   Are you havin...
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By Sharlene Mulchandani, Property Management Software
(Innago)
 As a landlord, it's important to stay up-to-date on the latest rental property management trends. after all, your business is growing. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the top rental property management tips for 2023. From using technology to streamline your operations to understanding the changing tenant landscape, we've got you covered. So pour yourself a cup of coffee and let's get started!Keep Up With TrendsAs a property owner, it's necessary to be aware of current trends in property management. Recent studies have found that property owners who partner with property management companies are able to increase their rental income by as much as twenty percent or more. Researching and utilizing the services of a property management company can provide an abundance of benefits t...
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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...
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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 ...
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