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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 Chris Dunham, The Real Estate Guy™
(Brokers Hub Realty)
I’ve been selling homes across Arizona for over 25 years, and let me tell you — buying a brand-new home without a Realtor® in your corner is like walking into a poker game without knowing the rules.Sure, the model homes look perfect, the sales reps are friendly, and everything smells like fresh paint…But don’t be fooled — the builder’s agent works for the builder, not for you.That’s where I come in.The Sales Rep Isn’t Your AgentWhen you walk into a new home sales office, the person greeting you works for the builder. Their job?To protect the builder’s interests and get top dollar for the home — not to get you the best deal.You need someone looking out for your bottom line, your inspection rights, your incentives, your financing terms, and your long-term investment.That’s me — The Real E...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
When listing homes, a common question we get here in Texas has to do with a swimming pool adding value to a home. While I would love to have a standard answer, there are so many variables to consider on this topic. And, those of you who live in climates where swimming pools are not a common thing, you may not get this question often.In my market in North Texas where our summers are blazing hot, swimming pools are very common. However, not all pools are created equally. There are many factors to consider about homes with swimming pools.ASPECTS TO CONSIDER WITH A SWIMMING POOL:☀️ If you enjoy swimming, tanning, water sports, etc. a pool in Texas is always a great option. ☀️ Make sure and consider the space you have in your backyard to determine the size and scope of a pool. Professional p...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Whether you’re buying or selling a home, understanding the appraisal is crucial to making informed decisions. The appraisal is an official document that determines a property's market value based on various factors. Here's a guide to some common appraisal terms and why they matter to you as a buyer, seller, or investor.1. Market Value Definition: The appraised market value is the estimated price a property would sell for under normal conditions in the open market. Why It Matters: Market value is what lenders use to determine how much they are willing to lend on a property. It’s essential for buyers and sellers to understand whether the asking price aligns with the property’s actual worth. 2. Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) or Comps Definition: This refers to the appraiser’s use of sim...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
A home is a long-term financial asset. Estate planning helps you prepare for the future by deciding what happens to your home and other assets if you can no longer care for them. Here are the basics:What is an estate plan, and how is it different from a will? A will is a legal document that dictates what will happen to your assets after your death. Estate planning is a broader process of legal arrangements to prepare for matters when you pass away or during your life, in the event that you can no longer make decisions for yourself. In addition to your will, your estate plan may include trusts, durable power of attorney (allowing someone else to make decisions on your behalf), and/or other documents based on your specific needs. An estate attorney or financial planner can help you build ...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
It’s officially listing season—and if you’re thinking of putting your home on the market, now is the time to roll up your sleeves. Why? Because good old-fashioned spring cleaning might be the most cost-effective way to increase your home’s value.Let me explain.🧹 First Impressions Aren’t Just Visual—They’re EmotionalBuyers make decisions emotionally first and rationally second. When they walk into a clean, fresh-smelling, clutter-free home, they feel better. And that feeling translates into higher perceived value.A home that looks crisp and well cared for doesn't just sell faster—it often sells for more.✨ Where to Focus Your EffortsYou don’t have to gut and renovate. Instead, target these often-overlooked areas: Windows – Clean them inside and out to let the natural light pour in. Basebo...
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By Greg Cremia
(Shore Realty of the Outer Banks)
Open houses on the Outer Banks can be a useful marketing tactic to boost your property's visibility, but they also come with notable drawbacks. On the plus side, they generate exposure by inviting a larger number of people to view your home at once. This can create a buzz and help potential buyers imagine themselves living in the space in a relaxed, low-pressure setting. Increased traffic might lead to more private showings later on, even if many of the visitors are merely curious at firstThat said, the effectiveness of open houses has shifted with the way buyers search for homes today. Most buyers kick off their home search online; only a small fraction find a property through an open house. Furthermore, open houses can attract "looky-loos"—people who are simply curious and not serious...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Why Long-Term Buyers Have an Edge in Today’s MarketWith home prices fluctuating and headlines warning of economic uncertainty, it’s no surprise that many would-be buyers are taking a wait-and-see approach. However, for buyers who are thinking beyond the next couple of years, the current market could be full of opportunity, not risk.If you plan to stay in your next home for five years or more, now may be a good time to move.Market Shifts Are a Recalibration—Not a CrashRecent reports show that while home prices have declined in a few metro areas like San Antonio and Oakland, most of the country is still experiencing moderate appreciation. The big spikes we saw during the pandemic have cooled, but we're not seeing the kind of freefall that marked the 2008 housing crisis.In fact, national p...
