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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 GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Good post by Gwen today, and worthy of our daily Re-Blog.BillGILBERT ARIZONA HOMES FOR SALE, Bill Salvatore, AZVHV / HelpingArizona Heroes, New-Construction Advantage, Realtor, sell my house, 2026Market, Chandler Spotting Issues Early Saves Time Later 🔍 Many of the problems that derail real estate transactions are not surprises. They are patterns. The same issues recur frequently, especially on rural properties, in older neighborhoods, and on unique parcels. What makes the difference is not whether a problem exists, but when it is identified. A strong system trains you to look for potential concerns early. Some issues repeat across properties. Boundary uncertainty is one of the most common. If property lines are unclear or surveys are outdated, questions will surface later during due di...
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By Brian Persons, Certified Master Inspector/Associate Broker
(Brian Persons Front Range Home Inspections)
Yesterday, I received a call that reminded me why I love what I do after 23 years as a home inspector.A first-time homebuyer reached out—not because I was their inspector, not because their realtor referred me, but simply because they needed guidance. Their inspection was scheduled for the next day with another inspector, and they were nervous.I could have easily said, "Sorry, I'm not your inspector." Instead, I spent 30 minutes on the phone with them. We talked about: • What to expect during the inspection • Key areas to pay attention to • Questions they should ask • How to interpret common findings • What's typically negotiable vs. what's notBy the end of our conversation, their anxiety had transformed into confidence. They thanked me for the peace of mind and said they felt truly pre...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Gwen once again came up with a blog that should be feature but always wonder who picks the Features.  Does not matter, some people get feature every week here in the Rain.  Catch this if you missed it. One of the most essential parts of a successful listing occurs before marketing begins. It is the conversation. Asking sellers clear, structured questions early helps prevent confusion later and creates a smoother path from listing to closing. These questions are not about putting a property under a microscope. They are about understanding it fully. Start with improvements. What work has been done to the home, and when? This is where documentation matters. Receipts for improvements help an appraiser support value. They show dates, scope of work, and investment. Not all work adds value in ...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Lowell MA Property Taxes: What Buyers and Sellers Should KnowIf you’re planning to buy, sell, or simply stay put, lowell ma property taxes are one of the biggest “non-negotiable” numbers in your housing budget. The challenge is that property taxes can feel confusing at first glance because they’re tied to assessments, fiscal-year timing, and a rate that can change annually. The good news is that once you understand how Lowell calculates taxes, you can estimate your costs with confidence, spot issues early, and take advantage of legitimate relief programs if you qualify.As a local realtor, I see taxes show up in real conversations every week, especially when buyers compare monthly payments between neighborhoods or when sellers want to understand why their escrow payment changed. This gui...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
What You Should Know About King County Home LoansWhen buyers begin the process of purchasing property in Bellevue, one of the first questions they ask is how king county home loans work and what types of financing are available. King County’s housing market includes some of the most desirable communities in Washington, so understanding your lending options can make a meaningful difference in your ability to compete, qualify, and ultimately secure a home you love.Bellevue buyers often face a unique combination of strong home values, competitive bidding environments, and fast-paced market conditions. That means financing readiness is not an afterthought but a strategic advantage. Whether you are relocating for tech, upgrading to a larger home, or planning a first purchase, your awareness ...
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By Rain Silverhawk, 208-610-0011 Sandpoint Idaho Real Estate Realtor
(Sandpoint Realty rain@lakeandhomes.com)
Wrapping Up the Year: Organizing, Archiving & Getting Ready for a Fresh StartAs the year winds down and the snow settles softly over North Idaho, there’s a quiet shift from the busyness of the holidays into reflection, order, and preparation. For many of us, the end of the year isn’t just about celebrations — it’s about closing out the chapter neatly so the next one can begin with clarity.In real estate, that rhythm is especially true.While homes are still being shown, negotiations are still happening, and clients still need guidance, there’s also a quieter layer of behind-the-scenes work: organizing files, archiving the year’s transactions, updating records, and getting financials buttoned up for tax season.It’s the unglamorous side of real estate — but it’s one of the most important.C...
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Why Understanding Real Estate Settlement Fees Ogden Valley Matters for Buyers and SellersAnyone preparing for a real estate transaction in Eden, Huntsville, Liberty, or the surrounding Ogden Valley communities will quickly encounter the topic of real estate settlement fees Ogden Valley. As a local realtor working from Farmington and serving Weber and Davis counties, I’ve found that many buyers and sellers are surprised by how closing fees differ from the rest of Utah. Ogden Valley has its own blend of rural properties, luxury homes, resort-style developments, and recreational acreage—each of which can influence the settlement process.Because closing costs represent a meaningful portion of overall expenses, understanding what fees apply, who pays them, and how they align with Utah’s real...
