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 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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
 At one time in my life golf ruled!My best friend and I would often play 36 holes a day, rain or shine, day or past the edge of night, and more than once in the snow. However I've never practiced indoors.There is a time and a place for everything, including talking about business.   If you are new to this business it's good to keep in mind when to talk about it and when to relax and wait until you are asked about it.Do you like having friends... well sometimes shop talk is like plopping a golf ball into their diner plate.Listen for opportunities, share but don't overbear. 
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
It is with great honor to help lead our state association, Texas Realtors as the Commercial Committee leaders. Serving as Chair is Michica Guilliory from Houston, Vice Chair, Paula McDonald from Granbury, and Jed Kleppen from Austin.  This committee serves to inform, educate, and empower Texas commercial real estate professionals. Through our state association, informational webinars, training, and ongoing educational opportunities, our aim is to strengthen and build a strong network for commercial practitioners. This past week, we met at the Texas Realtors Winter Meeting in Austin, Texas. We enjoyed hearing from Texas A&M Real Estate Center's, Dr. Harold Hunt, who shared the latest economic outlook for Texas. We also were briefed on the 88th Texas Legislature that is currently in sessi...
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By Rain Silverhawk, 208-610-0011 Sandpoint Idaho Real Estate Realtor
(Sandpoint Realty rain@lakeandhomes.com)
  We live in a world of sensory overload.  It doesn’t matter if we live in a small rural area or a fast paced city.  Things are constantly coming at us, demanding our attention, draining our energy.  Most people have a cell phone that is beeping and buzzing all day long.  If you go on amazon and look at curtains you will be targeted and have ads following you for weeks full of curtains to entice you to buy.   The trending way of doing business has become impersonal, unreliable, and unsatisfactory for the consumer.  How many times have you called a service to be frustrated by a phone tree that took forever to get you to a live person to talk to.   Now in 2023 we deal with supply shortages and long service times.  All of this leaves us feeling like we are a number, insignificant and that ...
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By Sharlene Mulchandani, Property Management Software
(Innago)
 Running a profitable rental business is no easy feat. Traditional methods of property management are often time-consuming and tedious, and can be difficult to keep up with. Fortunately, there’s an easier way. Property management software offers the latest tools and features to help streamline and automate your entire rental business process. Here’s what you need to know about this essential tool.  What Is Property Management Software? Property management software is a type of computer program that helps landlords manage their properties more efficiently. It automates the most common tasks associated with managing rental properties, such as tenant screening, creating leases, collecting rent payments, tracking expenses, and more. Automating these processes can save landlords time and mon...
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By Sharlene Mulchandani, Property Management Software
(Innago)
There are many important reasons to screen your tenants, but the #1 reason is to protect your investment. By carefully screening tenants, you can avoid costly damage to your rental property and legal problems down the road. Tenant screening gives you peace of mind and helps you sleep better at night knowing that you've done everything possible to protect your investment.The importance of tenant screeningTenant screening is an invaluable part of the tenant-landlord relationship, providing assurance to both parties that their safety and interests are taken seriously. Regular tenant screenings help reduce tenant turnover and boost property value. Landlords can trust that tenant screening processes mitigate the risk of renting to someone who may be dishonest about their past living arrangem...
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By Steve Penner, REALTOR / Pro Ledger Online (owner)
(Royal LePage / Pro Ledger Online Software)
In my previous post, "Key Characteristics of a Helpful Real Estate Agent,"  I highlighted that the difference between a "helpful" and "salesy" agent.In this post, we will take a look at some of the key characteristics of a "salesy" agent.Here are some signs of a "salesy" agent to look out for: Pressure to make a decision quickly: A salesy agent may try to create a sense of urgency and pressure clients to make a decision without giving them enough time to think things through or consult with other professionals. Not listening to client needs: Instead of listening to client needs and preferences, a salesy agent may try to push clients towards properties that don't match their criteria, or encourage clients to list your property for a lower price just to make a quick sale. Not transparent:...
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