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By L. Scott Ferguson, Sunny Florida Real Estate Professional
(Ask4Ferguson - Your House-SOLD Name in Real Estate)
📚Listen for our FREE BOOK give-away!📚The Power of Compassionate Leadership in Real Estate and Beyond 🎙️💥I had the absolute privilege of interviewing Laura Templeton on my Time to Shine Today podcast — and wow, what an eye-opener!Laura is the author of Compassionate Leadership and the founder of 30 Second Success. With over 25 years of experience in branding and communication, she brought a tidal wave of insight on what true leadership looks like in today’s world — and it couldn’t be more relevant for real estate professionals.Here are 5 key takeaways that absolutely rocked me:1️⃣ “When you have leaders who are willing to have the hard conversation and still elevate people — that’s where real growth happens.” 💬🔥 This isn’t just for CEOs — this is for us in the field every day.2️⃣ Transpa...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, Southern Utah's Preferred Real Estate Agent.
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Real Estate Broker Self-motivation plays a huge part in business success. No lazy standards, only a strong drive that far exceeds countless industry peers. Many agents must be told who to engage, what to say when doing it, where to go, the why and how. Staying the course while setting expectations is key in maintaining momentum. It pays to stay engaged during a lull, through calls, texts or emails with past clients too. That solidifies trust, which can create future business referrals. Markets are cyclical. Energy levels must be remain high, despite the sluggish aspects that present. In the end, those who continue to stay on top of their game will benefit financially and those who hesitate, will be real estate broker! Guaranteed.    
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By GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Great post by Gwen. Bill  Waiting for the “perfect” market? You might miss out on building equity and locking in today’s prices. The economy is changing daily, gas prices are different every time you go to fill up, and mortgage rates are fluid.  Don't let these things be why you don't buy a house. ✅ Home values are still rising in many areas✅ You can refinance if rates drop later✅ More sellers are offering concessions✅ Owning beats paying rising rent If you're financially ready and planning to stay put for a few years, now could be the right time to move. Homes are on the market for more days, and fewer offers make contracting simpler--less competition. Let’s discuss your goals and how to make homeownership work for you in today’s market. I have great lenders who will work with you to g...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Waiting for the “perfect” market? You might miss out on building equity and locking in today’s prices. The economy is changing daily, gas prices are different every time you go to fill up, and mortgage rates are fluid.  Don't let these things be why you don't buy a house.✅ Home values are still rising in many areas✅ You can refinance if rates drop later✅ More sellers are offering concessions✅ Owning beats paying rising rentIf you're financially ready and planning to stay put for a few years, now could be the right time to move. Homes are on the market for more days, and fewer offers make contracting simpler--less competition.Let’s discuss your goals and how to make homeownership work for you in today’s market. I have great lenders who will work with you to get you a loan. They work nigh...