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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)
(This book could be required reading for REALTORS®, frankly. I've translated the book's Battle Strategies into practical real estate applications - not a very big stretch considering the battles we fight each week in our profession)...I read The 5 Rings over Christmas and wanted to share the key takeaways with you. Written in 1645 by Miyamoto Musashi; famous as Japan's legendary "sword saint" (kensei) for his unmatched, undefeated record in over 60 duels, his unique two-sword fighting style (Niten Ichi-ryū), and for writing this book.This isn’t a book you read… it’s one you practice. A field manual for combat, leadership, and life - where ego dies quickly and clarity survives.Musashi divides his wisdom into five strategies of the spirit of the craft. These five elemental scrolls are kno...
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By Buzz Mackintosh, “Experience, reliable, leadership”
(Mackintosh REALTORS)
The December blog Challenge asks what was the "Aha" moment on Self-discovery and Personal Growth, and what was it that caused the light bulb to shine brightly in your mind?In the early 1990s, my older Brother,  Andy, encouraged me to take the Dale Carnegie Leadership Training Course.The premise of the course is based on Dale Carnegie's book How to Win Friends and Influence People. Although this book was written in 1936, its principles still shape modern leadership, networking, and relationship-building.The course teaches how to build genuine relationships founded on empathy, respect, and sincere appreciation.There are nine ageless lessons that you discover by taking the course and or reading the book. 1.) Don’t criticize, condemn, or complain 2.) Give honest and sincere appreciation 3.)...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, Southern Utah's Preferred Real Estate Agent.
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
2026 Goals: Renew Wins with Loyal Clients As you focus on pursuing fresh clients in the coming new year, remember to nurture the existing ones who have already placed their trust in you, sent referrals your way and given you the opportunity to prove your value. People who have done business with you are more likely to provide repeat and additional business when you stay connected. If you disappear like so many agents tend to do, you’ll end up with exactly what that effort deserves - Nothing. While seeking new opportunities, take time to remind those loyal clients why they chose you in the first place and show appreciation for the ones who continue sending new business in your direction. They are golden. Overlook them? Someone else is next in line, that becomes your loss, their gain. Sta...
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By GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Good post by Patricia today, and worthy of our daily Re-Blog.BillGILBERT ARIZONA HOMES FOR SALE, Bill Salvatore, AZVHV / HelpingArizona Heroes, New-Construction Advantage, Realtor, sell my house, 2026Market, Chandler Your real estate certification courses might give you plenty of knowledge about home sales. However, no class can fully prepare you for dealing with your clients. Whether you're a new real estate agent or you're a long-time pro, you're bound to have a few difficult clients. Fortunately, there real estate agents who have been there before you. If you're struggling with a difficult client, try these words of wisdom. Tips for Handling Difficult Clients in Real Estate Each client has his/her own challenges. That's why we have tips for dealing with difficult clients in all their...
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By Rain Silverhawk, 208-610-0011 Sandpoint Idaho Real Estate Realtor
(Sandpoint Realty rain@lakeandhomes.com)
Big Doors, Little Hinges — And the Power of Small ThingsWhen I was a kid, I visited the Art Museum in Centennial Park in Nashville, Tennessee. If you’ve never been, it’s home to a full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon — complete with a stunning 42-foot statue of Athena. It’s breathtaking, and not at all what you expect to find in the middle of Tennessee.What stuck with me most were the enormous bronze doors at each end of the building. Each one is 7 feet wide, 24 feet tall, a foot thick — and weighs 7½ tons. Yet somehow, even as a child, I could push one open with just a finger. The secret? Perfectly engineered hinges quietly supporting thousands of times their weight.That day my mother said something I’ve never forgotten:“Big doors swing on little hinges.” — W. Clement StoneOver th...
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By Rain Silverhawk, 208-610-0011 Sandpoint Idaho Real Estate Realtor
(Sandpoint Realty rain@lakeandhomes.com)
My “Aha” Moment — Reinventing My Business to Help People Survive the DownturnIn 2005, the real estate market was on fire. Homes were selling instantly. Buyers were knocking on doors offering well over asking price. It felt like values would rise forever.Much like the “unicorn years” we saw during the pandemic, people were stretching financially because they believed the market would never slow down.But it did.And when the housing market began to crash, I watched something heartbreaking happen.People started losing everything.Their homes.Their savings.Their dreams.Families who had worked their entire lives for security were suddenly facing foreclosure and damaged credit. The stress, the fear, the shame — it was overwhelming.And I knew I had a choice.I could keep doing business the same w...
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By JORGE VAZQUEZ, Investor-Focused Broker | FL Statewide | 3,500+ De
(Graystone Investment Group)
Real Estate Crowdfunding in 2025: A Reality Check Investors Can’t IgnoreBack in 2015, it felt like real estate crowdfunding and syndication were going to replace traditional investing entirely. Every conference, podcast, and article made it sound inevitable. Why own one property when you could own a small piece of many? Why deal with tenants, repairs, and management when everything could be “passive”?At the time, the excitement made sense. Interest rates were low. Real estate was climbing. Capital was cheap. Appreciation covered mistakes. Crowdfunding felt modern, efficient, and easy.Fast forward to 2025, and the tone has changed dramatically.Instead of hype, we’re now hearing about frozen redemptions, lawsuits, investor disputes, and even fraud cases making headlines. Several well-know...
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By Rain Silverhawk, 208-610-0011 Sandpoint Idaho Real Estate Realtor
(Sandpoint Realty rain@lakeandhomes.com)
“Have You Thanked Them Lately?”In real estate, our names might be on the signs, the contracts, and the business cards — but none of us ever close a transaction alone.Behind every smooth escrow, every successful closing, and every relieved client, there is an entire team of professionals quietly doing their best work. And sometimes, in the rush of negotiations, deadlines, and emotions… we forget how powerful it is to simply say thank you.Have you thanked them lately?I’m talking about the title officers who catch the little details before they become big problems.The escrow teams who calmly juggle timelines, signatures, and last-minute curveballs.The appraisers who study the market and deliver fair valuations under pressure.The home inspectors who climb into attics, crawlspaces, and storm...
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By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
Across many parts of the United States, the real estate market is showing signs of a shift—and it’s one that both buyers and real estate professionals should be paying close attention to. With more homes coming to market and properties taking longer to sell in several metros, the balance of power is slowly moving away from sellers and back toward buyers. This change creates new opportunities, especially for Realtors® and real estate agents who know how to guide clients through evolving market conditions.📊 What’s Driving the Shift?Recent real estate trends indicate that housing inventory is increasing, giving buyers more options than they’ve had in years. At the same time, higher interest rates have caused some buyers to pause, which naturally reduces demand in certain areas. When supply...
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809 cell direct
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
The Architect of Possibility: A Day in the Life of a 203k ConsultantThe morning mist is still clinging to the eaves of a 1920s bungalow in the suburbs when a white SUV pulls up to the curb. Out steps a man carrying a heavy-duty flashlight, a digital camera, a laser measurer, and a weathered clipboard. This isn't a contractor, and he’s not a traditional home inspector.He is a Certified 203k Consultant, the "secret weapon" of the FHA renovation world.To understand what it’s really like to live the 203k consultant lifestyle, I sat down for a deep-dive interview with a veteran in the field. We discussed the career path of a HUD 203k consultant, the gritty reality of HUD consultant real stories, and why this role is the bridge between a homeowner’s dream and a finished reality.The Interview:...
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Pavement is a significant investment for both residential and commercial property owners. Driveways, parking lots, and walkways provide convenience, safety, and curb appeal, but they are also exposed to constant wear and tear. Weather, traffic, and environmental factors can all contribute to premature deterioration if the pavement is not properly maintained. Implementing regular maintenance practices and ensuring professional installation are key to extending the life of your pavement. By taking a proactive approach, property owners can reduce repair costs, enhance safety, and preserve the overall value of their property.Understanding Common Causes of Pavement WearPavement is subjected to a variety of stressors that can cause damage over time. Heavy vehicle traffic, temperature fluctuat...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
Have you ever experienced one of those magical closings? The type of transaction that is a pleasure to be a part of from beginning to end! Y'all, this closing is one for the books.Let me introduce this Hallmark story! As my husband and I were closing our hotel in a recent sale, this vivacious blonde came up the stairs asking about the building. She tells me that she wants to own a building on our Square here in Granbury. We immediately hit it off, and I explained to her that these buildings don't come onto the market too often, and most of the time, these sales are done quietly via word-of-mouth.Because we know all of the owners on the Square, I began quietly making my inquiries, and alas, I found an interested Seller. My first order of business was to get all parties to the table early...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
 Early in my career, most moves were about opportunity. Bigger homes. New jobs. Growing families. Life expanding.As the years pass, the reasons change.Clients still move, but more often now it is because of age, health, downsizing, or loss. Sixty becomes seventy. Seventy becomes eighty. And then one day, a name you have known for decades is followed by the words estate sale or trust property.This is a quiet shift in real estate that does not get discussed enough.Long-term agents do not just track markets. We track lives.I have watched clients raise children, pay off homes, retire, and carefully decide what stays and what goes. I have also watched spouses pass, homes become too much to manage, and families step in to help with decisions that are emotional and complex.These transactions a...
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