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By Leanne Smith, The Grit and Gratitude Agent
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
Even though I truly love selling dirt, vacant land, occasionally I do list and sell a home on dirt. This listing came from an encounter with a neighbor and a relationship that was established.Open houses here in Kingman, AZ often do not attract a lot of visitors. Often those visitors are other real estate agents who wish to tour the property or just nibble on the goodies.This past weekend  I held my second open house in eight (8) years. And I did have one visitor about 20 minutes before closing the  2 hour open house.My one and only visitor was identifying residential properties for this brother who lived out of town. We chatted extensively about our heritages, our recipes. our work experiences and our overview of the changing world. The visitor started the political discussion and than...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Call me at 850-517-7098
(Property Management International-Destin)
Buying a home starts long before you start touring!Looking at properties is a lot of fun, I still enjoy it after all these years.  But there are a few things you need to do and I am also including the idea of interviewing several Realtors. Experience does matter 🏡✨Checking your credit, saving for closing costs, and having your financial documents ready can make the process much smoother.A little prep now means fewer surprises later!Ready to take the next step?Let’s connect and get you moving!#thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #finances #happyhomeowners #a051225 #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #investment #dreamhome
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By John Sansaricq, Real Estate Broker serving Flagler County Florida
(SanCastle Realty LLC)
Let’s be real — cold calling is scary. Even for those of us who are confident talking to people we know…Talking to strangers on the phone? That’s a whole different beast.I’ve been there. You feel your heart rate go up. You rehearse what to say 5 times before dialing. And sometimes… you don’t dial at all.That’s exactly why I want to give a shoutout to Ricky Carruth for his powerful video on overcoming cold call fear. His words hit me like a freight train, and I wanted to share the key takeaways here — along with my own perspective on what it really takes to get over the fear and start connecting.🔑 1. Cold Call Anxiety Is NormalIf your palms sweat before a call — welcome to the club.Even top producers feel it. The difference is: they don’t let fear stop them.You’re not weak. You’re not br...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, Southern Utah's Preferred Real Estate Agent.
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
She Was Stuck in the Middle Brenda, a top-producing real estate agent took home the prestigious high-volume award for 10 years straight. When the market stalled, she was completely unprepared! Contracts were canceled, and fairly soon, every open house felt like a 3-ring spectacle of despair.  • • • 🃏 🤡 🃏 • • •  At one time, she had a steady source of business referrals from past clients. The phone now rang with calls from the car warranty renewal guy or fellow agents. Instead of wanting advice, they spouted absurd theories, each more nonsensical than the last. One joked, “It must be the alignment of Jupiter, Uranus and Venus in retrograde!” Another more serious, perpetually tanned peer thought it was the result of a “spiritual cleansing of unsustainable wealth.” Brenda would quietly gri...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, Southern Utah's Preferred Real Estate Agent.
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
If the sun is going to rise, I am going to shine. Yesterday was spent showing homes in the southern Utah area to a potential, out-of-state buyer. We discussed high points and locations that might work for his wants and needs. It was important that I rise to the occasion and did just that!He had several questions that required answers. After he left to golf, I got busy, working toward putting his mind at ease. Later in the day, he was sent a detailed message, outlining every concern we discussed earlier, putting his curiosity to rest.First thing this morning, I followed up!Morning all. If the sun is going to rise, I am going to shine. That’s a promise because Wanda Can! ✨☀️✨
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By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Las Vegas is a city famous worldwide for its dazzling entertainment and vibrant nightlife, but its architecture is just as captivating. Whether you are considering buying or selling a home here or simply want to understand the local real estate market better, knowing about Las Vegas architecture will give you deeper insight into the unique character and potential of the area.Overview of Las Vegas ArchitectureLas Vegas architecture is a blend of styles that reflect the city’s rapid growth, diverse culture, and its status as a global entertainment hub. From the iconic themed resorts on the Strip to elegant residential neighborhoods, Las Vegas offers an eclectic mix that appeals to a variety of tastes and lifestyles.The city’s architecture can generally be categorized into three main types...
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By L. Scott Ferguson, Sunny Florida Real Estate Professional
(Ask4Ferguson - Your House-SOLD Name in Real Estate)
📚Listen for our FREE BOOK give-away!📚🚨 Just dropped a powerhouse conversation on the Time To Shine Today podcast that I HAD to bring over to the ActiveRain community!I had the honor of interviewing Regina Huber — and trust me, this one isn’t just about leadership. It’s about radical self-trust, owning your story, and flipping the internal power switch 🔋Regina is the CEO of Transform Your Performance and has built businesses across five continents. She’s danced Tango in Buenos Aires, led in Madrid boardrooms, and faced life-threatening situations with grace.What she shares? Real. Raw. Relatable.Here’s what I walked away with:1️⃣ You don’t need permission to live boldly 💥 2️⃣ Your biggest challenges can become your greatest tools 🧠 3️⃣ True confidence comes from intention, not credentials...
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